Aprilhawk2017 by Kari Riemer

Sexual assault survivor shares her experience Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

Shattering The

silence

Pages 8-13

In this issue... School by the numbers 3 Food Trucks 17 Softball 19

t the age of six, freshman Julia and how proud they were of me. After Rose* became a victim of sexual that, no one in my family spoke of him assault. Ever since, her life has again,” Rose said. “His name and face become a series of twists and turns were completely erased from us all.” most people don’t have to go through. Rose believes it is always the right Friendships, relationships, and trust choice to tell somebody of authority come and go naturally; however, for about sexual assault for the benefit of Rose, these are things that influence themselves and others in the future. her every move, both physically and “Too often do you see victims keep mentally. their mouths shut, and because of this “It took me a very long time so many rape cases are unseen,” to be open to talking about Rose said. “Not only that, but if even the most minor dea rape case is lucky enough to tails with a few very close make it to court, it’s rare that friends, and even that the victim receives justice.” would bring me to tears,” For Rose, getting into Rose said. “It also afa relationship can “The more people fected the amount of be hard, as trust start to speak out, the trust I put into the doesn’t come people I was in easily for her. more awareness we a relationship Years after the can shed on such a with.” initial assault, shadowy, overlooked The attack hapshe was sexupened while her parally abused by subject.” ents went away for a trip. her partner for Family members, who she the second time, thought she could trust, baby causing her to become sat her and her siblings while even more weary than they were away. One day while she she was before. was asleep, one of the men began to “I thought for the longest time touch her in her sleep, which caused that I wasn’t safe with anyone,” Rose her to wake up. While she doesn’t re- said. “I assumed that everyone who member much from the incident, she expressed an interest in me was only would never forget the look on his face interested in using me.” when he learned she was awake. Recently, Rose has found it to become “It took me weeks, but I finally told easier to talk about the assault to othmy mom and she freaked out,” Rose ers, and hopes to help raise awaresaid. “Next thing I remember was my ness for this issue looming over both mom picking me up early from school men and women throughout the United to head to court for a hearing.” States. On the way to court, she recalls how “I have surprisingly been able to get her mother told her not to be scared. If through my entire story with minimal she saw him, her mother told her to not tears,” Rose said. “I was very fortunate say a word to him. When they walked and lucky to make it to court. I want into the courtroom, Rose felt as though the same for others; the more people all eyes were on her. start to speak out, the more awareness “Before I knew it I was in someone’s we can shed on such a shadowy, overoffice, being told how brave I was looked subject.” *Pseudonym

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 7 April 14, 2017 thehawkonline.net

2 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ News

State of the union Current domestic, foreign issues impact United States Megan Fletcher // Reporter

McKenna Lucas // Reporter

US deploys warships to Korean peninsula In response to North Korea’s recent ballistic missile launches, the US sent a strike group, comprised of an aircraft carrier, two guided-missile destroyers, and a guided-missile cruiser. According to North Korea, the launches were a response to US military activity in South Korea. Tensions with China have also tightened US-Korea relations, as China and North Korea are historic allies.

Senate to question current, former white house workers over alleged russia ties Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn agreed to give testimony

regarding Russia ties, but only if he is granted immunity from prosecution. Ivanka Trump’s husband, Jared Kushner, will also undergo questioning regarding alleged Trump-Russia ties. The Senate will likely question his alleged two meetings with Russian ambassador Sergei Kislyak and Chief of Vnesheconombank Sergei Gorkov. Kushner is the only one being questioned that currently works at the White House.

youtube Restricted Mode Receives Backlash YouTube received complaints over their new restricted mode preventing viewers to watch LGBTQ material. The restrictions were previously set to protect viewers regarding 18+ content such as videos consisted of profanity, violence, addictions and disorders, yet limits videos posted by open members of the LGBTQ community. YouTube reached out to confront the issue and spokesperson for the company, Vice President of Product Management, Johanna Wright, announces apologies

and gives future plans to change the set policies of restricted mode.

Serena Tran // Reporter

Carolina Yanez // Reporter

Chemical Attack in Syria

On April 4, a chemical weapons attack was brought out in northern Syria. According to witnesses, warplanes flew overhead and dropped bombs that striked a depot holding chemicals weapons. The poison contained a possible nerve agent and other banned chemicals. Several countries including Russia, the United States, and Britain believe the attack was carried out by the Syrian regime. Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moallem denies the accusations against his government’s involvement. At least 80 people were reported dead while several hundred suffered injuries. The US conducted an airstrike against the Syrian government April 7.

Senate confirms Gorsuch to Supreme Court

Judge Neil Gorsuch succeeds late Justice Antonin Scalia in the Supreme Court. The Senate confirmed Gorsuch’s new position with a vote of 54-45 in favor. Senate Democrats filibustered against conservative Gorsuch’s confirmation, but the Republi-

cans used the nuclear option to override the filibuster, or an action used to prolong the passing of legislation. Republicans overrode the filibuster by using the nuclear option, which changes the votes necessary to pass something from 60 back to 51.

Suicide Bomber attacks ST. Petersburg Akbarjon Djalilov, a Russian suicide bomber attacked a metro in St. Petersburg. Around 13 people died in the explosion carried out on April 3. A second explosive device was found later hidden in a fire extinguisher, but was disabled. Russia called the incident a terrorist attack, but Djalilov’s motives are unclear and no terrorist

group has claimed responsibility of the bomb. President Vladimir Putin was in St. Petersburg earlier in the day for a media conference, but no evidence has been found proving he was the intended target. Russia is currently mourning the lives lost from the attack.

News // April 13, 2017 // 3

High School Costs By The Numbers

Staffers estimate expenses associated with public education

43%

Lindsey Robinson // Asst. Editor

spends in their high school career, 100 students were surveyed on their estimate yearly spending for general school costs, school events, and extracurricular activities. The results of the survey are presented below.

With school supplies, lunch, transportation, school merchandise, and countless other costs and fees associated with going to school each day, the average student racks up quite the bill. In an effort to measure how much the typical student

31%

Supplies

Transportation

of students drive themselves to school.

On average, students spend

per year

The average student spends

Merchandise

For a class ring, students spend an average of

age of

$48.26

on school supplies. This total includes pencils, notebooks, calculators, and other materials required and suggested for class.

on school products.

per year

Students spend roughly

per year

of students purchase food from the cafeteria or POD, totalling an average of

Lunch

on project supplies, including posters, Microsoft Office applications, and other assignment-based projects.

$964.80

per year

$7,

0 ,00 0 ,00 $5 0 ,00 $4 0 ,00 $3 0 ,00 $2 0 00 $1, $6

of students walk or bike to school.

Based on these averages, the typical high school student spends roughly $1,521.37 in one year and an estimated $6,085.47 total for all four years, on school related costs.

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

For yearbooks, and other memorabilia, students spend on average

per year Seniors spend an average of

per year of students travel off campus for lunch, and spend

of students ride the bus.

On average, students spend

per year

Between t-shirts, stickers, and other Hawk theWmed merchandise, students estimate spending an aver-

on transportation, between tolls, fees, and gas.

20%

on their letterman jacket.

of students are parent-driven.

of students bring their lunch from home during the week and spend on average

$882.00 per year

on cap and gown, tassels, and other fees associated with graduating.

Other Costs

For testing costs, including AP exam fees, study materials, and other tests like the SAT, TSI, and ACC, students spend an average of

per year

news BRIEFS

4 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ News

Play By Play Senior Kensley Martin defends the ball during a playoff game against Round Rock HS on April 4. “It was exciting to beat Round Rock,” Martin said. “Even though we were expecting it a little bit, it was satisfying.” The Hawks will compete in the first round of State Play-offs on April 13. Photo by McKenzie Quiroz

One Act Play advances to State McKenna Lucas // Reporter

UIL One Act Play’s production, Big Love, advanced to State and will compete April 17 at Round Rock High School. Big Love is about 50 sisters who escape to a mansion in Italy to avoid marrying their 50 cousins. Theatre’s advancement proves its department is in the top 3 percent of the state. At Regionals, senior Joelle Abdallah was awarded Best Actress, senior Erin Eckert received an award of All Star Technician, and seniors Khali Sykes

and Brian Baker was awarded All Star Cast. “I was surprised to be awarded Best Actress and I was grateful to everyone else in the cast. UIL is definitely a team effort,” Abdallah said. “State is more of a celebration of the play, because you’ve already made it. There is no advancing after State. So once you get to state, you hope to have the best show you’ve ever had.”

Choir earns ‘Sweepstakes’ rating

Current, former students named National Merit Finalists Carson Ganong // Reporter

Two students - Elizabeth Ross and Madison McVan - were among the approximately 15 thousand students nationwide named National Merit Finalists in February. They were two of three Finalists selected from Pflugerville. Each year, over 1.6 million high school juniors apply to the National Merit program by taking the Preliminary SAT and National Merit Qualifying Test. The following fall, about a third of the top 50,000 scoring students are named National Merit Semifinalists. Of these roughly 16,000 Semifinalists, about 15,000 go on to become Finalists by maintaining high academic standards and scoring well on the SAT; fewer still earn the title of Merit Scholar, receiving scholarships which can pay for as many as four years of college. Ross and McVan will learn whether they’ve been selected as Merit Scholars in May. “It was a huge moment,” Ross said. “It opens up so many avenues for scholarships.” Before graduating a year early to attend the University of Missouri, McVan was involved in band, National Honor Society, and journalism. Due

to connectivity issues at the airport, McVan thought her application essay was only partially complete at the time of submission, making the news of her selection all the more exciting. “I didn’t believe I got it, so I was really surprised when I found out,” McVan said. “I knew it would be a huge financial help for me.” Ross is a senior who, in addition to being involved in National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, and track, plays french horn in and is council president of the band. She hopes to study architecture in college and is considering attending California Polytechnic State University or the University of Oklahoma. Ross recalled a story in which one of her sixth grade teachers rejected a project, telling Ross she needed to work harder rather than just rely on smarts. “That was the first time anybody had told me, ‘This isn’t good enough. This isn’t what you can do. Try again,’” Ross said. “Since then, I’ve tried to commit myself to do the best - not just to be better than other people, but to be better than myself.”

Interested in public service? Travis County ESD No. 2 and the First In Pfoundation are sponsoring a $1,000 scholarship for three high school graduating seniors. To learn more about the public service scholarship and the eligibility requirements go to: http://www.pflugervillefire.org Submit application in person or by mail to: 203 E. Pecan Street, Pflugerville, Texas 78660

Megan Fletcher // Reporter

For the first time since 2011, the Varsity Women’s Choir earned top ratings at their UIL Concert and Sight reading contest. It was the group’s first ‘Sweepstakes’ rating since their entry into the

6A classification. “I learned this year that the trophy is not what’s important,” Choir teacher Maria Tolleson said. “It’s feeling that success, because we did that together.”

Submission deadline is May 8, 2017

accolades &

AWARDS

BPA competes at state meet Serena Tran // Reporter

The members of Business Professionals of America competed at BPA State in Dallas on March 1 to March 4. The students participated in ranging events against various Texas schools. Sophomore McKenzie Quiroz placed 15 out of 66 in Fundamental Desktop Publishing and Junior Garrison Arbuckle placed 16 out of 72 in Fundamental Word Processing. Junior Grace Cramer placed 14 out of 60 in Advanced Word Processing and Junior Andrea Huynh placed 6 out of 73

in Medical Office Procedures. “It was a lot of fun and I did much better than I expected, I mean there were 5000 people at state,” Huynh said. Those who place 5 or above automatically qualify for nationals while anyone placing 6 qualifies as a National Alternate. “I’m a national runner-up so now we’re just waiting for news from anyone who decides to drop out or anyone doing multiple events.”

Seniors succeed at relay race The Distance Medley Relay team placed second at the Texas Relays on March 31. senior Daniel Viegra finished the 1600m with time of 4:14 and placed first, while senior Justin Botello finished third with a time of 4:18. “It meant a lot to win a race like that in a competitive overall field,” Viegra said. “My entire family showed up for the race so that meant a lot for me to have that continued support group.”

News // April 13, 2017 // 5

UIL team advances to regions Taylor Hedlund // Reporter

Regional results bring forth two state bound students from competition on April 8. Sophomore Rene Otero was the Regional Champion in Informative Speaking and Senior Carlos Gregory was the Bronze Medalist in Persuasive Speaking. On March 23 and 25, students participated in various UIL academic events at district level. Students placed in the categories of Feature Writing, Copy Editing, Calculator, Informative, Persuasive, and Social Studies. Junior Ileana Perez placed sixth in Feature Writing. Sophomore Megan Fletcher placed second and junior Alex Fulton placed fourth for Copy Editing.

Senior Steven Le placed second, senior Frank Le took third, sophomore Thomas Alexander, sophomore Blake Nisely, and junior Liandra Niyah were part of the team for Calculator. Informative placements were sophomore Rene Otero in first and senior Robert Boley in second. In the Persuasive event, senior Carlos Gregory placed second and sophomore Sofia Valdespino placed sixth. For Social Studies, senior Robert Boley placed sixth and the second place team was made up of freshman Jared Williams, senior Robert Boley, sophomore Sydney Stogel, and sophomore Rene Otero.

HOSA invention excels at state

HOSA placed fourth in Texas for their invention of an epi watch. Epi watches are worn around the wrist,

and contain epinephrine used for severe allergic reactions.

Musical heads to GAHSMTA KyLeigh Collins // Reporter

The production of In The Heights was nominated for the Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Awards The GAHSMTA were held on April 13 at the Long Center for the Performing Arts. It is a celebration where thirty-one high schools and over 2000 participating students gather for live

performances, awards, scholarships, and special guests. The Nominations for In The Heights were Best Production, Best Direction, Best Choreography, Best Orchestra, Best Lighting Design, Best Ensemble, Best Actor in a Leading Role, and two nominations for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

Wilson takes top title at State Maria Torres // Reporter

The Speech & Debate team competed at the Texas Forensic Association State Tournament (TFA) in Plano, TX. Senior Elan Wilson won title of State Champion Speaker in Policy Debate out of 206 students. “Winning the title of State Champion, which is like the first speaker in Texas, was a huge accomplishment for me because I never got a speak award at TFA State before,” Wilson said. “It was such a big moment for my school and the program because we have never been on a big stage like that.” Sophomore Sofia Valdespino was awarded 6th Speaker in Public Forum out of 260 students.

“When we were at State, it was whether or not the United States should continue pressuring Israel for a two state solution,” Valdespino said. The team was also awarded the Regional Championship trophy and placed 11th as a team out of 228 schools. “I got to be honest because getting that sort of award at a regional level is very difficult for a team to do consistently and Hendrickson has been doing it for like 10 to 15 years,’ Wilson said. “We just been back to back and it sort of resonating to me and everyone on the team because we worked hard together for that award.”

Members of Hawk Paint ball competed at the UXSBL SCR Planet Eclipse Open Tournament in San Antonio. Junior LD McCoy came in first in D4 X-ball and seventh in D3 X-ball. Additionally, former student Nick Beck, came home ninth for D4 5-man.

6 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Opinions

Society enables predators’ power over assault victims

your TURN

Staff \\ Editorial

Sexual assault is never okay. female students reported experiencing rape Yet, somehow, society is all too familiar with since their enrollment. This ideology calls into the phrase. question, should we be preparing girls to face Rape culture has found a way to normalize sexual assault in college? Even then, the UT study and excuse sexual violence, either perpetrated stated 68 percent of sexual assault victims did through the use of victim blaming, or trivializing not disclose the information to anyone prior to sexual assault. Ultimately, this creates a society taking the survey. that disregards the rights and safety of victims. These belittling attitudes should be eradi Sexual assault is any type of sexual contact cated right away. Someone should not have to or behavior which takes place without the clear change the characteristics that make them feel consent of the recipient. Society often places empowered in order to prevent sexual assault. certain stereotypes on a victim, throwing out Instead, society must learn to stop objectifying phrases like, “She was people and tolerating wearing provocative sexual assault. clothing,” or “She was S e x u a l a s s a u l t asking for it.” But what trivialization not only society fails to mention affects women, but men is these actions can too. Social attitudes at happen to any person, times make men feel regardless of gender, as if they aren›t able to age, race, or sexual share their stories bepreference. cause of the stereotypes Sexual abuse isn’t placed on masculinity. about the victim’s Sexist jokes and maslack of self-control; it›s culine “sex-crazed” asabout the perpetrators sociations belittle male abuse of power. sexual assault, making Society will often society believe it could victim blame to never happen to a man. distance themselves M o r e o f t e n t h a n from the reality that not, sexual assault Samuel Perales // Cartoonist i s s u r r o u n d e d b y anyone can face the risk of being sexually ignorance, and a lack assaulted. Through this, people are able to of understanding and sympathy. The month of see themselves as separate from the victim. April is sexual assault awareness month, and However, victim-blaming attitudes diminish the there is an urging importance to bring awaresurvivor’s story, making it harder for them to ness to the topic. Through the simple act of come forward and report the abuse. Likewise, becoming familiar with terminology, or even these attitudes only reinforce the wrongful learning how to help those who experience dominance of the abuser. sexual assault can prove to be a step forward. Trivializing sexual assault is common through We realize sexual assault is a prevalent probthe phrase, “Boys will be boys,” said to express lem, because it is so much more than the violathe view that childish behavior is typical of tion of intimacy. It’s about the abuse of sexual boys or young men and society should not be power, and no one should have to fear such an surprised when it occurs. act. Hopefully, by increasing public awareness, In a recent study conducted by The University survivors can begin sharing their stories and of Texas at Austin, 15 percent of undergraduate receive help to move forward in life.

the HAWK Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, TX 78660 http://www.pfisd.net/HHS (512) 594-1100 Student Population: 3295 Staff: 269

Adviser: Kari Riemer Principal: Daniel Garcia www.facebook.com/HawkNewspaper

The Hawk, the official student newspaper of Hendrickson High School, is an open forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions. 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 E102. 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.

How do you think sexual assault is perceived in modern society?

Savannah Contreras, 12

“The mentality of the victims fault is completely abhorrent and unacceptable. It’s important to be aware because assault happens more often than individuals think.” Trista Gerner, 12

Tim Benton, 11

Rebekah Simcik, 9

Co-Editors: Ileana Perez & Kylie Ruffino Copy Editor: Rumor Stojek Assistant Editors: Alex Fulton, Holly Hambleton, Lindsey Robinson

Ky Collins Alyssa Ellinwood Therese Espiritu Megan Fletcher Virginia Gaffney

Carson Ganong Taylor Hedlund Paul Le McKenna Lucas Emilio Pla

“Rape culture and rape is misrepresented and typically seen as Social Justice Warrior whining but only because there is a severe lack of education on the topic. People are affected by this culture and there’s no reason for us in modern day U.S. to be improperly educated on social issues.”

“Sexual assault is perceived by most people as not a big deal and blame the victim more than the one assaulting. Attention should be brought to this situation to help prevent cases and protecting those affected by it”

Editorial Staff

Reporters

“Often women are told what to wear and not to wear on account of the over sexualization of women. People in general should wear what makes them comfortable, not what can’t ‘prevent’ sexual assault. The way to prevent it is to not allow the behavior, it’s never the victim’s fault. It doesn’t matter what they’re wearing.”

Sexual assault survivor shares her experience

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

Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

Shattering The

silence

Pages 8-13

Ashlyn Prater Caitlyn Schoonover Maria Torres Serena Tran Carolina Yanez

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

In this issue... School by the numbers 3 Food Trucks 17 Softball 19

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 7 April 14, 2017 thehawkonline.net

Design by Ileana Perez Art by Kylie Ruffino

hit or

Opinions // April 13, 2017 // 7

MISS Pushing Past

Staff recognition of student accomplishment increases With all the sports teams and organizations advancing into final rounds, administration supports their successes by mentioning their achievements on school wide announcements. By acknowledging different groups like theater and soccer, school spirit increases. To spread the word about accomplishments, players from the girls and boys soccer teams were featured on Grebb and Friends. Actions like these help in informing the whole school on student progress. Likewise, these actions update those who might want to support their classmates at their games and performances. Still, some groups are left out of the public praise, but the effort by staff to include more student activities has greatly improved. Students in these organizations feel appreciated when administrators and teachers see the success in their activities, so the recognition by staff is on target.

Lack of vegetarian options inconveniences students Cafeteria food offers a variety of options from salads to pizzas to sandwiches. Even the Provisions On Demand, POD, offers a variety of meals and snacks. However, the one meal option that lacks, are vegetarian options for our plant-based friends. Everything in the cafeteria has meat, including the pepperoni salads. This is a huge inconvenience for vegetarians because they cannot eat a full meal if they need to eat in the cafeteria. The school should be able to provide meal options for all students and since there is a substantial vegetarian population at our school, vegetarian meal options should be available. This lack of inclusive options, like a meatless salad is a huge miss.

Junior class rewarded for near perfect attendance The idea of rewarding students for an exceptional attendance record is rather rare. However, this year, juniors with such attendances will be eligible to attend the College Fair Express Game at the Dell Diamond. It’s more common for administration to turn blind eyes or give out ribbons as rewards, giving the achievement the feeling of no significance. Putting in effort to accommodate for perfect attendance makes it a worthwhile goal to strive for. Therefore, may motivate students in the future to not miss school, making rewarding attendances of such a hit.

Prejudice

Editor reflects on past racist influences Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

I remember looking down upon people, forming judgements I didn’t really believe, simply because of what I heard at home. My grandfather taught me to form stereotypes based on a person’s race. I remember him ranting, “blacks rely on our government for Obamacare, Alex, they sit on their lazy butts while the rest of us work hard for our income, using government subsidies for their Jordan’s and Beats headphones.” According to him, Obama won the vote simply because of his race and promises of free incentives. They wanted a “brother” in the house, as he would say. My grandmother understood the struggle of acceptance and the difficulty of seeming intelligent and educated in a society dominated by Caucasian males. Growing up in Monterrey, Mexico differed vastly from the US, a nation she came to love. The land of the free, an opportunity to pursue a lifelong goal of entering the medical field. How could my grandmother allow these masked racist comments when she experienced such oppression herself? Later on I would come to see a person for more than the color of their skin. For fourteen years, I accepted the prejudices I learned from my grandfather, ignorant because of the wall I had formed with my peers. When President Obama’s re-election made headlines I remember questioning how anyone could reelect the “communist leader” my grandfather had so righteously described. I remember com-

forting a fellow conservative friend, when word of Mitt Romney losing the re-election dominated Fox News. Entering into the journalism room, I recall feeling uncomfortable in a room filled with strong feminists and pro-choice voters. These people I just met were so outspoken with their viewpoints; what was wrong with them? At the time I didn’t realize this editorial staff in front of me, speaking out on such liberal ideas, mirrored my present views. I felt separated, disgusted with myself, for witnessing a forum of wrong ideas. I knew my grandfather would be dissatisfied for exposing myself to opinions different from his, because he always told me liberals led to the falling of our beloved nation. Days later, I decidShane Anders // Cartoonist ed to listen, hear these people out, after all I only truly experienced the conservative side my grandfather so righteously instilled on me since birth. As I begun to listen, I realized I agreed more with their viewpoints. I learned to become more open-minded, accept differences, sympathize with their issues, rather than stereotyping based on income or assuming entitlement. At a journalism camp I was taught everyone has a story. That is how I learned how to show both sides of the story. Today I believe we should never form prejudices against someone, simply by the color of their skin.

8 \\ The Hawk \\Volume 10, Issue 7\\ Features

Real Girls Real Talk

Lauren Scott, 11

Catherine Study, 12

Megan Pound, 11

Megan Vickery, 12

Anna Salcedo, 12

Student leaders comment on everyday sexism

Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

rump’s attitude towards women has been crude, Cat calling, make a whistle, demeaning, and all of shout or comment in a sexual the above. He objectinature to a woman passing by. fies them and doesn’t Cat calling and objectification speak about them like humans but almost as plague society. Unfortunately, an object. In today’s these attitudes lead to deeper isrape culture for women, sues rarely talked about. it has strengthened us and come together as a community to prove a think Donald Trump’s attitude toward point and show that we women is extremely negative and deare standing up against grading and I believe that this attitude standard and educate strengthens the presence of rape culture in sothose who don’t underciety by making it seem like it’s okay to treat stand between right women as inferior and objectify them based and wrongs. Many men on their physical appearance. I predominantly go with the movement see women’s objectification in our schools. For and there are those who instance, the dress code we have somewhat don’t get the big deal glorifies the objectification of women, we are which is the problem. told that if we wear our shorts too short or Trump being president we show our shoulders or we have a little and having the attitude cleavage then that is a distraction for males, makes it seem that havnot only is this degrading but it also teaches ing that attitude is apgirls and women that our appearance is for propriate and not men. In my personal opinion if a boy is really unequal. It makes distracted by a girl’s thigh showing then taking a step maybe instead of telling the girl they need forward also takto change we should start teaching boys ing two steps back how to have self control for themselves under his administraand respect for girls around them. tion.

- Anna Salcedo, 12

- Lauren Scott, 11

think a lot of people look at the progress we have made and use it as an excuse to dismiss the problems related to women’s rights which are still incredibly prevalent today. It has become a part of our subconscious to think of women differently than we do men. So, even if we don’t intend to, we are teaching each new generation to think with this same mind set. When girls are told they can’t wear shorts, even in the Texas heat, because it distracts the boys in the classroom, they learn that their education isn’t as important as their male counterparts. When the media focuses more on the clothing and physical fitness of successful women than they do their actual successes, girls learn that their physical image is more important than their mind. When people feel the need to know what a rape victim was wearing and how much they’d had to drink before putting any blame on the actual rapist, girls learn that “boys will be boys” is a valid explanation for violent or abusive behavior. So yes, women can vote and own land and initiate divorce. But just because we’ve made progress doesn’t mean we should slow down.

- Megan Vickery, 12

t drives me crazy how a guy can cat call me pointing out my legs or butt or something and how bad it can make me feel. Like I worked hard to get the muscle that I have and should feel proud of my body but they manage to make me feel so small and ashamed of it in that instance.

- Catherine Study, 12

his guy yelled at me in a fast food parking lot and told me I was cute. But he didn’t even see my face, he only saw the back of my body and it was really ridiculous. I think it’s really disrespectful that the only reason someone told me I was cute is because of my body. It’s demeaning because it’s making assumptions about me based on how I look. It sends the message that nobody cares about my views, or how smart I am, or what I have to offer intellectually, which is really insulting because so often women are seen only for their bodies and nothing else. In some cases I’ve told men that I was bisexual and more often than not, their reply is “Would you ever have a threesome?” And one, that’s completely inappropriate and rude, but two, why would informing someone about my sexuality be an invitation to ask about my sex life in any regards. That isn’t really cat calling I guess but its still harassment and I think the two go hand in hand.

- Megan Pound, 11

Features // April 13, 2017 // 9

Justice For All

By The Numbers

Campus, local procedures on sexual assault outlined Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

45,000 students were invited to participate in a $1.7 million survey conducted by the University of Texas after a report by the Department of Education released that the University of Texas has the highest number of reported rapes out of all Texas campuses. Out of the 45,000 students, 7,684 students participated in the voluntary study creating a 17.1% response rate. Below are the findings of their report.

According to numerous statistical research for many reasons, including shame, fear, or emprojects, one in six women will be sexually as- barrassment, both Principal Daniel Garcia and Reported experiReported not havsaulted at some point in their lifetime and yet, Assistant Principal Clarissa Alvarado insist in encing faculty/ ing disclosed despite the prevalence in society, sexual handling the situation seriously and sensitively. 22% staff perpe68% their experiassault is undercovered, unreported and “The first thing we would do that is very trated gender ences prior to rarely discussed. In an attempt to shed important is make sure the student comharassment the survey light on the issue, Chief Patrick Pething forward is comfortable,” Garcia said. erbridge of Pflugerville Police “We look at the whole situation to make Department collaborated with sure everyone is properly notified Sargent Tricia Marabelle, to and the student always feels safe Reported experiOf victims re“Be empowered by the provide insight and inforand supported at school so they encing sexual ported using 42% harassment opportunity to make your mation on these crimes. can continue to learn.” 69% alcohol or “We must have a Alvarado outlines that at statement, tell your truth, from peers drugs and system in place school, the administrapoint your finger and with multiple avetion follows many prodirect your words at the nues for crimes of this tocols in handling sexual person who hurt you.” Of perpetrator Reported being nature to be reported assault, the goal being, that reported using and allow victims to come the student feels safe to come to 15% raped since 84% alcohol or Sergeant enrollment to forward without fear of reschool without having to interact Tricia Marabelle drugs UT taliation,” Maribelle said. “Vicwith their perpetrator. Administratims must know they will be suption accomplishported by law enforcement, victims es this once an inassistance and the courts throughout vestigation confirms the process.” the allegation, and the In the event of a sexual assault, uniperpetrating student formed officers respond to the scene first to faces discretionary exassess and assist as necessary. Then the Crimi- pulsion, sending them to nal Investigations Division and Victim’s services the Juvenile Justice AlKylie Ruffino // Co-Editor are contacted. What happens next depends on ternative Programs. Adeach specific case, but ultimately everything is ministration also follows As a freshman in college, going to parties and having drinks seemed normal, in order to assist the victims of finding justice longterm care to provide and an avenue for healing. a stable center for the so Rebecca Thompson* took part in order to blend in. But before she realized “Even if you question pressing charges, you student to begin and con- how fast alcohol worked, she was getting sick in an apartment bathroom. A boy need to follow through with medical care and tinue to heal after their she flirted with earlier in the evening, followed her to the bathroom. He proceeded to kiss her and move her into a bedroom. a Sexual Assault Examination,” Maribelle said. trauma. “I wasn’t in control of my body,” Thompson said. “Afterwards I was really an“Some people don’t decide that they want to “This issue is very hard gry that someone could think this was okay, just because I was too drunk to say move forward with charges until there is no evi- to talk about and it is no. But I also felt I was to blame. I want young people to know that mistakes can dence of a crime. Seek out counseling and stay very powerful, but it’s in touch with your detective, victims services, uncomfortable because happen, like drinking too much, but this doesn’t imply that you are to blame for victims compensation, medical care, and fam- it is so sensitive,” Alvara- someone else’s decision to violate a person in the most intimate way.” Thompson, a teacher at Hendrickson, never reported the crime in fear of being ily. Be empowered by the opportunity to make do said. “Education is so your statement, tell your truth, point your fin- important because stu- treated like it was her fault. Instead, she kept everything inside. “It took me a long time to realize that this wasn’t my fault, however my lack ger and direct your words at the person who dents don’t realize how of planning and not being aware of my situation wasn’t good,” Thompson said. hurt you.” their actions and how “Unfortunately, society doesn’t think this way. I advise my own daughter not to Victims of a sexual assault occurring on or off their words can turn into campus are encouraged by both the police and something that can hurt put herself in situations like I did. Even though it was not my fault nor any other campus administration to report these crimes both people for the rest victim’s, I don’t want this to happen to other people and as sad as it is, bad people are out there. Just always be aware and always have a safety plan with in order to get the proper care they need. of their lives.” friends or family.” *pseudonym While Maribelle believes un-reporting occurs

Teacher describes past date rape experience

10 \\ The Hawk \\Volume 10, Issue 7\\ Features

Sexual assault refers to any unwanted and nonconsensual behavior. Sexual assault may include attempted rape, unwanted sexual touching, forcing a victim to perform certain sexual acts, and rape, which all happens without the explicit consent of the victim.

Shattering the silence Campus social worker gives professional insight, a Megan Fletcher // Reporter

What advice do you have for victims?

Do you help survivors of sexual assault?

es, and though I do not have an exact measure of how often I see this occur it is estimated that a large percentage of sexual assaults go unreported. The victims often feel scared to come forward. We need to educate our students more about what constitutes sexual assault and how to protect themselves and prevent this from occurring. We also need to do a really good job of helping victims feel better about coming forward by not blaming them for what occurred.

Social Worker Lori Carl

his is not your fault. You did not ask for this and you did not do anything to invite this to happen to you. No means No, no matter when no is said. The only person responsible for sexual assault is the perpetrator. You deserve to be heard and to be supported. Find a trusted adult and tell them what has happened and give them the opportunity to get you the help you need. You are not alone and there are resources out there to help you move forward in the healing process.

How can sexual assault change a person psychologically?

exual Assault can have lasting effects on the victim. 94 percent of women who are raped experience post-traumatic stress disorder following the assault and then 30 percent of those continue to have symptoms even a year later. 33 percent contemplate suicide. Depression and anxiety increase and they are more likely to use drugs than the general public. Fear and shame are common feelings and can disrupt the victim’s lives. There is a huge psychological impact. (Statistics from Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, or RAINN)

What would you do to help victims of sexual assault? What techniques would you use?

he first thing I would do would be to support the victim and encourage them to involve the authorities. If the victim is a student, it is my duty to report the assault as this falls under danger to self, so it cannot be kept in confidence. My technique is to always make sure that the student is involved in every part of what is reported and I will always be honest with a student and tell them everything they can expect within my knowledge. I will work to make sure the victim is not re-victimized and will not ask a lot of questions. I will leave that up to the professional investigators. I will do everything I can to make sure the victim receives much needed therapy/counseling for the trauma they have experienced.

As a social worker, what are your sights on sexual assa

exual Assault is preventable throu awareness/prevention activities th at home, in schools and in the co people need to be taught what the d assault is and to know the impact it h well as the person perpetrating the of ciety need to stop blaming the victim a to make it more difficult for the offen the victim in the court rooms. I woul women to be aware and do everythin the dangers and learn the best wa

Do you have anything t

am glad you are doing this article a the conversation and brings awa important topic. It is important fo know that it can happen to them and of the things they can do to keep them know the warning signs and danger for them to know that many times it o situation and to be aware of red flag like to add that there is help out there hotline number that is available 24 hou ance 1-800-460-7233.

t, advice

are your professional inual assault?

ble through education and tivities that need to happen in the community. Young hat the definition of sexual pact it has on the victim as ng the offense. We as a sovictim and our courts need he offender to re-victimize . I would like all men and verything they can to know e best ways to stay safe.

nything to add?

article as it starts ings awareness to a very ortant for young people to hem and to be aware of all eep themselves safe and to d dangers. It is important times it occurs in a dating red flag signs. Also I would out there. I am including a le 24 hours a day: Hope Alli460-7233.

Traumatic memories make for diffIcult recovery I Holly Hambleton // Asst. Editor

t started when I was eleven, and continued until I was twelve. When I was twelve, that was the worst time. He’s tried for years to do stuff and kept suggesting things, but it was always really awkward because he’s my cousin. You don’t do that with your cousin. Then, I spent the night at his house because my mom wanted me to stay with family, because you’re supposed to trust family.”

“

Lily Green* was sexually assaulted by her cousin and has been learning how to cope ever since. After informing her mom, Green checked into multiple short term and long term hospitals to help with her depression and PostTraumatic Stress Disorder. The impact of her experience left her feeling lost and alone in a sea of people trying to understand and help. “I never really talked about the situation. When I finally came out with it, I thought people were going to hate me. I thought my family was gonna judge me and not want me, but that’s the complete opposite of what happened,” Green said. “I blamed everyone else in my life, including myself, but not him. It was nice to know that I had support and I had people on my side. I wasn’t actually alone.” With her assault known by her family, Green is now trying to accept and move on. Green’s family decided to bring the assault to court, which required Green’s testimony of what happened. The painful memories now fill Green’s head reminding her of the experience that changed how she lives her life. “We have a case going on right now and I’m not prepared,” Green said. “I only moved on from the situation because I forgot about it. I pushed it out of my mind and I ran away from it. Now that I have to face my fear and it’s hard to think about. I can barely sleep. I’m doing things I shouldn’t be doing; I’m getting into drugs. I just can’t get over the trauma. It might have happened five years ago but I still think about it and it hurts.” Green now views life with a different perspective. She is now extremely overprotective of her younger brothers and is wary of anyone who comes in

contact with them. Green realizes not everyone is trying to harm her or her family but she can’t escape the thoughts in the back of her mind. She is more aware of her surroundings and the people in her life, always trying to protect herself and her loved ones. “I am really careful with who I trust now, just because they’re family doesn’t mean anything,” Green said. “I feel like I’m looking behind my back all the time, because I’m freaking out that someone is coming after me or I’m gonna become a victim again. I hate having to feel like I can’t trust anyone.” Since her assault, Green felt different phases of intense emotions, similar to the stages of grief one experiences after a death. She felt angry at everyone in her life and constantly blamed herself, but realized the only person who she should direct her anger at is her abuser. Green began to let the people in her life help her and not cope with her situation on her own. She wants other survivors to know they can get past their trauma by letting others support them no matter how impossible it seems. “It’s going to feel like you’re alone right now but you’re really not. There are people in your life who will help you through this, you just have to let them in,” Green said. “That has been my problem, I don’t let people in. But once I started letting them in, it was life changing. I felt like I could actually fight this thing and I was capable of moving on. Now I am able to move on. You don’t wanna be stuck in that one little part of life because you will feel like you’re in your own world.” *Pseudonym

Features // April 13, 2017 // 11

Sexual Assault Defined Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

Date rape is often used to describe rape by an acquaintance. While date rape can be imposed by a significant other, it can also be imposed by a classmate, a neighbor, or another known acquaintance. Rape is the penetration, no mat-

ter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.

Revictimization is victimization occurring at different points in time, and also refers to the theory in which victims who have experienced sexual assault in the past have an increased vulnerability for trauma later in life. Molestation is the crime of sexual acts with children under the age of 18, including touching of private parts, exposure of genitalia, taking of pornographic pictures, rape, inducement of sexual acts with the molester or with other children.

Kylie Ruffino // Illustrator

12 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Features

Hidden Stories Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

ikini tops and board shorts surround then 13-year-old Sebastian Elliot* and his friends on a hot summer day at Barton Springs. Adults and children line up to jump off the diving board and submerge themselves into the freezing cold water. As one woman dives and falls in, something catches Elliot’s eyes: her missing top. Even though his parents tried continually to conceal Elliot from anything vulgar in society due to their Christian beliefs, early experiences helped him realize how sexualized society truly is. “As a kid you just kind of get around and sort of have all these weird encounters with friends,” Elliot said. “It’s just like the first time you meet girls and you realize you like girls or guys. You realize ‘this is really weird for me,’ so you kind of put yourself in situations that are really awkward.” A year later, at the end of eighth grade, Elliot became involved in his first relationship with a girl who was in several sexual relationships before. Considering she was his first girlfriend, Elliot had not yet established what was okay and what was not. “When we started dating she was naturally prone to ‘oh let’s just start doing stuff.’ I was really standoff-ish, but because she was really insistent and persuasive in a way, I was like ‘I guess, I guess this is how it’s supposed to be,’” Elliot said. “Every single time we’d end up doing something it would go a little bit further every time. She’d be like ‘oh no we can do this now, because we did this’ or ‘it’s not as bad as this.’” Despite Elliot’s objections, his girlfriend continued to push him to engage in activities he didn’t want to do at the time. When he attempted to end things with her and refused to do anything, she bit him on his clavicle and scratched his arms. It got to the point where toward the end of the relationship, Elliot didn’t think the situation was healthy. “I wouldn’t say it was traumatizing, but it was a realization and an experience that you don’t really want to

Male sexual assault leads survivors to speak out

have as a first relationship, so that really set me up for relationships in the future.” Elliot said. When the relationship ended the beginning of his freshman year, the girl’s friends accused Elliot of being the perpetrator and acted as though she was the victim. Through Kik, Elliot’s girlfriend’s friends harassed him, even asking for pornographic images. During one later relationship, Elliot recalls feeling self doubt, after telling his girlfriend about his past relationship. “I had this hypersensitivity to not want to do things because I thought they were the ones to turn into the victims,” Elliot said. “I was afraid I was going to lose them and end up victimizing them in some way, but at the same time they kind of saw why I was such a distant person, why I don’t really seem as lovey-dovey as other people do in a relationship with hugs and kisses and stuff like that.”

ikewise, for senior Tristan Fuller* it wasn’t until years after his sexual assault incident that he told his teachers and closest friends about the time one of his male companions pressured him into going in a bathroom with him, only to force him into sexual acts he wasn’t comfortable with at the time. “I’ve learned that women aren’t the only ones who get sexually assaulted, because I am a male and I was sexually assaulted by someone who I thought was my friend,” Fuller said. “It turns out they were only my friend so they could use me as their sexual puppet and then throw me away once he was done with me.” Upon entering the school bathroom, Fuller didn’t fully understand what was going on, until his friend began to pull on his pants and stick his tongue down his throat. Going forward, Fuller advises assault and harassment victims to always speak out. “My advice would be no matter what happens to you, or how you feel about telling someone, don’t be afraid to tell someone of authority what happened to you,” Fuller said. “Chances are

they will be able to help you through what’s going on and prevent it from happening again. I wish I would’ve told an adult sooner than I did.”

ow a junior, Elliot uses his experience as a guideline for future relationships. In one relationship, he realized an emotional connection was lacking and the only thing bonding the two was sexual activities. Through his harassment experience Elliot realized the distinction between emotional and sexual connections. Going forward, Elliot advises couples to constantly question their relationship. “You should have trust and faith with the people you are with, but at the same time if something like that happens to you, you should never ever say ‘oh, it’s just a one time thing’ or ‘it’s perfectly fine for this to happen,’ because that’s not okay,” Elliot said. “People should not be allowed to force you to do anything you don’t want to do. If they do, then you need to take a step back and ask yourself, what is this relationship actually about? Does this other person actually have your best well-being in mind? Or are they just using you?” Through talking to female friends who had similar experiences, Elliot began to question the mindset of those who assaulted or harassed victims. While Elliot only personally knows a handful of female victims of assault or harassment, his early relationship shows his peers that sexual harassment can occur to males. “The idea is that guys kind of want it, guys are the people who are perpetrators most constantly. I believe that because that’s the stereotype and that’s the typical thing to happen that when people talk about male sexual assault and male rape by women, they don’t take it as seriously,” Elliot said. “They think this type of scenario couldn’t happen, because maybe men just don’t work that way, but that’s false because people are people. People don’t want to be used as sexual objects.” *Pseudonym

Holly Hambleton // Asst. Editor

Before 2012, the definition of rape only included women as victims, instead of both men and women.

In asking 40,000 households about rape and sexual violence, the 2015 National Crime Victimization survey uncovered that 38 percent of incidents were against men.

1 in 71 men in the United States have been raped. -Center for Disease Control and Prevention 2010 (though the actual number is most likely higher because male sexual assault cases are underreported).

35 percent of men report significant short-term or long-term impacts such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Features // March 3, 2017 // 13

Dirty Little secret

Adviser shares survivor story Kari Riemer // Adviser

rarely talk about my sexual assault. In fact, even if you know me well, I doubt you know that I am the survivor of a predator who raped me repeatedly over a period of three and a half years when I was a child. Maybe knowing what my best friend’s older brother did will change the way you look at me. Some will see me now as a victim; some as a survivor. It’s a secret, you see. It feels dark and dirty and like something you shouldn’t talk about, so I usually don’t. However, time and age put me at a great distance from those events, and reading the stories that so many have shared for this issue of the newspaper leaves me wanting to impart wisdom to victims whose hidden scars are still fresh. Sexual assault will always be a part of you, but it does not define you. Sexual assault changes you. Someone has taken something from you at the most personal level. It may make you feel dirty. You are not dirty. The person who did this to you is dirty. When someone uses you as an object, it is easy to feel like you are not quite human. There is a monster involved in this, but it is not you. You may be scared. You may be mad. You are very likely confused, because

often assault comes at the hands of someone you once trusted. This can make it easy to feel like it is your fault, like you have done something wrong. It is not your fault. And you have done nothing wrong. If you have not already done so, tell someone: a friend, a parent, a teacher. If the person you tell doesn’t believe you, or doesn’t know what to do, keep telling someone until you find a person that does. You should not go through this alone. When I finally found the courage to tell someone, they didn’t believe me. Over time, I realized that they didn’t know how to process what I was telling them and the only way they could express this was by denying what I was saying. This made telling the next person harder, but eventually I found someone that I could tell that understood what I had gone through who helped me heal. When my news staff broached the idea of covering sexual assault for this issue of the paper, I didn’t hesitate to let them. I knew they would treat this topic with maturity and tact, and they have not let me down. There are so many issues we as a society openly discuss, but add sex into the mix and suddenly it becomes awkward. Un-

fortunately, that level of discomfort helps the predators, not the victims. This is a topic that makes people uncomfortable, don’t let other’s discomfort keep you from the support and help you need. There is life after sexual assault. You may carry it inside you, tucked away like a bad dream, but it will not stop you from laughing, falling in love someday, going to prom. Being raped is not going to keep you from being a ballerina or an astrophysicist. Sexual assault is a life-changer, but it does not have to be a life-ender. If you suddenly find yourself a member of a secret society that no one wants to belong to, I am sorry. Your life has changed in a way that you never imagined it would. Don’t let that break you. You are not alone. You are a survivor now.

Survivor recalls assault aftermath, provides advice Staffer //

hen I was 9, I fell victim to sexual assault. But I stayed strong and I decided I wasn’t going to be the victim, I was going to be a survivor. Any warning signs which could lead to sexual assault need and should be taken seriously. I didn’t see the warning signs, nor did I even recognize them. I am not a victim. I am a survivor. My friend’s older brother Robert was the one who sexually assaulted me. At the time, I wish I didn’t have to talk to

someone, but now I’m glad I did. If I didn’t tell someone, I feel like I would be living a lie. He would have gotten away scot-free, and that wouldn’t be fair to me. I’m upset that I was even sexually assaulted in the first place but it happened and I feel like I’m finally getting past that. I told a friend and she told a neighbor, who called Robert’s dad Michael, Michael was at work while I was sexually assaulted. After work, he came straight home and I had to tell him everything that happened. He went up-

stairs and started yelling at Robert, as I could hear it from downstairs. When I went back to my Mimi’s apartment, my mom kept saying I wasn’t in trouble or anything. I had to stay inside, and Robert didn’t. He could go outside and do whatever he wanted. I kept telling my mom it seemed like I was the one basically getting punished but, I didn’t want him to get in trouble. I had to go downtown to talk to somebody about my sexual assault. I was forced to talk about something that still scars me today. My mom kept telling

me this would help me, but it hurt me more than it helped me. I already told my mom and Michael. Why did I have to tell a total stranger? If there’s one thing I learned, it’s that talking does help. Even being brave enough to think about telling someone helps. Don’t ever think it doesn’t help because it definitely does. I’m glad I told someone because even though I didn’t want to Robert didn’t get off scot-free like most sexual assaulters do. Please tell someone even if it happened years ago.

14 \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Feature

Speaking Out

Transgender activist stands against ongoing dysphoria Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

“You’re female, not male,” says a random male student. “No, I’m not. I’m male,” freshman Jett Hebert replies. “Well, then you’re a thing,” he replies, stuttering over his words. Last month, Hebert, a transgender male, walked around school wearing signs hanging from his body, protesting recent state and federal level regulations regarding the use of bathrooms for trans people. Senate Bill 6 claims to protect school children from any sexual harassment or assault in public school bathrooms after former president Barack Obama announced trans people were allowed to use the bathroom of their preferred identity. “I was motivated by Senate Bill 6 and the fact there’s so much discrimination even now,” Hebert said. “Gay marriage is legal, but it’s also still looked down upon by some people, I really want to change that and make a generation where everybody can be accepted for who they are, not who they love.” According to Hebert, the poster was meant to pro-

test closed-mindedness, rather than the school itself. In the LGBTQ+ community, members often abide by the motto “I’ll respect your opinion, if you at least respect mine.” For Hebert the lack of respect of this saying, specifically towards transgender rights, represented the need to speak out. “When I heard about the executive order I was really sad and disappointed, because I still have to shine light on these issues and it’s 2017,” Hebert said. “It’s kind of like feminism, people are still protesting feminism, it’s ridiculous, because why should we have to vote or agree on whether a person gets rights, no matter who they are?” Deciding on what to put on the two signs proved difficult for Hebert, as he spent several days determining what the perfect saying was for the small space. This instance was the first time Hebert protested against a cause, the fact no protests were going on that day and social media posts helped drive his determination to walk with the signs. “I saw some pictures of people who have fully transitioned having to go into the restroom of their

assigned sex at birth and it’s contradictory to what the bill was supposed to do, which was to prevent sexual assaults,” Hebert said. “If a trans male, who’s fully transitioned, walks into a female rest room, it’s just kind of odd and it’ll cause more disruption, so I think the bill itself is kind of contradictory and not well thought out.” Today, Hebert continues to transition, the process when a trans person changes from their gender assigned at birth to their preferred gender identity, a period which first began the summer between eighth grade and freshman year. Hebert struggled to transition as he felt comfortable being a girl for most of his life, coupled with backlash from some family members and friends. “[Most] trans folks either have contemplated suicide or have attempted, and that’s an outrageous statistic,” Hebert said. “If anyone’s trans, I think they should just know no matter what people say around them, they’re accepted by the select few and that was enough for me, so there is acceptance out there.” Photo by Victoria Hoang

Feature// April 13, 2017 // 15

Piece of the Puzzle

Resource teachers discuss the importance of autism awareness Therese Espiritu // Reporter

others. Awareness on the part of people without While vocal adjustment teacher Heather Lindgren autism can help them be more tolerant and unwas pursuing her degree in Psychology and stud- derstanding of people with autism who may comied different types of behavior, she received news municate differently than the norm. In order to that of one of her family memraise awareness for children with autism, Lindgren says she wants bers had been diagnosed with autism. When she noticed that to see patience, acceptance, and people started treating him difkindness from those dealing with People with autism share children with autism. ferently and had lowered their expectations of him, she felt dis“People with autism share the the same emotions you same emotions you have; everyheartened. This began her inhave; everyone wants to one wants to be accepted for who terest in helping others see that be accepted for who they they are. Kindness is so important those with autism are capable and can meet high expectations are. Kindness is so im- – treat others like you want to be just as anyone else can. portant – treat others like treated.” Lindgren said. “Just be patient and you will see joy that Now, Lindgren works with you want to be treated. others can bring your life.” children diagnosed with autism every day, teaching them how There are many ways to raise - Heather Lindgren awareness for autism, such as disto clearly express their thoughts playing the autism puzzle piece, and emotions, and analyzing their behavior, as does speech which is the universal sign for autism awareness, attending commutherapist, Maggie Jashinsky. “I would love students to be aware of the pos- nity events that are intended to raise awareness for sible differences and ways to assist or simply have autism, or joining/creating programs to help chilpatience when communicating with students with dren with autism. “When my son was in 5th grade, he helped piautism,” Jashinsky said. “It is hard for me to tell my students to advocate for themselves when neuro- lot a program at his elementary school where he typical students can be so ugly to people different would go in and work in a class of students with autism. I think this helped him learn how much those from themselves. Kindness is where it must start.” Autism is a Pragmatic Language Disorder which children wanted to be socially accepted.” Lindgren can manifest as a difficulty in communicating with said. “This program is still in place today and my

What is Autism?

Facts & Statistics

other children, as well as many others from Riojas Elementary, have participated. This is a great way to start autism awareness at an early age.” Jashinsky, Lindgren, and many teachers who get to work with children with autism have all been involved in this type of job for quite a while, but to this day, they all still enjoy the work they do. “What I love most about working with students with autism is they are hilarious. These students have great senses of humor that they share freely.” Jashinsky said. “They are usually more sure of themselves than the average student and confidence is great.” Being aware of autism allows others to understand how to interact with people with autism. Lindgren says that autism awareness is important because neurotypical people, those who don’t display or are not characterized by autistic or other neurologically atypical patterns of thoughts or behavior, can tell there is a difference in someone’s social skills within seconds of a conversation beginning. “I want to see people show patience, acceptance, kindness, and even have high expectations. Knowledge that every person is different is important when dealing with everyone we interact with,” Jashinsky said. “Just because they are different does not mean they have lower intelligence in fact, many people with autism have extremely high intelligence. Simply follow the Golden Rule, treat others how you want to be treated.”

Representation

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability typically present from early childhood.

About one percent of the world population lives with ASD.

Sesame Street added a new muppet in 2015 named Julia who has autism and is described as just “thinking a little differently,”

ASD is defined by a spectrum of behaviors because it affects individuals differently to varying degrees.

Prevalence in the United States is estimated at one in 68 births.

ABC’s show Speechless features JJ DiMeo, a teenager with cerebral palsy who has flaws and angst, making his life more realistic and relatable to viewers with similar disabilities.

There is no single cause of autism but are investigating a number of theories, including the links among heredity, genetics and medical problems.

Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability, according to the Center for Disease Control.

Parenthood’s character, Max Braverman is high functioning on the autism spectrum. The show centers many discussions around helping him understand his diagnosis.

16 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Entertainment

Nation of Representation

Films, shows tackle race portrayals in history Fences

Equal representation in all media, including films, TV shows, and theatre is paramount to overall equality. These award-winning films, documentaries, and TV series chronicle the harrowing true stories of race relations throughout American history.

McKenna Lucas // Reporter

This 2016 drama film, based on the 1987 Broadway show of the same name, set in the 1950s, tackles everything from racism, to the everyday struggles of raising a child. Troy Maxson, the main character of the movie, struggles with letting his children chase their dreams. Troy refuses to allow his son to play college football because of the racism that prevented him from playing in the major leagues years prior. The film revolves around the toxic relationships he creates due to his dashed dreams. Fences not only reveals racist barriers society puts up, but barriers people place in their relationships. Viola Davis received multiple awards for her role as Troy’s wife, including Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe, an Academy Award, Critics Choice Movie Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, BAFTA Award, and a NAACP Award.

What Happened, Miss Simone? Megan Fletcher // Reporter

This Netflix original documentary tells the eye-opening story of soul singer and civil rights activist Nina Simone. Leaving no stone unturned, the film displays Simone unadulterated, in both her highs and lows. From her beginnings as a classical pianist, to her later ground-breaking civil rights movement leadership, Simone’s portrayal is authentic in every way. Complete with interviews from both close friends and family members, and even never-before-seen footage, What Happened, Miss Simone? conveys Simone as she is: a truly powerful woman.

Hidden Figures Carolina Yanez // Reporter

Underground McKenna Lucas // Reporter

This period drama TV series revolves around a group of slaves in the 1850s attempting to escape to freedom through the Underground Railroad. The series highlights the brutality of slavery and the bravery needed to escape it. Underground touches on sensitive subjects and has multiple scenes of abuse in it; Underground is not for the faint hearted. Created by Misha Green, creator of Sons of Anarchy, and Joe Pokaski, creator of Daredevil, the show already has the potential to be award winning. Not only does Underground have experienced writers, but the series’ score and soundtrack is supervised by John Legend. Overall, Underground brings light to the mind corrupting racism in America.

Other shows and films to watch: • The Help • Selma • 12 Years a Slave

Hidden Figures, a historical drama based on true events, focuses on a trio of African American, female mathematicians who contributed to NASA during the early years of their space program. Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan’s work essentially provided the United States assistance for the race for space against Russia by creating calculations in order to send astronaut John Glenn into orbit. The film, starring Octavia Spencer, Taraji P. Henson, and Janelle Monae, adds wit and comedy, while still addressing racism and sexism during the 196os. Hidden Figures reveals to women, and people of color, they are capable of making a change despite stereotypes set by society. Although the issue of racism continues, the movie displays a perspective on racism in 1961 compared to today.

Entertainment // April 13 , 2017 // 17

Food Truck Frenzy

Staffers review local restaurants on wheels With the weather warming up comes opportunities to explore Austin and surrounding areas. Whether visiting the capital, cooling off in Hamilton pool or just roaming the city, a good meal is inevitable. One staple of the capital city is food trucks, here are five trucks we consider the best Austin has to offer. Reviews compiled by Alex Fulton, Ashlyn Prater, Holly Hambleton, and McKenna Lucas

FULL HOUSE BBQ

CROSSROADS Crossroads uses ingredients from local farms, including Texas Olive Ranch, Johnson’s Backyard Garden, and The Farm Patch for their dishes, which sets them apart from competitors. The food truck is relatively new, opening on March 1, and is located on the lot across from Peter Pan Mini Golf and next to Great Outdogs near Zilker Park. Combining hops, grains, Mosaic IPA, bacon, and Tillamook cheddar from local farms. The Beer Mac & Cheese creates a dish blending tangy, crunchy, cream and a hint of spicy flavors. Crossroads is extremely environmentally conscious, and the bowls and plates they serve their dishes on are made of compostable material. The employees are extremely friendly. While the prices are relatively high, with the Beer Mac & Cheese costing $11, it’s understandable considering Crossroads supports local farmers and creates a wonderful atmosphere.

Full House BBQ is a barbecue food truck in Georgetown located in a small food truck lot. This truck is rather popular, but the seating is very limited, with only two benches outside. While there are many options to choose from, the chopped brisket sandwich is an affordable and easyto-eat choice. The meal comes with a drink and chips at a reasonable price of $8. Food comes out quickly, so the wait is not long. The sandwich is simple and comes with barbeque sauce, and is on a normal size bun. There is plenty of flavor in the brisket and sauce, so there is no issue when it comes to blandness. The location is very windy and exposed, but the food is worth it.

SPUN

MIGHTY CONE Along Barton Springs road, a food truck park called The Picnic hosts a variety of cuisines in portable trailers. One truck, Mighty Cone, makes fried dishes put into a cone shaped taco so the customer can enjoy their meal on the go. The Hot and Crunchy Avocado Cone holds a perfectly fried avocado, sesame seeds, chili flakes all topped with a mango-jalapeno slaw wrapped in a warm tortilla. All of their cones are affordable and under $10. Along with their signature entrees, they serve various sides and a seasonal dessert which all come in a cone. For $2, they sell Chili Dusted French Fries served with their distinctive homemade fire-roasted red pepper ketchup, bringing contrasting flavors together seamlessly.

ACAI HUT

On a hot spring day, a refreshing treat is necessary. Located at The Picnic Food Truck Park, a small tropical looking truck called Acai Hut can be found selling fresh, filling acai bowls and smoothies. Patrons can choose to customize their own bowl or pick one from their diverse selection. In the light section of their menu, the Over the Rainbow bowl consists of a blend of acai, apple juice and banana topped with strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, banana and organic granola. Along with the guaranteed toppings, extras can be added for more money. While their higher prices might seem not worth the visit, the quality of the fruit and quick service makes the stop at their truck. Acai Hut offers many options to cater to everyone’s preferences.

Branched from an ice cream parlor of the same name, the Spun Ice Cream food truck is parked in front of Whole Foods near the Domain and serves a variety of different flavors of ice cream made with liquid nitrogen. Spun combines science and food, creating ice cream with its own distinct taste. Despite the scientific process, Spun’s ice cream is organically made, without preservatives, emulsifiers or stabilizers. Depending on the size of cup, prices range from $4.25 to $7.25. The truck is open Sunday to Thursday 12:30pm-10pm and Friday to Saturday 12:30pm-11pm. The Sweet Cream ice cream with the Chocolate Crumble topping tastes delicious, despite its slightly salty flavor. Spun Ice cream is a surprise in both creation and taste.

18 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Sports

Q & A

Gwyneth Garcia, senior runner of the Girls Track Team answers questions about track and her future plans.

do QWhat track? A

you like about

I like being able to train with friends and the running is fun too, and working out keeps me in shape too.

Q A

What’s the difference between track and field?

We’re 6A, so we’re the most competitive I would think compared to Division 1 or 1A

schools that are very small and usually the races are a lot faster faster in high school 6A,

Q A

What is your favorite memory about track?

Probably the first time I won a race which was last year. I won the mile at the Connally meet, that was a big accomplishment because I never won a race in track.

QWhen do you focus most? A A

Before a race, just reminding myself of all the practice I’ve put into it, so it really helps me focus on what’s happening now instead of distracting me from my goal.

For sure making it to state this year for cross-country, because I was the first girl to make it to state in Hendrickson history and it was a really big accomplishment because I did not expect myself to make it.

you continue track after QWill graduation?

your biggest QWhat’s achievement in track? A

Yes. I’m running at Charleston State University, I got a scholarship there. Maria Torres // Reporter

2017 Sports Scores

Photos by Shealeigh Ludwig

Taylor Hedlund // Reporter

Corsicana (Away): W 4-0 Hallettsville (Away): W 1-0 Cedar Ridge (Away): W 3-2 Westwood (Home): W 7-0 Vista Ridge (Away): W 6-5 McNeil (Away): W 18-0 Stony Point (Home): W 6-2 Round Rock (Away): W 9-6 Pflugerville (Home): W 2-1 Cedar Ridge (Home): L 4-3 Westwood (Away): W 15-2

SOFTBALL

Bowie (Home): L 6-3 Anderson (Home): W 8-4 Cedar Ridge (Away): W 6-4 Cedar Ridge (Home): W 6-1 Westwood (Away): W 3-0 Westwood (Away): W 2-1 A&M Consolidated (Home): W 9-4 McNeil (Away): W 8-6

BASEBALL

LBJ Austin (Away): W 5-1 MacArthur (Home): W 10-0 Hyde Park (Away): W 9-4 Odessa (Away): L 8-7 San Angelo Central (Away): W 16-5 Cedar Park (Away): W 5-1 Ellison (Away): W 9-0 Temple (Away): W 11-2 Lorena (Away): L 3-0 Harker Heights (Away): W 15-4 Austin (Home): W 2-0

Lake Travis (Home): W 12-0 Hutto (Away): W 9-1 Vandegrift (Home): W 11-0 Westlake (Away): W 5-3 Midway (Away): W 6-1 Cleburne (Away): W 7-1 New Braunfels (Away): W 6-2 Plano West (Away): W 2-1 Victoria West (Away): W 8-0 Lampasas (Away): W 9-0 Hays (Away): W 4-0 La Grange (Away): W 3-1

Sports // April 13, 2017 // 19

Softball Streak

Varsity wins 21 consecutive games Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

The crack of the bat echos through the field. The aftermath vibrations touch each bystander. The crowd roars a vicious thunder of victory. 21 games. The Varsity softball team went undefeated for 21 games. This long streak was broken when the team lost to Cedar Ridge, 3-4. “Cedar Ridge was a challenge but I think we needed to learn how to lose so we can use that anger to fuel our future games,” senior Hope Trautwein said. “It was crazy, we wanted to win so bad and personally I felt like I failed during that game, but I believe we came out of it stronger and we used those feelings to beat Westwood.” The team is still headed to Playoffs, a tournament with the top four high school teams in every Region of Texas. Last year, the team lost in the first round when playing against a top school from Austin. This year, there are high hopes. “We made it 21 games in a row with-

Emily Klanika, 12. Photo by Chloe Johnson

out losing, which is super awesome,” niques. In addition to these school Trautwein said. “We have one loss, practices, players often work individand four more games in our district ually outside of school. season, but I expect us to go very far During one of these practices, seinto playoffs. I love coming out on top nior Emily Klanika was hit with a softand I love the feeling of wanting to be ball above her left eyebrow. She was on top. Coach Woz wanted everyone immediately transported to the Emerof us to reach our full potential and gency Room and spent three hours he shared that love with me, which in the hospital running tests. Luckily, is a huge reason why she had no concussion, we bonded so much. no fractured bones, This season is for and no internal bleedhim, my teammates, ing. “We have a reason to and myself because I “The ball came so play. We’re playing for want to make everyfast, I didn’t even see it one proud.” coming,” Klanika said. something other than Despite Coach Woz“I had the best outcome ourselves” niak’s passing in Sepof someone getting hit tember, the team has in the face. I got really - Emily Klanika, 12 not given up on their lucky. All I had was an goal. ugly bruise for a cou“I feel like we all ple weeks.” have a common motivator for this Despite her injury, Emily recovered season and it’s bringing us together quickly and was able to play the and that’s what has pushed us to be game against Cedar Ridge. Together, better this year,” Trautwein said. “Of Klanika and Trautwein have been course Woz’s passing was a huge playing softball since they first startobstacle, but I think we came out of ed the sport as kids. Now, they both it stronger and closer than we ever have plans to continue their careers were.” in softball throughout college. In addition to staying motivated “Emily and I have played together each game, the team practices for for years,” Trautwein said. “She was about three hours a day at school, on my very first team when I was ten, full of both offense and defense tech- and we both played on right field. I’ve seen her progression and how far she has come and I’m just so happy. Even though she was hurt, she’s come back stronger. Each year the team has advanced further than the previous year. In the 2010-2011 school year they won one game in district and did not move on to playoffs. In the 2012-2013 school year they won seven district games with only one game short of advancing to playoffs. And the next year, Varsity made it to playoffs 10-4. “We have a reason to play. We’re playing for something other than ourselves,” Klanika said. “We believe in each other. We’ve improved so much and this is the best we’ve done in four years, it’s a crazy and exciting experience. We’ve had a great ride and Hope Trautwein, 12. we’re not done yet. It’s all been for Photo by Megan Vickery Woz, our angel in the outfield.”

Angel In The Outfield Players reflect on Coach Wozniak Caitlyn Schoonover // Reporter

Kristen Schoonover, 12 “I think we went undefeated this season because we are playing for something bigger than ourselves. We are playing for Woz. This year is a big year for us.”

Jory Cervantes, 12 “I was very close to Woz so I took it very hard. Every time I step on the fired, I look up and just think about him. When I go up to bat, I draw a cross and a “W” for Woz. I miss him and it’s all for him. We will be successful.”

Skylar Maple, 12 “We play for him, work for him, fight for him, and win for him. I honor him by living each day unbelievably. Woz impacted me this year by knowing that anyday can be your last and to always live life to the fullest, to stay positive, and to be a mentor to others.”

20 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 7 \\ Last Look

Winning the Gold

Winter Guard accumulates State, World recognition Emilio Pla // Reporter

Carson Ganong // Reporter

Savannah Cummings // Reporter

s Marching Band concludes, Winter Guard and Winter percussion begin their indoor performance season. Open and A place first in the State Championships

and the Open Guard placed ninth at the World Championships in Ohio. Winter Percussion placed fifth in the State Championships.

reshman cymbal player Ameyalli Ramon stands towards the end of the 2017 Winter Percussion program, ready to finish performing. “The most rewarding part of being in Winter Percussion would have to be the chance to experience another instrument while being able to continue the same kind of marching band experience with the drill,” Ramon said. The Winter program, entitled “The Voyage,” was performed at the Hendrickson TCGC competition. Photo By Megan Vickery

S T

he Hendrickson High School Winter Guard program went to Lehman High School on Mar. 4 for the WGI Austin Regionals. In this photo junior Kasey Nguyen is ending the show. “My favorite part about being in Winter Guard is the people, the environment, and the community of people competing,” Nguyen said. “When preforming in WGI World Championships I was shocked because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. The Varsity Winter Guard performance titled the Winds of Change received first place. Photo By Ernesto Gonzales

ophomore Katherine O’Brien performs a rifle feature at a competition with the junior varsity winter guard. “It’s kind of intimidating because you don’t want to mess up,” O’Brien said. “We were all trying to get the crowd pumped up and it was really fun.” The junior varsity guard performs at competitions through the second semester after marching season has concluded. Photo By Megan Vickery

enior Cody Black performing his section feature in “The Voyage” at the Hendrickson exhibition, on March 25. “Whenever I first walk in the gym and see the crowd, I get filled with a sense of nervous excitement. Hearing all the claps and cheers gets me really pumped for the show I’m about to do,” Black said. “Seeing so many faces makes me feel like I have to do my very best or I’ll disappoint everyone.” The Winter Percussion program is on finishing its second year, and has medal-ed at every competition attended so far, with State Championships on April 8. Photo By Ashley Lister