February Hawk 2017 by Kari Riemer

Welcoming weiss

Future high school expected to bring changes to campus Page 10 and 11

In this issue... March for Awareness 8 & 9 Motocross 12 Beyond Scrubs 14

Pflugerville

the

Hendrickson

Connally

Weiss

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 5 February 3, 2017 thehawkonline.net

2 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ News

State of the union Current domestic, foreign issues impact United States

Megan Fletcher // Reporter

Therese Espiritu // Reporter

Actress Carrie Fisher passes away Actress, author, and mental health advocate Carrie Fisher passed away from a heart attack on Dec. 27. Best known for playing Princess Leia in the film series Star Wars, Fisher proved that women in science fiction are just as capable of being leaders and gen-

ing, an estimated 37 more civilians reported injuries. Authorities identified the suspect as Esteban Santiago, a 26-year-old National Guard veteran. Acting alone, Santiago allegedly flew in Fort Lauderdale with his gun in his checked bag, which he loaded in the bathroom and opened fire.

After Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, millions of people gathered in Washington, D.C. in organized peaceful protest of the newly elected President. In the following days, protesters from all over the world organized “sister marches” to show solidarity with those demonstrating in Washington. Celebrities also joined the protests, including Scarlett Johansson, Madonna, and Emma Watson. Because an estimated 3.3 million people participated in the US alone, the demonstration might be the largest ever in US history.

Heavy Rain Triggers Evacuations in California, Nevada A series of massive rainstorms swept across regions of California and Nevada starting on the week of Jan. 2 and persisted for over three weeks. These storms caused flooding which led to road closures and even evacuations in heavily flooded areas. On Jan. 10, California officials decided to open the Sacramento River’s floodgates for the first time in over a decade in order to protect the city of Sacramento and several nearby towns from heavy flooding. North of San Francisco, Sonoma County’s Russian River rose to levels not seen since 2006, leading to

considerable flooding which prompted more than 3,000 of the California county’s residents to evacuate. In Nevada’s Washoe County, flooding drove the residents of over 400 homes to evacuate. Many smaller-scale evacuations occurred across the two states, both mandatory and voluntary. However, the notoriously droughtridden states also received some muchneeded moisture, replenishing water supply in many of their major rivers and lakes as well as giving new life to those plants not damaged by the flooding.

Immigration freeze causes concern

Obama’s farewell Former President Barack Obama gave his farewell address in Chicago on Jan. 10. He emphasized the need for unity and democracy in the nation, as well as optimism in the face of hard times. Obama also spoke of the importance of a peaceful transition of power to president-elect Donald Trump. End-

Carson Ganong // Reporter

Worldwide women’s marches

erals as men. Fisher was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and continuously advocated to de-stigmatize mental disorders. As her tribute at the Golden Globes proved, Fisher’s legacy won’t be fading any time soon.

Florida Airport Shooting Shortly before 1 pm EST on Jan. 6, 2017, reports of a shooting at Terminal 2 Baggage Claim at the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport made headlines. The attack lasted for less than 15 minutes, yet at least 8 people were injured and 5 died, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Due to the chaos following the shoot-

Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

ing the speech at the brink of tears, the former President paid tribute to his wife Michelle Obama, his daughters Sasha and Malia, and then Vice President Joe Biden. Obama left office on Jan. 20, when Trump was inaugurated as the 45th President.

Trump signed the official executive order to freeze immigration in an attempt to prevent radical terrorists from entering the country. Signed on Friday, Jan. 27, the order prevents anyone without naturalized citizenship to enter the country from seven predominately Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and

Yemen. After the signing, many legal residents in the United States were detained upon arriving to the United States for ‘extreme vetting’ measures. Some lasted almost a day. In response, protests broke out at airports across the nation and Universities warn foreign students from traveling home until further legal notice.

News // February 3, 2017 // 3

Save the Day

District joins local fire department to pilot Fire Academy Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

Pflugerville ISD is partnering with the Pflugerville Fire Department to begin a pilot Hendrickson High School Fire Academy (HHSFA). The program is open to 2018 seniors and is now accepting applications. The new academy introduces students to firefighting and teaches the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) rules. By the end of the course, successful graduates will be eligible to take the TCFP Structural Fire Fighter exam, if students pass, they are able to begin a career in fire or emergency services. “The Academy has benefits to both students and the community,” Career & Technical Education Director, Ryan Merritt said. “Students have the opportunity to obtain the Texas Fire

Fighter certification through the Texas Commission of Fire Protection along with other certifications to include Red Cross, National Incident Management Systems, and Traffic Incident Management. These certifications can open doors into a career as a firefighter. The Fire Department benefits by training students that could possibly be future recruits.” Students who are interested must complete the application which requires all juniors to have a minimum 2.5 GPA, acceptable attendance and discipline records. After all applications have been received, 24 students will be selected as part of the HHSFA. Engineer design instructor, Mike Baker will serve as the classroom teacher. Baker has 37 years of experience as a fire fighter and is a retired

fire chief. Baker has taught since 1986 at other fire academies. Along with that, firefighters will help students develop hands-on skills. “The Pflugerville Fire Department is going to have fire fighters come over two or three days a week,” Baker said. “The fire department is going to play an integral role in this program. Not only will they provide the equipment, but they will also provide their people and their experiences.” The Fire Department emphasizes their interest in hiring female fire fighters, as they are in high demand throughout the State. But nonetheless, the department emphasizes the importance of a strong application for this program, in order train the most passionate and determined students. “This is just the first year pilot pro-

gram,” Baker said. “Eventually the goal is to offer it as much as possible to as many schools as possible within the district. But right now, we are going to start with only 24 kids. The long range plan is to have it available for all Pflugerville Independent School District seniors.” Overall, the program will not only elevate the school district, but it will help accommodate for the rapidly growing community. “The Fire Academy will serve as a model for how businesses and the community can partner with the school district to provide a high quality education to students that will have a positive impact on their lives as well as the local economy,” Merritt said.

Lead the Way

Club emphasizes importance of positive service in community Holly Hambleton // Asst. Editor

Rotary aims to bring together leaders to create high ethical standards in jobs, provide humanitarian assistance and spread goodwill throughout the world. This organization brings people together in all different places to help their community. “Our goal is to tackle issues in the community through service and grow through those activities while promoting leadership” Rotary Interact President, Senior Chris Ayala said. “Our world is changing and always evolving, sometimes it’s bad and sometimes it’s good. Rotary is always there to do the job and be the best they can be.” This service organization contributes to the international community in various ways. They have worked toward the eradication of polio and ending illiteracy through volunteering and donations. Members meet to plan how to assist their community and

spread peace. “Our downtown Austin Rotary Club consists of some 210 members that are all dedicated to providing service to our community, enjoying fellowship at weekly meetings, and being engaged as involved leaders in our community,” President of Austin Rotary, Dale Lowe said. “The objective of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideals of service as the basis of worthy enterprise.” Many opportunities come through Rotary, like Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a week long leadership camp to develop students skills while making meaningful connections. Students get nominated by their school’s Interact club to apply. “Finally, junior year I decided to just go for RYLA and I got to grow a lot as a person. I learned what my own strengths and weaknesses were,” Ayala said. “You learn more about

service and how beneficial it could be to others and yourself.” Rotary Interact gives students an opportunity to make a difference in their community, despite being young. Clubs meet and plan projects to spread positivity and emphasize the importance of service. Rotary Interact members from Hendrickson and Pflugerville are combining to host a 5k on April 1st to help the nonprofit, Drive a Senior. Drive a Senior helps the elderly who don’t have access to transportation or aren’t able to drive themselves. “The fact that their club and our club was able to come together for the first time to collaborate is great,” Ayala said. “I want to leave that with whoever takes over next year, the idea that we can put that aside our differences to do great things in the community.”

Four Way Test Is it TRUTH?

Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

news BRIEFS

4 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ News

Wellness course brings real life into classroom Megan Fletcher // Reporter

The Lifetime Nutrition and Wellness course, taught by Brenda Harris as part of the Human Services pathway, offers an outlet to an array of life skills, including cooking, budgeting, and necessary nutrition. “I would like to tell all the students that are interested in taking Lifetime Nutrition and Wellness to be prepared when they come in, because they’re going to have fun,” Harris said “I want them to come in with an open mind and to understand that they’re going to learn other things besides just cooking. The cooking is kind of like the frosting on the cake. You prepare, and then you actually get a chance to enjoy.” While Harris has taught the class for 21 years, students still get valuable home-economics knowledge, such as

budgeting and wise spending. “At the end of the year, I always have them do a career connection experience,” Harris said. “For the midterm, it’s home-based: they have to prepare food and bring it. At the end of school, I actually take them to the grocery store and they have to show how to budget on $20.” Those taking the course can expect a wholesome classroom experience, complete with management and communication skills as well as work ethics. “It’s a passion for me to teach it and to see the lightbulbs go off in the students’ eyes when they actually complete a task,” Harris said. That’s the memorable part of it, because they see what they are able to produce, what they are capable of doing.”

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

Submission deadline is May 8, 2017

Steer toward success Senior Macey Bunch poses with her dad and her steed at the Travis County Youth Show. “Moving smoothly and steadily will get the job done,” Bunch said. “After working hard for the past three years of showing cattle, I felt humbled.” She placed third in the Market Steer Show. Photo by Katelyn Pierce

FFA trains for competitions Carolina Yanez // Reporter

As competition season rolls in, Future Farmers of America, or FFA, face pressure to perform a good show with their animals. At meetings, students gain information on how to succeed at competitions and learn skills such as leadership and pride in order to impress judges, themselves, as well as their animals. “We work with steer, pigs, goats, and chickens, but each animal gets judged differently at shows,” junior Westin Brydson said. “You as a person get judged on your control of an

animal and how well you show.” Those interested in FFA interact in the community rather than only taking a regular Agriculture class and to learn more opportunities. Although FFA trains for upcoming events, they work year-round to contribute to our school. “We work toward competition usually, but FFA is more involved in different areas of agriculture,” Brydson said. “More opportunities to go to state are given and we get to earn scholarships.”

accolades &

AWARDS

Debate springs into UIL success

Maria Torres // Reporter

Seniors Dash Puentes and Elan Wilson were named District Champions in Policy Debate on Jan. 13 at the UIL District Policy Debate tournament. Seniors Dash Puentes and Elan Wilson were named District Champions in Policy Debate. Sophomores Trey Gutierrez and Dylan Scott took Bronze. The team won overall District Sweepstakes and will compete at the 6A UIL State Tournament during Spring Break. “Being district champion in UIL is like a big accomplishment for our school because UIL gives a lot of funding for our program,” Wilson said. “After winning that tournament, I felt really ac-

complished up there.” In addition, a small group of students went to the Smithson Valley TFA Tournament. Senior Ashleigh Pevear won third place in Congressional Debate. Senior Robert Boley and sophomore Sofia Valdespino won first place in Public Forum Debate. In addition, Boley won first place in Foreign Extemp and Valdespino won third place in Domestic Extemp. “It’s really interesting to go to other circuits and compete because it keeps you humble and it keeps you on your toes,” Pevear said. “You want to try to beat whoever it is and you don’t even know what they’re bringing.”

News // February 3, 2017 // 5

Seniors advance in essay competition Therese Espiritu // Reporter

The International Public Policy Forum is a competition in which students from all over the world submit essays that talk about the current topic chosen by the organizers themselves. Seniors Carlos Gregor, Robert Boley, and Dash Elan Wilson was able to advance to the Top 32 in the competition. The current topic for this year’s competition is whether or not government around the world should support accepting refugees in all the world’s nations, or we should prioritize the na-

tion’s borders instead. “It’s pretty cool, because not only do we send these essays, but we get them from all over the world, like we have a school from Czechoslovakia, Japan, and Singapore right now,” Boley said. The three seniors who advanced to the top 32 are now competing to move on to the top 16, in which they will continue to make extensive research on their assigned topic and improve their essays as best as they can.

Award honors debate coach

Therese Espiritu // Reporter

Debate coach Kirsten Nash won the Kandi King Award for Excellence in Coaching on the weekend of Jan. 7, 2017. In order to be chosen as the winner, students nominate who they want to receive the award. “It was really cool and nice to have my own students nominate me and say all these nice things about me because teaching and coaching is hard and most of the time I forget how much I love doing my job, and Kandi King has always been a big mentor and role model for me.” Nash said.

Nash, who has been working at Hendrickson for 10 years and teaching for 11, has coached students to state and national success in a variety of events. Mrs. Nash is also the Assistant UIL Coordinator and coaches UIL Current Events. She has served as President of the Texas Forensic Association in 2014-2015, Chair of the NSDA Heart of Texas district and UIL Congress Clerk for Region XIII. All these accomplishments are what helped Nash win her debate coach award.

Wins flow in Sophomores Trey Gutierrez and Dylan Scott flow the other team’s speeches. Flowing is a form of notes debaters use to quickly write the other team’s arguments, evidence, and sources. “It felt really good to win a medal, me and my teammate have spent a long time preparing for this,” Scott said. “We even went to a camp this summer that helped us prepare for debate.” Scott and Gutierrrez ended the tournament with a 2-2 record. Photo by Shealeigh Ludwig

HOSA competition victory

Therese Espiritu // Reporter

As a result from their regional competition, 3 participants from HOSA are able to advance to the state competition in March. Seniors Qustandi Fashho and Ranella Cruz took third place

in the Medical Innovation team. Sophomore Rebecca Tobias finished at second place in the Medical Arts Poster Team.

Anshika Agrawal, 12, Bryce Hann, 10, Rene Otera 10, Ashleigh Pevear, 12, Carlos Gregory, 12, Robert Boley, 12, Sofia Valdespino, 10, Cassidy Hayes, 12, Speech and Debate Coach Kirsten Nash, Samantha Nguyen, 11, and Sydney Stogel, 10, at the Churchill Tournament. Photo courtesy of Kirsten Nash

6 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Opinions

Questionable staff conduct on dress code cause concern Staff \\ Editorial

The ambiguously defined dress code causes communication issues between administration and female students. Of all rules broken, girls should not be left unsettled or wiping away tears in the bathroom after a harsh and hurtful encounter with dress code procedures. The mishandling of dress code execution calls for a serious need to address this phenomenon, what it means and how to fix it. What one wears represents a form of self expression - what they like, how they identify and even how they feel. By this weight and nature, dress code becomes a very sensitive topic. Making someone feel ashamed of who they are and how they dress is very concerning. Instead of informing the student, ‘Hey, you are out of dress code, please go change,’ many females recount horror stories of being insulted and belittled for having holes in their jeans or a skirt that is borderline too short. Addressing a student by the article of their clothing in question is highly inappropriate, so is telling them they make our school look bad. In other accounts, the dress code overseer involved other students and teachers not a part of the matter, which directly violates student confidentiality. While harshly speaking to a girl about dress code, a teacher pulled another student from the hallway in as an ‘example’. While these are just a few of the incidents, multiple

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

girls talk about their situations in hallways and classes. Many involve tears. And while the specific policy is not the focus, sexism surrounding these rules encourages and enables the sexist and disheartening reality of female staff unprofessionally dress coding female students. Dress code has transitioned into an outlet for subconsciously attacking femininity. It is understandable, that this may not actually be the intent of the campus, but in execution and reality, this seems to be the trend. The highly inappropriate actions made by staff, increases a need to define internalized sexism. This is the idea that women have succumbed to subconscious ideas of a male dominant society. Societal norms tell women to feel bad about what they wear or that breaking dress code makes them a bad person. We are living in a society riddled with so many bigger issues, this shouldn’t be one. Women should support other women, and in matters of dress code that means to maintain tact while addressShane Anders // Cartoonist ing students. It means to not make females feel ashamed about themselves because they chose to wear leggings. Dress code is no longer punished amicably and this hurts the self esteem and value of girls at our school.

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.

your TURN What are your dresscode experiences?

Ana Laura Medina Ramirez, 12

Kendall Rowe, 11

Elena Bonugli, 10

Hannah Brown, 12

Editorial Staff 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

Reporters

Carson Ganong Taylor Hedund Paul Le McKenna Lucas Emilio Pla

Ashlyn Prater Caitlyn Schoonover Maria Torres Serena Tran Carolina Yanez

“I was walking down the hall and one of the AP’s stopped me and told me to go to ISS for my Nike shorts. I went and got some jeans. I was upset later that day because I saw a girl also wearing Nike shorts pass by the same AP who dress coded me and she didn’t get dress coded. If they are going to dress students, they should do it uniformly” “I got dress coded for wearing a sweater with holes in it over a tank top. I was wearing the same thing as the girl walking next to me and she got away with it while I was forced to change into a shirt that didn’t fit me. I was so upset for having to change when the other girl didn’t have to, if they are going to punish one person they need to punish everyone who’s violating dress code.”

“I was dress coded because I wore a shirt with cuts in the shoulders, I honestly didn’t think it was necessary because c’mon, who is going to be focused on my shoulders especially when I have thick curly hair covering.”

“I was wearing a pretty long skirt, but it had a split in it that revealed a bit of my leg. I had worn this skirt many times before without any problems, but this particular day there was a problem with it. I didn’t understand why I was being dress coded because everyone was wearing shorts.”

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

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

Welcoming weiss

Future high school expected to bring changes to campus Page 10 and 11

In this issue... March for Awareness 8 & 9 Motocross 12 Beyond Scrubs 14

Pflugerville

the

Hendrickson

Connally

Weiss

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 5 February 3, 2017 thehawkonline.net

Design by Alex Fulton

hit or

MISS

Decreased library hours create conflicts Recently, it seems the library has opened later and closed earlier. On some days, the first period bell has rung before the library has opened. These shortened hours limit when students can use the space for study groups or utilize the computers and printer. Minimal hours restrict the library to seniors who have off periods, rather than being an inclusive space that welcomes all students looking for a quiet place to study. Additionally, a new librarian has not yet been hired after an entire semester. While we do appreciate the long-term substitute the library currently has, not having a permanent librarian and shortened hours are way off target.

Interior improvements impact front office For over ten years, thousands of students filter through the halls everyday, so it is inevitable that the building will endure some minor damages. Principal Daniel Garcia has taken this into account by driving new renovations in the front office such as replacing the carpets, re-painting the walls, and adding new technology in the conference rooms. Though the walls are bare as of now, a muralist will be contracted to paint a symbol of Hawk Pride in the front office. The ultimate goal of these building advancements is to start small and then eventually renovate the whole school. These interior refinements make the space more functional and more usable, which makes them definitely on target.

New fire program creates unique opportunity With the Pflugerville community rapidly growing, and the safety of it as a concern, it is a wise move to initiate the firefighter program for students in junior year moving to senior year to take part in. The upcoming class’s purpose is to help students become firefighters once out of high school in hopes to help the fire department grow. The coming class caters to students’ with interest in the field. The potential to help the department grow and raising the community’s safety makes it a hit.

Opinions // February 3, 2017 // 7

If I Were To Have a Daughter Editor reflects on life experiences learned Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

Dear future daughter, I am seventeen. In less than five months, my name will be called and I’ll walk across the celebratory stage in front of a massive crowd to receive handshakes and a piece of paper. This tells me I survived. I made it. Soon after, I will be expected to move on and grow up. For seventeen years I have learned, but I have not mastered the lessons of life. I haven’t seen the world and the world hasn’t seen me yet. I do not have the answer to many things. I’m far too naive to describe the ways of the universe or how to live, love, and experience; heck, I can hardly explain the Pythagorean Theorem. But here’s what I do know, the world is harsh. It will smack victims across the face and neglect to apologize. It will beat them to a pulp and then question why they’re hurting. It will laugh at their mistakes and fail to assist. If I were to have a daughter, I would want her to know, this world will try to change her. This world will attempt to force her into societal norms. This world will actively try to destroy her just because of her gender. And it hurts. Only seventeen years into my life, but I know. Believe me, I will remember this pain for the rest of my life. But my daughter will be a flaming star. Nothing will blow her out. She won’t be some candle balanced so precisely on a decorative birthday cake, discarded after just one use. No, she’ll be a comet blazing in the sky. She will be every asteroid in my galaxy. She’ll be my sun. My dynamite. My girl. If she comes home crying from a battle, not yet won or lost, I’ll wipe her tears and smile. I’ll tell her, “You are strong. You are capable. You are you. Don’t let anyone take away how special you are.” I’ll tell her, “Don’t let anyone try to define you because you hold the universe in your palms.” We haven’t met yet, and honestly, I don’t want

to meet her until I know I’m ready; when I know the world is ready for her. Because right now, our world is scary and vicious, it roars like a dragon and I worry it won’t ever be ready. I want her to live in a world of peace and though it may take a while for us to get there, I am patient. My dearest, don’t be afraid. I am sorry if this sounds quite pessimistic, but I am only being honest. My darling, I must tell the world isn’t as bad as I am making it seem. Mother nature will be kind, in return she only asks for kindness back, so be gentle. Radiate love to our planet and to everyone. Stay open-minded and listen to the beating heart in your chest. Should I have a daughter, I imagine us sitting in our kitchen with stacks of coloring books and crayons of every color scattered across the linoleum. We will not color pink princesses, but instead craft fierce, warrior women. I want her to absorb every ounce of knowledge and culture she possibly can from this planet, so I will show her the world. So we will travel together. Visit every country and meet as many new people as we can. We will be explorers. I’ll remind her she can, and will, do anything she sets her mind to. I’ll encourage her to dream taller than she can reach; taller than even stars can reach. She will move mountains if she believes she can. I don’t want her to fear her own voice. I want her to embrace girl-power, her inner strength and beauty. Embrace the potential she holds in every word in her soul. I want her to feel confident to speak her mind. Under my watch, she should never feel insecure or uncomfortable, because she is perfect in her own skin. She’ll be my firecracker. My volcano. My girl. We stand on this chunk of earth and I can tell you the forces which keep us from floating away into space, but unfortunately, I cannot answer the question of life. Shane Anders // Cartoonist

8 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Features

March for Awareness 2

2 Fight for Life Woman at the Pro Life march, Jan. 28, stopped and smiled for a picture. Photo courtesy of Abigail Hill 3

3 1 Justice March Senior

Jalisa Styles protesting the shooting of David Joseph from City Hall to Town Lake Center. Photo by Jay Janner courtesy of the American Statesman.

Marches Takes Flight Responding to the Immigration freeze, senior Jalisa Styles protests for her Muslim friends and family at the Austin airport, Jan. 29. Photo courtesy of Jalisa Styles.

Movie Messages During the Austin women’s march, the Paramount Theatre joined the movement by decorating their sign with the message “with liberty and justice for all.” Photo courtesy of Josh Ellis.

Black Lives Matter protestors speak about issues Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

enior Skyla Savage remembers a teacher telling her class black people’s skulls were shaped differently, which, according to the teacher, is why they have smaller brains. A truck tailgating her boyfriend pulled up next to him at a red light. After rolling down the window, he screamed profane, racial comments. “Now that Trump is in charge y’all aren’t going to be able to do whatever you want,” he said. While this has not personally happened to Savage, she felt very unsettled, unsure of what is to come. Savage and senior Jalisa Styles, members of the black community, avidly participate in Black Lives Matter protests in the Austin area, motivated by their own experiences and the sadness their community faces when in-

nocent lives are taken. “Protesting makes a difference because it inspires reform,” Styles said. “That reform can be locally or nationally, but you get to see people come together wanting to change something. Doing this draws attention of many and initially, that’s what we want to do - bring as many people together to make as big of a difference as we can.” Black Lives Matter, originating in the African-American community, internationally campaigns against violence and systematic racism. Not only do the two support the movement, they hope to educate people on the meaning and their purpose. “None of us want to say that black lives matter more or that we are exclusive,” Styles said. “I do agree that all lives matter, which includes police officers, but when people use it as a

counter protest to Black Lives Matter, it hurts. We are protesting for innocent lives.” Styles still feels scarred by a protest for David Joseph, a teenager shot and killed by a black police officer in the Austin area. She and her family marched with the victim’s mother because the officer faced no charges. Down Sixth Street, another African American walked where they marched and yelled at them to stop marching and that ‘All lives matter.’ While both Savage and Styles can recount first hand experiences with negative encounters, they also see the community brought together through Black Lives Matter. “One protest Jalisa and I went to had a sign that read ‘Honk if black lives matter,’” Savage said. “It was amazing to hear everyone honking as we were walking. They all acknowl-

edged the protest positively and that was really nice to know that those protesting with us weren’t the only ones who cared.” Styles believes that negative views on Black Lives Matter stems from a lack of awareness. As a way to promote social awareness, Styles and Savage put together Black History Month presentations in the PAC last year. Styles brought in her mother, an African American rights activist, as a guest speaker. “This year we are still going to do a presentation, but unfortunately we won’t be able to do it during Black History Month,” Styles said. “We are really excited to put something together, though. We want a presentation that will spread awareness and be a celebration of the history we may not have learned.”

Features // January 3, 2017 // 9

Marching A Message

Active voices speak up

Lindsey Robinson // Asst. Editor

Palpable chants and cheers shake the streets as sunsoaked, smiling citizens wave their homemade signs and flags past the horizon, coasting the skyline. Tear-stained cheeks stretch and songs of equality burst from all around, loud, but not deafening. On Jan. 21, 2017, senior Noelle Bowers and freshman Scarlet McClenny walked alongside millions in the Women’s March. Bowers walked in Austin and McClenny traveled to Washington D.C. to march their message. “It was all a huge rush, I saw all of these people who had similar ideas and feelings as me,” McClenny said. “You could look around and see so many different types of people all marching as one. I wanted to march to make the women in my life proud. I not only marched for myself and the people in my life, but also the people who couldn’t march.” At the conclusion of the march in D.C. protest signs and props lined the front of the White House, as protesters left their mark on Washington. In cities across the country, and across the world, individuals stood together to make their opinions heard. “The march was much less about insulting our new president, than it was sharing support for other women, for Planned Parenthood, for immigrants, Muslims, Hispanics, People of Color, Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ, sexual assault victims, and other minority groups that have been affected by this election,” Bowers said. “I marched to support, uplift, and empower other women. I marched side by side with men and women of different races, sizes, ages, gender identities, physical abilities, and I’ve honestly never felt more patriotic than I did in that crowd. I marched to remind our president that women are the future of this country and that our rights matter. I marched because I believe in equality.”

rumps new orders on the ‘Muslim ban’ have brought about a lot of protests across the nations airports. In Austin, I participated, and it was amazing to see all these people come together including Muslim, Palestinian, and Iraqi people share their stories about the horrible challenges they have to go through just for the way they look.”

Jalisa Styles, 12

y dad as a law enforcement officer has always told me how everyone that lives will have a different viewpoint. Their viewpoints are shaped by their experiences and the situations in which they were raised. My dad told me ‘the job of a policeman is to provide safety for citizens and equality to all’ and even expressed a code of conduct that states ‘law enforcement officers are prohibited from expressing political views while in uniform.’ This extends to bias actions. Having a policeman as my father has helped shape my opinion on Black Lives Matter by helping me understand how many different viewpoints there actually are and how they only thing one can do is try to treat everyone around you as if you were being graded on your ‘equal treatment.’”

Daniel Schulze, 11

had heard about the planned protest occurring in Washington for Woman’s rights and shortly after that found one happening in Austin. The energy was definitely positive and we all had a reason to march, mine was for my grandmothers. Both ladies are incredibly intelligent and encouraging family. Both also have voiced concerns to me about the new presidents rhetoric, especially my mother’s mother, or as I call her my Por Por. She was born in Tianjin, China on December 17, 1945. Although she was fortunate to grow up in a democracy she now knows the atrocities and injustice Mao Zedong committed and how far populist beliefs can go. She was going to become a citizen if [Hillary] had won the electoral college. However after election night, almost my whole family felt disappointed and I called my grandmother. That night I had a long conversation with her and reminded her to stay hopeful and as long as we unite we will always be stronger together. So at the march, I marched against hateful rhetoric, I marched against fear, I marched for women, and I marched for the blacks, the LGBT community, my Muslim brothers and sisters, for love, and for everyone and everything that truly makes America great.”

Josh Ellis, 12

Top photo from the Washington march with freshman Scarlet McClenney. Bottom photo of senior Noelle Bowers at the Austin march. Photos courtesy of McClenney and Bowers.

Pro Life marcher captures her voice Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

oung children walk in a manner of hope, holding their parents hands. Buses full of teenagers pour out to support the movement. Freshman Abigail Hill felt humble and inspired as she saw so many young people supporting the Pro Life movement. As a photographer, she captured moments from the activists, which encouraged her to stand up for what she believes in. The Pro Life movement supports the prohibition of abortion, but according to freshman Abigail Hill, there is much more to their message. “I went to the Pro Life march because I believe that every person, no matter size, gender, ethnicity because they should have the opportunity to live,” Hill said. “I find the issue over abortion so incredibly important and to see people fighting for infants and life itself is a beautiful thing.” Hill’s motivation at the march was her faith,

which guides her personal opinions and beliefs, and her camera. “Because I have the opportunity to take photos, I got to capture people in their element speaking and showing what they believe in,” Hill said. “One of my aspirations in life is to capture moments that tell a story and have meaning beyond what meets the eye.” Backlash to the Pro Life movement has voiced fears of what anti-abortion message really says, and how far their support of life goes beyond birth. “I believe that we are fighting for humanity in general,” Hill said. “No matter what struggles you might be facing, what race or background you come from, you have the right to live and we fight to respect everyone. I think a lot of people don’t understand and take into consideration the whole reason as what we support.”

10 \\ The Hawk \\Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Features

Welcoming Weiss Photo courtesy of Pflugerville ISD

Future high school expected to bring changes to campus Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

The addition of a new high school

brings changes to Hendrickson as the district hopes to relieve some of the overcrowding. All freshmen who went to either Cele or Dessau Middle School and are currently attending Hendrickson will be transferred to Weiss, as well as any incoming eighth graders. Current sophomores and juniors will be “grandfathered,” or allowed to stay at their current campus. With growth occurring in the area, Pflugerville ISD constructed a new secondary campus, Weiss High School. In addition to the construction of the school, the city has issued Weiss Lane will expand into a four lane road to accommodate the growing infrastructure. “When we’re building new structures we want to make sure we’re considering student impact,” Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Kettisha Jones said. “We can see clearly that we need a new high school to provide some relief for Hendrickson. Weiss would not need any alleviation until 2026, through these proposed boundaries we want to make sure we’re always below or at capacity at our schools.”

pproximately 200 incoming freshman and sophomores have upperclassmen siblings who will be allowed to grandfather in, while the younger students are expected to go to Weiss. The district has considered allowing transfers for the MCJROTC program, however, approvals will be issued on a student to student basis, ultimately the goal is to relieve the overcrowding at

Hendrickson. “We want to take advantage of this opportunity to address some overcrowded schools that we have,” Jones said. “We’ve been working with a demographer, so we can make projections for different areas and account for the future growth that is happening here. We’re a fast growing district, so this process is helping us to address current and future overcrowding.” All four high schools will offer every CTE pathway, STEM, Business & Industry, Public Service, Arts & Humanities, and Multidisciplinary Studies. Additionally, Weiss will offer the Biotechnology Research & Development pathway, a first for the district. Pre-AP, AP, dual course enrollments, AVID and multiple fine arts programs will be offered. Weiss promises to provide any classes students may need or want to take, even if that course isn’t typically taken by freshmen or sophomores. “If there is a kid that has a special academic need and we can’t accommodate that, then we will meet with the student and the parent and determine what the best solution for that is,” Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Susanna Russell said. “We’re not going to have any student have an academic penalty, because of their transfer from Hendrickson to Weiss.”

aula Gamble will serve as the Weiss principal and has prepared with others in anticipation of the new campus. Before Weiss, Gamble was most recently the principal at Park Crest and has been the associate principal at Hendrickson. Gamble hopes to hire the

greatest teachers and coaches for the incoming freshmen and sophomores. “As Principal, my priority will be to create a culture of competitiveness, pride, and belonging while challenging and inspiring students to reach and surpass their potential in academics and extracurricular endeavors,” Gamble said. “I want to inspire young adults to become productive and college ready, while creating a culture of pride among all Weiss Wolves.”

riginally, varsity athletes were permitted to remain at Hendrickson, however, in a three to three vote the school board decided all freshmen would be required to go to Weiss, no matter what UIL event they are involved in. Some students have expressed concern over transitioning to a new campus. For freshman Talmage Pearson, only allowing varsity athletes to be grandfathered prompted him to speak at boundary meetings. “Honestly I think if anyone is uncomfortable going to Weiss they shouldn’t have to, regardless of whatever electives they are involved in,” Pearson said. Addressing the varsity athletics clause was the second time Pearson spoke to the board. After learning he was zoned for Weiss, he decided to express his concerns over the inconveniences of transferring to a new school. For Pearson going to Weiss means not having role models to learn from or look up to. “Being the oldest in the school basically makes me a senior and I don’t want to take on that responsibility,” Pearson said. “The smaller band means I won’t

be able to perform at 6A competitions. There will also not be any juniors or seniors so that forces sophomores to assume leadership positions, such as drum major and section leader.”

or sophomore Isabel Woods, her incoming freshman sister not being allowed to attend Hendrickson has created concern for their family. Woods’ sister plans to join the color guard, making providing transportation for practices difficult. “The rides to and from school will definitely become harder and more of a struggle. We still don’t know how we would get both of us to and from school each day,” Woods said. “My sister and I haven’t gone to school much together, so I don’t think both of us going to different high schools will suddenly change how we treat each other. It’ll probably stress my family out a bit as the school is getting started. Programs and classes and teachers that may or may not know what they’re doing, but we will take it as we can.”

lthough, some families have expressed concern over attending Weiss, the new campus provides opportunities not present at an already established school, such as Hendrickson. “For our ninth and tenth graders that will be opening Weiss, this gives them leadership opportunities that they may not get when they’re in a full ninth through twelfth grade campus,” Jones said. “This gives them the chance to create that image, create a legacy, make those traditions that would take place at a new campus.”

Features // February 3, 2017 // 11

Campus population through the years

Outlined below is the expected growth and elevation occurring at both Hendrickson and Weiss. Hendrickson’s capacity is 2,525 while Weiss’s will be 2,500. Statistics from pfisd.net

Hendrickson High School Weiss High School

2,181 2,333

2,206 2,491

2,192 2,591

2,195 2,722

19/20

2,171 2,206

18/19

2,143 2,100

2,101 1,799

17/18

2,080 1,939

2,461 1,265

16/17

2,648 807

3,261

CAPACITY

20/21

21/22

22/23

23/24

24/25

25/26

26/27

Key faculty leaving Hendrickson Caitlyn Schoonover // Reporter

“Becoming a head football coach in Texas was always the goal, so a professional dream has been reached. However, more importantly is creating a student centered athletic program that fulfills the goal of growing young people into mature, responsible, loyal, gritty, servant leaders in our community who make sound decisions. My goal is for Weiss to become the model for other school districts to admire. Being the best in a town or region is great, but being the best in the state... that’s special.” -Thomas Aultman, Athletic Director

The opening of Weiss High School has already affected Hendrickson High School, with the loss of some key faculty leaving to start the process of staff hiring and schedule building.

“I believe we should always strive to grow and improve in our craft, and one way to do that is through change. Stepping outside what is comfortable and embarking on a new endeavor is one of the best ways I feel I can grow professionally. I feel that being a part of opening campus and setting all the systems and traditions will stretch me professionally to think about what is the best way to serve each student that walks through the halls of Weiss High School.” -Kate Bauer, Assistant Principal

$$$ Weiss $$$

“I have loved my time at Hendrickson and have learned so much in my role as transition counselor. I am excited to take what I have learned in my time working with seniors and use it focus on the development of programs for our freshman and sophomore students at Weiss. I am excited about the opportunity to open a campus and work with students and staff members to build the cultural of the school.” -Kara Tappendorf, Head Counselor

COST

55 Classrooms $104.4 20 Science labs Million

Auditorium with 781 seats To accommodate the incoming freshmen 800-900 Students Football stadium and sophomores, Weiss has a wide vari-

By the Numbers

ety of features to make sure the school fits the needs of both students and teachers alike. Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

388,934 sq ft

with 3,000 seats

12 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Features

Live to Ride Junior recounts experiences, growth as a motocross rider Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

Jacob Hill always feels a sense of freedom when he rides on the tracks. Whether he clears a new jump, or has a good riding day with his friends, those are always the experiences he finds most fulfilling. Hill participates in motocrossing, a form of racing essentially combining motorcycling and cross-country. Hill grew up submerged in the idea of motocross, since motorcycling was one of his father’s hobbies. Around the age of 12, he began riding but later stopped when his father sold his bike. Six months ago, Hill started taking motocross more seriously, as his passion continued to grow. “Right now it’s just a hobby, just because I want to do something else with my life,” Hill said. “I’m not good enough at this point to make it pro or anything, but it’s definitely a passion of mine.” Motocross tracks usually include hills, dirt roads, and various turns which make up the entire course. Since

many riders differ in experience level, there are different class factions. From there, each class determines how many motos, or laps, are made. Since Hill is still fairly new to the sport, he races part of class 250 Beginner, and rides a 250cc bike. “I did a race back when I first started but it wasn’t very good,” Hill said. “Now that I’ve improved drastically, I’m ready to start racing again.” Hill’s practicing typically takes place every weekend. However, in the upcoming months, his father is sending him to a camp to learn essentials, and hopefully improve his skills. Nonetheless, Hill constantly strives to become a well-rounded rider. “It’s definitely a crazy sport,” Hill said. “When you’re on the track and you’re jumping or cornering or passing people, just having fun, it’s an escape. I’m thinking about riding and not about any problems. I’m just out there to ride.”

Now that I’ve improved drastically I’m ready to start racing again.

-Jacob Hill, 11

What is the difference between each class? The number of course refers to the engine size of a bike. The letter, refers to how good you are. The Class A rider is better than a Class B who is better than a Class C rider.

Practice Makes Perfect Typically, Hill rides Saturday. “Motocross is really hard to describe it, but it’s motorcycles but on dirt tracks,” Hill said. “It’s Kind of similar to BMX racing.” At motocross competitions, each class completes a certain amount of laps. While Hill has never seriously injured himself, he has crashed a few times.

Photos by Abigail Hill

Reclaiming Resources

Features // February 3, 2017 // 13

Artist creates terrariums to reconnect with nature Alyssa Ellinwood // Reporter

When Senior Álvaro Ortolá was younger and lived in Spain, he often went to the mountains and helped his grandparents collect crops. His life in Spain was mainly based around nature, and since he moved to America, he kept up his connection with nature through making living terrariums. Ortolá makes living terrariums as a hobby. Taking old light bulbs or any used up glass containers that would normally be thrown away, Ortolá makes a terrariums for plants to live and grow in. Not only does Ortolá help the environment by reusing glass containers, but he gets to explore other enjoyable activities as well. “I saw a YouTube video,” Ortolá said, “About living terrariums and thought it was a cool concept, I was interested in making them and it gave me an excuse to go outside.”

Ortolá has always enjoyed going outside since he was a child. Being able to make living terrariums allows him to still be around mother nature even indoors. “I get to go outside and collect moss,” Ortolá said, “That’s truly it, I get to go outside and nature is everywhere.” Even though making terrariums is a fun hobby Ortolá finds peace and understanding with the plants he uses for his living terrariums , and finds his hobby useful for relaxation whenever he’s feeling overwhelmed. “Making living terrariums gives me a sense of understanding of what’s going on, I have a sense of control in what I’m doing,” said Ortolá, “Whenever I’m stressed or I’m just out of it, I just sit there for an hour or two and I’ll control how I want the plants to grow.”

Droning On

Terrific Terrariums Ortolá must properly construct and position each element in the terrarium to ensure healthy growth and an organized appearance over time. “In the terrarium, I used some smaller ferns in hope to collect any excess water,” Ortolá said. Photos courtesy of Álvaro Ortolá

Green Growing Terrariums include rocks, soil, and plants, typically succulents. “I usually start off with looking at the materials I have and get an idea from them,” Ortolá said. In the terrarium pictured, Ortolá used a moss clump as the centerpiece.

Sophomore manages drone-making business, school McKenna Lucas // Reporter

Photo courtesy of Jerry Immanuel

Flying High With a top speed of 70 mph, Jerry Immanuel uses this racing drone in fast pace races with other competitors. “I flew the drone in a race at the international Drone Expo in Los Angeles and got third place in my division,” Immanuel said. “It felt exhilarating to fly and I felt the adrenaline rush as I rounded the last lap.” Immanuel finished building and flew the drone for the first time last month.

Summer boredom hits. Sophomore Jerry Immanuel started building drones as a hobby to pass the time, but it turned into a growing business. He went on to become a founder, CEO, and teacher, words that don’t usually describe a high school student, but at 16, Immanuel holds each title. Immanuel bypasses what adults still struggle to achieve in their late 30s in both business and engineering. Influenced by the struggle of building his first drone, Immanuel created his first business, Austin Drone School. “The main part of Austin Drone School is the actual school part,” Immanuel said. “Over the summer, I teach others, mostly students, how to build their own drone typically over a threeweek program.” Besides the summer programs, the Austin Drone School sells pre made drones and specializes in repairing broken drones too. Immanuel built his first drone by himself at age 12, and 4 years later mastered the process. “To actually make a drone I order parts from Chinese warehouses because it’s cheaper buying them there. Then I usually have to solder some wires and put together a frame before I’m able to put everything on the frame,” Immanuel said.

“Then I have to program the flight controller using a coding language called OpenPilot GCS.” Everyday technology is slowly integrating drones. Businesses like Just Eat and YO! Sushi, two European based food chains, include drones in their delivery process. The company Shell uses inspection drones on their energy plants in Europe. Despite some backlash, due to fear of surveillance, drones won’t be going away any time soon. “Drones have the potential to help society in many ways,” Immanuel said. “Some examples of this are news coverage, search and rescue, firefighting, etc. Drones also help increase surveillance in and outside the US.” If business improves, Austin Drone School might evolve into a long term business in Immanuel’s life, but for now Immanuel treats the school like a hobby. For any additional information on repairs and classes, go to his website www.austindroneschool.com. “My first drone was such a struggle to build on my own because I did not know who to ask for help at the time,” Immanuel said. “I am doing this so others won’t face the same struggle as I did.”

14 \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Feature

Beyond Scrubs

Health Science Practicum offers insight in healthcare Lindsey Robinson // Asst. Editor

Dressed in pristine white and khaki scrubs, members of the Health Science Practicum course gear up for their next day of rotations. Each student arrives promptly at nine in the morning and boards the bus headed to the Pflugerville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, or St. Davids Round Rock, ready to witness a sneak peak into the career path they envision for themselves. The Health Science Practicum class uses the knowledge previously studied by students, and applies the subject matter to a live setting. Shay Haude took over as the lead for the class at the beginning of the school year and learns along with the students, as they migrate from the nursing home, to hospital rotations, and to a deeper understanding of the healthcare field. “All of these experiences help students get a real life feel for what path they may want to start on as they continue their education,” Haude said. “I can honestly say that this is what was missing from my previous career [as a dental hygienist]. I wasn’t passionate about teeth, I am passionate that anyone can find a career that fits in healthcare and it’s so exciting to help students find that fit. The ‘aha moment’ when they see someone doing something and say, ‘I can totally see myself doing that!’ It’s the good stuff.” In addition to the observation rotations, students have the opportunity to certify as a Medical Assistant (CCMA) by passing an exam at the conclusion of the course. With this certification, more opportunities of higher paying jobs are accessible in the healthcare field. “This class is such a privilege for students to take,” Haude said. “Many schools don’t do clinical rotations. This is such a great opportunity and the more you put into it the more you will get out of it.”

Practicum traveled to the nursing home for 4 tion to taking Practicum. To Matthews, acceptance weeks in the fall semester, and will finish their St. into Practicum is an honor not to be taken for David’s North Austin Medical Center and St. Davids granted. “Doing all these projects really helped me gain Round Rock clinical rotations in early February after traveling for roughly 6 weeks. At the nurs- more confidence in the profession I want to pursue ing home, students gather experience working in in Pharmacy,” Matthews said. “Overall, being sea geriatric specialty and shadow Certified Nurs- lected for this class is such an honor that most stuing Assistants, Physical Therapists/Occupational dents couldn’t get. Getting my CCMA certification Therapists, and Licensed Vocational Nurses. At the in May will be my biggest accomplishment in high St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, each stu- school that I will never forget. I strongly encourage next year’s students to strive for greatness and dent rotates among departments, shadowing never give up in anything that you truly put your Registered Nurses, Respiratory Specialists, time and effort into. Anything can happen if you Patient Care Technicians and many more perput your mind to it.” tinent personnel. “It’s hard to say [which rotation was my favorite] because each project has such great moments.” Haude said. “I love when the students found connections with nursing home residents and wanted to visit them on their own. I love the excitement that is palpable as we are headed to the hospital for rotations. They literally can’t wait to see something cool and learn something they didn’t know from people doing what they want to do with their careers.” Of the 41 members of the health Practicum program, senior Hillary Matthews took Vital Vitals Principles of Health Science, Seniors Caitlin Curtis and Gabriella Adams practice taking vitals on one Health Science Technology another as a class warm up. “In an emergency, you have to be quick (HST), Medical Microbiology, on your feet, knowing how to take vitals is critical and could potentially Pathophysiology, and Anato- save someone’s life,” Adams said. my & Physiology in prepara- Photo by Anna Salcedo

1 2 3

How to enroll in the Practicum Class Emilio Pla // Reporter

1. Apply

2. Recommendation & Essay

3. Interview

Practicum HST gives those enrolled a free Medical Assisting certification, broadening their job opportunities past graduation. The course has a vigorous process to apply, in order to ensure the members are fully capable of handling the course and its time requirements.

An application can be found outside of B105 towards the middle of February. The course requires juniors to finish enrollment in Principles of Health Science. Once completed, return application to B105.

Along with the application, members must turn in letters of recommendation from 2-3 teachers. A 1-2-page essay requires applicants to write about a given topic pertaining to health science. The topic will be released along with the application.

The interview process begins for all who passed the applications process over the course of two days after Spring Break. Applicants must dress formally, prepared to explain why Practicum belongs on their schedule for senior year.

Feature// February 3, 2017 // 15

A Chronic Burden

Junior recaps daily life struggles with Type 1 Diabetes Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

With just one wrong move, a day with friends can quickly become a disaster. From constantly monitoring for strange conditions to taking insulin every meal, junior Okera Duffas has to make sure that he isn’t his own physical and medical downfall. Duffas is one of millions of Americans who are type 1 diabetics, otherwise known as “insulin-dependant” diabetics. Duffas was diagnosed as the only type 1 diabetic in his family at the age of six, and needed to maintain responsibility early on in his life. However, despite all these new responsibilities diabetes brought on, Duffas and his family remained calm after hearing the diagnosis. “My dad knew before I was medically diagnosed that I was a diabetic,” Duffas said. “He knew a lot about the symptoms, and therefore was able to identify it early. Being diagnosed never made much of a difference to me when it came to my daily life, and there wasn’t much I had to change about it either.” Type 1 diabetes is a genetic disease

that is brought on by inactivity of fas said. “I didn’t have to change anythe pancreas, unlike the more com- thing about my diet, and my blood mon and non-genetic type 2 diabe- sugar levels stay pretty normal. All I tes, which can be caused by obesity have to do is keep up with my health and a lack of physical activity. The and drink lots of water to maintain pancreas assists in the production of it.” Along with internal issues such as a hormone called insulin, which in turn assists in proper blood flow in organ failure and dangerous bodily maintenance, type 1 diathe body. When betes also comes with the pancreas several rampant mixedshuts down, this body conditions that can causes insuIf more people were to affect daily life. From lin production to severely detake the time to learn sugar highs to nerve cline, causing and educate them- pains, the side effects of diabetes can spread the sugar transselves, they could be through the whole body. portation in the a diabetic’s saviour. While some people are afblood to slow to fected by these conditions a crawl, resultmore than others, Duffas ing in spikes -Okera Duffas, 11 doesn’t experience these in blood sugar problems often in his dailevels. Artificial ly life. insulin is given “Having diabetes wasn’t through shots or pumps to type 1 diabetics to contra- as bad as an impact as I thought it would be,” Duffas said. “It’s a big dict this often fatal condition. “I use a pump because it’s a lot responsibility, and waking up evsimpler and easier to use than having ery day to feel that responsibility is to give yourself shots every day,” Duf- rough, but I just have to take care

Diabetes Statistics Out of all the diabetics in the world, 5% of the people diagnosed with diabetes are diagnosed with T1, the most common being T2 with 95%. T3

In Texas,

1.8 million people living in Texas have Type One diabetes, which is about

13% of the population.

of myself and go on with it. Not too much was different, and people usually don’t ask me about it. When I tell people I have diabetes, they usually react with things like, ‘Oh, I didn’t know you had diabetes,’ but sometimes they mistake it for type 2 and say, ‘You don’t look like a diabetic.’ It’s not often that people mistake me for a type 2 diabetic, but when they do I just quickly and simply correct them.” Knowing the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is knowing the difference between life or death for some people. While they are both classified as a type of diabetes, when it comes down to maintenance the two are vastly different. Learning how to deal with problems for one or the other could save a person’s life. “I would encourage people to learn about diabetes more because of the big difference between type 1 and type 2,” Duffas said. “If more people were to take the time to learn and educate themselves, they could be a diabetic’s saviour, instead of the ones who can only sit back and watch.”

Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

and T4 are both branches of T1 diabetes, and are too recent to have an official population percentage.

In the world,

In the US,

over 30 million Americans are diagnosed and living with Type One diabetes, which is about the entire population of

Malaysia

317 million people worldwide are living with Type One diabetes, and roughly

2,200,400

are under the age of 20.

{For more information, visit www.jdrf.org and www.diabetes.org}

16 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Entertainment

Show Tunes

Staff reviews renowned movie, musical soundtracks

Hairspray

Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

Honoring an era when record players were the norm, the Hairspray movie soundtrack combines upbeat rhythms with cheerful lyrics to create an album which takes listeners back to a time of black and white TV shows and tall updos. Hairspray’s songs mix pop with jazz styles, reflective of the musical’s colorful aesthetics and unique characters. The soundtrack describes the transition from segregation to integration and the struggles to achieve true equality in the ‘60s. From Amber Von Tussle’s (Brittany Snow) soprano vocals to Seaweed’s (Elijah Kelley) soulful style, each singer has a distinct sound,

recognizable in every track. The song that really sticks out on Hairspray’s soundtrack is “I Can Hear The Bells,” capturing the excitement, and sometimes unrealistic expectations, of first love from the musical’s title character, Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky), guaranteed to relate to teenagers and provoke a sense of nostalgia for older listeners. Although the album encompasses real-world issues, such as self-acceptance and racism, the music does so in a way that relates to all audiences, guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

The Hamilton Mixtape When Hamilton the musical premiered on Broadway, fascination ensued. A lost story about infamous treasury of state, Alexander Hamilton, transformed into song by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The music became internationally known and loved. When the original cast performed for the last time fans thought Hamilton ended, but then the Hamilton Mixtape was released. A collection of diverse artists cover and rebuild songs from the musical, bringing different styles together. An emotional song from the original soundtrack, “Satisfied” covered by Sia featuring Queen Latifah and Miguel, captures the vulnerability with a twist. “Satisfied” contains the beautiful piano

Holly Hambleton // Asst. Editor

from the original track but introduces a modern, electronic element. The contrast between Sia’s distinct voice and Queen Latifah’s strong rap skills go together like two pieces in a puzzle. A new addition to the collection, “Immigrants(We Get The Job Done)” by K’NAAN incorporates an important theme from the musical, immigration. K’NAAN sings about specific experiences immigrants face. The story told in this track tells the side of immigrants and their struggles with success in America though witty verses. This assortment of covers and creations embodies the sound and message of Hamilton, continuing the fan’s love for the musical even more.

Matilda the Musical

Roald Dahl’s, Matilda, is a Broadway Musical that features an all London cast of mostly children. The soundtrack consists of songs to coincide the main character, Matilda and her daily life. The opening song “Miracle” is upbeat and introduces the personalities and dreams of each child. The solo “Naughty,” sung by Matilda herself, is forceful and harsh to reveal her realization of independence. In the lyrics, she describes that “sometimes you have to be naughty,” in order to experience being free and depending on yourself over others. The most popular song from the musical, “Revolting Children,” includes

La La Land

Carolina Yanez // Reporter

lyrics from all other songs from the soundtrack, like “Naughty” and “Miracle.” “Revolting Children,” consists of children gathering and singing about the impact they have on their own lives. The song is rough and sharp to display the strength the young children realize they contain. Each song builds towards the journey Matilda takes and how each person she meets affect her. The soundtrack differentiates from any other Broadway music because of the unique inclusion of children and strong message of freedom. The empowerment Matilda captures inspires young people to make change, no matter age or size.

Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

Set in present day Los Angeles, the music of La La Land transports listeners to a different world, one of jazz, spontaneous singing breaks, high energy dance numbers, and loads of old Hollywood vibes. The soundtrack starts out with “Another Day of Sun” which provides an energetic and optimistic view on the City of Dreams, with its upbeat, jazzy melody. Later, “A Lovely Night” is a vibrant dance number between main characters, Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), which produces a similar lively feel. The music eventually becomes more and more serious and emotional, but these first songs give the audience a

look into this enchanted universe. While the melody had been introduced a couple songs before, “City of Stars” is a much slower song sang by Stone and Gossling, and with no question one of the best songs on the soundtrack with its beautifully written lyrics and strong emotion. At the near end of the film, Stone sings, “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” which is a deeply emotional and raw song about memories she held. Nonetheless, Stone delivers an amazing performance to end the singing portion of the film. The 15 song soundtrack for La La Land is undoubtedly magical and will leave listeners wanting more.

Acts of Appreciation

Entertainment // February 3, 2017 // 17

Organization brings awareness to importance of kindness McKenna Lucas // Reporter

Random Acts of Kindness week celebrates intentionally spreading kindness towards friends, family, and colleagues. The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation ultimately wants to turn the week into something more than an organization, but a lifestyle. During Feb 12-18 people from all over the world will take time out of their day, to deliberately show affection in creative ways. Work, technology, money, and social media can distract people from showing appreciation to the people right in front of them.

Random ways to spread kindness

Thank You Notes

Gratitude links to happiness; psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons and Dr. Michael E. McCullough conducted an experiment where two groups of people wrote journal entries about their day. One group wrote about what they were thankful for, and the other group complained in their entries. The group that exhibited gratitude were later proven to be more optimistic and productive. Giving thanks will not only make people happier, but make the relationship stronger.

Buy a meal for a stranger

This act definitely surprises the receiver. Usually done through a fast food drive through, people just ask the cashier if they can pay for the order of the car behind them.

$$$$$$$$

Compliments

Compliments will always be nice to hear. However, some compliments have a greater impact than others. Compliments that praise someone’s drive or motivation have more meaning, because it’s not something that they were born with. People don’t choose their eye color, hair color, or facial features, but they do chose how they act. Complimenting the outside is like praising a bouquet of flowers, but complimenting the inside is giving credit to all the hard work someone does to grow and nurture the garden.

Quality Time

Social media is the fastest and most reliable source of communications; however, it is not the most meaningful. Instead of sending a quick text to an old friend, ask if they would like to hang out over the weekend. This shows that you value their friendship and are willing to deliberately take time out of your day to talk with them. Face to face conversations are important in all relationships, especially in friendships that can be neglected due to school and everyday busyness of daily life. Relationships with family members like grandparents, need quality time face to face, because of the huge generational difference between an 80-year-old and a high schooler. No bond will immediately be forged through texting; a relationship must be worked for. At the end of the day, time is fleeting, don’t waste time with people who don’t matter.

Join a charity group

Charity is a great way to make friends, while giving back to the community. Clubs like Key Club and Rotary Club are places where students can have fun, give back, and grow as a person. Students can also volunteer outside of school clubs, by visiting a local soup kitchen, animal shelter, nursing home, or even hospital. These community service opportunities also build up an advance resume for college.

HOW TO GET

INVOLVED McKenna Lucas // Reporter

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation gives people the opportunity to apply to become a RAKtivist, short for Random Acts of Kindness activist. The universal community of RAKtivists focus on working together to make the world a better, kinder place. RAktivists share their photos, stories, and ideas through the RAKtivist Facebook page and some of the stories shared are featured on the Random Acts of Kindness website. Teachers can also demonstrate the importance of kindness in the classroom with free curriculum and lesson plans provided on the organization’s website. Currently, there are 6,567 RAKtivists, ranging from 14-89 years of age, and representing 87 different countries. In order to become a RAKtivist, go to randomactsofkindess. org for a chance to apply and learn additional information. The online application sheet is easy to apply to, with little to no requirements. Being a RAKtivist is about being an ambassador of kindness to all people, in all places and in every situation.

For more information, visit: www.randomactsofkindness.org www.huffingtonpost. com/peter-field/kindnessresearch_b_7054652.html

18 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Sports

Q & A

Madison Silva, Varsity & Noah Kablaitis, JV answer questions about golf, competition, and future plans

Q A

Why do you play golf?

I play golf because I love golf and it can help with getting into good colleges, but I do enjoy it and I don’t know what I’d do without it.--MS

Q A

When did playing?

you

start

I started playing golf when I was three, I played other sports as well but my parents wanted me to play golf and I ended up liking it more than the other sports. -MS

Q A

What’s your favorite thing about golf?

My favorite thing about golf is when I have the perfect club, the perfect yardage, and I have the chance to get the score that I want. When I hit that shot and it’s everything that I pictured it to be. -MS

Q A

What’s practice like for you?

It’s different because in the summer I have more time to practice. But I like to go chip and putt first

and then go to the range. I usually just take drinks with me, and the whole thing is just relaxing for me.-MS

Q A

What’s your favorite thing about golf?

It’d probably be the fact that you get to meet a lot different people from a lot of different schools. As you go on tournaments you never really have the same person in your little group of people and you kind of make friends that you end up seeing in other tournaments and it’s kind of like, “Hey, I know you!”-NK

Q A

Why do you play golf?

I started playing golf because it’s an easier chance at getting a scholarship versus any other sport. It’s also something fun and different because I used to play baseball for 12 years but decided to move onto golf. -NK

Q A

When did you start playing?

I started playing competitive freshman year, but before then I played

2017 Sports Scores Boyd (Tournament): Win 1-0 Plano West (Tournament): Tie 0-0 Flower Mound (Tournament): Loss 3-0 Carroll (Tournament): Loss 2-1 The Woodlands (Tournament): Loss 3-1 Plano West (Tournament): Tie 1-1 Lake Travis (Tournament): Tie 1-1

Boys Soccer

Boerne (Tournament): Win 3-0

San Marcos (Tournament): Win 0-4

Americas (Tournament): Tie 1-1

Travis (Tournament): Tie 2-2

McCollum (Tournament): Win 3-0 Irvin (Tournament): Tie 2-2 Pace (Tournament): Tie 0-0

Canyon (Tournament): Win 2-1 Akins (Tournament): Tie 0-0 Reagan (District Game): Loss 1-0

VARSITY SOCCER

Girls Soccer

Putting at a Blackhawk tournament, sophomore Noah Kablaitis aims for the hole. “As you go on tournaments you never really have the same person in your group,” Kablaitis said. “you kind of make friends that you end up seeing in other tournaments and it’s fun.” Kablaitis practices up to two hours three times a week to maintain his skills. Photo by Anthony Flores

golf here and there to get into it. -NK

Q A

What’s practice like for you?

It’s pretty much trying to get better at the sport because right now I’m on JV and most of the kids are leaving from Varsity to graduate so I’m trying to get better and get on var-

Sunrise Solace

During a tournament in Marble Falls, sophomore Madison Silva putts at the ninth hole of the course. “I was putting for birdie,” Silva said. “I had to aim about two golf balls to the left but I made it for birdie.” Silva plays golf to help her get into the college of her choice with a scholarship. Photo courtesy of Madison Silva

sity so I can possibly get scholarships from other schools.-NK

Q A

How has golf changed your life?

It’s made me pay attention more because you have to memorize what club to use, you have to memorize how far you have to hit the ball, and you kind

gotta memorize if you gotta go this way, that way, you have to learn a whole different set of skills. It’s not something where you can just go up, hit the ball and be a great player. You have to have knowledge based on past experiences and what others teach you. -NK Serena Tran // Reporter

Girls Basketball

Boys Basketball

Rouse (Tournament): Win 46-39 Judson (Tournament): Win 49-30 Vista Ridge (Away): Loss 66-51 Pflugerville (Home): Win 43-42 Dripping Springs (Away): Win 47-43 Anderson (Home): Win 55-30 Cedar Ridge (Home): Loss 43-40 Round Rock (Away): Win 72-52 Conroe (Away): Win 66-55 Rockwall (Away): Loss 51-50 Clear Creek (Away): Win 54-53 A&M Consolidated (Away): Win 62-47 Clear Falls (Away): Loss 49-39 Westwood (Away): Loss 55-54 McNeil (Home): Win 68-18 Stony Point (Away): Loss 55-54 Round Rock (Home): Win 68-37

La Vernia (Tournament): Win 73-53 Pflugerville Connally (Tournament): Win 55-54 Austin (Away): Win 56-54 Steele (Away): Loss 82-55 HCYA (Away): Win 77-40 Ellison (Away): Loss 62-58 Pflugerville (Away): Loss 46-42 Cedar Ridge (Away): Win 62-49 Akins (Away): Win 58-53 Akins (Tournament): Win 49-48 Cedar Park (Tournament): Win 48-40 Cedar Ridge (Tournament): Win 55-47 Clear Lake (Tournament): Loss 71-63 Westwood (Home): Loss 61-44 McNeil (Away): Win 50-49 Stony Point (Home): Win 61-53 Round Rock (Away): Win 59-46

VARSITY BASKETBALL

Taylor Hedlund // Reporter

Perfecting the Putt

Sports // February 3, 2017 // 19

Meeting the Goal

Wrestling Roots Team finds motivation in family Megan Fletcher // Reporter

Varsity soccer wins tournament Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

The Varsity Boys soccer team took a win against Akins High School, with a score of 0-0. Both teams went into a penalty shoot out. Le (middle) is the goalie, who blocked three consecutive penalty kicks, ultimately leading the team to victory. “I was nervous to go into the goal for penalty kicks because I thought another goalie from my team was going to do it,” Le said. “As soon as I blocked the first penalty kick, I thought it was

going to be the first penalty kick I was going to block. When I blocked the second one, I started to get a little pumped. After I blocked the third one, I realized we had won.” The team rushed on the field to celebrate the win. “I felt very proud to be able to bring a trophy home for the program and for the school,” Le said. Picture courtesy of Shannon Study.

Family motivates wrestling team

Whether it’s a mom with a PhD, a boxing uncle, or an artsy grandma, family members make great role models— even for a wrestler. Sophomore Jacob Zamora’s family motivates him to achieve in wrestling. His uncle, Scott Parker, at one point had a 100-match winning streak and once wrestled a former Olympian. His son, Zamora’s cousin, won second in Massachusetts despite a shoulder injury. “My motivation is just to do really well,” Zamora said. “They inspired me to try my best and at least become half as good as they were.” Zamora aims to gain as much experience as possible while on the team. “It made me learn that I need to do work on my own,” Zamora said. “If I want to get better, I need to work harder in areas such as studying and working out -- both inside and outside of wrestling, so I try to work hard and give it all that I have and to make my season as successful as possible by advancing.” Despite being a freshman, JV team member Mohammed Hallak understands the value of teamwork and gaining experience in a new area. “I want to learn more because I enjoy it,” Hallak said. “It’s fun for me; I get to learn new things and experience new things.” Even though the boys wrestle each other almost daily, it is working and learning together that ultimately builds the team dynamic. With meets almost every week, it’s important to come together as a team in the individual sport environment. “It’s fun to see everyone together and help each other during practices,” Hallak said. “I like to see the team help each other with things we don’t fully understand.”

Upcoming Wrestling Dates Feb. 10 UIL District Wrestling Championships (JV & Varisty Boys) Feb. 11 UIL District Wrestling Championships (Varsity Boys & Girls) Feb. 17 & 18 Regionals (Varsity Boys & Girls) Feb. 24 & 25 UIL State Meet (Varsity Boys & Girls)

20 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 5 \\ Last Look

Stylin’ It Up

Teens discuss fashion expression, importance People reflect who they are within their style. From sporty to chic, or a combination of other things, style reflects a little window of their personalities and what they like. Below are comments about personal style and how they express themselves. Megan Vickery //Photographer Paul Le // Reporter Kylie Bowlus //Photographer Savannah Cummings // Reporter Anna Salcedo//Photographer

“I ignore what people think because they don’t understand it. I’m sick of being just like everyone else so I decided to become myself. The way you dress defines who you are and who you attract.” Megan Brune, 12

“Some days I look like a 90’s skateboarder. Other days I could be a member of the 1975. My diverse style represents my well-rounded personality.” Robert Boley, 12 “My style is relatively eclectic, and reveals the immense amount of stress I feel. I go for the disheveled look.” Brian Baker, 12

“I feel that when I dress nicer opposed to raggedy I feel that I am a more sophisticated person because of how I dress.” CJ Pena, 10

“I have a very ‘I don’t care’ style. I wear what I want without caring what others think of it.” Jordan Smith, 12

“If it is a sunny day, I’ll wear sandals or my Nikes because they are comfortable. You can walk in them and it’s better for the condition of the school, but I sometimes hate to wear sandals because people can step on your feet. In colder weather, I love to wear boots because they look good, are comfortable to wear, and they keep your feet warm.” -Brisa Villanueva, 11