Marchhawk

a silen pidemic Anxiety, mental illness statistics increase Page 10 & 11

In this issue...

Unknown Classes 8 & 9 Festivals 12 Dog Days 15

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 6 March 3, 2017 thehawkonline.net

2 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ News

State of the union Current domestic, foreign issues impact United States McKenna Lucas // Reporter

Serena Tran // Reporter

Trump’s Presidential Campaign Team Corresponds with Russia The New York Times reports members of President Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign of repeatedly contacting with Russian intelligence officials before the election.

The members contacted the Russian intelligence officers around the same time, evidence was found of Russia attempting to skew the election, by hacking into the Democratic National Committee. Four former and current US intelligence officers claim they haven’t seen any evidence of the cooperation,

Passport Terrorism Confidential documents obtained from former legal advisor to the Venezuelan Embassy reveal irregularities in the issue of passports and visas. Venezuela’s new Vice President Tareck El Aissami was linked to at least 173 Venezuelan passports and

affecting the results of the election.

24 hours before t h e report, Michael Flynn resigned as National Security Advisor, because he was vulnerable to Russian blackmail after he misled Vice President Mike Pence on the essence of a contact with a Russian official.

Pods of pilot whales beached themselves along the Farewell Spit of New Zealand, on Feb. 10. 100 whales were released into the water by volunteers and 350 of the 650 whales died. Unfortunately, the whales released wouldn’t go back to sea, and would stay near the rest of their pod on the beach.

Hundreds of volunteers created long chains with their arms to prevent the whales from swimming any closer to the beach. There are many theories on why whales beach themselves, some scientists believe it’s caused by chasing prey too far inshore, protecting a sick member, or escaping a predator.

Mass executions in Syrian prison Amnesty International, an organization aimed at ending human rights abuse, stated that from 2011 to 2015, guards executed 50 people every week in Syria at Saydnaya prison.

An estimated 5,000 to 13,000 civilian opposition supporters went through a military field court, lasting between one to three minutes. Despite varying degrees of testimony and denial, the

death sentence was carried out every time. On the day of their execution, the supporters were tortured for three to four hours and were then taken to the basement, where they were hanged.

Their bodies were allegedly buried in mass graves on military land. Amnesty based their report on 84 witness testimonies.

travel Ban ruled unconstitutional IDs issued to individuals from the Middle East, including some connected to the terrorist group Hezbollah.

A Venezuelan passport allows entry into more than 130 countries without a visa, putting multiple countries in danger of terrorism.

Oscars On Feb. 26, 2016, the most widelyknown actors gather in order to celebrate the previous year’s film successes in one of the biggest award shows, The Oscars. Ultimately Moonlight won best picture overall, after the error in which an announcer called La La Land instead. Although the cast of La La Land handed over their award

stranded whales in new zealand

to the cast of Moonlight, Emma Stone managed to win Best Actress for her appearance in the film.

Casey Affleck received Best Actor for his appearance in Manchester by the Sea.

President Donald Trump issued an executive order restricting the rights of people from at least seven Muslimmajority countries including Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. The policy has gathered immense amounts of attention and has sparked controversy from people all around the world. The order was established in hopes of protecting the

nation against any possible terrorist affiliations but has been deemed unconstitutional by many civilians who express their conflicting views on social media. The travel ban was temporarily paused due to the chaos that broke out. The US government issued a request to resume the travel ban but the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the request.

Oroville Dam Spillway A massive crevasse formed at Northern California’s Oroville Dam. The crack has spurred mass evacuations with nearby residents fleeing what may be the worst-case specter of a three-story wall of water. Around 188,0oo people evacuated, most on short notice, not being able to gather their personal belongings. The Oroville Dam is the country’s tallest

dam. It provides flood control for the regions surrounding the dam, with two spillways that release water to prevent overflow. Unfortunately, both spillways have threatening problems.

A hole, caused by erosion, has formed in the lower part of the main spillway’s channel. Authorities are utilizing the crater in an effort to reduce water levels.

News // March 3, 2017 // 3

WE ARE HERE, WE ARE NOT LEAVING

Photo by of Victoria Hoang

Protestors meet to voice opinions over immigrants in America Holly Hambleton // Asst. Editor

Student demonstrators gathered outside the school protesting for immigrant equality on Feb. 17, in response to the recent reform. Starting at The POD, the demonstration moved around the school followed by administrators and school resource officers, who kept the group secure. Eventually, staff asked students to stay outside the cafeteria to guarantee their safety while protesting. As Mexican soccer jerseys and signs waved in the wind to raise awareness over immigration, protestors spoke for their beliefs.

“The main reason why I participated was because someone named, Benito Juarez said that this land is for those who work,” junior Jonathan Hernandez said. “So I participated in the protest because [immigrants] are working, [immigrants] are doing what others don’t want to do.”

Students share motivation to protest Lindsey Robinson // Asst. Editor

The protest followed the national demonstration, A Day Without Immigrants, when immigrants refrained from attending their jobs and school to reveal their daily impact. During the protest, assistant principals, administrators and teachers watched the gathering to make sure everything ran smoothly. Various staff members spoke to the protestors to show their support and respect.

“I felt empowered and happy because people were coming together for one reason,” sophomore Yainara Diaz said. “The administrators were telling us we had the right to protest and kept us safe.”

When the crowd of protestors decided to walk around the school, they called out to onlookers to come join them and draw attention to their cause. They shouted various Spanish phrases to build the group’s energy.

During their demonstration, students shared stories of their families and personal experiences.

“My family is full of immigrants so that’s why I felt it was a good time to protest. I had to make my voice heard,” Hernandez said. “I felt nervous and good at the same time [holding the sign] in front of everyone.

I was doing something good and I don’t know what other people thought about the protest, but it didn’t matter in that moment.”

Along with Hernandez’s views, additional people joined the protest for different individual reasons. Others participated to support the cause, even though their families aren’t directly affected. Most saw the group and felt the need to voice their opinions.

“I chose to go outside because I wanted to speak up for what I believe in and try to make a difference,” Diaz

said. “Immigrants have a voice and we should use it in this time of need.”

Passionate Protesting

Holding their sign over their faces to hide their identities from the camera, two girls participated in the protest. The protest and the posters represent the pride held by those affected by the recent immigration ban.

Photo by of Victoria Hoang

“We were protesting [because immigrants] deserve basic human rights like anyone else. I just want to support them in this time because it is tough when the government is basically threatening to rip apart families by building a wall and deporting people.”

“The protest gave us a chance to stand up for our families or for our friends’ families and fight for equal rights and equal opportunities. The protest was being used for people to notice us. For people to notice the problems not only on the world but in our lives and schools.”

Jada Phoenix, 10

Desiree Hernadez, 11

“People had signs that said we are here to stay and we would chant,”no hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.” This protest was right after A Day Without Immigrants so when we came back to school, we wanted everyone to know that it is okay to voice our opinion without being afraid.”

Amelia Prieto, 10

news BRIEFS

4 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ News

Kickstart competes in tournaments Carson Ganong // Reporter

After months of preparation, Kickstart students began their spring round of tournaments on Feb. 11 with the first of two qualifying competitions. There, they competed for a spot in the city championships in numerous categories including sparring, solo and team kata, and a new division called demonstration.

“Demonstration is really cool,” senior and Kickstart member Alvaro Ortola-Tortosa said. “It’s where schools create their own sort of performance to show off their students’ skills. Usually they’re teacher-made, but we made ours ourselves. We were really proud of it.”

The qualifiers acted as a sort of thinning-out process; of the hundreds of students who competed there, only the top eight in each division earned a spot at the city championships. There, the eight students will be reduced to four who will go on to compete in Kickstart’s most prestigious competi-

tion - the state championships.

“It’s exciting, but it can be a very scary experience,” Tortosa said. “Having that many people’s eyes on you really can be scary. When the new students get nervous, I always try to talk to them and calm them down.”

Kickstart tournaments obviously allow students to test their skills as a martial artist, but they also provide opportunities to grow in other areas; teamwork, leadership, sportsmanship, and creativity are all qualities which participation in Kickstart help to cultivate.

“There’s a difference between doing martial arts and being a martial artist,” Tortosa said. “Someone who does martial arts uses what they’ve learned the exact way they learned it.

They stick to what they know. A martial artist does what they want to do.

They develop their own style that not only compliments their strengths but also expresses their personality.”

Superintendent search provides answers Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

Superintendent Dr. Alex Torrez announced his resignation Dec. 2016 via email sent through the PfISD district.

The board of trustees took charge of finding the new Superintendent with the hope that the new hire will start by mid summer. Last week, interim Superintendent Gary Patterson hosted an open forum for the community to speak on their hopes for the new Superintendent.

“The only goal was to provide a venue and an avenue for citizens to provide input into building a profile of what they would like to see in the next Superintendent.” Patterson said.

“It was very important to the Board of Trustees to provide multiple opportunities for input from various sources. ” There is also a survey available online at the PfISD website. Any applications for the position will be accepted through spring break. After an in-depth interview and review process the board wants to finalize their decision by April.

“Any Superintendent change in mid year leads to some degree of anxiety by staff and community, wondering what the next steps in leadership will be,” Patterson said. “But everyone is working hard with the mission of putting students first and foremost and moving forward.”

While the school board and the community voiced surprise with the sudden leadership changes, Torrez and the school board hope to continue moving forward.

“PfISD is blessed with outstanding and dedicated leaders at all levels of the organization,” Mott said. “Countless opportunities for achievement

and academic progress will be daily occurrences, as in the past, that will continue to move us forward seamlessly. The buses will be on time; the bells will ring; the spring extra-curricular events will be exciting, so it’s business as usual.”

After Torrez announced his resignation, the school board placed Torrez on administrative leave pending the search for a new Superintendent. In the meantime, interim Superintendent Gary Patterson finishes out the school year.

“I feel that now, while the district is performing so well, it is the ideal time to explore other opportunities,” Torrez said. “I am presently working on several projects, one of which is completing a book on authentic leadership and how it positively influences student learning outcomes. I am also considering other employment opportunities.”

Torrez is proud of the community he has been a part of, noting increases in district participation and achievement in AP test scores, programs helping reading abilities, and local participation in other opportunities during his career.

“It is not often that a person has the privilege to step away from an organization, while it is performing at such a high level and when his approval rating from staff is 87%,” Torrez said. “I am so proud of all we have accomplished during our time together.

I am also proud of the community relationships developed during my tenure, which have had such a positive impact on our students.”

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.

Kick into Action Senior Essie Harting demonstrates a sidekick. She is a first degree black belt, mastering all the basic fighting techniques. “When I was little, I was bullied and nobody really wanted to be my friend,” Harting said. “Sad story short, I had anger issues, and nobody was strong enough to take it. When I go to Kickstart, I can express myself through martial arts fighting and learn to control myself.” Photo by Katelyn Pierce

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

accolades &

AWARDS

Special Olympics success KyLeigh Collins // Reporter

Many Special Education students competed and placed in the Special Olympics State Bowling Competition on Feb. 3.

The students were separated into three different groups based on skill level. The following Advanced students placed freshman Ronnie Brown in seventh, sophomore Ryan Jones placed sixth, sophomore Damian Sommers placed fifth, sophomore Dalton Anthony placed fourth, freshman Benji Garcia placed third, and freshman Dylan Hooten placed second. In the Intermediate group, sophomore Hiro

Jones placed seventh, senior Dylan Teague placed sixth, freshman Mariana Perez-Alvarez placed fourth, senior Amy Matel placed second, and sophomore Daulton Swenson won second place in the beginner group.

Special Education teacher Monica Massey went with the groups to the bowling competition.

“These students work very hard, outside of their school day, in order to participate at the state level for bowling,” Massey said. “I am very proud of their dedication and hard work bowling at such a competitive level.”

UIL art members advance to state Taylor Hedlund // Reporter

The UIL Art team went to Visual Arts Scholastic Event, VASE, on Feb. 4 at Cedar Ridge High School. The UIL Art team has been attending VASE for three years, this year having the most qualifiers pass through.

“I’m super excited and it was very surprising,” art teacher Abigail Soto said. “You have no idea who is going to be chosen for state. So I was super surprised and excited for my students.”

Each student was given free reign of what they wanted to create for their piece, from style to meaning. From UIL Art, only six moved forward as state

qualifiers: freshman Erin Sanders, senior Rumor Stojek, senior Savannah Contreras, sophomore Amanda Usry, junior Samuel Perales, and sophomore Marley Smith.

“My piece was a picture expressing how mother nature is not just life and beauty, but it’s also everything harsh and natural, like death,” Smith said. “It was inspired by a short story called “How to Build a Fire.” It was about this man who traveled into the forest to this campsite and ended up dying. However, it just ended up talking about how the world keeps going on.”

Outstanding teachers honored Megan Fletcher // Reporter

The 2016-2017 Teacher of the Year award went to US History teacher Sara Lucas. US History teacher Hellen Barczi received the Humanitarian of the Year award. The Rookie Teacher of the Year award went to Child Development teacher Dayna Hunter.

Teachers of the year are selected by popular vote through a survey given to

staff. The three nominees then advance to the district level, where the PfISD Teachers of the Year are voted on and chosen later in the year.

“I was extremely excited,” Hunter said. “It wasn’t something I was expecting at all, but I’m very thankful for the recognition.”

News // March 3, 2017 // 5

Debate becomes all Americans Maria Torres // Reporter

Members of the HHS Speech & Debate team have been recognized by the National Speech & Debate Association as Academic All Americans.

“To be an Academic All American, means you have to achieve a particular merit of excellence in Debate about the same time of having high enough grades and a high enough GPA,” senior Elan Wilson said.

Alongside Wilson, six other participants were also named Academic All Americans including seniors Robert Boley, Siegen Bretzke, Cassidy Hayes, Ashleigh Pevear and juniors Samantha Nguyen and Pauline Nguyen. This is the largest number of Academic All Americans in a single year here at HHS.

“I’m glad that I got be in such a group of incredible students,” senior Anshika Agrawal said.

To earn this honor, students have to meet a combination of GPA, SAT, and ACT requirements, in addition to actively competing in speech and debate for the last three years and earning 750 or more points in the NSDA Honor Society.

“It was kind of difficult to meet the requirements because debate is an activity that saps a lot of your time and it makes you trying to balance your life with other activities such as schoolwork,” Wilson said. “Becoming an Academic All American proves you are flexible enough to do both things at the same.”

Senior qualifies for Nationals McKenna Lucas // Reporter

Senior Carlos Gregory will advance to the National Ronald Reagan Great Communicator Debate Series tournament, after winning the Greater Texas Regional Qualifying Tournament for the Ronald Reagan Debate Series. The National tournament will be hosted in July, at the Reagan Presidential Library in California. Scholarships are given to every win, in the tournament.

Gregory placed 9th last year, and hopes to finish better this year. Debaters have

the opportunity to win up to $40,000 in scholarships. The Ronald Reagan Debates put emphasize on real world problems faced today.

“I’m excited, but also nervous, because there’s pressure for me to do better from myself and coaches,” Gregory said. “I just also want to enjoy the trip, because it’s fun and Cali’s beautiful.”

Color guard remains undefeated

Caitlyn Schoonover // Reporter

Both A and Open Winter Guard groups remain undefeated, with their most recent competition Feb. 25.

A Guard’s show is called History Repeating which is about showing the past through the work, or choreography.

It’s repeating history by incorporating work form last year and their performance 3D. Varsity’s show is called Winds of Change is about representing the wind that will change history “It was a little nerve wracking since all I could think of was how that it would be my last first im-

pression but besides that I knew what I was doing and I knew I had worked on what I needed so I was ready,” senior Sarah Kramer said.

Winter Guard International (WGI) and is a major competition for Winter Guards all over. Texas Color Guard Circuit is a competition for Winter Guard, but it’s a minor competition.

“I feel really good about it considering it was my very first,” Kramer said.

“I love the show so it’s easy for me to give it my all during it since in the end I’m just having a lot fun doing it.”

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

Lack of support for journalists causes concern in political climate Staff \\ Editorial

45 words.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Our founding father’s first amendment. These legendary words defined the American spirit in just 45 words. 45 words and America stands proud on a nation of freedom. Freedom of speech. Freedom of religion. Freedom to protest. And one, less understood freedom, the freedom of the press.

Unfortunately, today’s political climate causes issues with the public’s perception of journalists. Our society looks to Twitter and to entertainment for news. But at the worst, our own president names journalists as the enemy of the American people. Our own president fails to support a basic freedom of the United States.

Journalism bridges the divide between political parties, because hard news and fact are indisputable. Facts prove and disprove beliefs, no matter what side. It is important, as a society, to be educated. We go to school so we have a foundation of knowledge.

We are encouraged to go to college for career education. We should not stop the search for education when it matters most. Selective hearing will only hurt our society. Instead, base opinions around the given facts- not the other way around.

In this current time we also need to be watchful of fake or biased news. Selective news is no better than selective hearing. Social media is

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

not news. Anyone can write a so called fact, or post a so called news article, but that does not make them accurate. Journalism is the relaying of information and perspectives. Sometimes, news is uncontrollably biased. We’re human; it happens. To avoid ingesting someone else’s opinion, read multiple news sources or keep an open mind when formulating any opinions.

Despite our president’s words, the American people should fight on the side of journalists. Investigative journalism led to the public’s knowledge of the sexual abuse scandal within the Roman Catholic Church.

They investigated the trial of OJ Simpson.

They revealed Nixon’s Watergate scandal. President Trump’s words-Enemy of the people is a disturbingly dark term used by communist dictators in order to spread hate and propaganda. Adolf Hitler also described journalists as the enemy. In a country who fought so hard to end these injustices, we should not stand for this haunting demeanor.

Let us, the American people, prove that journalism is also an important freedom; journalists are friends of the American people; journalism is a part of the American spirit. The best way to do so, is to let go of opinionated barriers and begin opening our minds back to the power of truth and fact.

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 How has the politial climate affected your views on freedom of the press?

“The recent events of the press with vital information has allowed people to believe that it is okay to post or do whatever they want with social media.”

Seth Humphries, 10

Elaine Jackson, 12

Jasmine HausermannGrady, 10

Robert Boley, 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

“Freedom of the press is somewhat abused now days. The media produces more of a bias opinion rather than neutral facts. Our president vents his opinions through twitter and the news is opinionated stories. Freedom of the press is great, but when it comes to news and politics, only facts should be reported and government officials should not talk through twitter.

Freedom of the press is allowing the media to be extremely biased. Most news outlets are either distinctly right or distinctly left. This has led to a more divisive America with a lot of tension between America and the media. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though.

People are realizing the extremes.

“We still have freedom of the press, but unlike how hate speech is not a part of freedom of speech, our society allows skewed or flawed media to be expressed. The news is no longer a debate about left or right, rather our political climate has created the dichotomy of real news versus ‘alternative facts’ and blatant lies.”

Associations

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

a silen pidemic Anxiety, mental illness statistics increase Page 10 & 11

In this issue...

Ashlyn Prater Caitlyn Schoonover Maria Torres Serena Tran Carolina Yanez

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

Unknown Classes 8 & 9 Festivals 12 Dog Days 15

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 10, Issue 6 March 3, 2017 thehawkonline.net

Design by Ileana Perez

5

hit or

Opinions // March 3, 2017 // 7

Dear World, MISS Editor responds to government actions

Coinciding prom dates create conflict across district With prom dates, couples typically argue about who’s taking who, but this year, debate on the date and time of prom take precedent. Both Pflugerville and Hendrickson High School set Saturday, May 13, as their prom night, compelling couples split by district lines to decide between the two venues. Pflugerville High School decided on a Great Gatsby theme set at DoubleTree, while Hendrickson plans to host prom at the Renaissance Hotel with a theme of “A Night of Fame”. The venues are approximately 5.9 miles apart, but to attend both proms, couples would need to buy tickets for both events, which range from $45-$100 each. The overlap in couples between each campus significantly impacts where students will spend their prom night, thus the double-booked date is a miss.

Irregular weather tardies cause widespread inconveniences On a normal school day, tardy bells go off at 9:00am.

However, if the weather outside is disagreeable, tardy passes are issued - sometimes. During bad weather, traffic is usually backed up causing many to arrive at school late. This causes built-up tardies and teachers starting lessons before everyone gets to class which can damage a previously fine record. Weather tardies are necessary to prevent these issues from causing stress, or even risk for truancy if the tardies start to stack, but they aren’t given consistently as many wish them to be. While administrators often announce delays, they can become inconsistent, making this problem off target.

Weekly opportunity for staff raises interest in college for students Every Wednesday, teachers and staff are given the choice to participate in College T-Shirt Day to encourage students to strive towards higher education. When students see teachers they look up to wearing college shirts, it brings a conversation about college into the curriculum.

Now on Wednesdays, teachers can show their own university spirit through a simple clothing choice. Since this addition to the school year brings goals and enthusiasm into the classroom, College T-Shirt Day is on target.

Kylie Ruffino // Co-Editor

I am not my country’s government. I do not stand with them in this time of terror and this time of injustice. I do not stand for the insulting and unamerican attitudes of this unfortunate time in the country.

No. I stand by a country that was built on immigrants. I stand by a country that supports their citizens. I stand by a country that respects the world. I stand by peace. I stand by a hopeful humanity.

Within the first few weeks of the current Administration, signed executive orders cause political strife at home and abroad. President Donald Trump signed into effect executive orders freezing immigration from seven “at-risk” countries --Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Somalia and Sudan. He finalized the plans to defund sanctuary cities, take more extreme deportation measures and build a wall along the Mexico border. He also insulted the standing deal with Australia to accept 1,250 refugees, by tweeting about the “dumb deal.”

The first thing I want to do is say I am sorry. I am sorry for the actions of my country’s government and some of its people.

But trust me, this is not America. The Trump administration are the people who are prompting terror, not you - Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Somalia and Sudan. Countries properly fighting terrorism would promote peace, not Islamophobia, especially not a country founded on the freedom of religion. It pains me that I have to apologize on behalf of this country. I am sorry the United States’s current administration does not see this. But you, my Muslim friends, uphold a beautiful religion of peace.

I am sorry Mexico, for the insulting stereotypes of your country’s culture. Mexican immigrants have provided much support to our country, we should be thanking you. So, while I cannot control the government, I thank you. You

should not pay for the wall. We shouldn’t even have one. We do not need to repeat history. The last cultural barrier was torn down in 1989. Our administration has forgotten this dark time in history and the power of taking down the scar of the Berlin wall.

You are the countries that hold the key in creating a more peaceful future. I am sorry the United States’s current administration does not see this. By uniting together, you can fight injustice and you can fight the violent crimes of terrorism, but they do not define you. Not in my eyes. I see you, the countries who have and will be offended by our government, as countries with vibrant, beautiful cultures and complex history. I see strength in overcoming darkness. I see brave souls who fight for their lives and make the hard decisions.

I have been f o r t u n a t e enough to have been acquainted with all walks of life in my few years. I hope to continue to learn and understand the beauties of all cultures around the world through travel activism.

Shane Anders // Cartoonist and So, please, hear me. These actions do not reflect all of the United States and they have not gone unnoticed and unheard by myself and the true American spirit.

The second thing I want to do is to make a promise. I promise to always attempt to find ways of promoting unity. I promise to do whatever I can in fixing the possibly irreparable damage of the government. I have already written letters to my representatives about multiple issues. I have donated to the American Civil Liberties Union, which has been legally fighting executive orders. If there is anything else I, an individual, or my supportive American friends can do, please let us know. In the meantime, we still protest these unpatriotic actions.

I hope one day you might be able to forgive us. Or recognize not all of us support these beliefs.

8 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Features

Deciding Pathways

Graduation plan offers glimpse into future Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

The House Bill 5 was passed in the 2014-2015 school year which describes the new graduation plan for Texas public school students. The College and Career Pathways consists of five endorsements: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Business and Industry, Public Service, Arts and Humanities, and Multidisciplinary Studies. Each endorsement has sub-pathways which are more specialized.

Since, junior Jenna Anderson can remember she has always wanted to be a teacher. High school was her opportunity to look into her career goal.

She is enrolled under the Education and Training endorsement and is taking courses that are more specified to help her achieve her career as an educator, such as Ready Set Teach.

“I like that the pathways provide an opportunity to see what a future career might be like,” Anderson said.

“Because of my pathway I’ve had the

availability to experience what being a teacher would be like. The big problem with high schoolers is that they don’t know what they want to do in college, so how are they able to get a head start and do better if they don’t even know what kind of careers are out there?”

The pathways are meant to help students decide what kind of career they could possibly pursue in their future. Giving them the opportunity to specialize in their future goals before they continue their academics after they graduate.

“Once the juniors become seniors this will be the first year since I’ve been at Hendrickson that every student has been on the same graduation plan and GPA all four years; freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior year,” head counselor, Cassandra Jackson said. “I am passionate about this because I know it’s scary and new for a lot of people, but since

I’ve seen it in action at other schools, I get the reasoning behind it.”

This is the third year with the endorsement program so, the current junior class will be the first class to graduate on the pathway graduation plan. Students are not required to stay on any specified pathway, in fact students are able to change their pathway at any point of the year as many times as they’d like.

“I think that the pathways sometimes pressure some kids. They feel like they’re obligated to their pathway, but they’re not,” Anderson said.

“Though it may be stressful, overall it’s better for your future. Keep in mind that it’s better to know early in high school what you might what to do before you go out into the real world and you have no idea what you’re passionate about. A lot of schools don’t have programs like we do and I think that it branches out opportunities that kids need in order to

be successful in their future.”

There are some new and returning classes such as Principles of Governance, Organic Chemistry, Literary Genres, and Humanities, which will be implemented in the 2017-2018 school year. As well as a new OnRamps class called, OnRamps Earth, Wind, And Fire, which allows high school students to take a class through the University of Texas and receive college credit. “[With the pathways] you get a better idea of where you want to be in life,” Jackson said. “You get to try it out for free before you pay a ton of money in college to decide that it’s not want you want to do. There are some students who have no clue as to what they want to do, and that’s okay, because we have them covered under Multidisciplinary, where they can try a lot of different things to see where they fit, so it’s not set in stone.”

Machine Generation

Computer science capitalizes potential advancement Paul Le // Reporter

In a society revolving around computers, it is no doubt that computers have made impacts on everyday life. Having Computer science available as a

Saron Araya, 11 Photo by Victoria Hoang

course for students to take, prepares them with the basics, creates opportunities of computer advancement, and opening windows of job opportunities for more women to participate in as a career.

“Computers have made things more efficient for us in our everyday lives’,” junior Saron Araya said.

“It has helped us learn new ways to accomplish different goals.”

Computer science allows those with interest in the field to become more knowledgeable of the computer language. Knowing the language had helped any participators gain an advantage over other applicants applying for any job in the work field.

“I really recommend people interested in computer engineering to take at least computer science I,” sophomore Gourob Mukherjee said. “Knowing the language will give you an advantage in the work field since most jobs revolve around computers.”

Many schools nationwide do not offer computer

science as a course, but the few schools that do have been dominated by male. However they have made an impact on those who are involved in the class.

“I’ve always loved computers, video games and I like to find out how they work and be able to modify them,” Mukherjee said. “Computer science has helped me learn where to go and given me direction to it.”

While being in a male dominant field, it can be intimidating for females to have any participation.

It did not stop junior Saron Araya from taking the course.

“I would encourage girls to at least try the class,” Araya said. “It’s always good to try new things and it’s a useful skill to have because computers are so important in our society and being a female shouldn’t stop you.”

Features // March 3, 2017 // 9

Upcoming Available Classes Organic Chemistry Serena Tran // Reporter

Next year, a new chemistry class is being introduced to students who are interested in pursuing a career in chemistry, medicine, and various other professions included in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) pathway. The course revolves around the chemistry of carbon, covering the rules on how molecules with carbon in them can combine and break apart to create new things. Although the class does not require students to take AP Chemistry, both courses tie together and it is highly recommended to take AP Chemistry prior to taking Organic Chemistry.

Literary Genres Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

Focusing on science fiction and fantasy novels, Literary Genres strives to create student interest in reading, hoping to spark discussion on how literature addresses issues such as racism, war, and conservation. Students will read novels such as J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, H. G. Wells’ The War of The Worlds, and Peter Beagle’s The Last Unicorn. Primarily through class discussions, and writing assignments and potentially quizzes and tests students will be assessed on their knowledge of the novels. ACC English Composition I and English III teacher John Busch, who previously taught literature classes at the University of New Mexico will teach the class. Literary Genres aims to eliminate the misconception that reading is associated only with standardized testing, encouraging students to continue to read years after they have taken the course.

Humanities Serena Tran // Reporter

The upcoming Humanities class reflects on two central questions: “What does it mean to be human?” And “Who am I?” The class will focus on attempting to answer the questions while also exploring what other influential individuals have said throughout history and art. Daily activities range from Socratic seminars to project based assignments and although there are no tests in the class, there are reflective essays. The course is limited to juniors and seniors, but may open up to sophomores in the future.

Creative writing develops expressive literary wordsmiths Emilio Pla // Reporter

Creative Writing is a small elective class which allows students to share their personal writing style and learn how to use it as a tool for intellectual self-expression.

The curriculum for the class involves four different units: non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and science fiction. The poetry unit includes a painting section, where students write based off of things they create.

“I think a lot of the kids who take Creative Writing and have me for English think I’m bipolar,” Creative Writing teacher Haley Honey said. “It’s exciting, having an environment where people are open and safe enough to get those things out in the open is really important.”

The class has had a 0% course drop rate ever since the class started but, this class is not a substitute for English class.

“English is grammar focused and there’s outlines for everything that you write,” junior Victoria Deleon said. “Creative Writing is open prompts, and you can do any kind of story to fit that prompt. You have more of an opportunity to express yourself.”

Every rough draft is peeredited, where they share stories with their tablemates and take suggestions and critique on how to provide a bigger impact with their work before they turn it in.

“You get a lot of leeway with the topics and language you use in your stories, there’s no real requirements for it,” Deleon said. “I recommend it for anyone, even if you aren’t a strong writer.”

Students are given a portfolio for every unit where they can keep track of how they have improved throughout

the course, and which types of writing they are best at. The final project allows the students to choose their favorite unit and write based on that.

“All of the famous writers were creative writers who had something to say that meant the world to them,” Honey said. “This was their outlet and someone had to inspire them to get their voice heard.”

Victoria Deleon, 11

History course looks into Europe Megan Fletcher // Reporter

AP European History provides an in-depth investigation into history and a true glimpse into a college classroom.

“I enjoy learning about social aspects and revolutions,” junior Gabee Viduya said. “So far, I’ve enjoyed the French Revolution, because it’s interesting to see how society can change so quickly within a country.”

With only 11 students, AP European History provides an experience of what it’s like to go to a college with small class sizes.

“A smaller class is beneficial because there’s less pressure to ask questions when you’re unsure of something,” Viduya said. “It’s much easier to participate because everybody can

hear each other.”

AP European History is ideal for rising juniors and seniors who enjoyed AP World History.

“AP World History focuses more on broad historical trends worldwide,” Viduya said. “AP European History is more in depth because it focuses on a single continent for the most part. People interested in learning more detailed material would probably enjoy the class.”

While the class can be challenging, the allure of a small, interesting elective makes up for it.

“I would advise people to keep up with readings because a lot of the work load is an indi-

vidual effort,” Viduya said. “The hardest part, I think, is staying up to date with reading but if you can do that, then the class is great.”

Gabee Viduya, 11

10 \\ The Hawk \\Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Features

a silen pidemic Anxiety, mental illness statistics increase

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G b t e s t t

Megan Fletcher // Reporter

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he tugs at her hair. There’s a growing bald spot there. It’s only when her friends alert her to the anxious habit does she finally stop.

Junior Amelia Kendler’s* obessive compulsive habits partially originate from family history of mental illness and partially a severe lack of sleep.

In fact, at this point, her sleeping hours had been cut in half.

“It’s the phones,” Kendler said.

“Checking your grades on Focus every 10 minutes before you go to bed to make sure your grades haven’t been disrupted. Checking the results of an academic or athletic competition.

Checking up on other people. Checking this, checking that. That constant checking not only adds to the stress, but it also completely messes up your

sleep cycle.”

Virtually anything with a screen— smart phones, televisions, tablets, etc.—emit blue light. The human brain is wired to associate blue light with daytime, disrupting the body’s production of melatonin, a sleep hormone. Because of this, screen use before bed can cause disruptions in sleep.

“A lot of people don’t realize that sleep is when your body resets itself,” Kendler said. “I actually take three different medications to go to sleep at night.”

Kendler notices it’s common to make a joke out of anxiety and other mental illnesses, Many people don’t realize that making fun of a symptom of a mental illness is akin to mocking the cough of a person with pneumonia or

teasing an amputee.

“I’ve noticed especially with depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, and anxiety, the words get thrown around a lot,” Kendler said. “People say things like, ‘I’m so schizophrenic’ or ‘I’m so anxious for this test, I swear I have an anxiety disorder.’ While that person may or may not have those things, and if they don’t, it definitely throws people who suffer from these illnesses under the bus.”

Kendler herself suffers from symptoms of mild to moderate OCD, which can include uncontrolled unwanted thoughts and compulsions, according to the International OCD Foundation.

“Mental illness isn’t a joke,” Kendler said. “It’s not ‘She’s so OCD because she keeps her stuff organized.’ It’s

washing your hands until they bleed.

It’s pulling out your hair until you have a bald spot because you can’t get the anxiety away from you. You think that’s the only way you can get the anxiety away.”

Kendler often sees pop culture delegitimizing her illness. From t-shirts emblazoned with the phrase ‘Obsessive Chocolate Disorder’ to organization supplies for OCD, the torture seemed endless, she said.

“It becomes a constant battle you can’t win,” Kendler said. “I know that I myself, I start doubting whether or not I have it, like ‘Do I really have OCD? Do I really have this problem?

Or am I just faking it? Am I not good enough to have it?’ It’s a battle you can’t win.”

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anxiety: typically, in the psychological sense, an overwhelming feeling of almost impending doom with no specific target, time or location.

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don’t remember it being this stressful to be in high school,” campus social worker Lori Carl said.

“Now, there’s a lot more pressure on students to go to a good college and it’s harder to get into college. There’s social media, there’s things that come out that cause pressure. I feel like there’s never an off switch.”

Mental illnesses, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, are seen just as severe—and real—as any

physical ailment. GAD, is characterized by ongoing anxiousness that interferes with daily life. While GAD is relatively common, stress also plays a critical role in daily life.

“It is a buzzword. Anxiety, panic attack, that kind of thing,” Carl said.

“But in reality, it’s not usually diagnosed. I like to treat all students as if they are in major stress; they are overwhelmed. If it is impeding their school life and their life in general, I’ll

talk to a parent and try to get them seen by someone who can provide medical help.”

The stress of our daily lives often piles up. From school, to work, to relationships, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a way to deal with the stress.

“Everybody’s different,” Carl said.

“Everybody has a way to cope with their stress. Some like to go for a walk, or listen to music. If I have a

W

O g a student diagnosed with anxiety, I’ll give them a pass to leave class and try to calm down. They just need a little break. Don’t suffer in silence.

Don’t suffer alone. If there’s something you’re feeling, that’s getting in the way of your life, talk to a trusted adult about it. There are things you can do to achieve a better life.” *pseudonym

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Features // March 3, 2017 // 11

Ways to manage anxiety Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

Recognize Triggers

1

Create a portable and flexible journal or diary dedicated to documenting anxiety attacks or feeling. In the journal, write down possible triggers from each attack to become more aware. After a while a trend may occur making situations or circumstances easier to recognize and prevent anxiety.

Grounding Exercises

Grounding is a way to anchor the soul in the here and now, by becoming more consciously aware of the senses sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing to “ground” back to reality’s present. Exercises include the 5-4-3-2-1 Technique where one first describes five physical things around the vicinity. Describe four things felt. Three things heard. Two things smelt and one positive thing about yourself.

2

Seek help and reassurance from friends and family, talking is good. Speaking about the stresses and anxieties with trusted people may bring to light a solution. Consider certified counseling either from a therapist or school counselor for professional help.

Do Something Soothing

Spend some time alone to regenerate and recuperate. Maybe try picking up a new hobby, practice meditation or learn some yoga poses to stimulate the brain while still relaxing. Dive into a warm bath or do some doodling. Do something to help relax not only the muscles, but also the soul. Take a minute and just breathe.

Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

“Our generation is expected to do so much, but we feel we can’t accomplish what our teachers and parents want from us. We are always stressing about grades and school. My experiences with anxiety I have dealt with is my social anxiety and the panic attacks I have. My panic attacks stem from stress and then my anxiety starts up. I was diagnosed with anxiety at 13, but have had it my whole life. It can be really scary or just something minor, it just depends on what’s going on in my life. When I feel a panic attack about to happen I drink ice cold water, count to ten, and make sure I breathe. I continue to do that until the tightness in my chest goes away.”

Ansleigh Mclellond, 12

Talk To Someone

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Experiences, thoughts over anxiety discussed

4

“Although it’s a shame, anxiety and this image of perfection that is so sought after is going to have to be part of the progressing world. The time that we live in is a time that is experiencing rapid change and expansion, and anxiety is going to come along with that. While being too stressed is yes, a bad thing, I think the anxiety levels that are so rampant today provide an interesting opportunity. We have been taught from a young age, that if we can’t do something we have to go and push ourselves until we can do it, sometimes by ourselves, sometimes with the help of others. And while this helps us grow as people, the perfection so sought after can be extremely damaging. The struggle we face to succeed can be an inward struggle, with infinite difficulty.”

Cole Cano, 11

Psychology teacher explains major anxiety disorders Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

Sometimes those diagnosed with anxiety feel isolated as their peers often misinterpret or form prejudices against them simply because of their condition. To clear up some misconceptions, psychology teacher Kristin Tamayo answers questions regarding symptoms, treatment, and personal experiences with anxiety.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is typically, in the psychological sense, an overwhelming feeling of almost impending doom with no specific target, time or location.

What occurs in the body during an anxiety attack?

Our sympathetic nervous system goes haywire and it acts like it’s in an emergency state, so our hearts race, our stomachs flutter, we start sweating, our adrenaline starts going crazy and it feels like a car is racing toward us.

What are the different types of anxiety?

There’s generalized anxiety disorder, which is basically that kind of impending doom where something bad happens at some point to someone somewhere.

There’s panic disorder, where you have panic attacks and they happen often enough to be considered a disorder. Phobias are considered an anxiety disorder. Obsessive Compulsion Disorder, those are the big four.

When do people usually develop anxiety?

We’re seeing it younger and younger now. We’re putting a lot of pressure on kids at a younger age and so we start seeing that more. Babies have been known to develop anxiety, so it can happen to anyone.

How do people develop anxiety?

It can be when you feel a loss of control in your life, you don’t have any means of controlling what’s around you. It could be when you’ve had kind of an inconsistent life or you haven’t had a lot of structure or you don’t feel like you have someone to take care of you. You feel the need to take care of yourself and that can create anxiety when you don’t know how to do that.

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

Depends on the disorder. It can be anything from jittery, restlessness, or lack of sleep. A lot of it is unwanted, and I feel like that’s the biggest part of it. People don’t want to feel these things, they don’t want to have a panic attack, they don’t want to have these obsessions or compulsions, because it interferes with their ability to live a good life. They have these symptoms and they don’t want to, so that’s the hardest part of it.

What should students do if they feel they have anxiety?

If students have trouble with concentrating and things like that, they should absolutely go talk to someone. Mrs. Carl, our social worker on campus, is a wonderful resource. If you have a teacher you’re comfortable talking to, absolutely talk to them and I’m always here too

12 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Features

For the Love of Art

Dr. Seuss Celebration Carolina Yanez // Reporter

The popular children’s book author Dr. Seuss was born on March 2, 1904 and in honor of his birthday celebration, students comment on the impact the poet left on them.

“His books have made me more childish, even though I’m a child at heart. My favorite book is The Lorax, because it talks about nature and wellness of preserving it.”

Artists share their creations, self expression in their work Carolina Yanez // Reporter

Whether it’s a paintbrush, a pen- aspect. I’m not the realistic type, I’m cil or clay, art allows students to ex- more of a cartoon artist. Instead of, press themselves and grasp a diver- ‘Oh look that’s a tree’, no, that’s a sion from reality. As March, National green tree with orange leaves, I see Youth Art Month approaches, artists more detailing.” Reyes said. “Seeing reveal their inspirations. For sopho- Ms. Soto and Ms. Lawrence work hard more Alejandra Renfro, her work has inspires me to also work hard. Their shaped the person she words encourage me has become. to improve my work Enrolling in ceramics I get to express my and grow.” allows Renfro to shape frequently vision of the world sign Artists her thoughts, find an up for classes to outlet from obligations, through my point of improve their work as and minimize her stress. view. I love having individuals and gain A large number of teens to broaden their the ability to create ideas choose to find a distracrange of inspiration, tion from actuality tak- what I think and as well as taking a fun ing form in the expres- putting a picture to class sophomore Anna sion of art.

Schulze describes. it.

“There’s all this presPainting is her way sure I receive from Anna Schulze, 10 to get creative and go school and home exoutside of her comfort pectations pushing onto zone she adds. me. Art helps me form my ideas, my “Mr. Ivy pushes me to do things I’m style is usually based on what I’m not really comfortable with, which feeling,” Renfro said. “I like to get a later allows me to grow artistically,” point across, I love art because you Schulze said. “My style is similar to get to express who you are without Ivy’s, it’s very abstract, I like to work worrying about being judged.” with a lot of different colors and maDrawing influences sophomore De- nipulate my space. I get to express my ven Reyes to find a deeper perception vision of the world through my point of what he views around himself. He of view. I love having the ability to also recounts the emotions he feels create what I think and putting a picand how his teachers have contrib- ture to it. Art has a big part in my life uted to his sketches. and takes up a lot of my time.”

“I see things from a more artistic

Alejandro Maldonado, 10 Photos by Abigail Hill and Emma Harting. Left is Aanna Schulze working on a project in Art II Painting. Top is Alejandra Renfro working on a ceramics project and bottom pictures Deven Reyes working on a drawing project.

“His books made me happy as a kid, they were more fun than educational. Green Eggs and Ham was my favorite book because we made the book come to life in elementary school, and made my childhood memorable.”

Yainara Diaz, 10 “He’s inspiring and has been a part of my childhood. His books give kids something to relate to and remember later.

I loved Oh the Places You’ll Go, it shaped my imagination.”

Brinda Prasad, 11 “Dr. Seuss is the best poet of all time, he’s given other poets inspiration.”

Jacobie Irvins, 10

Features // March 3, 2017 // 13

Stars of Hollywood

While most students stress about upcoming tests or project due dates, the following teens must memorize lines, appear on a screen in front of thousands of viewers and decide what to wear to red carpets.

Sophomore reflects on starring in 2017 sci-fi movie McKenna Lucas // Reporter

Mumbling her lines, sophomore Olivia Draguicevich walks towards the set. By now she knows her lines like the back of her hand, the scene like her favorite book, and her character more than herself.

In 2014, Draguicevich appeared in the feature film, Time Trap. The film is about a group of students searching for their professor in a cave, and discovering time passes differently underground. Draguicevich played Veeves, a character who has many personality traits. The movie is currently moving to the European Film Market, with goals to release in the U.S. Draguicevich filmed in Los Angeles, Round Rock and Senora, Texas for the film.

“Time Trap is different because the bulk of the filming occurred at night,” Draguicevich said. “Most people work 8 am to 5 pm, but due to the heat and the fact we were filming in caves, we were working from sundown to sun-up.”

Besides Time Trap, Draguicevich was in another feature film, called Strings, multiple short films, as well as commercials for Toyota and Safe Auto. Her first commercial was for a company that created heart stents, she remembers her family being glued to the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving game, not because they liked the Cowboys, but because that was when the commercial was going to be first aired.

“I would love to become an actress when I grow up,” Draguicevich said. “The business of acting is very competitive though. My parents have helped me realize acting is like an extracurricular activity. It is something I do in addition to my everyday life of going to school and being social and just being a kid. While I would love to become an actress when I grow up, there are other things I would like to do and be as well - like go to college, travel, become a lawyer or maybe an anesthesiologist.”

Dragicevich has taken many acting classes and workshops. Despite, working with the directors of Time Trap on previous projects, Draguicevich sent a video audition to prove she was the right person for the role. The directors invited her for a callback in Las Angeles, where she eventually got the part.

“Being on set is exciting. There is a real vibe being in the mix of filming. The make-up artist becomes your best friend, especially on a film like this when the filming lasts over a period of time, but visually you have to look identical to what you looked like the day before,” Draguicevich said.

“It is impressive that so many people who have separate and specific roles on set come together as a team to create a movie.”

At 2011 Hollywood Awards Gala in Los Angeles, Draguicevich stands with the producers of Strings. Photo

courtesy of imdb.com

YouTuber relays issues with bullying, sies addresses future common interests.” over his appearance have been Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

At a meet and greet, Bekka hugs Ariel Martin (Baby Ariel), one of his biggest YouTube’s inspirations.

Photo courtesy of Tarik Bekka

As the camera starts rolling and the lights come on, freshman Tarik Bekka reminds himself of everything’s he worked for, the three tips that got him to where he is: Always stay positive, Never lose focus, And most importantly, always stay true to himself.

With over 1,000 subscribers Bekka uploads videos about vacationing and meets and greets with other famous YouTubers, such as Ariel Martin (Baby Ariel) and Jenn McAllister (jennxpenn). Bekka started his channel in sixth grade, after looking up to other vloggers such as Joey Graceffa.

“I’ve made online friends from around the country through YouTube,” Bekka said. “Meeting each other in person was really cool, because we had already known how we acted and our

To avoid mixing his personal life with his YouTube audience, Bekka created separate Instagram and Snapchat accounts. Bekka’s public Instagram functions as a way of sharing his photography with his fans, whereas his personal account allows him to continue to catch up with his peers at school.

“I don’t want to keep everything private, because if I did that I would seem like I’m hiding something,” Bekka said. “There are some things I only want to share with the friends I know personally. I feel like you don’t want to share personal things, such as where you go to school with viewers.”

Despite criticism over his voice and mannerisms, Bekka hopes to aspire others to continue doing what they love, acting as an inspiration for his viewers. Since uploading, controver-

minimum, both in person and online.

“I feel like bullies say what they want to say on social media, but they don’t actually say it in real life,” Bekka said.

“Sometimes I get judged for the way I look or the way I act. I’ve seen people that get bullied for way worse things, that’s why I can’t really complain.

There will always be people out there who get bullied way worse than I do.”

In the future, Bekka hopes to become a short film or documentary director, however doesn’t imagine himself continuing vlogging, but hopes to continue to inspire his peers.

“Be yourself, don’t let anybody tell you what you should or shouldn’t do on YouTube or really anything,” Bekka said. “Be consistent, own what you’re doing and just enjoy it, because it’s really fun to experience social media with your audience.”

14 \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Feature

CULTURE

2.

WITCH 3.

1/3. At a Ballet Folkorico convention, Lopez dances alongside her teammates. Photo courtesy of Raquel Lopez 2.

At a church retreat, Bayola stands in front of a cross. Photos courtesy of Ella

1.

Bayola

Filipino relays transition between school and personal life Therese Espiritu // Reporter

When she’s away from school, a

place entirely different from her own culture, Ella Bayola spends her time hanging out with friends she’s made at Filipino parties and events. She laughs like nobody’s watching and she feels much more free to be herself.

Originally born in Naga City, Philippines, Bayola moved to the U.S. at a young age. Despite that, she still puts effort in to keeping in touch with her culture and stay true to her roots.

While everyone around her eats sandwiches and pizzas for lunch, Bayola brings rice with fish or meat. Sometimes, she’ll eat the food with her hands, a common Filipino tradition.

“I prefer going to Filipino parties and events because everyone has that common bond. It’s easier to make friends and talk to people,” Bayola said. “In school, you have to create a separate persona and adjust your actions to fit in. When surrounded by your culture, there’s no hiding who you are. I feel much more free to be myself.”

Bayola, along with her family, attends Filipino church events a couple times a year that take place in Houston and Dallas, where the Filipino community has become more united.

“We have these events to keep ourselves in touch with our home country, as well as support them,” Bayola

said. “These activities contribute to the community and bring us closer to our faith. We do community service and fundraising for charities in the Philippines. Our biggest thing is ‘Isang Mahal’, which means One Love, where we have different performances for fundraising.”

Through these Filipino events, Bayola gets to practice the culture she

left at a young age. She bonds with people who share the same difficulty of dealing with culture difference.

“Adjusting can be very difficult, but it does get easier over time.” Bayola said. “After I’ve spent such a long time with family and friends, It’s very hard to come back to a different way of life.

It still takes me awhile to get rid of my native accent without having to

Mexican practices folk dance Paul Le // Reporter

As the core English speaker and oldest sibling in her Mexican family, senior Raquel Lopez serves as an English tutor for her relatives. While her family improves upon the language, the process takes a toll on her ability to speak Spanish, especially while speaking English when at school.

“There used to be a strong language barrier at my home, so I had to speak English to my parents for them to learn,” said senior Lopez. “Then while I’m at school, it makes me lose my ability to speak Spanish and it’s just hard to jump from one language to another.”

Having folk dance derive from many different regions of Mexico, dancing since the age of six influences Lopez in the honor of her upbringing and help mold her into who she is today.

“Personally I practice ballet folklorico, and it is basically a Mexican folk dance,” said Lopez. “Most of dances come from different regions and they portray our ancestors’ stories.”

In order to get away from school, work and other home responsibilities that weigh on her shoulders, Lopez practices dancing at her studio to get away from her problems to relieve the stress in her life.

“Being a teenager, you are surrounded by many problems like school work, especially at a competitive school like this,” said Lopez. “I’ve been lucky enough and privileged to go to the studio and dance my stress away and just disconnect myself from the world.”

purposely Americanize it after spending so much time speaking only Tagalog. I’d also accidently respond in Tagalog to my non-Filipino friends. It’s like having to turn off one side of my brain in order to function correctly.”

For Bayola, one of the hardest things to deal with at school is not being around people who are as invested in the Filipino culture as she is.

“I have a few Filipino friends in school, but they were pretty much born and raised here in the U.S.” Bayola said. “I’ve grown up with kids who felt ashamed of who they were and disregarded their cultures. As soon as being different was accepted, they’ve tried to embrace who they were, but had nothing to hold on to.”

Despite not being surrounded by an environment that constantly motivates Bayola to keep in touch with her roots, she still does as much as she can to show off her culture, which includes speaking Tagalog with her friends and family, attending Filipino events, and going to the Philippines along with her family whenever she can.

“I hope to continue practicing our traditions and to be proud of our culture.” Bayola said. “Holding on to our traditions makes me feel like a part of a community that I wouldn’t trade for the world. I’m proud of my heritage and of who I am.”

Feature// March 3, 2017 // 15

Kitty Litter Rumor Stojek // Copy Editor

Wanting to volunteer at an animal shelter since the age of ten, sophomore Savannah Palmer had to wait. The minute she turned 16, the required age to volunteer, Palmer applied online at www.austinhumanesociety.org and then she could fulfill her dream to help animals of all kinds.

After following a simple application and signing up for an orientation, Palmer became an animal shelter volunteer for the Austin Humane Society, primarily specializing with cats. Below, Palmer answers questions regarding her volunteering experience.

Dog Days

Photos courtesy of Megan Vickery

Ranch employees relay experiences with home business Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

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t the age of six, sophomore Gabby Emken would climb the slides, and jump on the ramps. She would hop from one platform to the other imagining herself as a show dog, the champion of the Westminster Dog Show.

While her friends would travel miles away to reach the nearest park playground, her form of entertainment was in her own backyard.

Emken and her family own a dog daycare service known as DogBoy’s Dog Ranch.

When Emken’s father moved from California to Texas, he got a position at a local dog boarding facility, however after subpar experiences, sought to create his own allinclusive ranch.

“When I was younger I really wished that I had grown up in a two story house in a neighborhood, I thought stairs were cool, but now I really appreciate living out here,” Emken said.

“We have an acre of land between us and our neighbors so I’ve never had to worry about crime or making too much noise.”

The 15-acre ranch behind Emken’s home has an indoor and outdoor training arena, two kennels and a five-acre park. In addition to day care facilities, DogBoy’s has equipment

where guests can train their dogs, as well as ponds and pools for the pets to play in.

“It’s cool to grow up around dogs because I learned dog behavior and body language at a young age so I think that’s helped me developed people skills in a way,” Emken said. “Plus everybody loves dogs so it’s a good conversation starter. I mean it’s not common to meet somebody who owns basically a doggy YMCA.” Last summer, sophomore Alyssa Herrera and senior Megan Vickery developed a new position at the ranch, called The Social Squad. After hearing about DogBoy’s from Emken, the two convinced Emken’s mother to develop the job. For an additional fee, visiting guests can have their dogs pictured and featured on Facebook or can opt for the Social Sampler, an all-inclusive package, which also includes Instagram and Snapchat.

“Every dog is different, and they all respond to things in very different ways,” Vickery said. “It’s been difficult learning how to recognize their different responses and deal with each in the right way. Most of the dogs are really great and well behaved, but sometimes the most unexpected things can make them nervous or upset.”

For Vickery, the position allows her

to practice her photography skills.

Next year, Vickery hopes to major in business, so the ranch offers an inside look into local companies.

“I’ve been able to gain a little bit of business experience, which I think will help me to put some of what I’ll eventually be learning about in business in college into perspective,” Vickery said. “Also, my position at DogBoy’s is a little bit more independent and flexible than I would have working at Chick-fil-A or somewhere else, which I think will help me stand out when applying to other jobs or internships in the future.”

Vickery’s conflicting band schedule has limited the part-time job opportunities she can pursue. Ultimately, the small, local feeling of DogBoy’s has created a sense of closeness between the employees.

“Everyone really cares about what they do and about all the customers,” Vickery said. “Someone could pull up on any given day and one of the people in the office will recognize them just by the car they drive. Everyone is just super dedicated to getting to know both the dogs and their owners so they can all get the best experience possible, and that’s a great environment to work in.”

Q: What is it like working with animals?

A: It’s amazing. I feed the cats and play with them. Often I have to get them to open up, because they’re so traumatized, but once I earn their trust, it’s amazing. [Volunteering] kind of makes me feel like their guardian angel.

Q: What’s the hardest thing you face while volunteering?

A: I have to hold back tears a lot of times. A lot of the animals we have are very thin and scared. But playing with them and nursing them always makes me smile. I remember a kitten we had named Pepe, who at first didn’t trust anyone. He wouldn’t eat and he would fight anyone who tried to touch him. But after about a week with him, he opened up to me and everyone else. He was so playful, and behaved extremely well. He was adopted after not too long, but I will never forget him.

Q: Why is it important to volunteer with animals?

A: I love helping people and animals that can’t help themselves. It makes me feel like I have a purpose. I’m more aware of our effect on animals’ environment. We tend to destroy the homes of animals without even thinking about it. They are so vulnerable and innocent. Humans are the ones who put them in these situations, so it seems fair that we’re the ones to help them as well.

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Spring Festivities

16 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Entertainment

Upcoming local events provide activities during spring break With the transition to warmer weather, festivals provide an opportunity for celebration and entertainment in the approaching season. Since Austin hosts so many unique fests during this time, everyone can find an activity to participate in, whether it be a concert or flying a kite.

Every festival holds events for all ages, so all friends and family can take part. The dates range from March 5 to March 25, so there will always be an entertaining festivities to engage in.

Austin Rodeo Caitlyn Schoonover // Reporter

The Austin Rodeo will have a fair, live music, and stock show, good for kids and adults of all ages. The Rodeo comes to town March 11 and ends March 25. There will be free music around the fairgrounds including local bands. Major artists performing include Elle King, Chase Bryant, and Kevin Fowler. The tickets start at $20 and go up to $175.

With over 60 rides, the wristbands

to the fair supply kids with a fun way to get out of the house and spend time with either family or friends.

The rodeo is great for all ages. There are several events going on during the fair, including Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Bareback Riding, and Bull Riding. There is also a Junior livestock show, an open livestock show, and a horse show.

St. Patrick's Day KyLeigh Collins // Reporter

The St. Patrick’s Day Festival will take place on March 17, at Pioneer Farms in Austin. The festival is a global celebration of Irish culture, which particularly remembers St. Patrick, one of Ireland’s patron saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century.

Many musicians and dancers will be there to perform, the Silver Thistle Pipes and Drums, which are a nonprofit organization bring Scottish

Piping and drumming to the central Texas area and the Clickety Coggers are a dance club composed of Central Texans who perform a uniquely American dance form that is rooted in traditional Appalachian-style clogging. Food and drinks will be sold and tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children under 13. Tickets are only available online at www.stpatricksdayaustin.com.

South by Southwest Savannah Cummings // Reporter

South by Southwest/(SXSW) is a music festival that helps provide a platform for discovering the new and upcoming artists. Held in Austin, the fest begins on March 13-19.

SXSW has also created a Spotify playlist so people can listen to the lineup to come and gain interest. Not only is there music at this festival, but they also have interactive, film, and comedy going on throughout the festival.

The interactive portion of the fest on Friday, March 10 consists of parties and award ceremonies, starts off the festivities to come.

The film portion of the fest shows documentaries, comedies, and short

films displaying people’s talent in front and behind the camera.

Standup comedians will also be at the festivals showing their talents.

As far as music goes this is one of the largest and most influential global music events of the year, because over 2,200 people perform at SXSW from more than 67 different countries. While some shows are 18 and up, plenty of events are accessible to any age making this a great way to spend spring break.

As many of the events require a wristband, there are many that are free. Check the website www.sxsw. com for more information.

Kite Festival Emilio Pla // Reporter

The ABC Kite Festival will take place March 5 from 10am to 5pm at Zilker Park starting with a 2.1-mile fun run at the Zilker Tree. Admission to the Kite Fest is free, however the fun run will have a fee of $25 to participate.

The Kite Festival began in 1929 as a tournament by the Exchange Club of Austin to encourage creativity in children. This year, all proceeds will benefit Communities in Schools of Central Texas, and the Moss Pieratt Foundation, which prevent dropouts in school, and fund research and

awareness of sudden unexplained death in children over 12 months respectively.

There will be a homemade Kite Contest, a workshop to build a kite, face painting, live music and more family friendly attractions. The best way to enjoy all the festivities is to bring a blanket, friends, and cash to eat from the local vendors around the park.

This is a great time to bring friends & family to enjoy what downtown Austin is all about: friends, food, fun, and dogs.

Twisted Fairy Tales

Entertainment // March 3, 2017 // 17

Staffers review reimagined classic stories Happily ever after, the classic ending to a classic fairy tale. The following works tell a different story.

While following familiar princesses and heros, these tales work in chilling twists.

Snow

Alyssa Ellinwood // Reporter

A boy who wears a locket, a hunter who gives the heart of a pig, and a band of pickpocketing half human creatures fight to keep the main character Jessica alive.

Tracy Lynn takes the classic Snow White tale and adds her own twists turning it into her own work called, Snow. Based in the Victorian time period, the main character Duchess Jessica finds herself unable to please her father due to being a female and goes on a wild journey.

Tracy Lynn stays true to the plot of Snow White throughout the book but keeps the reader on edge by making classic characters better than ever. With each new turn it keeps the reader guessing and change the view on the original fairy tale.

Grimm’s Classic Fairy Tales

Lunar Chronicles Taylor Hedlund // Reporter

The five book series written by Marissa Meyer describes the adventures and stories of four girls and their respective enemies.

Each story takes a classic fairy tale and twists them in a fascinating way, which is the fact that an evil alien queen is trying to stop them. This overarching twist causes a strange mix within the story line of the classic fairy tales, from strange wolf hybrids and aliens controlling people’s minds.

The plot is covered in four books: Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, and Winter. These stories give light to a new and intriguing tale that describes the lives of these girls and their adventure to start a revolution. These stories show that princesses aren’t normal in any form of the word, they are flawed and imperfect. Marissa Meyer portrayed the flaws and imperfections in an intriguing way, from an overlapping story line to that of twisting classic fairy tales. Giving new light and meaning to not only the word princess but also to these fairy tales.

Maria Torres // Reporter

Grimm’s Classic Fairy Tales is a series of fairy tales written by the Grimm brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm.

Originally published in 1812, Grimm’s Classic Fairy Tales show the dark and twisted version of well-known stories like Rapunzel, Snow-White, Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, and many more.

Most people see fairy tales have happy endings with the princess and her prince charming, but in this version, there are cruel events and hopeless endings. In some stories like Cinderella where the step sisters try to fit into the glass slipper, originally known as the golden shoe, by cutting off their toes and having their eyes pecked out by birds. Even in Little Snow White, later known as Snow White, the evil queen wanted the lung and liver of Snow White to eat.

From the gruesome version of Grimm’s to the magical Disney princesses everyone loves and adores, Grimm’s brings forth the darkest truth behind them all. Dare to read the collection of dark and mind blowing stories that will change every perspective towards favorite fairy tales forever.

Upcoming live action movie causes excitement Ashlyn Prater // Reporter

“I’m excited for the new Beauty and the Beast because I really want to see the characters become a reality and come to life.”

Alexis Fehr, 12 “I am excited about the new Beauty and the Beast movie because I grew up with the animation and it’s crazy to see everything come to life.”

Khue Nquyen, 9

“I’m excited to see it because it has two actors from two of my favorite movies.”

Danielle Mena, 12

Trista Gerner, 12

“I’m excited about the new movie because I love Emma Watson and since she’s going to be in the movie I want to see it.”

“I’m ecstatic for the new Beauty and the Beast because Emma Watson is defying social standards for women even in the movie.”

Jaynah Estes, 10

18 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Sports

Q & A

Jayme Woodfill, Varsity Soccer player answers questions about soccer, future plans, team atmosphere.

On Feb 3, varsity soccer played McNeil, and won 7-1. “We [soccer captains] each have a different strength,” Woodfill said. “We balance each other out so we can keep each other in check.” Woodfill will attend Dallas Baptist University in the fall. Photos by Breanna Portillo

did you begin A QWhen playing soccer?

A

I started playing soccer back when I was three or four. I was an energetic little kid, and I think my dad was trying to find a way for me to get rid of all that energy, plus he used to play soccer as a kid.

I was picked because I am able to make sure everything keeps running smoothly and hold the girls accountable for how they’re playing, and making sure they’re giving their full potential.

Q

What responsibilities are part of being a captain?

Why were you Q picked for one of A the captain positions?

The responsibilities that come with being captain is to make sure everyone

is informed and help Coach Rebe make sure everything is running smoothly. We decide what to wear on game days, we go to call the flip before the game, we lead the warm-up, and make sure everyone is informed, on activities, like team dinner or team bonding. If the team, or we, have concerns or thoughts about soccer or the team, we will bring it to Rebe’s attention. I personally lead team prayer before every game.

Q A

What is your favorite memory thus far?

My favorite memory so far isn’t so much a memory as it is a feeling.

Starting every game with the national anthem, getting ready for kick off, leading prayer, being on the field with the girls right before it all starts. The feeling from that has to be my favorite memory.

How will your position Q here help you in the future?

A

I hope my leadership experience here will help me later on in life to set a good example and

help lead in my life, perhaps while I’m playing soccer at Dallas Baptist University.

What is your favorite Q thing about Hendrickson Soccer?

A

My favorite thing about HHS Soccer is the atmosphere. Before Rebe came ,we were kind of an underdog team and unreliable.

Sometimes we’d win games we were supposed to, and then other times we’d lose easy games. But ever since Rebe has been our coach, I feel the team has gotten closer and we’ve been pushed further to achieve our fullest potential.

Ileana Perez // Co-Editor

2017 Sports Scores

McNeil (Home): Win 7-1 Stony Point (Away): Win 9-0 Round Rock (Home): Win 3-0 Pflugerville (Away): Win 1-0 Cedar Ridge (Away): Win 1-0 Round Rock Westwood (Home): Tie 0-0

GIRLS SOCCER

Round Rock Westwood (Away): Loss 1-0

Cedar Ridge (Away): Tie 1-1 Round Rock Westwood (Home): Win 1-0 McNeil (Away): Win 3-1 Stony Point (Home): Win 4-1 Round Rock (Away): Tie 1-1 Pflugerville (Home): Tie 1-1 Cedar Ridge (Home): Win 3-1 Round Rock Westwood (Away): Win 2-1

BOYS SOCCER

Maria Torres // Reporter

1

Sports // March 3, 2017 // 19

Speech Strategies

2

Lacrosse player reflects on team achievements Alex Fulton // Asst. Editor

don’t see as much division between boys and As sophomore Sofia Valdespino takes the field girls,” Valdespino said. “Since lacrosse started she carefully plans out her every move as goal- as a Native American sport reserved for the ie. male gender, sometimes it’s hard for girls to She thinks about the now, what’s working find a place in the sport.” what’s not and what can improve future games.

To prepare for tournaments Valdespino and “It’s just like a debate tournament,” she tells her team typically practice on Tuesdays, Thursherself as she uses her arguments and prose in days, and Saturdays. Because of debate scheda speech round to help her strategize her next uling conflicts on Thursdays, Valdespino pracmove to win the lacrosse game. tices on Tuesdays and Saturdays with individual Valdespino began playing lacrosse in sixth preparation whenever possible. Most recently, grade after hearing about the sport from an ac- Valdespino and her team competed in the Burnquaintance. Originally, Valdespino started play- ing Flower Tournament in Houston, however her ing for Texas Play Hard, but transitioned into most memorable moment was the state tournathe Cedar Park High School team upon entering ment last year. high school. In addition to moving to another “We got crushed in the first round of state, but team, Valdespino joined debate freshman year, it was still a really great experience because I often using the elective in lacrosse tournaments. knew we were all there as a team and we were “I have to kind of pick and choose what I go all trying very hard,” Valdespino said. “We to and what I value at the time,” competed against one of the best Valdespino said. “In the first seteams in Texas, but I knew that mester, I valued debate over laus just getting to state in the first crosse, because lacrosse was in place was an achievement for the We competed fall ball [off-season lacrosse] and entire team. We’re such a small against one of the there wasn’t much going on then. program and we’re not as funded This semester I very much value best teams in Texas, as the other schools, so it showed lacrosse over debate, because dethat we put in that much effort to but I knew that us bate isn’t as busy right now, but be able to go to state.” just getting to state lacrosse is starting up and disIn addition to competing with the tricts are coming up and it’s time in the first place was Cedar Park team, Valdespino tried to get in the rhythm of lacrosse.” out for Team Central Texas group an achievement for Lacrosse tournaments usually last year, travelling to Philadelthe entire team. consist of multiple rounds, usuphia to compete against lacrosse ally three, over a two-day period. team from around the nation.

-Sofia Valdespino, 10 Valdespino was one of the select Teams who win most of the games on the first day advance to the few from her Cedar Park league final round on the second day. to make the national group.

Since many high schools in the “My biggest accomplishment area don’t have a lacrosse team, Cedar Park would be making Team Central Texas, because acts as an opportunity for those wishing to com- last year especially as a freshman, I didn’t expete in the sport. pect to make that team, because it’s a national “Some of them do go to Cedar Park and a lot level team,” Valdespino said. “That’s a really big of them do go to the same schools, while I’m achievement for me, because I came in as a first kind of way over here in Pflugerville,” Valdes- year high schooler and made the team with a pino said. “As much as I try to, it’s kind of hard senior.” to get that connection without going to the same Through lacrosse Valdespino has used her school as them, but on the field we’re very close knowledge from lacrosse to strategize her deas teammates.” bate moves. Despite sometimes having schedulFor girls lacrosse teams, field players only ing conflicts with debate, Valdespino wants to wear goggles, whereas boys lacrosse teams stay involved with both activities. shoulder pads, elbow pads, mouth guards, hel“I’d say the best part about playing lacrosse mets, gloves and sometimes cups. As a goalie, is both the individual achievement and the team Valdespino is expected to wear shin guards, achievement you feel,” Valdespino said. “Once thigh pads, a chest protector, gloves and a you win a game or go to state or win district you mouth protector. know you did it as a team, as well as through “It’s different in Texas, because not many peo- individual effort.” ple actually know lacrosse is a thing, so you

\\

3 Photos courtesy of Sophia Valdespino

1. After lacrosse practice, Valdespino enters her mother’s car before making the commute from Cedar Park back to Pflugerville.

2. Running to defend the goal circle to cover more ground, Valdespino prevents Kingwood High School from scoring the ball.

4

3/4. Standing her ground to protect the goal, Valdespino sweeps and defends the goal circle with her stick, trying to clear the ball.

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20 \\ The Hawk \\ Volume 10, Issue 6 \\ Last Look

Happy Campers

Explorers share favorite moments, places in nature Lindsey Robinson // Asst. Editor

In a society of screens with pastimes often filled with Netflix marathons and Twitter updates, these outdoorloving teens find ways to reconnect with nature. Whether with water bottles or compasses in pack, these outdoorlovers grab their gear and head out on their adventures.

Calvin Householder, 11 Lady Bird Lake

“A group of friends and I went to Lady Bird Lake and McKinney Falls for the day, for kayaking and hiking. That was my first time kayaking, and now I’m saving up to buy my own because it was so much fun. Kayaking is a great way to mess around with your friends and is a good workout. When we went down the river, there were all these small bridges over the water, like a tunnel.

Then the river opens up to the lake and you see the Austin skyline, and it's just radical.”

Photo courtesy of Calvin Householder

Rachel Sill, 10 Anna Schulze, 10

Rocky Mountains

“My favorite place [to hike] is out in New Mexico at the base of the Rockies in Colorado. I enjoying hiking and being outdoors because I never stop being amazed by nature and the views from mountain tops. I've been hiking there for several summers in a row, [and I remember] getting lost with some of my friends when we decided to cut the switchbacks and head straight up, it soon after started pouring down rain and we all got soaked and were freezing, but it brought us all closer together and makes us laugh every time we think about it.”

Photo courtesy of Anna Schulze

Pfluger Park

“Everytime I go on vacation, my family and I always have to go hiking somewhere.

Last spring break I went to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee and we went on several hikes that trip. It was so beautiful.

I also love to go to parks with my friends and set up hammocks and enjoy the outdoors. My favorite memory from hammocking actually happened last weekend. About ten of us went to Pfluger Park and set up a couple of hammocks and played volleyball.

It was perfect weather for the outdoors.”

Photo courtesy of Rachel Sill

Hannah Perkins, 12

Yanelle Licona, 9

“We went on a fall camp out with my youth group at the Frio River. We found all these dead tree trunks down by the banks of the river, and it was beautiful. I had my ukulele and my friend can sing really well, so we just sat there and jammed out for a while. Then we fell asleep, but these dogs came by and they licked us awake. It was so peaceful and there was no cell reception. I like being out in nature where everything just seems clearer.”

“My family and I take a family trip every year up to Mount Bonnell. We go up and snap some pics- we’re a big photography family- and go hike around the Austin area. It's a cool bonding experience for the family that brings us all together just being up there and watching the sunset and the birds fly over.

After we went hiking, we went down to Lady Bird Lake and went canoeing. My father decided it would be a good idea to stand up in the canoe, and almost flipped us all over.”

Frio River

Photo courtesy of Hannah Perkins

Mount Bonnell

Photo courtesy of Yanelle Licona