Vol 9 iss 5

TAKING A STAND loss leads teachers to cancer foundation

In this issue...

Emergency drills 2 The skin I’m in 9 Staffers recommend books 16

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 9, Issue 5 February 5, 2016 thehawkonline.net

2 Volume 9 , Issue 5 News

In Case of Emergency Assistant principal discusses safety drills Rumor Stojek Asst. Editor

In the event of any type of emergency teachers have access to a share drive that has campus maps and are given red, informational folders and go kits with safety necessary items in case of an emergency such as bandages and gloves.

“Having a plan in placed is better than having no plan at all and that’s something we take very seriously,” 11th grade principal Jesus Molina said. “We’re looking to do some pretty amazing things here drill wise to make sure were compliant and doing what needs to get done.”

Additionally, there will be an upcoming mock drill during spring break in March 2016.

Travis County EMS special unit and SWAT team will be visiting to perform an emergency drill with students and staff. Students who are interested may sign up to volunteer for potential community service hours. Student

volunteers taking part in the scenario must be passing their classes and be responsible to participate.

“It will be fun for students to learn, but at the same time it is serious,” Molina said. “It builds trust and knowledge on what we’re going to do and what our personnel is going to do during an emergency.”

Establishing a plan for schools and any building facility helps eliminate confusion in the event of a real emergency and prepares students and staff on what is expected from them for their safety.

“If we become complacent in our daily routine without a plan in placed, then when something really happens it can be pretty chaotic,” Molina said.

“We want to try to avoid that. The first and most important thing is the safety of our students and staff and I’ll do everything in my power make sure that happens.”

Evacuation

Lock Out

The goal of an evacuation is to exit the facility as orderly and quickly as possible. Evacuations are engaged when a threat posed to the health or safety of students and staff where leaving the building is safer than remaining inside. There are two types of evacuations, full evacuation where everyone in the building is removed and partial evacuation where occupants are moved from one area to a safer area in the building.

In a lock out the school conducts its regular schedule. Students continue to move from class to class but everything inside stays inside and everything outside stays outside.

A lock out occurs when something happens near or outside the premises that could potentially be a danger to students and staff.

EXIT

Fire

Lock Down

In a fire drill, the building is evacuated and the fire alarm goes off in the entire school when it is pulled. Students and staff are expected to stay calm and evacuate the premises to prepare them for a stimulation of a real emergency.

In a lock down drill teachers are required to lock their doors, turn off their lights, and keep their students quiet and in an area that is not visible from any window big or small. It’s important to stay quiet and make sure all students are accounted for.

Weather Emergency A shelter in-place emergency is for any hazardous external weather conditions such as storms, tornados, or any severe weather warnings. Individuals must relocate to a certain parts of the school that provide a safe, structured environment that is designated specifically for different weather conditions.

News February 5, 2016 3

P ws for the C use

Senior raises money for local animal shelter Gabby Sanchez Staff Reporter

After a year organizing, hanging up flyers, and going door-to-door with help from friends and family, even across the country in California, Senior Amanda Barron raised money for the Pflugerville Animal Shelter through the sale of her own custom-made shirts.

The design features a dog and a cat with a sign that says, “You are my voice.” She named the project “Paws for a Cause” and in the end donated $500 directly to the shelter.

Barron’s participation in Rotary Club all four years of high school, where she currently serves as the President, pushed her to start the fundraiser.

Rotary Club is an organization that focuses on volunteering and helping the community. Her love of animals inspired her to select the animal shelter for her project.

“I love Rotary and so I just really wanted to jump-start something right now,” Barron said. “There was a lot of legal stuff, and the design would have

to go through a lot of people, so I just decided to do it on my own instead of partnering up with the animal shelter.”

After researching how to raise money most effectively through fund-raising, Barron decided to make t-shirts and sell them for $10 each. She ordered 100 of them and after subtracting the cost of production, was left with $500 for the shelter. Since she did the fund-raiser completely apart from the shelter, she was able to really surprise employees, especially Head Director Rhonda McLendon.

“When I came and gave her the money we hadn’t formally met so it was good to finally meet her, “Barron said. “She was ecstatic and wanted to take a picture for the Facebook page.”

Since doing the fund-raiser, Barron has steered further onto a path of service, and her future career aspirations are to establish non-profit organizations. It provided much needed experience in business that will help her as she begins her studies next year.

What happens next...

“It definitely showed me what I want to do with my future,” Barron said.

“I’m just thinking big, but maybe on a global scale, I also want to combine my non-profit dreams with education because I love helping kids.”

In light of the recent bond failure that would have included building an entirely new facility near Lake Pflugerville, the funds raised will help purchase food, toys, and provide needed medical services for animals at the shelter, including vaccinations.

In addition, earlier this month the Chick Fil-A Leadership Academy collected donations in the form of cash, toys, food and other products for the shelter at a Chick Fil-A Spirit Night as a part of their “Do-Good December” program.

“A lot of them volunteer at the animal shelter so they have a connection,” Kelypas said. “Also they feel pretty passionate since the facilities are pretty dilapidated and it was not approved to build another one.”

MEETING ROOM CAT INTAKE

If you are unable to adopt, there are still ways you can help. Volunteers must be over the age of 16, and attend a mandatory Pflugerville Animal Control (PAC) meeting and training sessions throughout the year. PAC volunteers will often complete duties such as dog

walking, kennel cleaning, socializing animals, work at adoption events and work in the shelter. If you are interested in becoming a worker visit: http://www.pflugervilletx.gov/index. aspx?NID=1417

Saturday, Feb 13 and Saturday, March 12

EXERCISE YARD

TRAIL PARKI NG

Ways you can help

ADOPTION BUILDING CAT AND DOG

E PECAN STREET

PUBLIC PARKING

4 Volume 9 , Issue 5 News

District changes final exemptions for seniors Gabby Sanchez Staff Reporter

this includes community college and public or private universities. This initiative will be implemented with hopes of more students attending college after high school.

“If we don’t push some students they won’t have a plan after graduation,” Principal Daniel Garcia said. “Even as a last resort, just junior college or even a university if they have their business together.”

Seniors that plan on going out-ofstate for college still must complete the Apply Texas application, to contribute to the number of individuals attending college after graduation.

“The Chamber of Commerce from Austin, creates statistics in terms of student’s application process and they

The requirements necessary for seniors to gain exemption from their second semester finals have changed this year.

The same rules apply from last year, where an individual must maintain a 90 or above in a class for the school year, and three or less absences, or an 80 or above and two or less absences in a class they may be exempt from their second semester final for the course.

Any grade below an 80 does not allow exemption, no matter how many absences. For the underclassmen, these are the only rules in place.

In addition, seniors will have to complete an application on Apply Texas and submit it to at least one school;

don’t include students that going out of state so it looks like our students aren’t applying,” said Garcia.

Even if a senior does not intend to go to college, Assistant Principal Zach Kleypas believes it provides practice for filling out applications in the future, for employment and other prospects.

“Although I don’t necessarily think that every student needs to go to college.” Kleypas said. “Having the requirement to fill out the Apply Texas application is beneficial because although it’s not necessarily easy, it’s not the hardest thing they’ll ever do, I think it’s a good challenge to have to go through that process.”

Senior Celebration planning underway by parent group to raise funds, the Senior Celebration Committee has organized fund-raisers including Jersey Mike’s and Chick-Fil-A spirit nights, the prom fashion show, and “pass the jar” campaigns. The money raised will pay for entertain-

Madi McVan Copy Editor

Senior Celebration will take place on June 4, beginning at 9 p.m. and ending at 5 a.m. on June 5, and will include free games, entertainment and food for graduating seniors. In order

Scholarship Opportunity

Travis County ESD No. 2 is accepting

applications for a Public Service Scholarship

for graduating high school seniors. Please go to: www.pflugervillefire.org, select the Resources tab and click on Scholarship.

If you are interested in a career in Public Service and you meet the eligibility requirements, download, complete, and return the form in person or by mail to:

Travis County ESD No. 2 203 E. Pecan Street Pflugerville, Texas 78660

Submission deadline is April 22, 2016

ment, food, and prizes, including a hypnotist, DJ, photo booth, and mechanical bull. The committee’s goal is to raise at least $30,000, and reports raising over $20,000 so far.

New Café opened for additional food options

HAWKS ofthe of the Month month Students:

Galiga works hard in three AP classes, is busy with band and extra-curriculars, and still keeps her grades up.

She is a great example of what a Hawk should be.

Grace Galiga, 11th Grade Ayala is a true role model of what a Hawk should be. He is friendly to all people, involved in multiple activities, many of them service oriented. His positive attitude affects all around him.

Chris Ayala, 11th Grade

Teacher:

Kylie Ruffino Co-Editor

The Provisions On Demand, P.O.D., Market opened this week. The café, located at the end of A hall, helps to spread lunch traffic across the school and encourage students to arrive in the mornings.

The new cafeteria addition will offer café/bistro style food options such as smoothies, sandwiches and other snack foods. P.O.D. will also have food options for those on free and reduced lunch.

Their hours of operation are before school from 7:30 to 9:30, then from 10:30 to 1:30 and at the end of the day from 3:30 to 4:45.

“This project has been in the works for a while,” Food Service Director Jeff Holle said. “As the district’s grown there is not a plan for additional construction, so this Market is necessary to off set traffic, but also to offer students more food options and healthy ones.”

Dayne Otto, BIM

Staff:

Sofia Mhatey, CM

Otto gives up so much of her time for others.

She represents her department at multiple ARD meetings and is always willing to go out of her way to help out a colleague.

Mhatey goes above and beyond to help students; before school, during lunch, after school on her own time. She is always there with a smile and a willingness to help.

accolades &

AWARDS

UIL

The UIL Academics team competed in the Burnet tournament on Jan. 16.

The Number Sense team placed second overall with senior Vivian Huynh earning 3rd place individually. The Calculator Application team won first place with Vivian Huynh earning 2nd and senior Alex Spieler winning 3rd.

Junior Shane Anders won 4th place and sophomore Sam Perales won 5th in Computer Science. Vivian Huynh also received 3rd place in Science.

The journalism team also competed in the tournament and had individual awards in two categories. Senior Madi McVan took 3rd place in Feature Writing and 6th in Editorial Writing.

Junior Kylie Ruffino won 4th place in Editorial Writing.

At the Round Rock Invitational Academic Tournament on Jan. 30 the UIL Number Sense team won first place.

Vivian Huynh won 1st place, Alex Spieler 4th and Steven Le 6th.

Speech & Debate

Speaker awards were given out at the University of Houston Tournament of Champion (TOC) qualifier Jan. 9.

Senior Ayu Sofyan won 1st, senior Christina Bui took 2nd, senior Nico Williams received 5th and junior Elan Wilson took 11th. This tournament was a qualifier for the finals competition.

The TOC cross-examination policy debate meet is the largest high school debate tournament in the nation.

Thousands come from across the state to compete each year.

Additionally, on Jan. 23 at the UIL district meet, partners competed in

Cross-Examination. Christina Bui and Ayu Sofyan won 1st, Emma Ha and Cody Snow took 2nd, and Dash Puentes and partner Elan Wilson received 5th.

At the Akins tournament on Saturday, Jan. 30, the team walked away with 5th place Sweepstakes. In Public Forum, Rene Otero and Sydney Stogel won 1st, and Sofia Valdespino and Bryce Hann took 2nd. In Foreign Extemp, 2nd place was awarded to Marcus Ayala. Elizabeth Keiser won 2nd place in Original Oratory.

News February 5, 201 6 5

ART Freshman Kyra Wormley and Sophomore Alexis Pence are the two winners of the Gold Key award at the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. Students across the United States submit pieces and a select few are chosen by the panel of judges. The awards recognize student’s artistic vision and ability.

The competition provides the opportunity to have their work seen in the community.

Wormley entered the colorful face drawing and Pence entered the little girl sleeping. Both pieces were done in colored pencil.

SWIM The swim team broke six team records at the last swim meet. The following students and teams qualified for Regionals: the girls 200 meter Medley Relay team, the boys 200 meter Medley and 200 meter Freestyle

teams, junior Hannah Rowley in the 200 meter Freestyle and 500 meter Freestyle, junior Jacob Overheim in the 200 meter Individual Medley and 500 meter Freestyle, and junior Noah Moncada in the 100 meter Freestyle.

cor qu Th tea me ma

6 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Opinions

Lack of diversity in Oscar nominations reflects deeper issues in entertainment Staff

Editorial

The entertainment world’s lack of diversity has long been criticized, but when the list of 2016 Oscar nominations was released, the issue was once again brought to the spotlight as for the second year in a row, all 20 actor nominations were given to white people. Straight Outta Compton and Creed, which featured black men, only received nominations for the work of white people: Sylvester Stallone for Best Supporting Actor in Creed, and Best Screenplay by Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff for Straight Outta Compton. Many celebrities, including Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, and Spike Lee, are boycotting the awards and calling on the host, black comedian Chris Rock, to step down.

The boycotters are justified in their actions, as the Academy responsible for the nominations failed to fairly recognize people of color, as well as women and other minorities. The lack of diversity in the Academy Awards reflects a greater problem in the entertainment industry and society as a whole.

Multiple acclaimed movies in 2015 featured people of color in acting, directing, and writing roles: Straight Outta Compton, Creed, Chi-raq, Beasts of No Nation, and Concussion, to name a few. A lack of talented actors of color is not an excuse for the lack of nominations; award-winning actors Will Smith and Idris Elba were both eligible for nominations but overlooked, as well as multiple newcomers. However, the number of minority actors, directors and writers is still disproportionately small when compared to the number of white people in those roles.

Ultimately, the lack of nominations for people of color lies in the writing and casting of movies.

When no parts are given to actors of color, they cannot be given awards. And when no writing or casting jobs are given to minorities, less minorities are hired into on-screen roles. Therefore, the white-washing of Hollywood continues in a cycle.

The only time this cycle seems to be broken is with movies like Selma, which was nominated for

Best Picture and won Best Original Song in the 2015 Oscars, that revolve around historical black issues such as civil rights or slavery. However, it seems that the Academy recognizes movies like Selma or 12 Years a Slave as a way of defending themselves from claims or racism. The Academy should not only recognize movies about black historical figures, but also commemorate actors of color playing roles not dependent on race.

Although the issue of a white-washed Oscars has been considered a primarily black issue due to the snuffing of the many eligible black actors and movies, the nominations also lack women outside of the “actress” categories, Hispanics besides Alejandro González Iñárritu for Best Director for Revanant, Asian-Americans, people with disabilities, and just about any other minority. The demographics of the nominees in no way reflect the demographics of the country. That means that young, aspiring actors and directors that are women or racial minorities have few role models, and are discouraged from pursuing careers in entertainment, continuing the cycle of whiteness in Hollywood.

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, TX 78660 http://www.pfisd.net/HHS (512) 594-1100 Adviser: Kari Riemer Principal: Daniel Garcia www.thehawkonline.net

MISS

Hallway behavior disruptive Because student numbers exceeded 3,000, hallway manners prove even more vital than before. Often times the flow of traffic stops not because of the numbers, but due to friends stopping and standing in the middle of the hallways or others going against the flow of traffic. An ideal hallway runs smoothly because of the positive behavior presented by students. Right now, the lack of hallway consideration and conduct is a miss.

Vending machines inoperable The majority of the school’s vending machines are out of order or take money without giving the food. Students and teachers aren’t able to quickly grab a snack in between classes when the cafeteria is closed due to the vending machines’ inability to provide products. The vending machines can be useful if they are in full operation and would bring in money for the school, but because they don’t work, we find their presence a miss.

Clothing racks eliminate clutter To cope with the growing number of lost items in the cafeteria, the Geometry in Construction classes created a clothes rack to display anything from lunch boxes to jackets. Since the racks make seeing lost items easier and more accessible, students are more likely to find their belongings. Because they eliminate the clutter found on the cafeteria stage, the new clothing racks are on target.

Visual announcements inconsistent While the switch to video announcements last year provided an interesting spin on the morning announcements, most teachers do not show the video announcements on a daily basis; this means the announcements do not reach everyone in the school, leaving some out of the loop on important information. Therefore, the video announcements are a miss.

Samuel Perales Cartoonist

the HAWK

hit or

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 does 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.

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

Editorial Staff

Co-Editors: MarQuise Prince-Salone & Kylie Ruffino Copy Editor: Madi McVan Assistant Editors: Rion Ellis Alex Fulton Mikaela Kelarek

Ileana Perez Rumor Stojek

Reporters

Kiarra Blankman Alyssa Ellinwood Virginia Gaffney Holly Hambleton Paul Le

Amanda Perez Chloe Pham Lindsey Robinson Gabby Sanchez

Winner of the ILPC Bronze Star, 2014 & 2015

TAKING A STAND loss leads teachers to cancer foundation

In this issue...

Emergency drills 2 The skin I’m in 9 Staffers recommend books 16

the

HAWK

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, Texas 78660 @thehawkonline Volume 9, Issue 5 February 5, 2016 thehawkonline.net

Design and Art by MarQuise Prince-Salone

Features February 5 ,201 6

What to know

Cashing In

Union encourages collaboration with community Kylie Ruffino Co-Editor

Fashion design students upcycled A+ Federal Credit Union’s Hawk Nation T-shirts as part of a competition put on by the branch. With only a couple of class periods, scrap fabric and two double XL T-shirts each person created something different. Senior Amanda Bennet designed and created a peplum top featuring the Hawk Nation logo with a Peter Pan collar, which took home the $50 prize.

High school branch director Stephanie Richardson worked with fashion design teacher Kristen Sutphen to create a competition between the fashion students. Richardson hopes to continue boosting student participation through competitions and communication.

“The project turned out amazing,”

Richardson said. “Not only for the students and the branch, but the whole credit union thought it was awesome.

They loved seeing the designs. Now they want all the high school branches to start doing these types of projects.”

This year’s competition will start at the end of February.

“The student and teacher response was really great,” Richardson said.

“The project created a lot of name recognition and sparked quite a few new memberships. But that’s our goal, we want students to start thinking about and recognizing the importance of being financially aware, even in high school.”

Also in line with community interaction, Richardson reformed new ways

of teaching and presenting in money matters classes, ROTC and economics with the use of interactive financial literacy discussions. Last year they gave over 40 presentations about banking, budgeting and credit. This year, Richardson hopes to do the same things as last year and continue to grow in their inventive projects.

“Getting students to understand budgeting is a huge thing,” Richardson said. “We see so many adults not keeping up with their accounts or running into credit problems, but by talking to students early we are hoping to set them up for financial success. My job is to be as creative as possible when it comes to involving students and I hope to get some more projects going soon.”

Interns explain experiences working at Union Alex Fulton Asst. Editor

A+ Federal Credit Union offers a program where seniors and juniors can apply to intern at the branch.

This year, seniors Jacob Ladigo (JVL), Simone Washington (SW) and Jenny Lynch (JML) were selected to work at the credit union. By interning, the students get to experience firsthand what it’s like to run and operate the credit union. Here’s what they said in regards to their future, the benefits, and the application process.

How does it prepare you for your future career?

Does it ever interfere with your schedule?

JVL: It provides good working experience for other jobs and it shows that I can be trusted with a whole range of things.

SW: It’s just the little things I learn there – what to wear, what not to wear, how to address my supervisors.

It also gives me opportunities to participate in things bigger than myself.

SW: I did have to make a couple sacrifices to balance work, my social life and academics. Ultimately, it taught me the importance of time management.

JML: It takes up a lot of time. It being senior year, it’s kind of a bummer that I have to spend a lot of my time working, but I know that it’s for the best.

What makes working at the credit union different than other jobs?

What have you learned by working at the credit union?

What was your experience when you applied?

JVL: How important it is to save, because all the time there’s people that have trouble with money and I see that on a daily basis.

SW: I learned how to make the best use of my own money, what to invest in, what financial traps people fall in and how to avoid them. We push products and services to every one of our members just to make sure that they’re making the best of their time with us at A+.

SW: I first heard about the opportunity on the school’s announcements and I went down to check it out. I made it a point to go up to the person who was giving the presentation and I introduced myself, because I knew that would set me apart.

JML: I was in accounting last year and my teacher told me they were having a job shadow, so I got involved. Then Stephanie, my supervisor, told me to

SW: It’s a job where you learn how to improve your social skills and how to converse with people at a face-toface level, which I don’t think a lot of people do these days.

JML: It’s a completely different atmosphere and we’re treated like adults and not like interns or like kids. It’s more of an adult and mature job.

7

apply.

A+ Federal Credit Union, founded in 1949 by a group of 50 educators during a picnic meeting at Zilker Park, Austin, has become one of the largest unions in Texas with over 20 branches and 120,000 members, but even through all that growth the not-for-profit ideals have still stuck to help provide members with a safe place to keep and invest money.

The A+ Federal Credit Union at Hendrickson is located down A hall adjacent to the theater department.

5 cents are donated to Hendrickson High School every time a HHS A+FCU card is swiped and signed for.

When an account is opened at Hendrickson the new member will receive a A+FCU t-shirt. Then on Tuesdays members who wear the T-shirt have the chance to win $20.

It only takes two steps to join A+ Federal Credit Union at Hendrickson.

1. Opening the account 2. Making an opening deposit

If referred by an existing member and both members will receive $20 each that will be added to their accounts.

What is needed to sign up Must be a Texas resident Driver’s license or state issued ID Home address US Social Security # Credit or debit card or US checking account to fund the account Must be a US citizen Must be 18 years or older. If not, there are A+FCU offers accounts and services tailored for you.

For more information, visit www.aplusfcu.org.

Additionally, A + Bank plans to award 38 $2,000 scholarships in 2016.

They have recently developed an online application system for their Scholarship Program that will make applying more efficient and easier for applicants.

Also the bank organizes Financial Boot Camps to interactively teach students the benefits of saving, setting goals, spending wisely and much more during Spring of 2016 and Summer of 2016.

8 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Features

Long Lasting Love

Couple maintains healthy relationship for three years

Teen dating violence awareness Rumor Stojek Asst. Editor

In order to promote healthy relationships among teens this year there will be a Teen Dating Awareness week from Feb. 8 through Feb.1 2 in conjunction to the National Teen Dating Violence Month.

Monday: Wear blue for trust Tuesday: Wear purple for loyalty Wednesday: Wear pink for commu-

nication

Thursday: Wear white for respect Friday: Wear red for love An information table, run by student volunteers will be organized during every lunch period throughout the awareness week.

There will also be an annual open mic coffeehouse in the library Feb. 9 Students are encouraged to come forward to share a poem or speak about what a healthy relationship looks like to them or they may share an experience.

Teen dating violence awareness is a movement that started many years ago due to the epidemic of relationship abuse. The goal is to help make students more aware of healthy and unhealthy partnerships so that they will be more accessible to avoid such relationships.

“Every student in this school d e s e r ve s t o b e t r e a te d r e s p e c tf u ll y . Ke e p learning who you are and set your boundaries and standards high. Celebrate yourself and anyone you choose to date can join in the celebration of you.

Be kind and honest and expect th at i n retur n.

Reach out for help if you feel that you have gotten into an unhealthy relationship. We are here for you.”

--Lori Ca rl, Social Worker

It’s the last day of middle school and junior Samantha Trudeau cries as she finally realizes her younger friends would not be following her to high school. Once home, she reaches out to her boyfriend, junior Benjamin Lester. Unexpectedly, he arrives at her house, fifteen minutes later on his bike, and comforts Trudeau as she sobs, reminding her that he would always be there, no matter what.

Almost four years later, Trudeau and Lester are still together. Statistics say that less than 25% of high school and middle school relationships last, but unlike most, Trudeau and Lester have embedded healthy behavior into their relationship and built their affections for one another properly.

“A lot of people get into a relationship to feel stable, which shouldn’t be the case,” Trudeau said. “You should be with someone because you love them, because you actively want to be with them, and because you are willing to support each other.

I advise people not to get into a relationship just to be in a relationship. It’s not about flaunting it.”

What started out as awkward eye contact during a science class and a secret crush evolved into a truly well rounded couple.

“Our relationship has lasted so long, because we respect e a c h other’s

boundaries,” Lester said. We’re not super controlling, and aren’t restricting of each other. Couples should take things slow. Don’t rush into the relationship, ease into it, and it will be easier and more fun.”

According to online sources, healthy relationships require accountability, trust, safety, cooperation, honesty, and support. When embedded into the right set of people, these traits aid in creating a genuinely balanced relationship.

“We’re constantly talking. Constantly,” Trudeau said. “Every day is new so we talk about our day. It doesn’t get boring if you’re in the right relationship; we haven’t gotten bored of each other and by talking, we stay connected.”

Even seamless couples have their differences. Trudeau and Lester argue about minor relationship issues such as whose turn it is to pay, what they’re going to eat, and going out without telling each other. Although they fight from time to time and bicker occasionally, Trudeau and Lester find a way to get through the hardest of problems.

“It’s been three years, and we’re both really comfortable and honest with each other, and that just makes everything really easy and healthy,” Lester said. “I think the length and strength of our relationship makes it a lot easier to talk to each other, connect, and discuss things that are bothering us.”

Both Lester and Trudeau have a solid trust in each other and in the relationship, making their bond last as long as it has.

“When I think about our relationship, it makes me really happy,” Trudeau said. “I still feel really giddy when I think about us and it takes me back to middle school and the sweaty palms phase. I just feel really happy to have him for almost four years. It feels like forever but at the same time it doesn’t feel like it’s been long at all, just because it’s been so fun and just so happy.”

THE THE

SKIN SKIN

I’M I’M

Features February 5, 201 6

IN IN

9

Teens relay their experience based on appearance

MarQuise Prince-Salone Co-Editor Kylie Ruffino Co-Editor Madi McVan Copy Editor Photos by Rion Elis

Appearance is a big factor in how one thinks about themselves, especially concerning skin. Here are two student’s thoughts and experiences with their unique skin features. Bryce Holmes is albino and Lehontre Young has vitiligo specifically a spot located on his neck.

Albinism is cause by a mutation in genes which may defect or reduce the amount of melanin produced.

The mutated gene may be passed along generation without making any appearances in offspring until the it shows up in an albino child.

There are two types of albinism; oculocutaneous (OCA) which affects eyes, hair and skin and ocular (OA) which effects only eyes.

About 1 in 20,000 people are born with oculocutaneous albinism

Most albino people suffer from some form of vision problem due to the lack of pigment within the eye.

Most albino people experience nystagmus which is involuntary eye movements (shaking) as well as having an abnormal head positioning to compensate for eye shaking Albino people have been persecuted and killed for years in mainly Sub-Saharan and Eastern Africa based on certain myths about their existence.

Albinism is the lack of pigment whereas melanism is the abundance of pigment

BRYCE HOLMES, 11 What is your skin condition?

I’m albino. It’s like the loss of pigment.

I never really had any pigment so I never really got and color.

How do you feel about it?

It doesn’t bother me, I feel normal. I don’t really know how to explain it. I like it because I’m different, I stand out.

Were you ever bullied because of your skin?

When I was little people would call me white, it wasn’t really a big issue. I just ignored everything, it never really bothered me.

Where did you get the gene from?

My family’s mixed but it’s a gene passed down form my great-uncle, it was only on my dad’s mom’s side.

How does it effect you?

It just makes it harder to see stuff in class, I have to move up a lot. I have to got to an eye doctor. My eyesight’s different from others. It’s not 20/20 I think it’s 10/20. It’s not normal. When I drive, I need to wear prescription glasses that have a monocular.

What do most people notice about you?

My hair. They normally say it’s cool. I like my hair, too.

LEHONTRE YOUNG, 11 What is your skin condition?

I’ve always known it as a birthmark.

How do you feel about it?

I’m pretty comfortable with it. It’s not really an issue with me.

I didn’t really noticed it. It’s was something that happened later when people would ask me about it. I never really thought about it.

How does it make you unique?

Whenever people look at it, it’s kind of in the shape of a sea horse so I just think that sets me apart from other people with birthmarks.

What are people’s first impressions?

They would always ask questions about it because people thought it was a burn. Some people would call me sea horse.

What are some of the difficulties with your spot?

It was kind of difficult for me to be outside in the sun for a long period of time because then it would get burned.

At first my mom was kind of worried about it because the doctors didn’t exactly know what it was so we had to watch it until I got older. It kind of affected the things I wanted to do when I was younger.

VITILIGO TYPES/PATTERNS Segmental Affects one segment or side of the body (hand leg, face, etc.)

Non-segmental Affects body sides of the body. Discoloration on certain parts expand through life Localized/Generalized A few blotches (more extreme from of vitiligo) Universal Spots across the body (most common form) There are certain ways to treat vitiligo. There’s skin grafting where a portion of skin somewhere else on the body is removed and placed in a different area and there’s micropigemntation where skin is artificially re-pigmented with dyes.

YOUNG’S SKIN

10 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Features

Taking a Stand

Madi McVan Copy Editor

loss leads teachers to PHILADELPHIA BASED cancer RESEARC

Like most 8-year olds, Will Lucas loved Legos. to students and the students will get all excited about it and h is really what we want. We want to empower people to make He loved them so much that with the help of his parents, he planned a lemonade stand to earn money Former principal Devin Padavil organized a student activit to buy a new Lego set and colored a banner to advertise his business. in fundraising for the foundation, which provides grants dire But before the Lucases got around to actually setting up the stand, they received news that Will, who research on childhood cancer. had been battling a rare form of childhood cancer, has relapsed. He passed away in May of 2012, before “Believe it or not, very little of other cancer fundraising actu he could hold his own lemonade stand.

“The club is Hend They still have the banner. was inspired by th Teachers Tom and Sara Lucas channel their grief It’s that power of young people.

If a kid who is FIve can at Hendrickson an for their son into work with the Alex’s Lemonade by the life of their start this organization then any of us can do anything.

Stand Foundation (ALSF), benefiting those affected by Padavil appointe childhood cancer. They organize lemonade and snack It’s empowering people, so it’s not just about raising the ALSF club at the en stands and other fundraisers around Pflugerville in sored by Sara Luca money. memory of Will and donate the proceeds to ALSF. plans on selling T “My sisters and I were looking to get together for a “It’s students gett weekend and one of them found out about ALSF,” history by raising money or finding donations,” Scott said. “Helping pe teacher Sara Lucas said. “We were so impressed with what they did, and now it’s helping us with our is a great way to help a lot of people at once.” grief and helping us parent our son who isn’t physically with us.”

Because children account for only a small percentage of can ALSF began with a lemonade stand held by 4-year-old cancer patient Alexandra Scott, who created the not focus on funding research for childhood cancers. ALSF fo stand to raise money for cancer research. Scott passed away in 2004 at the age of 8, but the foundation childhood cancer, which is why the Lucas family chose to supp continued to grow. lead to breakthroughs that could save kids like Will.

In addition to donating money directly to the foundation through fundraisers, the Lucas family asked “When your child dies you don’t stop loving him,” Sara Luca those who knew Will to donate the book Alex and the Amazing Lemonade Stand to local libraries. The to forget him. You want to know that you’re doing something book, geared towards children, tells the story of Alexandra Scott and her dedication to ending cancer. just honoring him. So it gives us a chance to talk about him, an In the end, approximately 80 books were donated. something that honors his memory.”

“It’s very fun to hear from librarians around the district,” Sara Lucas said. “They will read the books

[

More about the foundation

Sara Lucas

[

Source: Alex’s Lemonade Stand foundation website (www.ale

By the time alex passed, the foundation raised over $1 million for research.

Since then they’ve raised more than $120 million.

ALSF ALSO hOSTS AN annually DRESS FORMALLY AT A GALA FOR ING TO HONOR THE FOUNDATION

Along with doing research for cancer, the foundation also FInanciaLLY supports families dealing with the disease BY PROVIDING FUNDS TO HELP parents Travel with THEIR CHILD WHILE IN TREATMENT. ALSF holds an annual lemon run in philadelphia. in their most recent run, they raised over $370,000 for research.

Photos curtesy of Sara Lucas

Features February 5 , 201 6 ALSF HOLDS STANDS AT CERTAIN EVENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY INCLUDING COOKING EVENTS, MARATHONS, and cycling events.

ALSF’s sponsors hold envents where a portion of their profITS ARE DONATED. SPONSRS INCLUDE VILVO, jersey mike’s, FIVE BEOW, TOY R US AND MORE.

EARCH foundation

it and hold lemonade stands of their own, which to make a difference in their world.” nt activity club in order to involve more students ants directly to doctors and scientists conducting

sing actually goes to helping kids,” Padavil said. is Hendrickson›s way of supporting that effort. I red by the effort of Sara and Tom Lucas, teachers ckson and friends of mine. I was equally inspired of their son, Will.” appointed junior McKenely Scott president of the at the end of her sophomore year. The club, sponSara Lucas, holds lemonade and snack stands, and selling T-shirts in the near future. ents getting together to help find a cure for cancer lping people out is just something I like to do. This

ge of cancer patients in the US, many charities do . ALSF focuses specifically on finding a cure for e to support it. The research funded by ALSF may

Kids can hold lemonade stands of their own to help raise money. They can go to the Alex’s Lemonade stand foundation website to register with the foundation and receive an ALSF lemonade stand kit.

WHAT YOUR DONATIONS CAN DO $50 will fund one hour of research $15 can provide a gas card for a family drive to a hospitaL for treatment

$400 will fund one day of research $20 allows a family to park at the hospital where their child is receiving treatment

ara Lucas said. “The big fear is that you’re going mething that will help other kids and that you’re t him, and to know that we are consciously doing

$2,000 will fund a week of research $100 enables a family to STAY IN A NEARBY HOTEL AS THEIR CHILD IS RECIEVING TREATMENT

www.alexslemonade.org)

nually lemon BALL WHERE PEOPLE ALA FOR A NIGHT OF DINNER AND DANCDATION FOUNDER, ALEXANDRA SCOTT.

a Lucas

$8,000 will FUND a month of research $1

00

$5

00

$1

00

0

$1

50

0

11

12 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Features

Beyond a Masterpiece

Art students share favorite pieces and stories behind them

“It captures her personality and how she doesn’t take anything from anyone and she’s pretty stubborn in a cool way,” sophomore Alexis Pence said. “I try to find something that makes me happy because when you’re really happy about something or really determined, it shows in your work.”

“I feel like my composition with the color pencils is very crisp and I feel like I’ve come a long way from when I first worked with color pencils,” senior Eroica Luckowski said. “I like using bright colors and we don’t usually get to do really bright colors with still life drawings, so I really enjoyed drawing the gourd.”

“It’s called River of Tears and there’s a girl and she’s supposed to be a river crying, and the tree stumps around her that are injured so it’s like she’s hurting,” sophomore Alexis Freirson said. “I wanted it to be something that you would look at and ask questions and think about, not something you can recognize automatically.”

“It’s a boy and he’s walking on a street leading to nowhere and his head is a balloon and he’s got his actual head on a leash,” junior Henry Ly said. “His head is a balloon because he’s letting his mind run free, but he’s not letting it run wild, that’s why his head is on the leash.”

“Basically everything is flowing,” senior Ronaldo Sanchez said. “It starts with the guy who transforms into water, which flows into the tree and forms a continuous loop.”

Features February 5 , 2016

Daily Dose

13

Audio video students relay production experience Chloe Pham Staff Reporter

Down in the A/V storage room, ju- cover topics varying from the newest niors Khali Sykes and Pedro Castane- club on campus to informing others da can be found doing lip drills and of when the next theater play will be. diction warm ups to help them pre“This is my dream,” senior film editor Ben Creech said. pare before filming the “I want to create film. announcements. Once filming begins the two It’s good practice for me especially befocus on reading their lines and pronouncing ing on a consistent schedule and having everything correctly to edit things for the in order to execute their performance. announcements. You During Talon, a have to maintain a hard working, don’t few audio video kids give up and ambitious head to a room in B type of attitude and hall and prepare to just have a happy go shoot the morning anat things, have fun.” nouncements. Between The announcegetting the equipment ments are always reready and shuffling lease the day after through the enclosed Photo by Emma Harting its filmed, because of space to get in posithis the A day morntion, they start the ing announcement count down to begin crew prepares for filming. Every day they work together to make short in- B day and vise versa. However it’s formative skits that will help inform not just strictly business, the crew others of what is currently going on involved in the announcements finds in school. The audio video students their own creativity and original-

ity to help bring life into the news. and shown to students the next day.

Making it to where kids are actual“Overall it’s very empowering,” Casly engaged and paying attention to taneda said. “It gives me a sense of the announcements in the morning. wanting to be responsible and over “My favorite part is when we do all teaches leadership and skill.”

But no the ‘Make it a great day, matter what there are alHawks’,” senior news anways new chor Blake ways to improve the anSurber said. nouncement “We always and help try to make it students as something funny and it’s kind well. Creech believes beof like our own ing involved thing.

Mrs. Photo by Emma Harting Sheport gives with the announcement us a script of what to say and we get to inter- will help him prepare for his future, pret it however we want. I’ve been but he also does it for his peers.

“I like being able to make people with the group for almost a year and they’ve become a bunch of my good smile and enjoy the things we put friends and it helps because it’s not out,” Creech said. “At the end of as stressful and really laid back.” the day that’s the core reason why After countless amounts of filming I do this. There is always someand editing, the end product is posted thing to do and improve on because onto their YouTube channel, Hawk Na- free time is the enemy of progress.” tion TV, where it is played by teachers

Announcement Anatomy Chloe Pham Staff Reporter

It’s not as simple as pressing a record button and uploading it. The audio video students responsible for the announcements use many different types of equipment in order to get the job done. Most of the equipment used is expensive

and helps to enhance the sound and video quality. Here’s a break down on a few of the equipment used.

Fluorescent light Produces a soft and even light and can be used in relative close proximity to the subject. Fluorescent lighting is often used to light interiors and has the advantage of being more compact and cooler in operation than tungsten or HMI lighting.

Teleprompter A device used in television and movie making to project a speaker’s script to the anchors while also being out of sight from viewers.

Canon T5i Used for filming and increases the image quality and performance with an 18 megapixel sensor.

Lapel Microphone A small device used for television, theatre, and public speaking applications to allow for hands-free operation.

14 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Feature

Home Town Heroes

Teachers and faculty members engage in district softball games Rion Ellis Online Editor

The game was coming to a close.

The faculty softball team was losing by one home run. Senior principal, Zachary Kleypas, and an outfielder in previous games, has stepped up to the plate. He knows that a good hit will put his team in a position to win the game. The ball is thrown, and Kleypas swings towards the fences. It flies over center field resulting in a grand slam.

“This was probably going to be my last time at bat this season,” Kleypas said.

“I knew we needed something big.”

The Pflugerville ISD administration began the softball games, inviting any PfISD faculty and staff to join. Other teams included the Opportunity Center and Aramark, the Pflugerville food department.

“I wanted to participate to stay active and build relationships with staff members,” Kleypas said, “But

they stuck me in outfield cause I’m not very good at catching. It was nice to be in the back and know what it feels like to overcome that struggle.”

The faculty softball team has had a rough season. Their last game was a walk-off win, which occurs when a home run ends the game.

“It doesn’t matter which position, job or responsibilities we have here,” Junior principal, Jesus Molina, said.

“Everybody has good ideas, and their input counts. If we see it that way, then our team becomes successful.”

There are no tryouts, and any faculty members are allowed to join. Educational Assistant Sam Roessler took charge of the league by sending out emails to teachers and staff members asking if they had ever played softball and the position they prefer playing.

“The players are all volunteers from the

staff,” Roessler said. If they’re good in a certain place then I keep them there.”

Although Roessler did not come up with the faculty softball program, he took the lead in running the team. His players considered him as a coach for the team.

“I took Leadership [classes] in college, and I minored in leadership skills,” Roessler said. “I try to include everyone.

If they say they’re not good enough to play, or they don’t want to embarrass themselves, I tell them that they should still come out. It’s better to lose and have everyone included and involved.”

There are also two other additional campus sports teams including volleyball and kickball. Although volleyball has already started its season, players are still needed. Kickball will begin early in March, when the weather is warmer. Students are also encour-

Pick Your Player

aged to come and cheer on the school.

“We had difficulty playing throughout the year, but in the end, we won our last game,” Molina said. “The phrase we used at the end of the game was, ‘It’s not how you begin, but how you end.’”

Top Row: Zachary Kelypas, Jesus Molina, Belinda Dickey, Ryan Kubicek, Mark Roessler. First Row: Brenda Yturralde, Frances Contreras, Sam Roessler, Brianna Smith.

Brianna Smith Photos by Breanna Portillo

Entertainment February 5 , 2016

The Oscar

Nominations

15

Staffers review nominations for Best Picture films

Bridge of Spies

The Revenant

The Big Short

Brooklyn

During the time of the Cold War, lawyer James Donovan (Tom Hanks) finds himself becoming one of America’s most hated men when he defends a Soviet spy Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance) who was caught in America. When an American pilot is captured in Soviet territory, the Soviets and Americans race to get their spies back before they give up information. The director (Steven Spielberg) put great detail in to what it was like to live in America and other places during the Cold War while showing how intense the situations Donavan got into, making the movie Oscar worthy.

After a vicious bear attack, Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is left with life threatening injuries. A few men are bribed to return him safely to the nearest settlement, miles away. With a false threat of Native Americans close by, Glass is left for dead with only his will to return home. Due to the severity of his character’s injuries, DiCaprio uses raw emotion to convey pain and suffering non-verbally, showing the actor’s pure talent. Based off of true events, The Revenant captivates the audience with its story, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

Based on Michael Lewis’ bestseller, The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine, the film The Big Short captures the fall of the housing market of the mid-2000s. This movie reveals how corrupt Wall Street is. It sheds light on a complex economic bust, while also making the ins and outs of finances easy to comprehend for the average viewer. The Big Short has the potential to win Best Picture in the Oscars due to its enjoyable script and beautiful cinematography and even though the topic is very serious the cast gives it a humorous tone.

Brooklyn follows the story of Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), who lives in southeast Ireland in the 1950s as she travels to Brookyln. In Brooklyn, Eilis meets an Italian boy, Tony, who soon falls in love with her despite her immigrant status. But when crushing news about the death of Eilis’ sister arrives, she must return to Ireland.

Brooklyn doesn’t follow one story, but rather everyone’s story and how they all interconnect. The film highlights the development of a girl who turns into a strong, confident woman, and will resonate with anyone who understands the sacrifice of leaving home and family.

The Martian

Mad Max: Fury Road

In the near future, Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after his crew leaves him stranded on a mission to Mars, as a result Watney must find a way to produce food for himself. Meanwhile, back on Earth, NASA must find a way to rescue Watney from a planet millions of miles away. Almost all of the film focuses on Watney, and Damon does a phenomenal job in the role and viewers really experience the desperation that he goes through throughout the picture, making Damon a strong contender for winning Best Actor. Regardless if The Martian wins Best Picture or not, it is definitely worth seeing, because it gives viewers an idea of how difficult it could be to survive alone in space.

Academy Award Predictions

Years after the fall of civilization, water becomes scarce, and the remaining population slowly decays under the rule of Immortan Joe (Hugh KeaysByrne) as he holds them captive in the desert fortress the Citadel. Director George Miller does a phenomenal job as he is able to capture the fate of the world’s future, portraying its realistic scenery after the collapsed of society. The audience is introduced to the heroine Furiosa (Charlize Theron) and her plans to find the promises land of a better life known as the Green Land.

The movies constant action keeps viewers engaged as the main characters fight for their survival and go through a grueling bloodshed chase through the wasteland.

Spotlight

Detailing the story of the Boston Globe journalistic team that uncovered the Catholic priest child molestation scandal, Spotlight chronicles the investigation from allegation to print. With a tight ensemble cast of reporters and editors (Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber, John Slattery, Brian d’Arcy,) Spotlight not only follows the breaking of this story, but how uncovering it affected the journalists as they found the depth of a cover up that reached high levels of their own religious institution. Stanley Tucci is a stand out as Mitchell Garabedian, the lawyer of several of the victims. Spotlight is riveting from first frame to end credit, and should not be missed.

Best Actress: Best Director: Brie Larson (Room)

Alejandro G. Iñárritu (The Revanant)

Best Actor:

Best Score:

Star Wars: Leonardo DiCaprio The Force Awakens (The Revenant)

Room

Based off the award-winning novel, Room features a haunting tale of a kidnapped girl and her 5-year-old son. After several years of confinement in a garden shed, they finally escape. Most viewers would expect the grand finale to follow the family’s escape; instead, the film covers the end of their capture and the beginning of their readjustment into real life, demonstrating the transition between imprisonment and freedom. The viewer experiences the horror of what has happened to the family through the innocent eyes of the child, generating a unique twist on the story. All in all, the film was a stunning adaptation of the novel and truly fascinates the audience.

Best Picture: Room

Best Animated Feature: Inside Out

CATCH THE AWARDS

Sunday Feb. 28

7 PM E/4 PM P on ABC Hosted by Chris Rock

16 Volume 9 , Issue 6 Entertainment

Books to read before you’re 19 The Hawk Staff

Told through letters to an unnamed friend, The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows the story of Charlie, a freshman in high school that is by no means popular. When two step-siblings befriend him, Charlie explores a new world that he had never seen before. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a story that will stay with you, as it shows the ups and downs of high school, and that with the right friends growing up isn’t as scary as it may seem.

Catwings by Ursula K. Le Guin is a children’s chapter book about four young kittens that have wings. Their mother, Mrs. Jane Tabby encourages them to use their wings to fly far away from the dangerous, city slums they were born in. The cats learn that even though they escaped their life in the old alley, the world will still bring them challenges to face, but through it all they must prevail and stick together. Le Guin does a phenomenal job bringing together a unique story jam packed with endearing morals about why it is important to strive for the better.

The book follows the life of the China Rabbit doll, Edward Tulane, as he lives through the lives of his owners.

After being lost, then found at the bottom of the ocean, the doll constantly goes through the cycle of having a new owner. The owners range from the wealthiest to the poorest, from a campfire of a drifter to the bedside of an ill child. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane teaches readers that even the most fragile and breakable heart can learn to love, to lose, and to love again.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini follows a teenager named Craig, as he deals with anxiety and depression which lands him in a psych hospital.

During his visit he befriends a man named Bobby and another teen named Noelle. Their guidance gives him the ability to find the path to happiness. It teaches readers that despite the pressures they feel to succeed they should still do what makes them happy for the sake of their own mental health, even if it means straying from what others want for them, an important lesson for anyone in high school.

The tiniest mouse in the Kingdom of Dor defends its citizens from a hoard of rats who attempt to kill the princess and instill fear amongst the human and mouse communities. The Tale of Despereaux teaches the power of forgiveness, innocence, and courage through a character’s journey. The novel also aids readers with the will to be brave when the odds are against them and dares them to dream the impossible as they go through life.

Deep in the heart of Nazi Germany, young Liesel Meminger is transferred from her current life to one consisting of accordions, friendships and an extensive passion for reading. The novel highlights the deepest struggles Meminger faces, truly overwhelming the reader with emotions for the characters they’ve come to treasure.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a staple in any book lover’s collection and guarantees a lesson on friendship and loss necessary before anyone reaches adulthood.

Five days after her graduation from Yale, Marina Keegan died in a car accident, leaving behind a large collection of essays and short stories. The Opposite of Loneliness is the collection of her work, published after her death.

The essays are thought-provoking but accessible, and the fiction short stories resonate with anyone faced with college and growing up. The circumstances of the book and Keegan’s death at age 22, along with the beautiful writing, serve as a reminder that nobody is too young to make a lasting impact on the world.

Master storyteller Stephen King must be included on any list of life-changing works, but narrowing it down to one is tricky. Originally published in paperback as throwback to old crime novels, Joyland is a classic coming of age story set in the backdrop of an early seventies amusement park with a true crime twist. On summer break from college, Devin Smith takes a job working as Joyland’s costumed mascot, while trying to track down a killer of a teen-aged girl. The nostalgic feel of the novel, along with the main character’s journey to adulthood is a good read for all ages, but especially those headed off for life after high school. Even for those who are not fans of horror or crime, Joyland is still a must read.

Sports February

Pinning Down the Basics

5 , 201 6 17

Athletes answer questions about wrestling season Ileana Perez Asst. Editor

Wrestling team members Alex Ferrell (junior), Jacob Duffy (sophomore), Zach Bradberry (junior), and Eden Lopez (senior) discuss their life during the season.

How do you stay in shape during the offseason?

Lopez: Well I also play softball so I stay in shape all year round.

Duffy: And I play football and lift weights.

Bradberry: I’m at a 182 weight class and because I’m in football I am always lifting and gaining weight so there are some nights that I don’t eat.

But after wrestling season, I go hard because I know that football is coming next year.

What are your favorite moves?

What has been your best win?

Bradberry: My freshman and sophomore year I didn’t get many wins; this year I’ve had a lot of adversity. I’ve lost a lot that I should’ve won but I have only been pinned once. My best win was last night (Jan. 27, 2016). I cradled a guy who beat me three weeks ago with a cradle. So I beat him with the same move that he beat me with, and that felt really good.

Duffy: I dropped my opponent on his head like four times and then I pinned him Lopez: Every win is a good win for me.

Are there any diets or exercises that you have to follow during the season?

Lopez: Diets? Yes. You have to watch what you eat and it’s so hard.

Duffy: We have to duct tape our sleeves and our ankles, wear sweats and run for hours.

Lopez: Not hours. (laughter) Duffy: Yes hours. I lost 11 pounds one day. It was awesome.

What age did you start wrestling?

Ferrell: I started this year.

Duffy: This year.

Lopez: Last year.

Bradberry: I started my freshman year.

Describe your wrestling style?

Ferrell: It’s a little bit more traditional. I am more defensive when I wrestle, so I let other people do the first move and then I just go off of their mistakes.

What are your goals in wrestling?

Bradberry: Well, my freshman year I didn’t really wrestle that much because there were a lot more experienced people, but this year, now that I’m on varsity I just want to make it to District, maybe even make it past District and go to Regionals.

Lopez: I just want to give it my all in every match.

Duffy: My goal is to go to State.

Zach Bradberry, 11

Ferrell: My favorite move is probably the Gator Roll. Its basically when somebody goes down for your legs or you’re in the down position and you sprawl out on them and kick your legs back so they can’t get you in a pin.

Duffy: I like the cradle, that’s a good one. It’s when I hold the guy like a baby, put my hands in between his legs and lock arms so he can’t move, and then squeeze him really hard so he can’t move.

Photo by Abigail Marinelarena

Alex Ferrell, 11

Photo by Abigail Marinelarena

Eden Lopez, 12

Photo by Mitchell Casazza

18 Volume 9 , Issue 5 Sports

College Goals Injury puts pause on college Ileana Perez Asst. Editor

Like most successful student athletes, Liz Clore is at the peak of her soccer career. She plays defense on the varsity team; she’s catching the attention of several college recruiters, and is growing to be a strong player. But in an instant, soccer practices, games and tournaments would quickly turn into weeks of physical therapy, doctor appointments and procedures.

In October during a scrimmage where Clore is playing defense, while trying to make a tackle, another player hits the side of her knee knocking her off balance. The hit causes Clore to twist her knee and land on the ground with a big “pop.” After the fall, Clore can’t unbend her knee. Later she is taken to doctor where she has an MRI and discovers that she tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus.

“When you see other people with an injury you think to yourself, ‘That’s terrible’ but in your head you never think, ‘That could be me,’” Clore said.

“When I got the news, and even right now when I say that I’ve torn my ACL and meniscus, it’s crazy to think that it actually happened.”

After the initial injury, Clore’s recovery can take anywhere from four months up to eight months.

“Pretty much everything that could go wrong with this process has gone wrong,” Clore said. “I kind of thought that I would be back in the shortest amount of time and that I would be the poster child of rehab, but it’s not like that.”

Because Clore’s knee started heal-

ing with extra scar tissue she had to undergo a procedure to break up the tissue, which is also causing her to fall behind.

“I still have to fight to get my knee to 100 degrees,” Clore said. “A lot of setbacks have happened and it’s been tough because I see other people who I go to physical therapy with and 5 weeks out of surgery they are already bending their knee past 90 degrees with little to no pain, and I think, ‘Why can’t I be like them.’”

Before the injury, Clore spoke with the University of Louisiana Lafayette, Corpus Christi A&M and Concordia University about playing soccer but for now put it on hold.

“Since this has happened I kind of took a break on trying to figure out where I’m going to go for college, soccer wise,” Clore said. “I can’t focus so much on the future of my soccer career until I know that I have a future in soccer.”

When looking at colleges, Clore kept her options open.

“I have a feeling that things are going to work out,” Clore said. “I can go to a small D3 school and register to play with the team for a year and then transfer to a bigger university.

I know that I have plenty of options”.

As for now, Clore is the captain of the girl soccer team where she attends all practices and games, and she continues to work on her physical therapy so she can head back to the soccer fields.

“I don’t have any doubts,” Clore said. “There’s never been a moment that I thought soccer was over for me because I’m not ready to just give this up.”

Anterior cruciate ligament information Tearing the ACL used to end careers, but now, medicine allows for athletes to continue, but only after a long recovery time on the bench. muscles boosting balance, control and stable joints

Playing multiple sports can actually act as a preventative measure for athletes because each sport builds different muscles boosting balance, control and stable joints.

Younger athletes risk more during surgery because their growth plates remain open.

Photo by Breanna Portillo

Seniors discuss future plans Lindsey Robinson Staff Reporter

Unlike other soccer players, Marianne Hernandez and Carina Reyes are not worried about impressing college scouts anymore. As the team steps out on to the illuminated turf, they embrace the stadium lights and attempt to ignore the undeniable chill running through their bodies.

The surrounding players get into position and one by one they measure up their opponents, attempting to learn the best way to victory. Various families and friends cheer from the stands, along with several scouts, analyzing each move and noting every mistake.

Both soccer players are committed. Once graduated, they will begin taking classes at their selected universities while also playing for the college’s soccer team. Reyes has been accepted to Florida International University (FIU) and Hernandez to University off Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). To sweeten the deal, the schools have also given Reyes and Hernandez full tuition.

“When I committed to FIU, the weight was suddenly lifted off my shoulders,” Reyes said. “I didn’t have to worry about visiting other schools, contacting any more coaches, or being anxious. It’s great knowing my decision was already made, that I don’t have to worry financially about whether my parents can help me afford to go to school.”

Having played soccer since the age of three, and currently playing around 25 hours a week, Reyes is excited to accept this opportunity and to see her hard work pay off. Likewise, Hernandez invested 12 years in soccer and is thankful, not only for what this means for her passion for soccer, but also for her education.

“I was completely amazed,” Her-

nandez said. “Since I was little, being committed was what I wanted. I wanted soccer to be a part of my life for as long as I could and knowing I could go to a school that I really liked, and get the academic side of it, is just completely extraordinary.”

Hernandez, or otherwise known as the “Triple Threat” because of her jersey number 3, reasons her success in the sport arise from her versatility as a player. Because she is used as a utility player, one who plays many positions, she is more useful. Reyes, who plays center forward and outside midfield, also feels as though she has earned her position at the university.

“I feel like it has to do with dedication, the time and effort you put into soccer. Along with nerves, too,” Reyes said. “While you’re playing, you don’t want to be anxious, you want to be in your prime. It’s about nerves, dedication, and hard work. It’s surreal knowing that I have something that I’m good at that I can go places withit’s just satisfying.”

Both players devoted a large majority of their lives to soccer and are glad to continue on to show off their skills at a college level. They hope others following similar dreams will have the same courage to get to the top.

“I’ve used soccer as a means to get away from my troubles at home or from stress at school,” Hernandez said. “When I play, it’s freeing. That’s why I love soccer so much, it’s another world completely on its own.

Even when it’s hard just keep going, because eventually it will pay off. All your hard work, all your sweat, all the tears you’ve cried, it will all pay off in the end.”

Sporting Success

Sports February

5 , 201 6

19

Softball player finds comfort with college Holly Hambleton Staff Reporter

Junior Kensley Martin (middle) hugs her teammates after taking a win at the Westwood game. Photo by Breanna Portillo

Junior Daniel Viegra crosses the finish line at the Cedar Park Invitational meet, where he took first place in the 5000 meter run. Photo by Ileana Perez

At the girls soccer meet against Westwood, junior Jayme Woodfill hugs her teammates. Photo by Breanna Portillo

mitted to DBU in the spring of her sophomore year as well. Although both Woodfill and Martin are committed but not officially signed to play for the school, there is significant pressure on them to stick with their decisions. “[The commitment] is oral right now, and then my senior year I will sign,” Martin said. “It’s really looked bad upon if you go somewhere else. If you change it, it’s looked down upon. It’s very serious, even though it’s verbal.”

The National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) governs college athletics and determines how recruiting can be done; for example, college coaches cannot contact a Division Two prospect until the summer before the student’s junior year in high school.

However, students can contact coaches to invite them to games or exhibitions, or even to verbally commit. Such loopholes are responsible for early commitments, before an athlete’s junior year.

Junior Daniel Viegra, a track and cross-country runner, has experienced these loopholes firsthand. Recruits may not work out with a team while

the coach is present, but Viegra has gone on light jogs with track teams while the coach is not present, staying within the rules but allowing him to get to know his potential teammates.

“In addition to talking to the coaches and the athletic staff, talking to some of the actual athletes that are part of the team is something that has really benefitted me,” Viegra said. “Just seeing what their daily life is like and the extra things they receive, like tutoring and extra study hours that only athletes are able to receive, is something to look forward to.”

Like Woodfill and Martin, Viegra feels that the recruiting process often pressures student athletes into choosing a school before they are ready.

“I do believe you should probably wait until you’re an upperclassman in high school just so you really get an idea of what you want, so you’re not rushing into any decisions,” Viegra said. “My parents always tell me not to rush into a commitment or leave a coach hanging by changing your mind later on. It’s kind of a moral thing, to stay true to your word.”

Athletes reflect on commitment process Madi McVan Copy Editor

The first time college coaches spoke to her about playing at the collegiate level, junior Jayme Woodfill was just 13 years old.

From that moment on, she spent time calling and emailing coaches, visiting school, attending camps and exhibitions, and considering what school would benefit her the most in both her soccer and academic worlds.

In the spring of her sophomore year, Woodfill verbally committed to play for Dallas Baptist University (DBU). While most students do not begin looking at colleges until their senior year, some athletes begin the college selection process as early as eighth grade.

“It’s extremely stressful and relieving at the same time,” Woodfill said. “My freshman and sophomore years I freaked out. I had to get stuff done, write emails, call coaches, but after it’s done it’s so relaxing. Now I can focus on my schoolwork instead of wondering, ‘is this college going to come to my event?’”

Junior Kensley Martin began speaking to college coaches in the summer before her freshman year, and com-

Steps for committing to a school the recruiting pro- 2. For a verbal commitment, 3. At the end of recruitment 1. During season, a contract is signed cess, a college offers a one must publicly announce sports scholarship in writing or by phone in which the student can then accept.

their acceptance before the signing date. Because nothing is binding, other colleges can still make offers.

to legally bind the student to complete one academic year and the college to provide financial aid.

The pressure of prospective college coaches watching a player’s every move and feeling the need to impress them is overwhelming at times. For sophomore Breanne McElderry the stress was a part of her schedule until she attended UT Tyler’s softball camp. The usual nervousness disappeared and she finally felt comfortable doing what she loves.

“Last year whenever I went to a camp in the summer there and I could just tell,” McElderry said. “Everything was perfect and right. The whole experience wasn’t as stressful and I didn’t have a lot of pressure on me which was different from other camps I’d gone to before.”

McElderry has been playing since she was five years old and has been trying to get recruited for most of her softball career. The recruiting process is tedious and stressful for the players. They have to wait to be contacted by the coach and then they can really start to consider the school. After going through all of the steps, she committed on December 14th of last year.

“When I visited, the college felt like home. I liked what I was surrounded by and the coaches were cool,” McElderry said. “It was just very homey and everything felt right.”

Despite being committed early in high school, she still has to worry about her grades. UT Tyler doesn’t give out sports scholarships, so McElderry will only be able to get money through her academics. The better grades she gets, the more money she’ll receive for a scholarship.

“I push myself harder not because I know I’m going to have a lot of competition later,” McElderry said.

“I have to do really good on schoolwork since it’s an academic school.

That just pushes me more, to be better and get more money for a scholarship.”

20 Volume 9 ,Issue 5 Last Look

HUMANS OF HENDRICKSON Gabby Sanchez Staff Reporter

Photos by Ileana Perez

Humans of New York is an online and print photo series started by photographer Brandon Stanton in 2010, fea-

turing portraits of people he finds on the street paired with quotes from the subject of the photo. We walked

the halls to find interesting people to photograph and interview, to create Humans of Hendrickson.

ANTHONY RODRIGUEZ & TERENTIUS FRANKLIN, 11 HUNTER JENSEN, 10

MANDI PALENCIA, 12

“This week I got to go to Murchison for 1st period and judge science fair proj“The swim team has district meets ects. It was awesome. There were hover crafts and wind turbines made by tomorrow and Saturday and I just elementary school kids. It was so cool.” want to show team spirit.”

“You guys look nice, would you mind taking a picture?”

“Really? Honestly do you mean that?

Of course, we’ll take a picture, ma’am.”

“How long have you guys been friends?”

“Forever, this is my brother.”

MAEVE LINDELL, 9 “My favorite song by him (David Bowie) would have to be Changes or China Girl. Changes was the first song I heard by him when I was like two or something crazy like that, and I just really like China Girl.”

DEVIN FRANCIOS, 10 “There’s a lot of dedication put into soccer. We have team dinners, you also have school, too, and then you have to get ready for club practices.”

“I love playing. I was able to play varsity as a sophomore. It’s helped me become a leader.” 0

SOPHIE EGLIHT, 10 “I’ve just been writing essays in English today, so my head is just mush.”

“I kinda didn’t want to believe his death at first so I put my phone across the room and just sat there. Then I started processing it and my mom found out. She’s knows that I’m obsessed with him so we just listened to his albums and stuff. I was of course bummed, but also kind of shocked”