VOL. 76 NO. 5

V L

The Official Newspaper of Longview High School 201 East Tomlinson Parkway Longview, Texas 75605 www.lisd.org/long-view

Volume 76 No. 5 Friday, February 22 2013

The Long-View

‘STAR TREK’ TO ‘STAR WARS,’ PG. 8

FROM SNIPER TO SOFTBALL, PG. 5

INTERNATIONAL FRESHMAN, PG. 4

Lady Lobo soccer remains undefeated Lucia Lopez Staff Writer The bright lights on the green field are almost blinding. The pressure builds as the crowds cheers the team on. The goal is so close. Junior Rachel Worley knows she can make it. She runs for it, kicks the ball, and holds her breath as the ball flies into the net. She scored.

This season the varsity Lady Lobos soccer team has remained undefeated, with their win of 3-1 against North Mesquite last Tuesday.

“The best feeling about playing is definitely when our team wins,” Worley said. “The feeling of stepping off the field and knowing everything you worked for in the past 80 minutes, paid off. “ Playing the position of outside midfield, Worley has had the chance to score several times in games this season.

“Helping my team win

is one of the best feelings,” Worley said. “I think I have done well this season, but I have my team to thank for that. They’re always there for me and they always have my back no matter what.”

With their win against North Mesquite, the Lady Lobos have won for the sixth time in a row, and they plan to continue their streak through dedication and teamwork.

“I am very excited over how well we have done,” head soccer coach Ronald Bellamy said. “Our team plays extremely well together.

Whenever someone makes a mistake, someone else picks up her slack. These girls are truly awesome.”

Now that they have secured several wins, the Lady Lobos hope to make it well into the upcoming playoffs.

“I hope we make it pretty far,” Worley said. “It would be so amazing to be part of a team that is able to advance to state.

Simone Macklin / THE LONG-VIEW

Maintaining Play Senior Keeley Bowles throws the ball back into play during the Varsity Lady Lobo Soccer game against White Oak on Jan 31.

●

Feb 26: Mesquite at Longview

●

March 5: Lobngview at Heath

GAMES TO COME ●

March 8: N. Mesquite at Longview

Rodeo ring royalty

Meaghan McNamara / THE LONG-VIEW

Royal Seating Senior and Texas Hereford Queen Cara Cumming enjoys the atmosphere of being at a Rodeo and the opportunities she recieves from being country royalty.

formed lasting relationships with.

“The people I go to shows with are the people that I will be friends with for the rest of my life,” Cummings said. “These are good honest, hardworking people who deserve so much more credit than they get.

Everyone’s a family, and every show is a big family reunion.”

Cummings ran for National Queen last November and did

Crowning accomplishments ●

LHS FFA Vice President

●

FFA Lone Star Degree

●

Chapter FFA Degree

not win, but she won the “Miss Congeniality” title. “[My friends] Bridget and MaKayla and I all ran for National Queen, but unfortunately none of us made it,” Cummings said. “We still had a blast though, and they made it super fun.”

Cummings believes that her position has allowed her to grow as a person and feels grateful for the opportunity to serve.

“Being queen has made me more confident,” Cumming said. I’m so blessed to have parents who spend the time and money so I can have this opportunity. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Recognizing four years of achievements Laura Aciano Staff Writer Senior Celebration will take place at 6PM in the Mickey Melton Center for Performing Arts on Feb. 23. This year will mark the 35th year of senior celebration where the senior class will

●

March 22: Horn at Longview

Lauren Bally News Editor

Hannah Brown Feature Editor

Senior Celebration set for Feb. 23 in Mickey Melton

March 19: Longview at Rockwall

Students advance to state in VASE

Senior reigns as Hereford Queen for Texas

She steps into the rodeo ring, poised to command cattle, but she’s not the average cowgirl.

She’s royalty.

Senior Cara Cummings currently reigns as the Texas Hereford Queen after being inducted last June. Cummings ran for the office because she has always enjoyed the concept of royalty.

“Being a Hereford Queen is an honor,” Cummings said.

“You represent your state and your breed, so you have to always be on your best behavior and look your best.”

As Hereford Queen, Cummings gets to travel all over the state and to places such as Nebraska and Missouri. Her time traveling and her position have introduced her to many people that she has

●

be formally presented and each student’s top three accomplishments announced by Cal Hanzik and Heather Cisco.

“A lot of work goes into this,” Parent Teacher Organization member, Ginia Northcutt said.

“There’s a whole group of us who have been working on it since November, and since this year we’ve changed venue [to the Mickey Melton Center], [so] it’s very special.”

Tickets will be sold the week of senior celebration for $10 in

advance and $12 at the door. Prom T-shirts will also be sold during senior celebration for $10 each. Despite change in venue, students will not be limited to bringing one parent. “[Senior celebration] is special every year because it’s about the

seniors and celebrating their accomplishments and close to completing their high school career,” staff representative for senior celebration, Joe Brashear said. “It’s something that a lot of seniors look forward to.

It’s your time to shine in the spotlight.”

Around 30 skillfully made paintings, drawings, photographs, and sculptures grace a section of the Whitehouse hallway. Sophomore Tara DiPasquale’s eyes widen in surprise and delight when she spots her own sculpture sitting among them. All her hard work has led up to this moment of glory as she realizes that her piece will be advancing to state competition.

The State Meet of the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) will be held on April 5-6 at Bryan High School.

DiPasquale, juniors Madison Branch, Serena Tuel, Sam Pospychala, and senior Dervares Hayter will have the honor of displaying their pieces at a state level along with hundreds of talented artists from around the state.

“I just couldn’t believe my sculpture was good enough to go to state,” DiPasquale said. “I’m definitely nervous because of the level of competition, but it’ll be a great experience.”

DiPasquale, along with hundreds of students from around East Texas, had to go through the long process of presenting her pieces to a judge for an eight minute interview.

“It wasn’t near as intense as I made it up to be in my head,” Dipasquale said. “It was way more carefree and laid-back than I expected.”

These students advanced from the regional level of VASE, which was held in Whitehouse. 17 students, besides the five state qualifiers, received a top score of four on their piece. However, the five Area medalists were chosen along with the top 10% of those perfect pieces.

“The event is really good for our students because they have to pull their work together and finalize it so they have their work ready to be displayed,” art teacher Ellen Herbert said. “We had an outstanding year this year. We had more all area and all region winners than we have ever had in the past.”

Celebration information ●

Tickets: $12 at the door

●

When: Feb. 23 at 6PM

●

●

Location: Mickey Melton Center for Preforming Arts Prom T-shirts: $10

Laura Aciano / THE LONG-VIEW

Noteworthy Art Sophomore Lindsey Sanchez posts her stickynote artwork along with the other contestants artwork on the VASE montage during the VASE competition Feb 9.

PAGE

2

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

A Brief View

news

Viewette going to dream college Lucia Lopez Staff Writer

Emily Thomason / SPECIAL TO THE LONG-VIEW

Leap of Faith Junior Caroline Araiza participated in the zip line course during the Rotary Youth Leadership Award Conference on Feb 8-10.

Five juniors chosen for RYLA learn leadership, teamwork skills Lauren Bally News Editor Juniors Caroline Araiza, Ehizokha Ihionkhan, Alex Montgomery, Austin Rivera, and Jackson Schaap were among 90 juniors and 27 seniors from around East Texas selected to participate in the Rotary Youth Leadership Award conference from Feb 8-10 at Camp Pirtle. The students learned teamwork and leadership skills while camping out and taking on different ropes courses.

“This experience opened my eyes to the amount of leadership opportunities around me,” Ihionkhan said. “I will try to step up as a leader wherever I see fit within my community.”

Senior Viewette Captain Sophie Tibiletti opens the envelope with trembling hands. For a brief moment, she hesitates before pulling out the paper that would determine her future. As she takes it out, her trembling hands are now sweating.

She begins to read. Her eyes become blurry with tears of joy and excitement. She had been accepted.

Tibiletti has been accepted into the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and was also awarded the Promising Artist scholarship there.

“I was extremely excited and relieved that I was accepted,” Tibiletti said. “I will be going to the school of my dreams. I still can’t believe I will be living in Philadelphia next year.”

Tibiletti was given the Promising Artist scholarship based on both grades and artistic abilities. It grants her $13,000 dollars a year for four years.

“I feel very grateful and lucky to have received it,” Tibilleti said. “I was just happy

Kevin Ber ns / THE LONG-VIEW

Running the Stage Senior Sophie Tibelleti steals the spotlight during Beyonce’s “Run the World (Girls)” in the 2012 Spring Viewette Revue.

to be accepted, so getting the scholarship was a bonus.”

One of the requirements to be considered for acceptance into Tibeletti’s dream college was to go through an audition which consisted of a jazz class, an interview, and a contemporary dance solo.

“Before it was my turn

Hannah Kempkes Staff Writer Determined.

Hardworking.

Enthusiastic. These are the qualities of a cheerleader.

These are the qualities that are necessary to succeed in tryouts.

In order to be a cheerleader, girls have to learn a dance and a cheer.

Girls who want to be captains must show leadership at the cheerleading tryouts on March 1.

“It’s hard to show leadership skills,” sophomore cheerleader Aliceson Edwards said,

Michelle Sanchez Staff Writer

“Especially when you’re trying to learn [the dance and cheer] for yourself.”

Girls that are returning cheerleaders can sometimes feel more anxious than newcomers.

“For us, [the tryouts] can be more nerve wracking if you’ve made it before,” Edwards said. “You want to make it again and you don’t want to be embarrassed.”

Cheerleading is a serious sport that students shouldn’t try out for just for fun.

“You have to work hard. You have to want it.” Edwards said.

“It’s something you have to want or you won’t make it.”

Misconseptions about Cheerleaders Myths

Meaghan McNamar a/ THE LONG-VIEW

Perfect Poses 2013 cheer captain candidates Miyana White, Bit Thompson, Kylee Marshburn, and Courtney Cooks demonstrate their teaching skills to the other cheerleaders during the tryout practice.

Super Smash Bros.

Melee Club plays games, wins money Wesley Hardin Staff Writer Ashley Kempkes / THE LONG-VIEW

Gaming Guys Junior Crayson Strange and Senior Casey Gilbert play Super Smash Bros Melee during their Friday meeting.

still remain intense and exciting,” Gilbert said. “Its a real bonding experience between members.”

Melee club members can participate in tournaments for prizes of ten or fifteen dollars.

“We’re going to Houston to participate in a regional Melee competition,” Gilbert said. “We hope to win a couple hundred or even a thousand dollars.”

The Game

“Super Smash Bros.: Melee” combines multiple characters from dozens of other nintendo games, such as Mario and Pokemon, in a tournament-style fight for multiple players to participate at once.

Facts

• Cheerleaders • 83% of cheerleaders are not have a ‘B’ or better. intelligent.

• Cheerleaders come • Cheerleaders in all sizes. have to be thin. .

DRESS CODE REMINDERS Allowed:

Not Allowed:

Blue, black, brown, and khaki pants

White, green, camo pants or black tights

Non-polo shirts under a hoodie only

Non-polo shirts under sweaters & zip up jackets

Calendar of Events

Club Corner Twice a week, an elite group of warriors gather in the library to compete in a contest of inner strength, skill, and honor. Their ranks foster bravery, determination, and brotherhood. They are the members of the Super Smash Bros. Melee Club.

12th grader and Melee club senior member Casey Gilbert enjoys his time in melee club.

“Melee club is great because it lets you relax at the end of a school day and

focus on her dance major, which means she won’t be taking classes such as math.

“I plan on taking all kinds of dance and art classes,” Tibiletti said. “My goal is to become a professional dancer for a contemporary company.

Dancing has always been my passion.”

Cheerleading tryouts to accept the best

FAFSA forms provide college financial aid

Students don’t realize the short amount of time it takes to fill out a FAFSA form for money for college.

“It’s not hard to fill out. It takes 20 minutes,” financial aid counselor Chasity Shorts said. “If you haven’t filled out a college application, do it soon.”

There are many different scholarships for money. While only seniors can apply for scholarships, juniors should still prepare themselves.

“Schools are just giving out money to students, and I’m here to help,” Shorts said. “I’m always in my office; students can stop by and learn about financial aid anytime.”

to perform, I was really nervous,” Tibiletti said. “I had been watching a lot of other people’s solos that were so amazing and inspiring, but once I got on stage, my nerves went away and I just danced. Any performer knows that feeling.”

All of Tibiletti’s classes will

Senior Celebration

Will take place at 6:00 PM on Feb 23 at Mickey Melton Center. Photos will start at 5:00 PM.

Black History Program Will be held in the Mickey Melton Center at 10:00 AM on Feb 29.

Lunch will be provided.`

March Events

March 17- St. Patrick’s Day March 20- Spring Equinox March 24- Palm Sunday

Viewette Tryouts

Packets can be picked up from Mrs. Eisenhuth in the Viewette dance studio until Feb 28.

opinions

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

PAGE

3

Staff Editorial

Texts aren’t worth taking lives

With the technological frontier expanding so rapidly, this generation of kids has been exposed to devices our parents never would have dreamed of. So saying, driving is now a whole different ball game from what it was back when our parents were teens. The problem of driving with distractions such as texting has become more and more of an issue over the years, and will only continue to become worse and worse unless citizens come to understand the gravity of the situation.

Those who text while driving are 23 times more likely to have a crash. This only makes sense, as texting is a visual, physical and cognitive distraction.

Studies have shown that driving while using a cell phone decreases the brain’s focus on driving by nearly 40 percent. Because of the high speeds and momentum of the cars, driving already has a very high potential for fatal crashes, so it’s imperative that all drivers are 100 percent focused.

It’s easy to lose sight of the fact that crashes caused by texting not only have the potential to harm the driver, but others too. Maybe if people took the time to come to terms with the amount of guilt they would go through if their one mistake took an innocent life, there would be fewer incidents of texting and driving.

Even if no people are killed in texting-caused collisions, cars and property will still be harmed. Although it might be easy for people to feel relieved after an accident like this and to not label it a ‘bad crash’, this could cause them to be more flippant about crashes in the future. However, too many of these accidents considered ‘not bad’ could increase national insurance rates by a significant and uncomfortable amount.

Although most states already have laws prohibiting the use of a cell phone while driving, the rates of collisions haven’t really gone down. That’s because it’s up to the drivers, not the law, to make that happen. If driving with a friend, let the friend send a text. If driving alone, wait to pull over. Drivers need to start taking this seriously. A text isn’t worth taking a life.

“

Those who text while driving are 23 times more likely to have a collision.

”

DO YOU TEXT AND DRIVE? 41%

text & drive

59%

do not text & drive

Out of approximately 50 students polled who can drive

Track star: hard work pays off Amber Redic Guest Writer On February 6th I signed with Stephen F. Austin. This was a great accomplishment for me because I felt like all the hard work I had put into running track had finally paid off. I finally didn’t have to stress over applying for colleges.

Getting accepted into SFA didn’t happen overnight. I have been running track for four years, and I never imagined myself running in college. It wasn’t until my sophomore year when I actually started taking track seriously. I realized this was the sport that made me happy, even though it’s very difficult and takes a lot of dedication.

A lot of challenges came throughout the years I ran track. My sophomore year I didn’t make it to Regionals in my individual event. I was very disappointed, but I told myself next year I would make it to Regionals. My junior year I did make it to regionals in the 400 meter dash. However, I didn’t perform very well so that caused me not to make it to state. That year I had also pulled my hamstring. I was so upset with myself and cried on the bus ride home. I tried not to lose hope, and told myself that I would work hard my senior year so I can go to state.

That summer I had also run summer track and had the privilege of making it to Junior Olympics. This gave me confidence because I ran with people who were faster than me. Ever since the summer I’ve been working out on my own every weekend. I try to run at least 6 times a week. It’s hard because I hate working out, but I’m determined to be the best and also finally go to state this year.

I feel blessed that SFA wanted me, and offered me a scholarship because the coach sees I have a lot of potential to be the best. It was a very hard decision to make when choosing to sign with them. I had to think about what I really want and need. SFA wasn’t my first college choice, but after visiting the campus I knew right away this was the school for me. I am very happy with my decision, and I expect many great accomplishments in the future.

Letters to the editor The editorial board of The Long-View encourages you to submit a letter. It should be no more than 300 words. Include your full name and email or phone number (email and phone number will not be published). We reserve the right to edit for space, spelling, grammar and libelous statements. Send your letters by email to kberns@lisd.org or mail them to The LongView, 201 E. Tomlinson Pkwy, Longview, TX 75605.

By Madison Branch

Students discuss gun merits, drawbacks Jon Melendez Guest Writer

Garrett Littlejohn Guest Writer

There are a lot of debates right now concerning gun control, and I, for one, support the idea that there should be stricter gun laws to prevent innocent people from dying in vain. I don’t believe in banning guns altogether because that would violate the Second Amendment, but I do believe that military style automatic or semi-automatic rifles and high cap magazines should be banned completely and left alone to the trained military.

I understand that many people want these guns for numerous reasons including recreational use, protection, collection purposes, etc., but lately, they have been used to take the lives of many innocent people, including children. I understand that it wasn’t the guns that “killed” those people, that it was the murderers who made those unfathomable decisions who did, but I’m not able to abstain from thinking that without those guns, it would be far more difficult for the murderers to kill that many people. I understand that people want to use guns for self defense, but there are plenty of other ways to defend oneself such as with stun guns, tasers, and pepper sprays.

Furthermore, if there were stricter gun laws, no one would need guns for self defense in the first place. For example, I believe that anyone and everyone who wants to purchase a gun should undergo the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This system is currently only required for federally licensed dealers, but I strongly believe that it should be required for all formal dealers. NICS is used by Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) to determine whether a prospective buyer is eligible to buy firearms or explosives. NICS ensures that each customer does not have a criminal record or isn’t otherwise ineligible to make a purchase. More than 100 million such checks have been made in the last decade, leading to more than 700,000 denials. It’s safe to assume that at least one of those 700,000 denials has prevented an innocent person from being murdered. To save even one person’s life is worth any amount of the added hassle of gun control.

There is a war happening today. It is not a War in Afghanistan or Iraq, but a war on you and me, right here in the United States of America.

Gun control is a bigger problem than most of you probably realize, and it goes deeper than the what you see. As a disclaimer, I’m no extremist. I am no liberal or conservative writer.

When talking on gun control, you cannot think as a high school kid. You have to think like an adult that will be controlling this great nation.

Now, the first thing to remember is WHY we have rights such as the second amendment. It is there to protect us from a tyrannical society, whether it be an invader in your home demanding money or a government demanding your rights. Although this is a common misconception, our founding fathers did not take guns lightly. Guns weren’t as much for sport as they are now. Back then, they were made to shoot something to save you and your family. And even though times have changed, the ability to protect yourself is just as important as ever.

Much like what we are starting to see in the US Government, every year, the Mexican Government makes it harder and harder to obtain a weapon in Mexico. However, since 2006, gun related violence has gone up 49% in Mexico. This is because when you take away guns from the law abiding people, the non-law abiding people have the advantage. We as people of the US should look at that statistic and be blown away at why in the world any government would consider such a thing! Just like Prohibition laws in the US in the 1920’s, only people who didn’t want the illegal product didn’t have it. Therefore, If there were a gun ban in the US, that would just put guns in the hands the government is trying to protect us from.

In conclusion, we are at war. A war fought on our turf, that the government thinks they have the right to control. As soon as they get an advantage on us, the citizens, they will surely take it and run.

How do YOU feel about gun laws?

Would you feel safer if there were no guns on campus, if just the police had guns, or if licensed teachers as well as police had guns?

“I’m fine with teachers having guns as long as they’re licensed.”

-Arik Maleski, 9

“Security should be good enough that we never get into the situation that we need guns.”

-Kaylor Shumaker, 11

“If the teachers have guns too, it’s just more people who can protect us.”

-Alex Mondragon, 10

“Guns just make everything worse.”

-Brian Rosaoes, 12

The Official Newspaper of Longview High School News Editor Lauren Bally Opinions Editor Caroline Araiza Features Editor Hannah Brown Entertainment Editor Preston Mitchell Sports Editor Zach Williams Photo Editor Meaghan McNamara Design Editor Andy Rash Staff Writers Laura Aciano Lucia Lopez Michelle Sanchez Wesley Hardin Claire Earnest Hannah Kempkes

THE LONG-VIEW Adviser Kevin Berns Editor in Chief Ashley Kempkes

201 E. Tomlinson Pkwy Longview, TX 75605 Vol. 76, No.5

The Long-View is printed by Champion Printing.

The Long-View is a free publication distributed each month during the school year.

The opinions expressed in The Long-View are those of The Long-View staff and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of LISD administration or staff.

The Long-View welcomes comments on school related issues. Names will be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit letters before publication.

The Long-View is self-supported by advertising sales sold by newspaper students.

Advertisements in The Long-View are $6 per column inch, with discounts for large ads.

For more information, contact The Long-View Adviser Kevin Berns at (903) 663-7181, or email at kberns@lisd.org.

PAGE

4

to FIVE WAYS for CARE y o u r CAR 1. AIR UP THE TIRES

One of the easiest ways to save money that is simple and critical is to air your tires. It’ll keep your tires from wearing out prematurely and gives you better gas mileage.

2. CHANGE THE OIL REGULARLY Do regular oil changes. It is recommended to change it every 3,000 miles to keep the engine from sludging up. If you use synthetic oil you can go up to 5,000 miles.

3. CHECK THE AIR FILTER REGULARLY Check your air filter. With a dirty air filter, you can lose up to 10% of your gas mileage.

4. CHECK THE ANTIFREEZE REGULARLY Check your antifreeze. It’s supposed to last 5 years and 50,000 miles. It usually doesn’t last that long.

5. USE NON-ETHANOL GASOLINE If you use non-ethanol gas you can save 10% or more on gas on most vehicles. A 2012 Chevy Impala with non-ethanol gas gets 30 miles on the highway, but with ethanol it only gets 22 mpg.

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

feature

International lifestyle Freshman finds home around world Sidney Lowell Guest Writer She glances down, taking in the picturesque view.

She finds a nice, shaded spot to spread the picnic blanket.

Sweat drips down her forehead as she leans over, placing her palms on her knees as she gasps for breath, but she boasts a huge smile. Natasha Maters just climbed a mountain in Italy.

Maters is not your average high school student. She has lived in six different countries. Her father’s job moves the family around frequently. The first time she moved she was only two months old and she was ten years old when she made her most recent move to the United States.

“We came to the U.S. because my father resigned from G.E. and he found a different job here,” Maters said. “I have lived in Hungary, Germany, Italy, England, Romania, and now the United States.”

Maters often misses her extended family, as they live on a completely different continent.

Family Photo / THE LONG-VIEW

Not all Greek Freshman Natasha Maters (middle) and her younger sisters visit the Erechtheion Temple at Acropolis in Athens, Greece.

“I only lived in Hungary for two months, but we go there almost every year to visit my grandparents,” Maters said. “Sometimes I really miss them, and I miss the culture.”

Maters’ mother is from Hungary and her father is from the Netherlands.

Different cultural styles that affect her way of life include that of her parents’ native countries; other aspects are from the six countries she has called “home.”

“We speak English at home,” Maters said.

“My mom is Hungarian and my dad is Dutch,

and English is the language they both speak fluently. My family doesn’t act like one specific culture.

We act like a mix of all the cultures.”

Maters has gone through the difficulties of moving and having to start over many more times than your average Jane, but she doesn’t regret any of it.

“Looking back, I really enjoyed moving because it was really exciting for me to get to live in so many different countries,” Maters said. “The people I’ve met, and the places I’ve been to, they’ve all influenced me in one way or another.”

feature

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

PAGE

Junior joins fighting family tradition Jr. ROTC participant plans to enlist in military Hannah Brown Features Editor The Edwards family tradition stands as one of fierce men who bravely put their lives on the line for their country.

Soon, one more person will join these honorable men. However, this person stands apart from the rest. This person wants to prove that she can stand right beside the men in her family tradition and on the battlefield.

Junior Haley Edwards plans on joining the military after high school in order to prove that she can fight like her male relatives.

“Nobody else on my step dad’s side of the family or my mom’s have the girls done anything,” Edwards said. “I just want something to be proud of.”

Edwards has already started her military career plan by participating in ROTC since the beginning of this year.

“I like the order,” Edwards said.

ROTC GIRLS : FUTURES IN FIGHTING

Legislation was passed recently to let women fight on the front lines of the battlefield.

These are the ROTC girls’ plans concerning fighting in the military.

“I’ve never been involved in anything that had structure like this, even FFA. I tried that, and really it wasn’t for me.

I tried ROTC after that.”

Her maternal grandfather fought in the Army, her stepfather fought as a Marine, and various relatives of her stepfather have also fought.

“I know that all the veterans I know, whenever they talk about it, they’re not always proud,” Edwards said.

“But, there’s a sense of belonging.”

Edwards has two different career plans in mind. She wants to be recruited by a friend’s dad at 17 or 18 and attend the University of Texas at Austin or she wants to go to college for ROTC and join the army as an officer afterwards.

“My step dad told me about basic training in the Marines,” Edwards said. “That kind of scared me. I don’t want to go into the Marines. They’re pretty hard-core.”

Haley doesn’t know yet if she wants to fight on the front lines now that the legislation was passed for girls to do so.

“It really depends on what I want whenever I turn 18, and that’s two years away,” Edwards said. “I know I’m not afraid of it, but I don’t know if I want that. I want to give to my country.”

Do you plan to enlist after graduation?

5

Meaghan McNamar a /THE L ONG-VIEW

Armed for the Future Junior Haley Edwards participates in ROTC as a preparation for her military future.

If yes, in which branch do you plan to enlist?

Were you aware of the new legislation?

Airforce - 47%

Yes - 13% No - 50% Maybe - 17%

Army - 27%

Yes - 65%

USMC - 6%

No - 35%

Navy - 20%

42 female ROTC members polled

From the battlefield to the softball field Laura Aciano Staff Writer

“The rule is not to be seen,” Advanced Anatomy and Physiology teacher and softball coach, Jonathon Storment said, “if you’re seen, you’re dead.”

Lips cracked and bleeding, tongue swelling up from thirst, and heart beating like a sledgehammer, he lies motionless on the dry ground as his vision blurs and his eyes burn from lack of sleep. At any moment, he could draw his last breath.

This was Storment’s life for two years and 9 months of his six years in the military. During his time in combat, he served as a sniper, a military marksman who shoots targets from a concealed place, having to spend anywhere from ten hours to five days at a time hiding in a specific location.

“There were several times where I feared for my life, but you don’t really focus on those things,” Storment said. “They say the human body has two responses to fear: either extreme fear or extreme anger.I would always get both responses when someone was shooting at me: moments of fear and clarity followed by extreme anger.

I’d get bitter about it, like how dare you try to kill me.”

Meaghan McNamar a /THE L ONG-VIEW

Hitting the Hard Lessons Science teacher and softball coach Jonathon Storment uses softball as a teaching tool to players who plan on enlisting in the military.

“

Despite the imminent danger and high level of commitment that came with being a sniper, Storment enjoyed the new experiences presented to him.

“You get to go to a lot of different places and meet people from all different cultures,” - Jonathon Storment Storment said, “but Softball Coach at the drop of a dime you may have (HALO) school, which requires to drop everything a person to jump from heights in your life and go overseas. in excess of 25,000 ft.

Being a soldier is a great “People commonly make honor, but the commitment the mistake that because is tenfold.”

I was a sniper, I am some Storment’s training included sniper school, in which his goal expert marksman that can shoot the wings off flies. The was to hit 37 out of 40 targets and train with targets at ranges difference between being a sniper and just a good shot is up to about eleven football that the sniper can control his fields. He also went through emotions and stress levels so High Altitude Low Opening

I was glad to be back home with my loved ones, but it’s hard. You feel a sense of guilt for your friends that didn’t make it back.

”

that he is a consistent shot,” Storment said. “[As for HALO training,] I am terrified of heights, always have been.

Every time I went up in an aircraft, it was me against my fears: pure adrenaline rush.”

Coming home from the military in June of 2002 was a bittersweet feeling for Storment.

“I was glad to be back home with my loved ones, but it’s hard. You feel a sense of guilt for your friends that didn’t make it back, especially your friends you served with in Afghanistan, and then went to Iraq and ended up being killed, ” Storment said. “It’s an ongoing [healing] process.

They teach soldiers very well how to flip that switch on to be able to execute their job, but they don’t teach them how to flip it off very well.

I struggled just because of the way you’re trained and the things you see. I find comfort in the fact that my performance of my job potentially saved the lives of my comrades and friends.”

After serving in the military, Storment had other jobs, but in 2009 and he decided to jump back into coaching and education, following in the footsteps of his father and siblings.

“Coaching is such a big draw to me because in a lot of ways you really develop camaraderie with your coaches, students, and players, and those are the things you really miss about the military: the relationship you had with your fellow soldiers,” Storment said. “As I coach, I try to always be accountable for my team’s successes and failures.”

As a teacher, Storment makes it a point to talk to his students about his life in the military, knowing that in a matter of months, some of his senior students could be overseas fighting for our country.

Nevertheless, he keeps in mind that his time in the military has shaped him into the teacher and coach he is today.

“To be honest, I do probably tell them too much, but I want to prepare them for the real world. I have around 200 students. If one of those 200 makes a decision that was a better than one I made, I think it’s worth it,” Storment said. “I still have some guilt over the things I did in the military and the friends I lost, but I know God has a purpose for my life or he wouldn’t have spared me and brought me home.”

6 feature Seniors confirm college choice The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

PAGE

Athletes make final decision with signature Claire Earnest Staff Writer

On National Signing Day, Feb 6th, seniors around the country sign to play sports at colleges.

At LHS, 14 seniors signed to colleges in the Turf room.

“I felt really accomplished because I worked really hard to get there,” Jennifer Boudreau, signed to University of Memphis, said, “and it’s a big deal especially after you have worked [on soccer] since you were little.”

Bivins Caraway, starting quarterback, was injured during the first official game of

BIVINS CARAWAY

Football University of Louisiana “I went to visit the college and the coaches were really straight-forward and I had a really good feeling about [the school].”

KEELEY BOWLES

the season, but still signed to his school of choice, University of Louisiana.

“I’m about 5 months in, at 88%. I go to therapy three times a week and I go to the gym three times a week,” Caraway said. “[The University of Louisiana] was just like ‘We still want you to come to the college and keep working hard.’”

Signing the official paper is usually accompanied by a surge of relief for the seniors.

Caraway’s response to his thoughts when he signed the paper was, ‘Amen.’ However, this reaction not just shared with the seniors, but parents as well.

“They were surprised that I made that big of a commitment,” Colin Jeter, signing with the Airforce Academy, said, “but they were proud of me and supported my choice.”

COLIN JETER

Football Airforce Academy “[I decided to go to the air force because] its the best opportunity to play football and for my life in general. I’ve been playing football since the third grade.”

NAKIA BROWN

Soccer Tyler Junior College

Football Texas A&M University

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was four. I wanted to go to Tyler Junior College because it was the best opportunity for me.”

“I love the coaches.

I met a few players and everybody seemed cool.

They welcomed us in with open arms so I’m looking forward to it.”

COREY BARTLEY

Football Texas A&M Commerce “I played tackle football since 5th grade, but I’ve been playing tag since I was five. I chose A&M Commerce because its the best fit for me and what I want to do with my life.”

AMBER REDIC

Track Stephen F. Austin University “When I went on my visit, I fit in with the track team, they were all nice to me, and the coach was very nice too. [SFA] is not too big and it’s not too small.”

Baseball Judson Murray Guest Writer

Jordan Houser /THE L ONG-VIEW

Dignif ied Signatures Prideful parents watch their senior students sign athletic scholarships to their desired college on National Signing Day, Feb 6.

SIGN ING DAY Promising graduating senior athletes commit to colleges for their specialty sports

DEMARKUS LATHAN

Football Tarleton State University “They gave me a good opportunity to play, and I like their facilities and football field.”

JUSTINN SPADY

JENNIFER BOUDREAU

CORNELIUS WILLIAMS

Soccer University of Memphis

Football Texas A&M Commerce

“I like the coaches and I like the school and I like the city, so it kinda all fit.”

I feel really comfortable with the coaches and I really like the school. I met my position coach, and the head coach; the head coach was the one that recruited me.

JALEN PORTER

TOREAN SHEPPARD

Football Iowa Central Community College “Out of all the colleges this place is real nice. They have a real football team, so if I do good this semester then I get to go to college in January.”

Football Tarleton State University “I’ll be playing football and also doing environmental engineering.”

TORY WHITE

TRE ALLEN

Football Texas A&M Commerce

Football Lamar University

“It is a good place to play football at, so I just went ahead and took it. I went to visit there, and some other places, but that was my final choice.”

“I like the environment and they treated me like if I was one of them already, they also gave me a great deal and I took it.”

Football & Baseball Tyler Junior College

VS

Softball ShaiRee Peoples Guest Writer

Baseball was once famously coined Softball is not a sport to be taken lightly.

“America’s pastime.” Every year thousands Just because it’s a girl sport does not mean of people in America and other places around that the sport is anything to mess with. the world root for their favorite professional There are several reasons why softball baseball team. Where is Major League Softball? is a better sport than baseball. A guy can The answer is that it does not exist. The simple be a softball manager by helping with the reason for this is because softball has neither the equipment and traveling with the team to iconic history nor the excitement that baseball their games. What guy wouldn’t want to be can provide. around at least 18 athletic girls every day?

There is no other sport but baseball where a The games are free, there are less innings, person can see a 95 mile per hour fastball or there are separate stands for the home team and witness a towering 450 foot homerun. While visitors (unlike baseball), and girls don’t spit all fastballs and homeruns do exist in softball, they over the field. A softball is actually visible because just are not nearly as exciting or exhilarating of its fluorescent color, so why wouldn’t you come as fastballs or homeruns found in baseball. to the games? I personally would rather be able to For this reason, baseball is America’s pastime see the ball than be clueless for half the game. and softball is not. In all fairness, softball is We don’t have as many players or funding as similar to baseball in many ways which is why, baseball so we make up for it with heart and play for me, the game is held in higher regard than for the love of the game. Our favorite color is many other sports. Another attribute of the dirt and we will always play hard to get a win game of softball is the scenery it provides for Longview. Softball is due for a comeback so

with the beautiful women that play it! come out and see us win!

“I wanted to go to TJC because its at home. My parents are behind me 100%.”

sports

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

PAGE

7

Senior finds niche as goalie Basketball Season Review Miguel Cabrera seeks a future in goalkeeping

Zach Williams Sports Editor

Zach Williams Sports Editor Like his name might suggest, senior goalkeeper Miguel Cabrera’s first love was baseball. While living in California, he began his Little League baseball career as a Florida Marlin, which was, coincidentally, 2012 AL MVP Miguel Cabrera’s first Major League team. But even with a name like Cabrera, in his sophomore year he decided to make the switch to soccer. He stuck with that decision when he moved to Longview in his junior year and was able to impress head coach Greg Wright.

“He hadn’t played much goalkeeper, but he convinced me he was a goalkeeper, Coach Wright said. “ I had just assumed he was goalkeeper. Maybe he thought it was an easier in than being a field player, but I was more than impressed with his ability. He is a very talented goalkeeper.”

That doesn’t mean he is the only one though. Senior Tyler Vincent was already the established goalkeeper when Cabrera transferred, so the team decided to utilize them both by splitting their time in the box during their junior years.

“I kept thinking at some point I’m going to have to make a decision, but

Simone Macklin / THE LONG-VIEW

Kicking Off Career Senior Miguel Cabrera launches the ball and propels himself into college.

we never did,” Coach Wright said. “The numbers are comparable. We had numerous secret captains meetings but they couldn’t see any difference. The two have become good friends and where I thought would be rivalry, there wasn’t. They were very encouraging to each other.”

While his time is split again this season, he continues to provide a rare level of intensity and passionate will to win.

“I don’t like to lose,” Cabrera said.

“I guess I get that from Kobe Bryant.

He’s kind of my role model. [And] my

&

Clay Layman

Powerlifting Team Member

Claire Earnest Sports Writer What is your favorite lift?

The squat, it’s always the most demanding, and I like it the most.

How does a power-lifter’s weight factor into the competitions?

You can be above people that do more than you, just because you weigh less.

How often do you flex in the mirror?

Every day.

Every morning and every night!

family: my grandma who passed away and of course Christian. At times when we feel bad about ourselves we think of Christian and we think, ‘we got to do this for him.’”

His talent and will to win seem to be pushing him towards a bright future in soccer, receiving offers from several schools, although he is looking to start at junior college.

“There is no question he can go and play,” Coach Wright said. “He needs to play somewhere. He has outstanding qualities as a goalkeeper.”

Kevin Berns / THE LONG-VIEW

Ripping for Rebounds Junior Dorian Leonard struggles for the ball against Rowlett.

Swimming Regionals Austin Dickson Guest Writer The Lobo Swim team competed at the Regional meet on Feb. 8, at Rockwall ISD Swim School. Swimmers competed based on their performance in the District swim meet on January 26, 2013. Those placing sixth and above at Districts qualified to swim at Regionals.

The team made it to the preliminary rounds of the Regional meet, but did not make it any further. Head Coach Daniel Gonzales was pleased with the team’s performance.

“The Regional meet went by really fast this year,” Coach Gonzales said.

“I look forward to building a program here that will not only compete but win at a high level of competition.”

Future plans for the LISD Swim Program include starting to train students from the fourth and fifth grade on so that by the time they reach high school they was ready to swim with the best.

Simone Macklin / THE LONG-VIEW

Diving to Win Freshman Natasha Maters dives into the 400 yard freestyle relay during Regionals Feb 8.

Simone Macklin / THE LONG-VIEW

Flying Through the Water Junior Casey Nickel races in the 100 yard butterfly at Regionals on Feb 8.

Records of the season 100yd free 100 yd breast 100yd fly Simone Macklin / THE LONG-VIEW

Claire Earnest /THE LONG-VIEW

What are the track team’s goals?

10.3

100m

secs

Jared Love

1:58

800m Dewarren Timmons

12’6”

pole vault

Parting the Waters Freshman Cannen Hanzik swims the 50 yard freestyle during Regionals Feb 8.

Baseball:

Feb. 25: at Pine Tree (9/JV) Feb.26: at Pine Tree (VARS) Mar. 1-2: at Texas High Tournament (VARS)/ at Marshall Tournament (9) Mar. 7-9: Lobo Classic (VARS)/ Pine tree Tournament (JV) Mar. 11: at Marshall (9) Mar. 12: at Evangel (JV/VARS) Mar.15: Rochwall Heath (VARS)/ at Rockwall Heath (JV) Mar. 18: Whitehouse (9) Mar. 19: at Mesquite Horn (VARS)/ Mesquite horn (JV) Mar. 22: North Mesquite (VARS)/ at North Mesquite (JV) Mar. 25: Kilgore (9) Mar. 26: at Robert E. Lee (VARS)/ Robert E. Lee (JV) Mar. 28: Rockwall (VARS)/ at Rockwall (JV)

Schedule

Tracking the Numbers

Tristan Berlin

The Lobos Basketball team lost to Rowlett 74-55 Feb. 19 in the first round of the playoffs to put an end to their season.

The Lobos, who fought for a District title against Mesquite on Feb. 8 and for District Runner-up Feb. 15 against Mesquite Horn, entered the playoffs in the third seed of the District 12-5A. “Anytime you can go from scratching to get into the fourth place spot to challenging for the District Championship you can assure that you are making some progress in the program,” Head Coach Billy Goffney said. “We have to get better defensively. [But] we have ten coming back [next season] with varsity experience. When you got that kind of experience and leadership on the floor good things happen.”

Tennis:

Mar. 5: at Jacksonville (JV) Mar. 8: at Corsicana (VARS) Mar.21: at Van (JV) Mar. 26: JV District Tournament at Rockwall Mar. 28: Longview Tournament (VARS)

Boys:

Tanner Thompson1:13.40 1:04.83

Girls:

Casey Nickel1:24.07 1:24.31

Soccer: Lobos:

Mar. 26: at Mesquite Mar. 1: at Tyler Lee Mar. 5: Rockwall Heath Mar.8: at North Mesquite Mar. 19: Rockwall Mar. 22: at Mequite Horn

Lady Lobos:

Mar. 26: Mesquite Mar. 1: Tyler Lee Mar. 5: at Rockwall Heath Mar.8: North Mesquite Mar. 19: at Rockwall Mar. 22: Mequite Horn

Daniel Dolive54.80

Tanner Thompson-

Charlotte Williams1:04.69

Natasha Maters-

Softball:

Feb. 26: at Gladewater Mar. 1-2: at Georgetown Tournament Mar. 5: Mesquite Mar. 8: at Mesquite Horn Mar. 12: Rockwall Mar.15: at North Mequite Mar. 19: Robert E. Lee Mar. 26: Rockwall Heath (Teacher Appreciation) Mar. 28: at Mesquite

Golf:

Lobos:

Feb. 28: Ladies at Hallsville Mar. 6: Boys at Pine Tree JV / Ladies A at Lindale Mar. 8-9: at Pine Tree “Twisted 54” Mar. 11: Ladies B at Lindale Mar. 22-23: Boys at Rockwall/ Ladies at Pine Tree Mar. 26: Ladies B at Hallsville Mar. 27: Pre-District TournamentBoys at Canton/ Ladies at Twin Lakes

Lady Lobos:

Track:

Basketball: Feb. 21-23: Area Playoff Feb. 25-26: Regional Quarterfinal Mar. 1: Regional Semifinal Mar. 2:Regional Final Mar. 7-9: State Final

Feb. 22: Regional Semifinal Feb. 23: Regional Final Feb. 28- Mar. 2: State Final

Mar. 2: at Texas High Mar. 9: Lobo Relays Mar. 16: at Atlanta “Running Rabb Relays” Mar. 23: at Tatum

PAGE

8

The Long-View FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Star Trek’ director chosen for new ‘Star Wars’

The first time you watch the old “Star Wars” trilogy is like listening to Led Zeppelin for the first time. After the experience, you immediately realize why it’s so influential. Fortunately for “Star Wars” fans, filmmaker J.J. Abrams (Star Trek) has been chosen to direct “Star Wars: Episode VII.” TALENTED FILMMAKER If anyone knows how to make good mainstream scifi, it’s Abrams. His TV works, “Lost” and “Fringe,” are regarded as two of the finest shows of their day. His movie debut, “Mission: Impossible III,” proved to be solid fun by taking a critically-panned, Tom Cruise-led franchise and making it faithful to the original series. With “Super 8,” he made a great family film that evoked the early productions of Steven Spielberg perfectly.

GREAT ‘STAR TREK’ FILM However, his best film is 2009’s “Star Trek.” Based on

the classic TV show, it rebooted the entire franchise by setting its events in an alternate universe. By doing so, Abrams told a great origin story, introduced the Enterprise crew to a new generation, and honored over 40 years of canon without truly ignoring it. Above all, the film’s mix of spectacle and storytelling made it one of the most beloved blockbusters of the last decade.

‘STAR WARS’ NEEDS SAVING Unfortunately for “Star Wars,” it has become a tainted brand in recent years. Bastardized by awful prequels, terrible cartoons, and unnecessary edits made to the originals by creator George Lucas, it has lost fans to “Harry Potter,” Marvel movies, and other properties.

If any series needs saving, it is the galaxy far, far away.

With the world’s two most successful science fiction properties on his resume, J.J. Abrams has become one of the single most trusted movie directors in Hollywood. Thanks to him, the 2015 release of “Star Wars: Episode VII” will definitely be worth the wait.

Collider J.J. Abrams, the mind behind “Star Trek,” has been chosen to direct the seventh installment in the “Star Wars” franchise.

EDITOR’S PICKS: ACADEMY AWARDS Preston Mitchell chooses best of Oscar nominees BEST PICTURE LES MISÉRABLES

5 Other Science Fiction Classics Recommended by Preston Mitchell

4“Alien” (1979) 4“Blade Runner” (1982) 4“The Matrix” (1999) 4“Planet of the Apes” (1968) 4“Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” (1982)

“Even if you generally dislike musicals (like me), there’s no denying that ‘Les Misérables’ was the best acted and most tearjerking film that Hollywood offered last year. It’s an instant classic.”

BEST DIRECTOR DAVID O. RUSSELL (SILVER LININGS)

“One of the most honest films about the nature of optimism to be released in recent years, ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ benefited from Russell’s impeccable attention to inner-turmoil and detail.”

BEST ACTOR HUGH JACKMAN (LES MISÉRABLES)

“I love Daniel Day-Lewis, but he’s already won for better movies.

Jackman, on the other hand, used his Broadway-caliber talents to give the performance of a lifetime in the role of a lifetime.”

BEST ACTRESS JENNIFER LAWRENCE (SILVER LININGS)

“In a cast that included Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro, the beautiful Jennifer Lawrence acted circles around everyone to nail the anxiety and instability of her remarkable character.”

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR CHRISTOPH WALTZ (DJANGO UNCHAINED)

“A brilliant mash-up of the Italian western and 1970’s-era blaxploitation, ‘Django Unchained’ put all of its emotion into the amazing Waltz, who delivered just as strongly as Quentin Tarantino did.”

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS ANNE HATHAWAY (LES MISÉRABLES)

Island Records

Saving Rock and Roll

Fall Out Boy makes comeback after four-year absence

“Anne Hathaway is only on-screen for about 30 minutes at best, and she still gave last year’s finest female performance. Her heartbreaking cover of ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ is a highlight of the film.”

BEST ANIMATED FILM WRECK-IT RALPH

“Disney’s most recent film was surprisingly great. Cute, funny, and visually stunning, it exemplified imaginative animation at its finest while offering a razor-sharp satire of arcade game culture.”

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE MYCHAEL DANNA (LIFE OF PI)

“Providing the appropriate musical companion to last year’s unique coming-of-age tale was Mychael Danna, whose score enhanced the film with a wonderfully original Indian panache.”

BEST ORIGINAL SONG “SKYFALL” BY ADELE (SKYFALL)

“Adele summed up James Bond’s emotional journey by perfectly evoking the soulful Bond themes of the 60’s. Simultaneously, she fused the classic Bond sound with her modern pop sensibilities.”

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS THE AVENGERS

“The modern classic that made all of us feel like 8-year-olds again, ‘The Avengers’ had an incredible New York City climax that put everything in Michael Bay’s filmography to shame.”

“When we were kids, the only thing that got us through most days was music. It’s why we started the band in the first place,” states Fall Out Boy through their official webpage. “This isn’t a reunion because we never broke up. We needed to plug back in and make some music that matters to us. The future of Fall Out Boy starts now.”

FALL OUT BOY RETURNS Those few sentences greet the viewer at the top of the site. In 2009, they swore that they were just decompressing and that it wasn’t over. They kept true to their word. They’re back.

NEW UPCOMING ALBUM After going their separate ways for four years, Fall Out Boy announced on February 4 that they are off-hiatus and will join forces once again. Their new-

est album, “Save Rock And Roll,” will come out on May 7. This marks the 10th anniversary of their debut album, “Take This To Your Grave.”

The band kicked off their reunion with the explosive new single “My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light ‘Em Up),” an electric song that perfectly fits the band’s new promise to save rock and roll.

THE BAND AT ITS BEST Lead guitarist Pete Wentz claims that the new album will be the best one the band has ever made. While it doesn’t sound like the band’s previous albums, it sounds exactly like the Fall Out Boy of 2013.

IRONIC STYLE The band has always maintained an ironic style while having upbeat and fun tempo. For those unfamiliar with the band’s previous hits like “Sugar We’re Goin Down” and “Thnks fr th Mmrs” sum up their style perfectly.

Hopefully, everyone can partake in the rescue of rock music and enjoy it.