The Paw Print - October 2021 by MyDSHSNews

The Paw Print

October 2021 Volume IV Issue I

Dripping Springs High School, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

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Photo by: Max Levey

The Paw Print October 2021

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News

Dripping Springs Skate Park Initiative Holds Awareness Competition

Harley Hunt Staff Writer

“It’s not all bad kids being bad kids.”

On Aug. 28, the Dripping Spring Skatepark Initiative held a fundraising event to raise money and awareness for the need of a skate park in Dripping Springs. Gathered at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park were many skaters from Dripping and the surrounding community. In attendance were boys and girls stretching from ages 13 to 19. “We are trying to get a skate park in dripping and get skating more involved in the community here,” said senior Carter Lee When asked why the community would benefit from a skatepark, Lee responded with numerous insights. “Kids have their basketball courts, their football fields, tennis courts, soccer fields, but skateboarders do not have a skate park. There are dozens of recreational fields and courts around Dripping,” said Lee. Lee suggests that a designated place within the community could benefit kids in Dripping Springs. “People see cops coming around and kicking kids out, but that is what a skate park would help with,” said Lee. There is some public interest regarding a skate park as Lee, and the initiative representatives were given the opportunity to speak with the mayor. “I got to do public speaking for the skate park, and I have gotten to speak to the governor of dripping and a lot of other high-end people around town,” said Lee. Senior EJ appreciates Ranch Park but thinks a larger space would be beneficial. “I think it will allow many people to open up their hobby. The ranch [park] arena is quite small. I think having a skate park allows them to expand their skills and will allow more people to

Sophomore Taylor Van Der Walle skates at the Dripping Springs skateboarding fundraiser event at Dripping Springs Ranch Park on August 28 2021. Photo By: Ella Revill

Not Just Plows, Cows, and Sows Relax and Recharge Rebekah Johnson Staff Writer

The FFA Chapter Begins

The nationwide organization Future Farmers of America serves as the root of all agricultural and animal studies in schools. This program contains more than “cows, plows, and sows,” DSHS FFA president, Maddie Stevens, said. The floral design class, the auto mechanics/tech class, and the vet science class are part of the FFA program. Students in the organization travel to competitions, showing animals, reading essays, and performing other acts that revolve around agriculture. Students participate in LDEs (Leadership Development Events) and CDEs (Career Development Events) to better equate themselves with the agriculture industry. No matter the students’ interest, FFA “sets you up for what you want to do in life,” Stevens said. She continues with its impact on student relationships, saying that it serves as common ground for many, and you can “instantly have a best friend” because of FFA. This underrated program significantly influences our school, and we can show our respect by attending upcoming events held by FFA. The Dripping Springs Classic will last from October 18-21 at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Sponsored by the Ag-Booster, a 4-day rodeo will stay from October 21-24 at Dripping Springs Ranch Park - all can attend. Furthermore, on January 24-28, the Hays County Livestock Show will also occur at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

Hannah Caddell Staff Writer

Fun Fall Activities In Austin

Best Activities for Harnessing your Autumn Spirit Need fall-themed activity inspiration? Take a gander at the Paw Print for some excellent autumnal ideas! Visit a local pumpkin patch. Get excited for Halloween and visit the local pumpkin patch! You can take a few homes and get carving with your friends or select some gorgeous gords for decoration. The pumpkin patch is a great place to get your spook on and spice up your Instagram! Take some pictures with the squash in the spirit of autumn. Blanco marigold festival Support small towns and visit the first annual Marigold Festival in Blanco, Texas! There will be festivity, music, movies, and of course marigolds! Another great photo opportunity can be spotted in the gorgeous selection of marigolds to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Have a picnic in Zilker Park While you are in the Zilker area, swing by Zilker park with a blanket and a basket for a beautiful picnic opportunity. While the weather is changing, now is a great time to enjoy the calm sunny days of fall. Grab some snacks and some friends, and hurry on down to Zilker Park for a perfect day!

come up and skate,” said senior EJ The Initiative has been working on installing a skate park at Founders for the past six years. “[The fundraiser] was to raise awareness for the Dripping Springs skate park that we are trying to build. It was cool to see a bunch of guys come out together from different areas around Austin,” said Lee He further explained what happened at the event. “Everyone competed, and we had prizes,” said Lee More than just a place to hang out, a dedicated skate park offers a place to create lasting friendships. “Those guys are like family to me. They are some of the best friends I have today,” said Lee. Having a group of friends with common interests can be very beneficial for teens. “I have some very close friends who have been skating since twelve years old,” said Lee. “I have found a lot of cool laid back people. They accept you for who you are,” said EJ. You can follow the Dripping Springs Skatepark Initiative on Instagram @ dripskateboarding, and donations can be submitted on their website.

Kailey Nutt Staff Writer

Olivia Duran (11th) skates the DS Skate Competition at Ranch Park. Photo by: Julia Carter

The Coffee and Meditation Club Brightens Students Days The calm voice speaks, telling you to focus on your breath. You hear ocean waves crashing against the sand. Soothing music calms your mind as you breathe in and breathe out all of the stress and negativity. The smell of coffee fills the air. You are ready to take on the day. The Coffee and Meditation Club is in session for another year at Dripping Springs. More than 20 students have already joined for the 2021-2022 school year. The students meet in the morning with the leaders of the Club, Hennah Hajari, and Lucy Elizarraras. “We think it is fun to have coffee in the morning,” senior Hennah Hajari said, “Yeah, they might be contradicting things, but it’s fun and brings people in.” Studies show that coffee increases stress and anxiety levels, but the Coffee and Meditation club changed how they look at coffee by incorporating it simply for fun. “I think it forces you to just be in the moment and relax, which I think is something teenagers have a hard time doing because we are always doing something,” senior Lucy Elizarraras said. Over the years, studies have shown an increase in stress and anxiety more in teenagers than adults due to many things being on their plate, especially during the school year; making coffee and meditation is fundamental to focus on mental health. “After you do meditation, research shows that you are naturally

calmer, and you have a better mindset for the rest of the day,” Hajari said. Research shows that meditation’s physical improvements that naturally occur in the body significantly impact teens, especially during stressful times. “Sometimes we just need to take a break from our mind, and I know people were under much stress during those times,” Hajari said. Over the past two years, the world has changed drastically, leaving teenagers having to deal with the struggles of growing up, dealing with a worldwide pandemic, and the stress of the worldchanging around them before they change themselves. “We pull up the guided meditations on Youtube; we might try different types of meditations during the year,” Hajari said. Meditation has various helpful categories, and the Coffee Meditation Club chose to use a source that anyone can access at home, proving that meditation from Youtube is successful. “I think that taking time, and a lot of them probably do not take that time for themselves, so it is important that we strive to show them how important it is,” Hajari said. The leaders of the Club want to teach people that taking time for themselves is very important and gives them a calm, safe space for them to focus on their minds and body.

This Years Clubs at DSHS

Hannah Caddell Staff Writer

A Great Way to Meet New People and Get Involved • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Anime Club meets Wednesdays from 4:15- 5:30 p.m. For more information contact Brian Hall and Lara Podd. ASL Club meets Wednesdays at 8:20 a.m. For more information contact Melissa Harris and Lee Harlicker. BEST Robotics Club meets Tuesdays 4:30- 6:00 p.m. For more information contact Austin McCauley. Creative Writing Club meets Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. For more information contact Sean Knight. Critical Mass Club meets every other Tuesday at 8:20 a.m. For information contact Chelsea Owens. Dripping Springs FFA leader Edward Alvarado, Cody Jones, and Christy Trussell. Contact for more information. FCA Club meets Tuesdays from 8:15- 8:50 a.m. For more information contact Matt Wilkins, Caleb Reynolds, and Kim Harlow. Freshmen Class Officers meet once a month. For more information contact Nicole Shane. Garden Club meets Thursdays during Tiger Time. For more information contact Kathy Shepherd. German Club meets once a month on Wednesdays at 8:15 a.m. For more information contact Berna Fowler. HOSA meets Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. For more information contact Chelsea Owens and Jessica Chambers. JROTC meetings to be determined. For more information contact Lauren Milner and Rene Rodriguez. Latin Club meets Thursdays from 4:15- 5:00 p.m. For more information contact Kara Erwin and Alexina Derkaz. LEAP meets alternating Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. For more information contact Erin Land. National Art Honor Society meets Thursday at 8:30 a.m.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

For more information contact Jay Bates. PAWS looking for members. For more information contact Kathy Shepherd. Rock Climbing Club meets Tuesdays during Tiger Time. For more information contact Chelsea Owens. Science Club looking for members. For more information contact Kathy Shepherd. Sociedad Honoraria HIspánica (Spanish Honor Society) meets Thrusday. For more information contact Erin Segura. Spanish Club meets Fridays at 8:30 a.m. For more information contact Tatiana MacGregor. Thespians meet Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. For more information contact Christine Hathcock. Yarn Club meets alternating Fridays at 8:00 a.m. For more information contact Megan Batson and Brenna Watson. Young Democrats meet alternating Fridays at 4:30 p.m. For more information contact John Adams. Youth and Government Club meets Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. For more information contact Jeff Bixby. Kindness Club meets Tuesdays during Tiger Time. For more information contact Julie Zahara. DECA meets Thursdays during Tiger Time. For more information contact Micheal Lemonds and Jennifer Riddlebarger. DSHS Tiger Martial Arts meet Wednesdays from 4:305:30 p.m. For more information contact Kristen Adams. Chess Club meets Wednesdays at 8:25 a.m. For more information contact John Adams.

Explore nature at Barton Creek Wilderness Park Take advantage of the beautiful weather and spend your weekend outside! The Barton Creek Wilderness Park provides hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, and even mountain biking with various options. Watch the bats at Congress Avenue bridge. Harness your Holiday spirit and see the bats leaving Congress Avenue bridge. The bats’ migration patterns extend into early fall, so take advantage of that opportunity and watch those spooky creatures go their roost for the night Visit Zilker Botanical Garden Suppose your appetite for beautiful flowers has not been satisfied come to the Zilker Botanical Garden, proudly nicknamed a jewel in the heart of Austin. More than photo opportunities, the garden provides a plethora of tours, music, and gorgeous trails. News Spread By: Tia Davison Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Paw Print October 2021

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Entertainment

Baking Club

Reagan Otten Entertainment Editor

An Inside Look on Sugar Cookie Making

In the small kitchen of the Presbyterian Church off of adopt new hobbies. According to a report surveyed Ranch Road 12, the students of the Baking Club work hard by LendingTree, 60 percent of all Americans took on a new as the smell of freshly baked cookies fills the air. The Baking pastime, 36 percent of which began baking or cooking. Club, a great baking experience, “During the pandemic, I began inspires students to pursue their baking more frequently and often baked dreams of pastry arts. multiple items every week,”Audrey Students in the club learn Staker said. to bake, experiment with new Overall, students are thrilled techniques, and discover the fun in to get back to their normal routine, making desserts. and, of course, feel excited to explore Freshman Audrey Staker plans new recipes, such as cookies, cakes, to attend culinary school and looks cupcakes, and seasonal desserts in the forward to baking in the club. Baking Club. “I especially love decorating cakes, “I first really got into baking and I hope to learn techniques and in middle school, around sixth skills from others,” Audrey Stalker said. grade,” Audrey Staker said.“I’m Many of the club members, like pretty much self-taught, and I just Staker, feel highly passionate about started to love following recipes and baking and hope to develop their skills. Nonetheless, the Baking Club fashions helping my mom in the kitchen. I Emma Ashby (left) and Audrey the perfect way for students to learn the Staker (right), laugh as they mix enjoy baking because it’s like a creative basics of baking, and it welcomes any one together ingredients during a outlet, and it’s very therapeutic.” with a desire to create delicious desserts! recent Baking Club meeting Over the period of the Covid-19 outside of school. quarantine in 2020, Americans increasingly began to learn new activities and

Featured Recipe: Natasha’s Kitchen Sugar Cookies Ingredients: One cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature One cup granulated sugar One large egg One tsp vanilla extract Three cups all-purpose flour One tbsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt Instructions: First, preheat oven to 350°F with a rack in the center. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder in a small bowl then set aside. Next, add dry ingredients to butter mixture in three parts until fully incorporated. Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters. Bake cookies on a parchment or a silicone-lined baking sheet at 350°F for ten minutes, or until the edges are beginning to turn golden.

Exquisite Evolution

The Evolution of Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)

Brooke Bousley Staff Writer

Then, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

As the month of October approaches, the time in which the Austin City Limits Music Festival will take place approaches. The festival, heavily populated and well-known, leaves many individuals to question how this occurrence evolved to such a monumental affair. The development of the festival itself, inspired by Austin City Limits, a PBS network program that would showcase the talents of local Austin musicians. The first Austin City Limits Musical Festival was held in September of 2002, and it lasted two full days with 25,000 attendees and 67 bands that performed. The popularity of the Austin City Limits Music Festival continues to grow over the years. By 2003, nearly 100 bands performed at the festival, and by 2004 it became a three day event expanded over eight stages with 75,000 people in attendance. In 2005, the Austin City Limits Music Festival won the Pollstar’s Festival of the Year award establishing this event as a true, national destination music festival. In 2013, the event organizers extended the festival into a two weekend event. As the Austin City Limits Music Festival has continued to expand, the quality of the performing artists has also improved by attracting “A-Level Acts”, such as Mumford & Sons, Foo Fighters, Metallica, Radiohead, Billie Eilish, Tame Impala, and Cardi B. The diversity of musical acts and musical genres has also contributed to the successful evolution of this event with festival goers having the opportunity to hear rap, rock, metal, trance, electronic, country, pop, international, and other fringe styles of music. Many individuals are thrilled about what will take place at the 2021 festival throughout October. In fact, many students at Dripping Springs High School expressed their enticement surrounding the upcoming occasion. “I’m really excited to see Erykah Badu, Greta Van Fleet, Marc Rebillet, and Tyler, the creator” sophomore Jones Willis said. Another student, junior Maxim Caillabet, says that he is looking forward to performances by “Dayglow, Backseat Lovers, Tyler ,The Creator, and Surfaces”. This year an array of diverse artists will be performing, allowing many who are going to the concert to feel exhilarated as the event comes closer. If you are interested in attending the festival this year, it is highly recommended that you go. “The main reason I preach ACL to other people is because of the different experiences you can have there,” sophomore Jones Willis says, “The Festival tributes to anything you wanna do, that could be to rage in mosh pits, chill in the back and watch the show, watch sports with the broskis, eat amazing Austin food, and of course much more.” Overall, the event is a must-see and contains an encounter like no other.

Photo by Elviss Railijs Bitāns from Pexels Photo by freestocks.org from Pexels Photo by Stephen Niemeier from Pexels

The Austin City Limits Music Festival has evolved to push the limits of what type of event can take place by adding a wide array of culinary experiences through Austin Eats, and exposing concert goers to a diverse offering of unique artwork featured in the ACL Art Market. Over the years, the Austin City Limits music festival has developed into a true cultural phenomenon that encompasses a wide variety of music genres, culinary styles, and artistic expressions which truly sets it apart from other competing music festivals. This unique festival experience continues to attract hundreds of thousands of people to come to Austin to participate in the premier music festival experience in the United States.

The Origins of Halloween

Featuring student ghost stories

Lydia Bradley Staff Writer &

Kailey Nutt Staff Writer for Interviews and Photos

e begin our story far-off the coast of Ireland where Celts gather around a bonfire for Samhain (pronounced sow-in). This day, November first, marks the beginning of the fall harvest and the day when the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest. Bonfires served a dual purpose: to scare off the unliving, and to pay sacrifice to the Celtic deities. Fast forward a couple of thousand years to the current day and the scene dramatically changes. Now we trick or treat around the block, carve pumpkins, and dress as favorite characters. How did we get to this modern celebration? “My Great Grandma passed away and I went into my bathroom at my Grandma’s house. My Great Grandmother lived at my Grandma’s house. I went into the bathroom and I saw an outline of a figure in a lavender color. It could have been my eyes playing a trick on me, but it was in the outline of a person and her favorite color was lavender. It was really odd, really funky. My sister has more paranormal experiences than me, but it was still really weird.” -Henry Jarrett, 10 It all started with a wave of Christianity sweeping across Celtic lands. In order to convert more people to Christianity, the church combined the original traditions of Samhain with their own, turning the celebration into All Souls Day, celebrated November second. All Souls Day continues to include big bonfires, but it encourages people to now dress up as angels, devils, and saints. The original day of Samhain is October 31st, but it is now referred to by Christians as All Hallows Eve, or simply Halloween. Our celebrations do not live completely isolated from past tradition, however. Dressing up, for example, has stuck with us since before 43 A.D.! Dressing up as animals and monsters originally acted as

“One time I was at my Grandma’s house, and this was in elementary school. She lives on an Indian burial ground. I don’t know why she built her house there, but it’s crazy. I was in her house and we were just talking and we heard voices from the other room. They were speaking a weird language. We couldn’t even understand it. It was like gibberish. They were just a bunch of men talking. My Grandpa likes to golf, so he has a golf room. And we heard them moving around golf stuff. We were like “What the heck?”, so we went in and there was nothing there. It was really weird.”-Sophia Bradner, 10 a coin so Jack could pay for the drinks. Once the devil did so, Jack kept the coin next to a cross in his pocket which prevented the devil from changing back to his original form. The devil promised Jack that if he freed him he would not accept Jack’s soul into hell, and would leave Jack alone for the year. When Jack died, God would not welcome him to heaven because he lived such a bad life. The devil kept his promise and did not take him either. He did, however, feel pity for Jack and sent him away with one burning coal. Jack carved out a turnip, placed the coal inside, and has continued to roam Earth since. After hearing the story of Jack, people carved faces into potatoes and turnips to scare him and other spirits away. When this tradition eventually moved to America people realized that the native pumpkin was far easier to carve thus began a beloved Halloween activity. Junior Bethany Harkrider says her family has a tradition of carving pumpkins every Halloween. From spooky faces to cute painted Pinterest pumpkins there are endless ways to decorate your own pumpkin! Trick or Treating is, for many students, no longer a common event on Halloween. Senior Avery Cagle enjoys Halloween parties and free candy minus asking strangers for it. Freshman Evelynne Caldwell spends her Halloween with her family and attends her church’s Halloween party each year. Trick or Treating and Halloween parties originally started as a distraction to keep kids from vandalizing homes and terrorizing neighbors. The kids would say “Trick or Treat” to offer their neighbors a trade. Kids given candy or money would not destroy garden gates or throw rocks at windows. Giving out treats started when people would hand out “soul cakes” to children with the promise of a prayer for lost loved ones. This distribution was encouraged by the church to replace the traditional offerings for wandering spirits. Halloween traditions have changed quite a bit since 43 A.D.! This year, instead of dancing around bonfires, junior Madisyn Hoyer said that she takes her cousins trick or treating. Sophomore Jackson Berthelsen will enjoy, in his words, “spoopy season” by watching “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” with his family instead of collecting “soul cakes”. How will you spend your Halloween this year?

Student Playlist

“I went over to my cousin’s house to sleepover, and she told me whenever she sleeps she’ll hear somebody breathing right next to her. One time she woke up and she didn’t see anything, so she went back to sleep. Then, she woke up again and heard a noise. She texted her mom to come to her room so she could see what was happening. Her mom came in and she didn’t see anything, so she went back to sleep. Then she heard somebody calling her name.” -Darla Orantes, 10 protection against any kidnapping spirits. If one disguised themselves, it effectively prevented the spirits from recognizing them as human. Today we dress up to express ourselves, whether to show off new makeup techniques, to mimic our favorite characters and celebrities, or to show off a classic scary costume. Freshman Madlyn Tracy plans on dressing up as Ellie Williams from the video game, “The Last of Us II” this year. Halloween is the best time to wear exactly what you want with little fear of being judged! You could even be a hamburger! Sophomore Kaylee Ritchey said she once dressed up in a hamburger costume that required a circle pool float to hold it up. Ritchey said that she practiced ringing doorbells wearing the pool float every day leading up to Halloween. A common tradition for students on Halloween is carving Jack-O-Lanterns. But how did carving faces into a fruit (yes, a fruit) even come about? It began with a man named Jack who caused trouble almost everywhere. Jack invited the devil to drink one night and convinced the devil to turn himself into

How to scan: 1. Open Spotify app 2. Click “Search” 3. Click the camera icon over the search bar 4. Scan the code above

Compiled by the Paw Print staff as requested or inspired by the students of the 21-22 school year. New songs will be added in each edition of the Paw Print Newspaper. Send us your songs on Insta!

Featured song of the month! Song: Cigarette Daydreams Artist: Cage the Elephant @my_dshs_news send us your song suggestions!

The Paw Print October 2021

Dripping Springs

Opinion

Changing, for the Better

Thomas Daugherty Staff Writer

Dripping Springs booms each day with various sorts of mercer with friends, visiting the local shops, stopping for new neighborhoods and people, leaving no secret behind. food and coffee, all feels the same as it did a few years ago. With such growth comes change, prominentely seen in the Our town kept it’s wonderful country-careless-charm, heck, micro representation of the town and DSHS. I’ve become we have a drive-in theater! pretty familiar with seeing Even as our town the weird side of Austin, becomes a victim of living so close to the Hippie American Suburbia, Epicenter of the midwest, we have succeeded in but seeing these aspects of protecting our local culture seep into our once culture-an astonishing “... I think we should all welcome the small town transformed and delightful changes with open arms.” into a change I never accomplishment. If expected. Coming to school anything, our town feels like a duality, from saw a great amount cowboy boots and trucks, of diversity pop up to sports cars and skaters in in recent years, with the same day, there lays the gothic clique everyone secretly nothing but good following. Dripping Springs will continue envies. to change, and I think we should all welcome the changes I have welcomed these changes myself as self-expression with open arms. grows in the student body. Recently, school just seems to become more fun, now feeling like a safe environment. In the morning, getting ready for school became a freeing experience for me and many I know. What will I wear today? A cool pair of pants, an interesting shirt, maybe a skirt? The openness in the dress code and overall minds of students allows for many to wear what they feel most comfortable in, and no longer feel at large or scrutinized. And, while the school and the student body continue to change at a rapid pace, our local community doesn’t witness the stripping of its local culture. Taking a walk down

Photos of Dripping Springs, in Culture and Style

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Can We Reach the End? Alec Stuart Opinion Editor

The District’s COVID-19 Response Has Taken a Downward Trend As COVID-19 vaccinations have rolled out across the country over the past year, the District has had a largely decent response to COVID-19, with mandatory masks in school, strong encouragement of vaccinations, and similar stuff. This, and so many other examples, have been the driving force behind the recovery from the pandemic this country has experienced. With the advent of the Delta strain and other variants, however, the response has begun to falter in a time when a cautious approach is more necessary than ever. At the same time the Class of 2021 graduated, the district decided to make masks optional for anybody going to school. As of today, they have held this decision still, largely due to the Governor’s ban on mask mandates in schools. Regardless of legal issues, this is a risky move that increases the chances of another COVID-19 outbreak and the hindrance of much progress that has been made. “Last year they did a great job virtually,” said senior Audrey Balsdon, “I think with the new Superintendent, things took a turn for the worse; I think they bent to the anti maskers without any worry of implications.” As of Sep. 10, there have been 64 cases at the high school alone, with 195 district-wide. These are the consequences of making decisions based on pressure and not actual data. When I went to the board meeting the night before school began, most the attendees repeatedly berated and booed at the board with anti mask and vaccination sentiment, so much so that local law enforcement had to remove someone from the stage. Like I said, this kind of pressure has scared the board and Superintendent into making decisions without much thinking through. Read the rest of “Can We Reach the End?” on mydshsnews.com for more information.

Alec Stuart Opinion Editor

Death, a common theme of the Gothic trend, shows the influence of culture by nineteenth century horror. Above, a picture of a skull unveils the nature of inevitable immortality through it’s aged aged state. Photo courtesy of Pixabay.

A man pictured above wears a bird-like mask, similar to the look of a medieval plague mask in order to represent Gothic culture. With the rise of the Black Death, flowers placed inside the mask would remove odors, yet hundreds of years later, such masks represent death, mystery, and the supernatural. Credit to Pixabay.

Old Western attire, prevalent in Dripping Springs, proves a folksy trend that has stuck through the times. Cowboy boots and hats play history on an endless loop by reminding us of cattle herds, the hot sun, and a long day of work. Photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Sophia Portillo Co-Editor-in-Chief

Pyrrhic Promotion Racial Inclusion Ffforts Afflict Students

When the concept of affirmative action arose in the early 1960’s, under former President John F. Kennedy, according to Richard Sanders, a it promised to promote equal opportunities for all regardless of gender, race, or religion. Upon the concept’s law professor at UCLA, almost presentation to Kennedy, by an African-American lawyer, affirmative action first arose as people of color half of all African-American law students ranked in the bottom ten percent of their class. In the long run, demanded that the government “[not] just stand there, [but] do something.” With such vague desire, the minority students only end up suffering in the education system by the hands of affirmative action. true intention of the newly proposed idea became unknown, other than to stop discrimination. However, Diving deeper, Sanders’s research showed that students with lower class rankings had higher chances of with the reinvention of the word to its current portrayal, the “do something” has only worked to reroute the switching majors when they did not consider dropping out as an option. Consequently, changing a major discrimination it so dearly sought out to prevent. Rather than discriminating against minorities, affirmative can cause a student to have less interest in favorably performing due to the renouncement of their intended action has shifted the discrimination to white and Asian groups in regards to the college admissions process choice. Without interest in a major, a student falls victim to dropping out, even though not originally instead of eliminating discrimination as a whole. deliberated. Even when a student does successfully change their initial The college process that attempts to balance the percentages of all ethnic major to a second one of their liking, costs become exceedingly higher. and racial groups only continues to fail. Admitting more non-white CNBC states that 56 percent of all students cannot afford college to begin or asian students to account for this gap simply puts a Band-Aid on with and NASFAA claims that low income students, mainly minorities, the bullet wound of discrimination. Even though colleges accept fewer can’t afford 95 percent of colleges. Not only do minority students face whites and Asians to promote more space to aid minority students, these adversity as a result, but students of all backgrounds do. “The system itself must ameliorate same students still get unfairly hurt in the process. The ineffectiveness Although the original concept of affirmative action has changed in its effects to promote an equal of this measure only demonstrates the failure of affirmative action in over time, supporters still claim that its promotion of diversity remains educational opportunity for all.” making the college experience equal for all. important in the education system. However, solely promoting diversity Today, schools like the University of Texas at Austin and the does not benefit the needs of minorities, and in turn, hurts them University of Michigan’s Law School, have lowered the traditional more in the process. The idea of affirmative action serves as a cure to standards for minority students to gain acceptance in order to balance the discrimination that only creates a new disease in the process. The the lack of diversity formerly prevalent. In the 2016 court case of concept still fails to sufficiently represent blacks and Hispanics, leaving Fisher V. University of Texas, plaintiff Abigail Fisher had exceeded them with even less representation than three decades ago. Not only does the academic requirements of admission in comparison to Africanaffirmative action fail in its promises to promote diversity, but it causes American and Hispanic students. However, because she did not meet the standard for whites, Fisher did not distress to both minority and white students. gain admission to the school even though many African-American and Hispanic students accepted had far However, by concluding that terminating the effects of affirmative action would prove beneficial in less academic qualifications than her. This case unveiled two foundational problems: the college admissions preventing discrimination, would only continue the problem further. Discrimination itself cannot unfold by system views minority students as less competent academically when compared to their non-white peers the undoing of affirmative action because of its integration in the educational system. The system itself must leading to less expectations and whites do not have equal opportunities to gain admission as their non-white ameliorate in its efforts to promote an equal educational opportunity for all. Both the acknowledgement of peers. Therefore, both minority and non-minority students face harm from the educational system making race, gender, and religion as well as its total disregard in the college admissions process has only engendered the current situation worse than 60 years ago. problems. The solution to educational discrimination can only present itself when the system accepts its Most present in the college admissions process, affirmative action effectuates the mismatch of a student inevitable need for reorientation. and their school. When students gain college admission solely because of their race rather than their Though affirmative action has caused more damage to the college admissions process for Hispanics, academic achievements, especially at prestigious schools, they become less likely to keep up with the rigor. African-Americans, and whites, the problem of discrimination will continue to grow even if affirmative When a student feels that a college does not suit their individual needs, they fall behind in performance action denounces. Endorsement for change in the structure of higher education must become clear to put an leading to lower grades and a possible increase in dropout rates. In 2013, only 48 percent of all Africanend to the iniquities among the college system. American students who studied for a bachelor’s degree earned a degree within six years. Additionally,

The Paw Print October 2021

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Features

Back to The Box

Rebekah Johnson Staff Writer

Bright lights fill the room, and the cameras roll for the DSHS theater program! Students line up outside the hall, shaky hands and all as they prepare for their Chicago auditions. Nervous chatter echoes around, but every student has passion in their eyes. Despite the fear, the stress of the world becomes forgotten, “and [you] put your whole life into just that moment,” senior Hannah Olsen said. For as long as she could remember, the theater community made up her life. Olsen desires a chance to make someone smile through performance, and she hopes to carry that mentality in college and beyond. Considering the theater classes as a ‘nerdy department’ contains such false information as performers fill the stage with blood, sweat and tears. They carry the same passion no matter the lead. “There are no small roles,” sophomore Aiden McGillicuddy siad. “This is a… safe place” for all who come. Freshman Maggie Baker confirms this by saying, “you become… a family” when in the theater. Hundreds of students fill this hidden community, and they will always see each other as equals. “I love them more than anything in the entire world,” sophomore Ava Weise said. Weise, like others, uses theater as a gateway to peace and a chance to express

Auditions For Theater Begin Second Period tech theater practice rigging drills for the Moon Over Buffalo and Chicago plays

Second Period tech theater practice rigging drills for the Moon Over Buffalo and Chicago plays

herself. Junior Taylor Barnett says that she “can be[come] a different person” and ignores all of her worries while on stage. Sophomore Quin Brasher similarly claims that you can “tell your truth” and become the person you dream of in theater. This haven allows students to feel at home, and

Evangeline Grimm, freshmen, poses in her Moon Over Buffalo dress.

it needs acknowledgment through the attendance of plays and musicals. Even when the lights dim and the curtain close, theater forever lives on in the minds of those who watched and in the minds of those who performed.

Second Period tech theater practice rigging drills for the Moon Over Buffalo and Chicago plays

Student vs. Professional

Lydia Bradley Staff Writer

Photographers with differing levels of expertise make a comparison

Have you ever wondered how the life of a student photographer compares to a professional photographer? Junior Hailey Jarvis and Buster Jetter have given us some insight into a world of lighting, editing, and bursts of inspiration. Jarvis is a student photographer currently taking Photography II along with Newspaper. Outside of school, she works as an intern at Jetter Photography. Jarvis observes Jetter’s photoshoots and often helps with setting up and breaking down the sets. According to Jarvis, lighting is the most expensive equipment to deal with and one she works with the most at Jetter’s photoshoots. Jetter graduated from Sam Houston State University with a degree in Photography and a minor in Business. Jetter was immediately drawn to the field after taking an intro to photography class. The next day he completely changed his major. Just like Jarvis, Jetter still struggles with things as a photographer. When Jetter started his career he often had doubts. Building a client list, marketing, and finding the right equipment are just a few of the daily struggles as an up-and-coming photographer. It took three to five years for Jetter to become established in the community. Today Jetter’s biggest struggle is keeping track of things and delivering photos on time. A difficult job for both photographers, finding the right inspiration. “Inspiration can come from anywhere,” Jarvis said. Inspiration will come and the only thing to do is build off of it until you find the perfect photo. “The creative process is my favorite. Bringing a concept full circle, thinking outside of the box, and working in a genre where rules are meant to be broken,” Jetter said. Jetter stays busy shooting weddings, corporate events, galas, youth sports, documentaries, and senior portraits. Luckily he has a team of photographers working with him to get all his photos out on time! A favorite camera of his is the Canon 1dx Mark lll. Jarvis enjoys using our most expensive school camera, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a Canon telephoto sports lens. Both Jetter and Jarvis edit using Adobe Lightroom after photos have been taken. While Jarvis does not see herself pursuing Photography as a full-time career, she does enjoy it as a side job. When she is older she will continue taking beautiful photos and posting them, similar to a blog.

General Questions: dshsstudentmedia@dsisdconnect.com 512-858-3243

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October 2021 Volume IV Issue I

From a family style photoshoot. Jetter loves working with kids and creating photos the family will keep forever. Photo by Buster Jetter.

From a senior portrait photoshoot. Jetter works with senior students throughout Austin to capture these memories. Photo by Buster Jetter.

The Paw Print

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dshsstudentmedia Dripping Springs High School, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Opinions expressed in editorials, columns, and letters are those of an individual and not The Paw Print, Dripping Springs High School, or its faculty.

For more information on The Paw Print and its policies visit mydshs.com The Paw Print is a member of the following organizations: CSPA, NSPA, ILPC, and ASPA.

The Paw Print’s core purpose is to serve the students and staff of Dripping Springs High School, as well as the surrounding community, with the most meaningful news and content regarding our school’s culture and the student body that influences it. From students, to students.

Awards NSPA Best of Show 2020 ILPC 2018-2019 Honor CSPA 2018-2019 Second Place ASPA 2018-2019 First Place

Meet the Staff

Co-Editor in Chief Sophia Portillo Sports Editor Mallory Neff Online Editor Dominc Bruini News Editor Tia Davison Creative Editor Sierra Trbovich

Co-Editor in Chief Tia Davison

Features Editor Gabby Plasencia Entertainment Editor Reagan Otten Opinion Editor Alec Stuart Social Media Editor Gabi Molinar

Staff Writers Brooklyn Hagblom, Jakob Becker, Brooke Bousley, Rebekah Johnson, Hannah Caddell, Thomas Daugherty, Harley Hunt, Kailey Nutt, and Lydia Bradley Advisor Emily Purvis

The Paw Print is inserted inside the Century News, and distributed to racks next to the front office, CL&I, and the student media room.

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The Paw Print October 2021

Creative

Meet Grace Maddux

Senior Maddux talks everything goth: music, style, and her personal experience

Q A

Interview by: Brooklyn Hagblom Photos by: Ariela Barron, Brooklyn Hagblom, Will Taylor

“I classify myself as a mixture of traditional goth from the 80s and mall goth/goth club fashion from the 90s. It just depends on the day! Somedays I feel like dressing romantically in a long black skirt and a lace corset, and other days I dress more hardcore with platform demonias and tight latex dresses with leather harnesses. I appreciate all types of goth fashion and music!” Could you summarize goth culture for us? So to me, the goth subculture is based on music. The movement initially derived from Punk in the 70s, with the Misfits, The Cramps, The Ramones, and bands like that. In the 80s, the subculture evolved into romanticizing death and taking a dark, twisted look onto everything. Bands like The Sisters of Mercy, The Cure, and Bauhaus helped launch goth culture into the 80s and to what it is today. Goth culture is ever changing. There is some controversy to what Goth means today, but to truly be a goth is to be involved in the culture and music it rises from.

Q A

There are a lot of different subcultures in goth culture, how do you classify yourself in the subcultures? So to me, the goth subculture is based on music. The movement initially derived from Punk in the 70s, with the Misfits, The Cramps, The Ramones, and bands like that. In the 80s, the subculture evolved into romanticizing death and taking a dark, twisted look onto everything. Bands like The Sisters of Mercy, The Cure, and Bauhaus helped launch goth culture into the 80s and to what it is today. Goth culture is ever changing. Who are the main There is some controversy to what Goth means today, inspirations for but to truly be a goth is to be involved in the culture your style? and music it rises from. I would say my biggest inspiration for my style would be Gerard Way during the time when MCR released their Three Cheers to Sweet Revenge album. This album was the reason why I began to dress goth, because of how dark the music is. After discovering this kind of music, I found myself listening to goth artists from the 80s and 90s and mimicked my wardrobe on how the musicians dressed and how people who listened to them expressed themselves.

Q A

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What are some of your favorite artists and songs right now?

Oh man there’s so many… recently I’ve been listening to a lot of Sisters of Mercy, Deftones,The Kentucky Vampires, Skinny Puppy, Clan of Xymox and Type O Negative. In fact, Type O Negative is my favorite band and wrote my favorite song: Black No.1. Any song that makes me feel like dancing in a cemetery will always be a favorite of mine. I’ve noticed that when you walk through the halls, you draw a lot of attention, how does that make you feel? It makes me feel powerful. Part of the reason I dress this way is because I like being different and standing out in the crowd. It makes me feel unique in my own way. I usually get compliments for the way I dress, which I always appreciate, but I also get made fun of from time to time. However, I use the hate as inspiration to dress this way more, because I am confident in everything I do and I know the people barking at me or calling me names are just jealous!

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Sports The Paw Print October 2021

mydshsnews.com

Player Spotlight

Mallory Neff Sports Editor

Walker Wright

As we make our way through this football season, we look forward receivers. The role of this position is to cut on the outside of the field to the home games, dressing in the theme, and cheering your team on. and try to receive a pass from the quarterback as they run up the field, The players look forward to being on the field and playing their sport toward the end zone. These players are looking to score a touchdown or with their team. For a certain player, this season is more important and get a first down. During his first year on varsity, Wright has been workexciting than ever. ing hard to become better, and those Junior Walker Wright said, “I love efforts have been recognized. playing under the lights on Friday, Wright said, “At practice, I look it’s just such a fun environment, and forward to getting better every day, I’m with all my best friends.” learning new stuff, and playing with my Often, in sports and especially teammates.” team settings, your team becomes An effort at practice can make or your second family and your best break a player and their career in their friends. When you spend so much sport. Luckily, Wright strives to succeed time together, communicating and and has the motivation to accomplish working together to achieve a shared his goals. This makes this season, his goal, you create bonds that can last first year on varsity, that much more a lifetime. Especially when you play impressive. He has worked hard to together for multiple years. Doing accomplish his athletic goals in not only your part on the team, and working football but also lacrosse in the Spring. as one unit is what football is all “I just want to be successful in the about. future,” Wright said. “So if I work hard “There’s a lot of juniors on the daily, hopefully, I’ll get there in the team, so I grew up playing with future.” them, and they’re all my friends. So With support from his team, his it’s fun to connect, throw, and just coaches, and his family, there is no Junior Walker Wright on the sidelines during the varsity game on doubt that he will be able to accomplay on the field,” Wright said. September 10 against Lockhart. Photo by: David Jensen Team chemistry and connection plish his goals. Being able to rely on is critical. When you’ve known your others and to get help from them, is a teammates for so long, and are able to play with them, the communicahuge part in developing new skills, and becoming a better athlete, and tion that is necessary to succeed comes naturally, and working together individual. becomes more instinctive. Wright said, “My biggest supporter is probably my dad, because he “I switched over to receiver this summer,” Wright said. “I’m looking helps me daily to work on new things and learn new stuff and just get forward to playing more and connecting with Austin, the quarterback.” better. He’s always there to support, and he always has my back.” Football teams are made up of many parts and positions, like wide

A New Year of Swimming

Photo by: Jakob Becker Swim team practices in the morning at the YMCA .

A new season of swimming is right around the corner, but this time there will be some changes. The long standing head coach of fifteen years, our beloved Coach McCarthy, is taking a step back and passing the torch on to a new head coach with different ideas. Coach Hoskovec, also known as Coach Hos, with seven years of experience, will bring new sets and practices that some of our swimmers have never seen before. The main goal is to better improve our swimmers as athletes and as students. As the existing head coach for fifteen years, Coach McCarthy will still be working closely with our swimmers as the assistant coach. She will also be providing input so that every swimmer feels included and gets the help they need to become the best athlete they can be for this year. As a member of the DSHS Swim Team, I was able to interview Coach Hoskovec himself, and learn quite a bit about his strategies and what it takes to be a great coach. Coach Hoskovec acknowledges that McCarthy has more experience with our team and knows individual techniques and coaching needs, while he works on the workout sets and manages the practice schedule. In terms of coaching style, Coach Hos pushes the swimmers to be their best, even though he may experience some backlash from the athletes sometimes. Many times Coach Hos has expressed that there is not enough encouragement going on during the practices. Again and again, we have heard him say, “I better hear at least three encouraging statements during this next set.” This really pulls us together as a strong team who supports one another.

Photo by: Tegan Krewson Jesus Gonzales Alberjar jumps up to catch the ball at the varsity football scrimmage on August 20.

Jakob Becker Staff writer

Another aspect Coach Hos brings with him to the pool deck is a sense of competition, saying things like “race the person next to you if you have to” and “who thinks they can go really fast right now and get a lifetime best time.” He will then get the diving blocks ready and pick out some volunteers to race. At the start of the year all the swimmers were getting to know each other, Coach Hos introduced a new policy that tests the commitment of the athletes and sees whether or not we are swimming with the intention of getting better. I had the chance to speak with some of the swimmers about what they thought of Coach Hos as the new head coach. Most of the swimmers say that he has helped them be the best swimmer they can, even though it may be a struggle. They also state that most of his practices are pretty extreme and cause most of the swimmers to be tired all throughout the school day. “He seems like he knows a lot more about swimming and has a lot of experience,” one of them said. They also feel like coach McCarthy represents more of the culture of the team and connects with all the swimmers on a personal level. Most of the swimmers also like having two coaches actively engaged and helping them so they can talk to each swimmer individually. A majority say that he is a bit harsh, but it works out in the end because it makes them a better swimmer. Most of them have also stated that it helps to have McCarthy assisting while they are swimming, so she can work with each swimmer on their technique. The season has already started and the first meet will be on October 1st, 3pm to 4pm @Camp Moody. BE THERE!

Mallory Neff Sports Editor

October Schedule 10/01-Volleyball vs. NB Canyon 10/02-Cross Country (Varsity & JV) @ Seguin Invitational 10/02-Tennis (Varsity/Flex/JV) @ Boerne Champion 10/05-Tennis (Varsity/Flex/JV) vs. Alamo Heights HS 10/05-Volleyball @ Boerne Champion 10/06-Football (JV Maroon) vs. Lehman 10/06-Football (JV Gold) vs. Lake Belton 10/06-Football (9th White) @ Lehman 10/06-Football (9th Gray) @ Lake Belton 10/07-Football (Varsity) @ Lehman 10/11-Tennis (Varsity) @ Bi-District (TBD) 10/12-Tennis (Varsity) @ Bi-District (TBD) 10/12-Volleyball vs. Alamo Heights 10/14-Cross Country (Varsity & JV) District Championships 10/14-Tennis (Varsity) @ Area (TBD) 10/14-Football (JV Maroon) @ Veterans Memorial 10/14-Football (JV Gold) @ Canyon

Student in the student secion cheer at the varsity football scrimmage on August 20. Photo by: Tegan Krewson

Girls Lacrosse Recruitment Letter from an Athlete

10/14-Football (9th White & 9th Black) vs. Veterans Memorial 10/14-Football (9th Gray) vs. Canyon 10/15-Football (Varsity) vs. San Antonio Veterans Memorial

Mallory Neff Sports Editor

When I started practicing in the summer of 7th grade, I couldn’t catch the ball. I felt like I would never get it, but come 8th grade, I was on the first middle school girls lacrosse team in Dripping Springs. I went to a few practices and I saw such quick improvement in my skills and my teammate’s skills. Lacrosse is such an amazing sport. It requires teamwork and quick thinking. This year, I am a junior, and this season I’m most excited to play my sport with my team and to work with them to become better players and even better people. This team has been my second family for the last two years, all because I took a chance on lacrosse. Whenever I’m on the field, all I can think about is the next pass, how to set up a play, or what I can do to get better next time. All my problems and stressors are left on the field, and nothing matters when I’m playing lacrosse with my team. The team needs more girls, and I’d love to see you at practice. No experience is necessary. Fall is our time to get better and develop our skills so we can be ready for the season in the Spring. Take a chance, spread the word, and come play some lacrosse. Coach name: Chris Giliberto Practice dates: Mon, Tues, Thurs, 7:00-8:30 Where to go: DSMS field What to have: Women’s stick (shallow pocket), goggles, mouthguard (not white or black) Who to contact: 512-878-3576 to be added to the SportsYou Disclaimer: “Girls lacrosse is not guy’s lacrosse. We are not allowed to be so aggressive, so don’t not come because you’re afraid to get hurt.”

10/15-Volleyball @ San Antonio Veterans Memorial 10/18-Tennis (Varsity) @ Regional Quarter (TBD) 10/19-Volleyball vs. Lehman 10/21-Tennis (Varsity) @ Regional Tournament (TBD) 10/21-Football (9th White) @ Harlandale, LT 10/21-Football (9th Gray) vs. Lake Travis 10/21-Football (JV Gold) vs. Vandergriff 10/21-Football (JV Maroon) vs. Harlandale 10/22-Football (Varsity) @ Harlandale 10/22-Volleyball @ Seguin 10/25-Cross Country (Varsity) @ Region Championship 10/28-Football (9th White and Gray) vs. Johnson 10/28-Football (JV Gold and Maroon) @ Johnson 10/28-29-Tennis (Varsity) @ State (TBD) 10/29-Football (Varsity) vs. Buda Johnson

Sports Gallery Tennis and Football

The Paw Print October 2021

Sports

mydshs.com

Photos by: Tegan Krewson, David Jensen, Ella Revil, Julia Carter

Gallery photos are from the varsity scrimmage on August 20, football practice, and tennis practice at Dripping Springs High School.

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