Common Sense Volume 19 Issue 2 November 9, 2018

C ommon Sense Millard South High School • 14905 Q St. • Omaha, Neb., 68137

November 9, 2018

Volume 19 Issue 2

BREAKING RECORDS AND BARRIERS Alex Kopf Staff Reporter

The Patriots celebrate their win against Papio South in the District Final. Senior Kelsey Olson holds the team’s plaque preparing to take her first trip to state. Photo by Logan Foote.

“It’s epic, just epic!” said Volleyball Coach Jaisa Poppleton about their so far historic season. “I’m immensely proud of the team so far.”

The Patriot volleyball team keeps making history this season starting with making the Metro Championship. After defeating rival Millard West and Elkhorn South, the Patriots faced Millard North who is ranked #20 in the nation.

The Mustangs jumped out to a 2-0 lead in a best of 5 series. But the Patriots wouldn’t give up that easy. They battled back tying the series 2-2. But the Mustangs had too much firepower beating the Patriots in the final set 15-9.

With their performance in the tourney the Patriots clinched home court advantage for Districts for the first time in program history. The Patriots hosted Bellevue East, Lincoln Northeast, and Papio South in their District with the winner going to state.

The team isn’t the only one setting new records. Junior Sam Steele set a new record of digs in a match with 42, breaking her previous record of 39. Steele is also 20 digs away from breaking the career record and she’s only a junior.

“It’s pretty exciting being the first Millard South volleyball team to host districts” Steele said, “I think that if we play hard and play as a team we can do some big things at state.”

The #3 ranked Patriots look forward to the challenge of facing #2 Lincoln Pius X in the first round of the state playoffs. The two teams hadn’t met during the regular season so the outcome is sure to be unpredictable.

“The only thing we can do is prepare for them, we just have to prepare,” said Coach Poppleton.

STATE BOUND Junior Paige Fixemer explodes with excitement after making a game- changing kill.

Photo by Logan Foote.

Junior Maggie Madej celebrates another point for the Patriots during the district tournament. Photo by Logan Foote.

Senior Kelsey Olson blocks a hit. Photo by Logan Foote.

Page 2-3

Page 4-5

Jayleen Cortes and Elena Garcia Tapia practice art at Honoring our veterans.

Papio bike trail. Photo by Weston Thomson.

Page 10-11

National Honor Society’s theme Coco at Bryan Elementary’s Trunk or Treat. Photo by Maddie Rynes.

Page 12-13

Patriots race to the field to take on Elkhorn South.

Photo by Cale Goodman.

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News 11 • 9 • 2018

Tall totems Mural brings color to the Papio public Elena Garcia Tapia Online Assistant Editor

Artist Dan Crane poses with Millard South seniors Jayleen Cortes and Elena Garcia Tapia to his side with Millard West senior Emily Underwood posing at the front. Photo

by Weston Thomson

Along the Papio Trail near 118th & Harrison, runners, walkers and bikers are treated to colorful discovery on the columns of the underpass. Earlier this fall, Millard South seniors Jayleen Cortes and Elena Garcia Tapia, along with Millard West senior Emily Underwood, had the opportunity to help Omaha-based artist Dan Crane work on a mural through the Kent Bellows Mentoring Program. This totem-like mural decorates the trail with funky imagery painted in bright colors. Crane and the students worked on this project along with the help of Crane’s father and Weston Thomson, another local artist and the director of the mentoring program.

“Because the mural location was on the Papio Trail, I was thinking mainly about creek critters and transportation,” said Crane, “But to keep it exciting, I definitely incorporated ideas I had been recently sketching and thinking about in my regular studio practice.” Such elements include cartoons of fruit, drawings of old toys, bright colors, and self reflective imagery such as a pencil.

The students first spray painted the figures with their base colors, then outlined them with a dark purple paint. As the students worked on the mural, Thomson ran them through the initial process by showing them pictures he took. He explained to the young artists that they came to the location when the sun was down and projected the sketches onto the columns, then quickly traced the lines after putting on a layer of primer. After each figure was painted, the mural was covered with a protectant that keeps the colors from fading.

The entire mural took around 6 weeks to complete from planning out the design to adding the finishing touches.

“I spent two weeks on design/concept

Canada gives the green light for cannabis consumption Carson O’Connor Assistant News Editor

For Canadian marijuana advocates, 10/17 is the new 4/20. That is the day Canada joined Uruguay as the only countries to legalize recreational cannabis nationwide. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a promise to the people of Canada and was able to deliver on it by pushing the Cannabis Act through Parliament back in June. It allowed for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana for those 18 or older.

Already the country is plagued by shortages of weed. Demand has far exceeded what was expected, as seems to be the case in most areas that legalize. It was inevitable that supply would lag behind demand, at least in the early months. Shops and dispensaries that are just now receiving their licenses to sell marijuana legally did not have the proper infrastructure in place to satisfy the large new customer base.

The Canadian government is doing what it can to help boost legal dispensaries

and stymie the black market. The three goals of the Cannabis Act, as listed on the Canadian Department of Justice website, were to keep profits out of the pockets of criminals, keep cannabis out of the hands of youth, and protect public health and safety by allowing adults access to legal cannabis.

Canada knows the only way to accomplish that first goal of eliminating the black market marijuana sales is to impose a relatively low tax on sales. The 10 percent tax they settled on will be high enough to bring in revenue but reasonable enough for the legal market to be viable. Legal weed in Canada is said to be 30 percent cheaper than that in legal U.S. states, but don’t think you’ll be able to bring pot across the Northern border. No matter where you are traveling to, customs will confiscate any souvenirs you try to sneak out of the country.

Throughout the 21st century, Canada has been a leader with progressive marijuana policy. They legalized medical use all the way back in 2001. Trudeau was open in his support of widespread legalization as

and approval, then four weeks painting,” says Crane. Any sort of setbacks or obstacles were most definitely unavoidable (as if painting such large-scale projects wasn’t already challenging enough.) “The three main obstacles [of outdoor murals] are probably always atmospheric conditions, time, and scale,” he says, then eagerly adds, “Thankfully I had awesome help from 3 rad Millard students!”

Crane’s interest in art began at a young age and credits animation, album art, music videos, clothing designs, along with many other forms of art as early sources of inspiration. “I’ll just say [my career] started in the early to mid 1990’s when I was really young; absorbing a lot of Nickelodeon, MTV, Cartoon Network, reading a lot of Calvin and Hobbes, and listening to a lot of No Doubt’s Tragic Kingdom. Oh! And I played a lot of Super Mario World on Super Nintendo as a kid!” he says, then adds, “and ate a lot of

Cap’n Crunch.”

Today he creates work under his own name, mostly focused on 2D art but occasionally working with video, sculpture, design, and fiber art. Along with that, Crane is also a mentor at the Kent Bellows Studio and participates in art exhibitions in and around the Omaha area.

early as 2013.

“Tax it, regulate it,” he told supporters in British Columbia. “It’s one of the only ways to keep it out of the hands of our kids, because the current war on drugs, the current model is not working.”

Sensible marijuana legislation has already gained momentum worldwide as more than a dozen countries have taken steps to decriminalize pot and/or make it medically available. One country poised to take broader legalization actions is our southern neighbor, Mexico. Progressive leaders there want to help put an end to a drug war that has long ravaged the country.

The outlook for marijuana legalization in the United States looks a little less optimistic on the national level. There is no urgency in congress to pass legislation, and a Trump administration that appointed Jeff Sessions as Attorney General doesn’t see decriminalization as a priority. Sessions has said in the past that the legalization of marijuana presents “a very real danger.”

“Lives will be impacted. Families will be broken up. Children will be damaged

because of the difficulties their parents have, and people may be psychologically impacted the rest of their lives with marijuana,” Sessions said of state legalization efforts.

Canadian research that will be conducted on the effects of this new legislation will likely help inform marijuana policy in the United States. Marijuana’s classification as a Schedule One drug has blockaded research in our country.

America’s national government currently views marijuana as a substance with no medical purpose due to that classification, even though it has been known to effectively treat muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis, nausea from cancer chemotherapy, and seizure disorders. More than half the states in the U.S. have legalized marijuana in some form, but in others (such as Nebraska), there is little opportunity for change in the near future.

It’s worth noting that Canada has a smaller population than the state of California, which legalized marijuana back on Jan. 1. Still, it is significant that a developed country has encouraged industry banking and billions of dollars of investment in pot, along with pardoning those charged with possession in the past.

Cannabis is being legitimized on the world stage.

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News 11 • 9 • 2018

Midterm Election Results RuthAnne Hale Online Editor

Donald Trump’s presidency is now coming up on its third year, and as tensions continued to rise, all eyes turned to the Midterm elections. With an increased young voter turnout and many other factors, this race was almost unpredictable.

Nationwide, Republicans have expanded their control in the Senate, and as of 7:00 on Nov. 7th, had taken 51 of the 96 declared seats in the senate. However.

Democrats now have majority in the House of Representatives, taking 219 of the 412 seats declared.

Nebraska went to the polls on November 6th, voting in hundreds of officials, from governor to board members.

Here is some of the major offices that Nebraskans in the Millard area elected.

For more information on specific officials views, check the websites listed at the bottom of each box.

Secretary of State

Bob Evnen 66 Years Old Endorsed By Deb Fischer, NRA, NE Right to Life

“What motivates me is not just a political campaign but my love for Nebraska, to be of use, and serve the people. Voter integrity, public safety, and economic security are top priorities.”

-Bob Evnen Website-www.bobevnen2018

US Senate Deb Fischer; Republican 67 Years Old Elected to the Senate in 2012 “A lifelong Nebraskan, Deb Fischer is committed to hard work, commonsense solutions, and the Nebraska way of life” -From Website- www. fischerfornebraska.com

State LegislatorDistrict 12 Steve Lathrop 61 Years Old Previously held District 12 seat

“I’ve had it with all the partisan bickering and inaction. In the Legislature, I’ll be an independent voice and work with both sides to solve problems for everyday people.”

-Steve Lathrop Website- stevelathrop.com

House of Representatives Don Bacon; Republican 55 Years Old Elected to the House in 2016 “I ran for congress on a principled Conservative platform, because that’s who I am.

I keep my promises, because that’s how I was raised..”

-Don Bacon Website- donjbacon.com

State LegislatorDistrict 20 John McCollister 71 Years Old Elected to State Senate in 2015 “As a husband, father and grandfather, John knows the value of investing in Omaha’s youth. As a businessman and active member of his community, John knows the importance of community service. ” -From website-votemccollister.com

Governor Pete Ricketts; Republican 54 Years Old Elected Governor in 2015 “By identifying a mission to create opportunity through more effective, more efficient, and more customer-focused state government, Governor Ricketts is on track to grow Nebraska.”

-From Website- petericketts.com

Medicaid Expansion Majority is FOR Initiative 247 The medicare program, which provides health care for lowincome individuals will be expanded. Nebraska is one of 17 states that havent expanded medicaid before this November 6th election.

One fish, two fish, red, white, and blue fish Allison Kirkebak Sports Editor

This year Millard South had the honor of hosting the 2018 Nebraska Association of Student Councils Convention(NASC). The theme was “Oh, the Places You’ll Go With Leadership!” This year, a little over 700 delegates were in attendance. Out of the 38 schools in attendance there were four middle schools, two middle and high school combinations, two out-of-state delegations which were from North Carolina and Indiana, and the rest being high schools from all over Nebraska.

“It was an incredible turnout, and I couldn’t of been more excited to see student councils from across the state look forward to State Convention being hosted back at a school as much as we were.” Said Millard South Student Council President, Claire Aken. “At first we were a little concerned moving it away from a central location, but luckily, we got an exceptional turn out from student leaders near and far.”

Millard South has hosted the State Convention a total of four times now including this year, 2013, 1990, and 1981. To host the State Convention is a “bid” process where schools fill out a form that asks information about school size, dates, etc. and has a contract for what the school will provide versus what the organization of NASC will provide. NASC pays for the expenses, handles the Opening and Closing ceremonies and elections.

Millard South Student Council was responsible for the decorations, the schedule, mini-sessions, round tables, donations, etc. Then, the bid has to be presented to the Executive Board and voted on.

“When I found out that Millard South would be hosting State Convention, I was overjoyed to say the least.” Said Aken. “We were so honored to hear that our council would have the privilege to show councils from all over Nebraska, how proud we are to be a patriot, and that itself is priceless.”

The morning started of with a parade on schools to showcase all schools that were in attendance, and speeches from Co-Executive Director of NASC and Millard South Student Council Advisor Kyrie Nehls, Millard South Principal Heidi Weaver, and Millard Public Schools Superintendent Jim Sutfin. Then speeches from the 20172018 Nebraska Association of Student Councils Secretary, Finley Peterson of Lincoln Southeast High School, Vice President, Claire Aken of Millard South High School, and President Carter Yost of Lincoln High School, on their

time spent being apart of and representing NASC, and their goodbyes as the elections for the 2018-2019 Secretary, Vice President, and President were to follow later on in the day. Millard Souths’ very own, junior Student Council member, Kali Herbolsheimer, was in the running for president as well.

“It really started at the National Convention in Minneapolis.” Said Herbolsheimer.

“When I started talking to officers from other states, I started to realized that what they do, I could do. Nehls also encouraged me to run, along with the rest of my council.”

After the speeches, Millard South graduate and speaker Kyler Erickson spoke about his “You Matter” campaign and his inspiring story to the delegates. Then, the delegates went off to mini-sessions that included wildlife encounters, Yuda Bands, calligraphy, The Linus Project, and many more. After lunch, delegates were invited to round table sessions where schools would share different activities to raise Millard South Student Council poses for a group picture on the stage awareness or money for certain organizations after a long and successful day of hosting the NASC State Convention. that their councils and/or schools supports.

Photo by Bobby Becker While round tables were going on, voting delegates from every school were listening to The results for the new Secretary, Vice President, and the speeches of delegates running for office for President were the last to be announced. The 2018-2019 NASC and choosing the best fit to be crowned Secretary, Vice President is Sydney Peterson of Kearney High Vice President, and President at the Closing session.

School, and President is Millard Souths’ Kali Herbol “For the past two years we have had to hold our convention in a different, non-school setting and this year sheimer.

“Kali Herbolsheimer will make an excellent State we were able to showcase our school and our Student President because she has the drive, the knowledge, the Council.” Said Nehls. “We were able to give delegates more choices of activities and have a better setting for our compassion and the personality to get things done.” Said Nehls. “It’s going to be a great year for Nebraska Associaspeaker. I feel like schools were enthusiastic about the tion of Student Councils and Millard South will be leadopportunities and things ran smoothly.” ing the charge!”

At the Closing session, numerous awards were given Millard South put on an outstanding convention and out, including Make-A-Wish plaques for certain amounts has left big shoes for next years host, North Platte High of money schools raised for the Make-A-Wish FoundaSchool, to fill. tion. The Make-A-Wish Foundation is NASC State Char “Our Student Council at Millard South is amazing ity. After all of the awards, District Presidents were sworn in and Millard South’s very own, junior George Abalekpor and that amazingness was on display. They were orgawas elected as the District 8 President, which is a board of nized, on-task, helpful, prepared and able to make wellinformed decisions throughout the day.” Said Nehls. “It all the schools in the Omaha Metro. makes me so proud to see their work, and they should be

“This is a task that will require a lot of communicaproud of their achievements.” tion and organizational skills which George excels at.”

Said Nehls.

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HONORING

News 11 • 9 • 2018

OUR VET ERANS Why did you enlist?

“I couldn’t afford college and I knew joining the Air Force would help me pay for it.” Lula McCaskill “Everyone else was going to college and I was doing nothing because I was never going to school again ever in my life. School wasn’t my thing. Now I’m here everyday because I love it.” Brett Kelly

Brett Kelly US Marines 1990-1994

Mike Edmundson US Army (Ret.) 1989-2014

John Perez US Navy 1989-1996

“I was looking or stability in employment and wanted to finish my education while serving my country.” Sonny Rodriguez

Why did you choose the branch you did?

“I wanted to see the world. I’ve been to Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, Chile, and Rio de Janeiro.” John Perez “Army was the only ROTC program offered at UNK.” Craig Holz “I had a buddy whose grandpa fought in WWII and was a marine. My friend and I were joining the marines together but my friend didn’t pass the medical exam.” Brett Kelly “My father and sister both had experience in the Air Force.” Lula McCaskill

Darin Amick US Air Force 1992-1996

Lula McCaskill US Air Force 1983-1987

Craig Holz US Army 1975-1982

What is a lasting lesson you apply in your daily work?

“Every job I do I give it my all.” Mike Edmundson “Be on time, be friendly and courteous, treat everyone equal.”

John Perez “Expect little, give much, live simply, spread sunshine.” Col. Vance Zider “I was a plumber in the military, so I can now do plumbing side jobs.” Darin Amick

Sonny Rodriguez US Air Force 1986-2009

TSgt. Peter Mamula US Air Force (Ret.) 1980-1989 Avionics Technician 1989-1996 US Army 2002-2011 Arkansas Air National Guard

Not Pictured: Grace Kubik US Army Reserve 1980-1988 Paul Elam US Air Force 1987-1997 Tim Shepoka US Army 1972-1974

Col. Vance Zider US Air Force (Ret.) 1976-2003 Security forces, overseas 3 years in England, Korea, and the Phillippines

Veterans Day November 11

Do you have any advice for students considering joining the military?

“The military provides options for individuals who might not know the direction they want to go. Most importantly, it provides a great way to kick start the career you do want to pursue. You get the training and experience you need to be competitive and all the while serve your country.” Sonny Rodriguez “If you don’t have a career in mind, the military is a good way to network, learn and find a place.” Craig Holz “A strong sense of selfless service will get you far.” Mike Edmundson

Project coordinated by Natalie Fedde

Photos and interviews by Hailey Bos, Maggie Huson, Cassady Alberico, Kayla Andrews, and Into to Journalism students Arianna Lentz, Hailee Wakefield and Emily Cordle

“Make sure it’s a career path you want to do. Beauty of it is that after 4 years, you can quit but you will still have the skills.” TSgt. Peter Mamula

News 11 • 9 • 2018

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Milbourn makes a ‘grape’ new assistant band director

Jordan Hatch Staff Reporter Joining the Millard South music program and putting the words ‘Yaasssss’ and ‘Wa-wa’ into the band members’ vocabulary is the new assistant band director, Lauren Milbourn.

Many students probably didn’t know that the new assistant band director was once Assistant band director a Millard South student. During her high Lauren Milbourn dresses up school years, she was a part of the band as a as a grape for Halloween as she travels to Neihardt, Hitch- clarinet player and during marching season cock and Disney elementaries as a drum major. In her free time she was also a part of choir, pit orchestra, volleyball, and in the afternoon.

MAA select softball.

Since the time she graduated, many changes have occurred to the Millard South music department.

“The music department has definitely grown. There are more students in band which contributes to the different culture and new challenges. The orchestra is huge as well,” Milbourn said.

Coming back to Millard South seemed to be exactly what she needed. Milbourn said that she really wanted a job that works with high school band and elementary band. Working at Millard South was just like coming home and

was a perfect fit for her.

With all of the changes that have occurred within the Millard South music program, the atmosphere is definitely one of the most noticeable.

“We know how to have a good time, and have fun, and the band has created an amazing product this year. We need help focusing but the product is enjoyable,” Milbourn said.

Milbourn plans on being here for a long time to come and to help all of the students improve themselves. She said she looks forward to the years to come and all of the memories she plans to make along the way.

Phoenix rises at state marching band Deniece Radford Asst. Opinions Editor

Groups of instruments glare in the setting sun, and rows of students, all dressed up in uniform, stand impatiently waiting for their turn to take the field. As their time comes, they march out, keeping their rows as straight as the lines on the field, and as they stand in their starting position for the last time, they collectively take a deep breath, intent on making this the best performance they’ve ever done.

As they finish, they march off sweating and smiling. They put everything on the field, and now all they can do is watch, and wait, for the places to be announced.

The Patriot Pride Marching Band marched on the field for the last time on Oct. 20. After six months of preparation, they gave their final performance of their show, Phoenix Rising. They ended up 9th

out of the 17 bands there, with Gretna Jordan Blue said. taking first.

State is an important milestone for

Marching Band is meaningful to many people in band. many and sometimes unknowingly

“State means a lot to me. It’s where teaches useeveryone gets to ful lessons. see the culminaMarching Band has taught me tion of all of our “Marching band has teamwork and self discipline. I hard work. We put taught me learned how to be a good leader in so many hours teamwork throughout the and a good role model. and self school year and discipline. it’s nice to be able I learned to show that off,” – Senior Deborah Harvie how to be a senior Isabel Kimgood leader minau said. and a good All of the time role model,” spent up until senior Deborah Harvie said. state is incredibly important. Months of

“Marching Band has helped me make work boil down into one performance great lifelong friends, and meet people and then it’s just over. that will forever impact my life,” senior

“State preparation is super important.

“

”

Up until that point, it’s putting the show together, adding music and movement, and such,” Kimminau said. “In the week leading up to state, however, this is where all the tiny tweaking of the show starts to happen - it’s where we polish our final project,” Kimminau said.

“State means performing everything that we worked so hard on from mid-July until now. It means pulling everything together into one last, big performance,” senior Jordan Hatch said.

Marching season is over but many new things come out of it: show band, concert band, jazz band, and winter guard are just a few examples. As the ashes fall on the end of marching season, a new phoenix rises as the band shifts their focus to concert season.

The Last Straw

Environmental impact at South

Isabel Robb Photo Chief

Plastic straws are small everyday objects that have infiltrated the lives and conversations of millions of people. These tiny tubes of plastic many of us use daily are being cast out of the lives of many Americans just to keep that same plastic from getting into the oceans.

It’s not just individual people refusing plastic straws, either. Starbucks announced on July 9 that they were going to toss straws aside by 2020. They started replacing them with new recyclable strawless lids. The lid is already in use in over 8,000 Starbucks in the US and Canada. Straws are still available if you ask for one, but now they’re made of paper or compostable plastic.

But straws don’t make up as much trash as we think they do. Sure, Americans use an average of 500 million straws every day, but plastic straws only make up 0.03 percent of all of the trash in the

ocean. To put that into perspective, 0.03 percent of $10,000 would be a meager $3.

Since some people aren’t ready to let their straws go, there are other things you could do around the school if you’ve become environmentally aware. Instead of avoiding plastic straws, recycle clean plastic in the blue recycling bins. Also, pick up any trash littering the school and throw it away in the right place. Dead markers are collected by Educators Rising Club and sent to Crayola, who has a new program called ColorCycle where they recycle the whole marker; we just have to do is send it in.

“Even the little things can make a difference, it takes all of us doing little things to make a big impact,” says junior Kayleigh Casey, a member of Environmental Club.

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Opinion 11 • 9 • 2018

Mental Health: A valid and real issue

I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression when I was 14 years old. I know what you’re thinking. Why would someone willingly print that statement in the school paper?

Well, the truth is that I’ve learned to see my illness as something that doesn’t define me, and over the years I’ve learned that a lot more people struggle with mental illness than most may think.

The fact that I Lindsey Assman struggle with these things Opinions Editor doesn’t make me a stereotype, it doesn’t define my worth, and it most definitely doesn’t make me weak. You see, mental illness has a tendency to be romanticized all over the internet.

There are hundreds of accounts on Instagram dedicated to mental illness. Although some provide healthy ways to deal with it, the majority glorify these struggles and only make people feel like they should continue holding on to the pain that they’re dealing with.

Many think that dealing with mental illness is something to be done alone or something that will pass in time. If you struggled with diabetes would you simply wait for it to pass? Would people tell you that you’re actually making up your disease? The answer is no. That’s because people view diabetes as a legitimate illness.

Because of negative connotations created by the ignorant people in our world, mental illness is not treated as legitimate. It’s time for that to change.

Just like any other disease, mental illness requires medical attention. You simply will not get better without help. Mental health is what makes for a happy life. You can be in the best physical condition of your life, and still be mentally unhealthy. It’s time for people to stop acting like everything is okay and to, instead, be brave.

Deciding to ask for help was the best decision I’ve ever made.

It was also the most brave I have ever been. Talking to a therapist does not make you crazy. In fact, it makes you the opposite. Going on medication for your mental illness doesn’t make you screwed up. It makes you a human who is actively taking care of yourself.

Will therapists, psychologists, medicine, or anything else fix all of your problems? Will it be easy? Will you never feel depressed, afraid, or anxious again? No, you will climb upward for months and suddenly fall straight back to the ground. You will encounter new obstacles, and you will fall back into old ways.

Sometimes you will truly believe that you’re stuck. That it will never get better, but let me tell you right now, you are a different person than you were a year ago, you are growing, and you are going to see why you continued trying.

So to those of you who have to consciously choose joy everyday due to mental illness: what you are dealing with is completely and utterly real, and you are a champion for continuing to overcome. Know that you are not alone, and that you are worthy.

To everyone and anyone reading this: let’s get rid of the falsities associated with mental illness, and instead treat it as the raw, real epidemic that it is. Together we can help those we love, to truly love themselves.

Adults worry far too much about teens and their screens

It’s pretty obvious that just by looking at me, you can see that I’m a teenager.

Being a teenager is great, especially when it comes to social media. However, there’s a negative downside that I’m sure we’ve all, as teenagers, experienced a number of times. Adults tend to do this thing where they tell all teenagers just how scary the internet is and that we need to be careful.

That’s all great and everything, but it gets to be too much.

I’m a senior in high school. To be quite frank, I believe I’m a pretty intelligent person, specifically when the internet is involved. Social media has its perks and its downsides, and that’s something a decent chunk of adults don’t let us forget.

You see, I really appreciate that there are adults out there who care enough to make sure we’re safe online because the internet can be a really dark and scary place. But to hear the whole lecture of “be careful online, the internet is so negative, stop using social media so much” is really frustrating. It’s the same debate every single time.

For me recently, I’ve been far more active on Twitter and with that increase in activity, I’ve made friends, I guess you could say. Or at least I consider these people my friends. I’ve been in group chats, tweeting people more, etc. when usually I’d spend time scrolling through my time-

line and liking or retweeting tweets. And I was excited, for a number of reasons, but one of the main reasons was because I finally started to feel like I fit in. Now, I’ve never felt completely out of place, but sometimes I feel like I’m not always able

Tori Barkus Cartoonist and Staff Reporter

to talk about some of my favorite topics with my friends in real life because it’s not always a common interest.

When I’ve brought up making friends online around my family, it’s always the same reaction. My mom gets excited because I’m excited. My dad on

the other hand, comes at it from a different angle. I don’t want to sit here and say “Forget about being cautious online, do whatever you want to,” because that’s, unfortunately, not something anyone has the luxury of doing. But sitting there and constantly telling me how awful the internet is and how I shouldn’t be this invested in relationships I’ve built online is a really frustrating thing. I understand that the internet can be a dangerous place and I keep that in the back of my mind every time I log on to Twitter.

I understand and realize that the adults telling me this are trying to ensure my safety, and I appreciate that, but it really dampens the mood. I’m having fun, socializing - albeit it is online, but that’s the concept of social media - and I’m creating such good and strong relationships with people my age from all around the world. I just think that sometimes, adults should calm down on the consistent lectures, we know what we’re doing. A little reminder here and there is nice and welcomed, but to mention it every time I bring up something I see online just feels a little excessive. Don’t worry too much about us, after all, we are the generation that grew up glued to our screens.

Jordan Hatch Staff Reporter

Marching band should count for gym credit

As a senior in high school and having been in band for all 4 years, I can easily tell you that the worst feeling in the world is arriving at school on a Monday at 7:30 a.m., going outside to march around on the football field with a heavy instrument until 10:02 a.m. while the temperature slowly climbs to 80 degrees. Then walking back into the building with sweat dripping down your back only to have to continue on your next class which happens to be gym. After these two classes are out of the way and you have suffered through the rest of the day a sweaty mess, you have to come back at 6:30 p.m. and continue what you started that morning till 9 p.m. only to have to be at school at 7:15 a.m. the next day. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love band and would never quit, but I do believe that taking both band and a gym class is too much.

Any band kid could testify that both gym and band provide a workout equal to the other. If anything, band is probably more strenuous than any gym class offered and should therefore take the place of the gym class credit-wise. We perform and practice in the brutal heat of summer and the bone-chilling cold of fall.

We build up enough endurance to maintain even breathing for playing our instruments all the while running from one side of the field to the other in a matter of seconds. Band is not an easy class. We get our workouts in, learn a few good exercises along the way, learn the importance of staying hydrated, and on occasion receive a few healthy eating tips like “Go home and eat some celery and carrots or something”–Darren Myers.

These are all things learned within a gym class and have become somewhat redundant having had them repeated to you a few times over.

Band is better in most ways than a gym class anyways in the sense that the band director needs to make sure that we all stay healthy so that the show isn’t put off in anyway. If someone doesn’t stay hydrated and it’s nearing 100 degrees outside, one of us may pass out leaving a gap in the show which could cause other issues during a performance. Plus there’s the chance that he likes us and wants to make sure we are able to participate and do the thing we all love. That’s the reason for the days where we have a water break every five minutes (I’m not exaggerating). In gym classes we are not encouraged to take water breaks or even to really stay hydrated, though with only 90 minutes the conditions do not generally merit as much concern. All in all, I would have to say that I’ve learned more lifelong habits in band and that’s another reason why it should count for gym credit.

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Opinion 11 • 9 • 2018

Staff Editorial

Honestly... Nebraska’s new state slogan is not for everyone

“Nebraska: Honestly, it’s not for everyone” has covered the headlines of Nebraska newspapers for the past several days. This new state slogan is quite an interesting way to introduce tourists to the heart of our country. As Nebraskans, some are outraged and others are simply chuckling.

The slogan was meant to employ some self-deprecating humor while also pointing out that Nebraska is a great place for escaping stressful, big-city living. Although this slogan was actually supposed to bring in visitors, many of us see it as the opposite. It clearly buys in to the stereotype of our home being a boring, farmland. In addition, this slogan makes Nebraska look a little lazy, and it’s definitely a big jump from our old slogan:

“Nebraska: The Good Life”.

For Common Sense this jump create’s a little bit of a rough fall, but we can’t help but enjoy the journey. Upon hearing the line, the first reaction for much of our staff was a chuckle, maybe even a snort.

You have to admit, the slogan is pretty darn funny, as well as, eye-catching. Plus, it’s always nice to hear our state’s name in the news.

Overall, this new slogan has created a lot of unnecessary controversy. Sure, we’d like to hear something a little more complimentary the next time around, but for now, the line is tolerable. We are all proud of our home, but it’s always fun to poke a little fun at ourselves. Besides, true Nebraskans are never opposed to a good laugh. art by Tori Barkus

Don’t hesitate to act on your great ideas

I sat peacefully admiring the view of the Tacoma Narrows bridge from my favorite restaurant Boathouse 19 in Tacoma, Washington, when I was suddenly yanked from my serene bliss by a question of my knowledge on the issue of migrant children being taken from their families.

I am a person who attempts to be as informed as possible on the issues of today, so I expressed my disgust on the matter. My grandparents informed me that there was a center that the government had been keeping the children at in Tacoma. My grandma disclosed the fact that she had been strongly considering allowing a migrant family seeking refuge in the area to move into their boat storage cabin. This is when my uncle urged my grandma to follow her gut and go through with her idea stating that it was a “great idea.” He proclaimed his opinion that “this world would be a better place if people went through with their great ideas”.

This had me pondering the idea of a world filled with everyone helping everyone, a world filled with compassion rather than competition. The statement made me reflect on all the times that I thought of helping someone whether that be helping a person carry their immense amount of grocery bags, sparing a dollar to the homeless person perched on a street corner, or simply helping and elderly person cross the street. Surely the amount of help or lack thereof from a 17 year old couldn’t impact the social standard on helping

Enough about Christmas trees, let’s talk about poultry

Makenzie Morford Social Media Editor

others. Could it?

Kindness is contagious after all. someone walking down the street near you sees you toss a dollar into a struggling guitarist’s case, that might prompt them to do the same.

I personally believe that humans are inherently good. We all strive to do something meaningful and don’t want to see one of our fellow members of society struggling. We all have those passing notions of going out of our way to assist someone we see struggling yet very few of us actually act on them. But why? My theory on this is that we are conditioned from a young age to avoid strangers, everyone that we don’t know is secretly plotting to kidnap us. Obviously that is true in some cases. I’m not suggesting that you help Hannibal load furniture into his white van, but helping Geraldine cross the street is definitely a safe way to go plus if she attempts to turn on you, you could definitely out run her. Therefore I urge you to be the the change you seek in the the world and to act on your great ideas.

Common Sense Common Sense is the official publication of Millard South High School 14905 Q Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. School district guidelines determine the suitability of advertising content. To place an ad or inquire about rates, call (402)715-8363.

Common Sense is a monthly publication produced in Room 130. Common Sense uses desktop publishing hardware and software: Apple 5G computers, Adobe InDesign CS6 Adobe Photoshop CS6, and Microsoft Word software. Printing

by White Wolf Web in Sheldon, Iowa.

Letters to the editor are encouraged. All letters must be signed with the student’s first and last name, grade, then submitted to Mrs. Kaldahl. Unsigned letters will not be published. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, and clarity. Letters of profane nature or other infractions of school or district policy will not be published.

Whenever asked “What’s your and everyone is throwing leaves and favorite holiday Alexis?” I would laughing and just having the time of ALWAYS reply with Christmas, and I their lives, ya know, just girly things. think many people That’s what makes could say the same. the atmosphere of But is it? Or are we Thanksgiving the just thinking about absolute best. ourselves and gifts?

AnSure, some will other plus to the argue and say that Thanksgiving “Oh Christmas is the season is how time when family much money you gets together and save compared we are all happy and to Christmas. merry,” but isn’t that I’m sure it’s great just Thanksgiving being able to without snow? The see friends and fact is there is better family opening food, (sometimes) gifts and having better weather, and a giant smile on Alexis Gamble Staff Reporter it’s better for your their faces, but wallet. only you know

The food how much of your during Thanksgiving is pretty much hard earned money you spent on them the same as Christmas, but obviously when we all know it would be better better. Turkey beats ham anyday, there’s spent on food. stuffing and green bean casserole,

Now I get that buying food can get and it’s the only acceptable time to eat pricey, but that’s why you could have pumpkin pie. The special food that family member bring side dishes or Christmas has is eggnog, and does any- drinks, but you can’t have them do the one actually enjoy drinking that? Like same with Christmas. Plus you are buyactually enjoy it? ing certain food items for everyone to

The weather that comes with enjoy, not five different presents for five Thanksgiving is unbeatable. Although people to enjoy, so overall it’s cheaper.

Nebraska has been a little bipolar. Most With all these reasons in mind, of the time it’s a nice fall feeling; the I’m sure everyone can agree that there breeze is cool and the sun is warm. are definitely perks to Thanksgiving, It’s the type of weather where you’re which is why it’s at the top of my holiable to go out and take family pictures day list… above Christmas.

Editors-in-Chief Kristin Kaipust Maddie Rynes Photo Chiefs Isabel Robb Maggie Huson

Entertainment Editor Sadie Brower Asst. Entertainment Editor Halle Benson

News Editor Isabel Kimminau

Buisness Managers Maggie Reimers Nickol Kreutzian

Asst. News Editor Carson O’Connor

Online Editor Ruthanne Hale

Sports Editors Allison Kirkebak Carina Covington

Asst. Online Editor Elena Garcia Tapia

Asst. Sports Editor Jacob Haas

Social Media Editors Makenzie Morford MacKenzie Wolken

Opinions Editor Lindsey Assman

Cartoonists Sean Burton Tori Barkus

Asst. Opinions Editor Deniece Radford

Chief Copy Editor Myranda Carbullido

Staff Secretaries Lexie Pleiss Hailey Bos Social Event Coordinators Danielle Swanson Kayla Andrews Staff Reporters Cassady Alberico Logan Foote Alexis Gamble Cale Goodman Jordan Hatch Alex Kopf Natalie Schamp Jack Towne Garrett Carbullido Natalie Fedde Cameron Merritt Adviser Christine Kaldahl

Focus 11 • 9 • 2018

8

An Investigation

No sleep for the educated:

Start times cause struggle for sleep Maddie Rynes Editor-in-Chief

Too many teenagers fail to get the recommended amount of sleep each night, affecting their academic performance, memory, and psychological well being.

For years, health professionals have advised more sleep for teens for healthy brain development and growth. The American Academy of Pediatrics advocates that teenagers ages 14 to 17 should get between 8.5-9.5 hours of sleep per night, a rarity for today’s teens. The harsh reality is that with extracurricular activities, familial responsibilities, and hours of homework, something’s got to give, and unfortunately the first to go is a good night’s sleep.

In August, California lawmakers passed SB-328 adding Section 46148 to the education code stating, “The school day for middle schools and high schools, including middle schools and high schools operated as charter schools, shall begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m.” Schools must implement this either by July 1, 2021 or “the date on which a school district’s collective bargaining agreement that is operative on January 1, 2019 expires.”

Lawmakers are using multiple studies and views from professional health organizations to back their passing of such bills.

“Sleep deprivation is a growing public health issue affecting our nation’s adolescents, putting them at risk for mental, physical and emotional distress and disorders,” said AMA Board Member William E. Kobler, M.D. “Scientific evidence strongly suggests that allowing adolescents more time for sleep at the appropriate hours results in improvements in health, academic performance, behavior, and general well-being. We believe delaying school start times will help ensure middle and high school students get enough sleep, and that it will improve the overall mental and physical health of our nation’s young people.”

American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s position statement calls for schools to start no earlier than 8:30 in order to increase students’ ability to get adequate sleep on

school nights and improve classroom performance, mental health, and driving safety, as well as reduce absences and tardiness.

Research shows that biological sleep patterns tend to be at later times, often beginning around 11 p.m. Because of this, many teens should still be sleeping when they are dragged out of bed and going to school, which can lead to drowsy driving and lack of concentration in class. On top of that, increasing pressure to get involved in activities that can take 2+ hours each night, complete college and scholarship applications, and even working shifts to support oneself can damage one’s sleep schedule and mental health.

Despite multiple prestigious health organizations providing research to support later start times and some even calling for action, hundreds of schools maintain early start times, including Millard where high schools start at 8 am and middle schools start at 7:45.

In our own high school and high schools in the Omaha area, an overwhelming 63.5% of students we surveyed get below the recommended amount, with only 36.5% getting 7+ hours.

“I get an average of 5-6 hours every night. I find myself staying up until about midnight every night working on homework after practices, and most of the time I still don’t get it done, so I have to set my alarm for 4:45 am so that I can shower, blow dry my hair, and finish my homework,” freshman Ellie Martin said. “It is like a never ending cycle, I can never sleep well because I have to get my homework done, then I can’t focus in class. Then the next round of homework I get I don’t understand, and it takes me longer. This results in loss of sleep, and the cycle keeps going from there.”

“My opinion is if somebody can build a better mousetrap, I’m all ears,” Dr. Jim Sutfin, Millard Superintendent said. “I feel a little bit like if we’re looking at start times, that financially we’re in a spot that makes it nearly

Caffeine energizes false alertness Kristin Kaipust Editor-in-Chief

Energy drinks are a common sight seen in Millard South recycling bins. According to C-store employee Tamara Horner, they sell quicker than other caffeinated beverages.

“Energy drinks are easily accessible and I don’t have to make them like I do coffee,” said senior Josh Arends, a Rockstar fan, “They taste better than coffee.”

According to MedlinePlus, caffeine stimulates the central nervous system which can make a boost of energy and a feeling of awakeness. Energy drinks, specifically, may temporarily improve alertness and physical endurance but there is little evidence that they enhance strength or power.

“I feel more awake, more alert, and like I have more energy to do daily activities,” said Arends. “I can tell that my heart has an increased rate.”

While this is the case for many, others commented about different results.

“The caffeine doesn’t make me feel more energetic, it just prevents me from getting headaches,” said senior Destiny Hrabik.

Hrabik, a fan of both coffee and energy drinks, said when in a “Red Bull phase”, she often drinks at least two cans a day but sometimes up to four.

Energy drinks, ranging from 90 to 300 milligrams of caffeine (per 16 oz can), have almost the same amount of caffeine as coffee. Coffee has about 160 milligrams on average (per 16 oz).

“I think energy drinks are just a preference. I like the taste of them and that they resemble drinking a pop but sometimes I prefer a coffee,” Hrabik said. “It just depends on what I’m in the mood for since they both offer around the same amount of caffeine,”

“It’s all about trends,” said Horner. “When we stocked the c-store with pickle juice, it went really fast but by the time we restocked it wasn’t nearly as popular.”

One of the major effects of energy drinks and caffeine in general is the possible dependence. Dependence occurs due to constant intake of caffeine. If someone relies on caffeine, not having it can lead to withdraw. Withdraw can lead to tiredness, insomnia, and headaches.

“I don’t think students should consume large amounts of caffeine, especially if they don’t already because of the effects on sleep and anxiety,” said Hrabik.

interviews and photos

by Dani Swanson

impossible to make that sort of change.”

Although Millard is not planning to push back start times due to financial states and other reasons, such as dismissal times, it still remains a topic of discussion in our district and nationwide.

Student Sleep Habits

Q1 - how often do you eat breakfast Q2 - describe your typical breakfast Q3 - what is your ideal breakfast

Haden Brown, freshman Q1- every other day on school days, always on the weekends Q2 - Cocoa Pebbles w/ milk Q3 - Oats w/ Maple syrup

Kutty George, sophomore Q1- everyday Q2 - toast, fruit, juice Q3- Happy with what he eats, thinks it is healthy

Annabel Callahan, senior Q1- just on weekends Q2- “Cheerios.

Dry.” Q3- Panera Bagel w/ cream cheese

Allie Randels, junior Q1- never Why not? Not enough time Effect? Hangery

Heidi Weaver, principal Q1- every morning Q2- 3 scrambled eggs or a protein shake Q3- a yummy veggie and avocado omelette

Angel Gupioc, junior

Q1- everyday Q2 - chocolate milk “Help me wake up” Q3 - would improve his breakfast by making it low cal/low sugar

Focus 11 • 9 • 2018

9

in Student Health It’s not cool to juul in school

FDA smokes out the truth about e-cigarettes Carson O’Connor

Assistant News Editor

The FDA has announced a widespread crackdown on underaged vaping, particularly targeting market giant Juul. The organization requested internal documents from Juul on areas including the company’s research and marketing. In addition, the FDA sent 1,100 warning letters and issued 131 fines to stores violating restrictions on sales to minors.

In a recent statement appearing on FDA.gov, commissioner Scott Gottlieb spoke on what he believes to be an “epidemic” among teens.

“The disturbing and accelerating trajectory of use we’re seeing in youth, and the resulting path to addiction, must end,” he said. “It’s simply not tolerable. I’ll be clear. The FDA won’t tolerate a whole generation of young people becoming addicted to nicotine as a tradeoff for enabling adults to have unfettered access to these same products.”

According to a 2016 CDC survey, 11.3 percent of responding high schoolers had used an e-cigarette in the past 30 days. The devices have only become more ubiquitous in schools since then, and Millard South is no exception. On May 30, this reporter conducted an anonymous survey of 16 students in Healthy Living class. It was a part of the final project for the class, and it centered on the health effects of vaping. The results were unsurprising.

In the Healthy Living class, seven students (44 percent) admitted to having tried some form of vaping in their lives, and three students (20 percent) said they had vaped while inside school. Two people chose not to answer these questions. Half the class was able to identify the brand name ‘Juul’ when presented with a picture of

the product.

This data supports the conclusion that vaping is just as common among high schoolers as many parents and school administrators fear. In a tweet dated Oct. 26, Superintendent of Millard Public Schools, Dr. James Sutfin, shared an article educating parents on the alleged danger and prevalence of vaping.

“Vaping isn’t a healthy alternative. Don’t fall victim to this marketing game. If you are vaping, stop now. It only gets harder to quit,” said Sutfin in the tweet.

Addiction does come at a cost. Juul.com claims that one Juul pod contains the nicotine equivalent of one pack of cigarettes. Assuming that is true, a pack of four regular Juul pods for $16 is a better deal than a pack of cigarettes at around $7. That doesn’t mean that the cost of e-cigarettes don’t stack up. A moderate Juul user (2 packs of pods per month) can spend nearly $400 a year on pods, and a more regular user (a pod every day) can spend as much as $1500, or more.

And while vaping is a decidedly less hazardous option than smoking cigarettes, it still remains to be seen how it will eventually affect the health of today’s teen users. All of the known cancer causing chemicals found in cigarettes are absent in Juuls, but they do contain the harmful chemical propylene glycol.

You may have seen that chemical’s name in a foreboding anti-vaping propaganda poster. It is true that the chemical can be found in fog machines, and that prolonged exposure to these fog machines has been linked with chronic lung problems. When heated to vaping temperature, propylene glycol can produce the carcinogen formaldehyde.

A Harvard study also found that diacetyl was present in 39 of 51 types of flavored e-cigarettes sold by leading

brands. Diacetyl is responsible for a respiratory disease nicknamed “Popcorn Lung” because of its genesis occurring in microwave popcorn factories. The chemical has since been removed from popcorn brands, so it is concerning to see it present in vapes.

Educating students on these potential health problems is just a part of the new two-day Healthy Living curriculum on vaping.

“There is no tar going into your lungs, but (Juuls) are so brand new that there is no research that shows what’s going to be happening 20 years from now. We just don’t know. And that’s why it’s really quite scary, because there have been repercussions of wet lung and coughing,” said Julie Baker, an Everyday Living teacher at Millard South.

Having taken the class last year, I knew that my teacher barely mentioned e-cigarettes. This year, it is something of a focus.

“The Health curriculum has been revamped and district approved by Dr. Sutfin and community members as well,” said Baker. “The vaping and Juuling does fall under our harmful substances unit, and that goes along with addictions: cigarettes, nicotine, alcohol and prescription drugs.”

At the end of the day, no amount of FDA regulations or campaigns led by schools will keep e-cigarettes out of the hands of teens. Each individual has his own choice to Juul, or not to Juul.

Be sure to weigh the short term nicotine buzz and social aspect of these devices against the potential long term consequences. It is also important to know what chemicals you are putting into your body and to not blindly trust e-cigarette corporations to have your best interests at heart.

Athletic performance takes a hit Sadie Brower Entertainment Editor

As we all know, the new trend among attention span will. high school students all around the coun “Teenagers are inhaling moisture try is vaping or more specifically, juuling. into their lungs, which can’t be good,” said In fact, 13% of 8th graders, 24% of 10th school nurse, Sharon Brisson-Schnitker. graders and 28% 12th graders in America “To me, that’s worse than dry cigarettes.” regularly vape. Now I’m not expecting this Nicotine is the main chemical in article to flip a switch inside you and you’ll every juul containing more than one automatically stop vaping, but it’s common pack of cigarettes. One cause of nicofor teens with a problem like this to avoid tine is increased heart rate and blood learnpressure ing the Teenagers are inhaling moisture into which can be dangers it their lungs,which cant be good, to detrimental really has. for an athlete’s me that’s worse dry cigarettes.

The performance. scariest Multiple part of studies say –School nurse, Sharon Brissonmost enicotine is Schnitker cigarettes, more adnot even dicting than considerheroin and ing juuls cocaine, and yet, are that still no one really knows what the reason addiction to nicotine is so chemicals could be in them. Vaping puts relevant is the effects it has on develmoisture in your lungs which causes you oping adolescent brains. An athlete’s to be much more prone to infections and attention span is not only used in diseases later on in life. One of the known school but also in every play of their chemicals that is common in most egame. cigarettes is diacetyl. Diacetyl is a chemical The long-term effects of Juulthat when inhaled can worsen your lung ing is unknown to doctors but what capacity and can turn into a disease called is known is that the risk of juuling “popcorn lung”. In athletes of almost every is great. You may not see harm now, sport, lung capacity is one of the biggest but there is the possibility of future focuses other than strength conditioning health problems including lung in training. There are also many athletes deficiency, brain development issues with asthma, which can be aggravated and and cancer. For athletes with goals worsened. Having a lower lung capacity for the future, something as simple as will lower your performance level tremen- juuling is not worth ending a career. dously, and if that doesn’t then your poor

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art by Sean Burton

10

Features 11 • 9 • 2018

Vocational programs provide learning and real work experience Natalie Schamp Staff Reporter

Millard South has two main programs used to equip students with all the tools they will need in a career. Patriot Perk, and

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 laid the WHEN, aka Work Introductory Networkgroundwork for modern day special needs ing Program. WHEN is a class in which and vocational programs. These programs students are given opportunities to learn can range from sorting recycling to deliver- all sorts of applicable skills. During this ing coffee to teachers. class period many businesses partner with

“All of their jobs and their roles are Millard South to help educate and hopepersonalized to fit what they’re working fully eventually employ the schools special on,” says speech and language pathologist education students. These establishments Valerie Newton. “I try really hard to make include, Hy-vee, Valentino’s, Rockwell sure they’re in a good fit for what goals they elementary and recently Arby’s. The school have,” she said. also partners “Whatever job with Scooter’s All of their jobs and their roles they’re in, I coach Coffee, but them kind of to for a differare personalized to fit what specifically help ent program, they’re working on. Whatever with those skills Patriot Perks. job they’re in, I coach them they’re working This program is kind of to specifically help with on,” Newton said. just one of the Vocational techniques the those skills they’re working on. programs stretch school employs from sea to sea, in order to im–Speech and language they come in all prove student’s pathologist Valerie Newton different shapes speaking skills. and sizes. Their These programs purpose is to help prepare and propel have obvious benefits to them, however students with disabilities into a career. without the careful consideration MSHS According to the Millard School District has put in, vocational programs can have website these potential jobs include, outside negative effects. maintenance, motel housekeeping, stocking Most concerns stem from the social in retail department stores, office cleaning, prejudices these programs could potentially hospital daycare and laundry, church and create. In a blog by Nikki Heiman, a special public library clerical assistance, cafeteria education teacher and mother of a child work, project assembly for the NRD, count- with down syndrome, she discusses the ing and binding for Sherwin Williams, negative effects of alienating students with shredding and cleaning for Millard Public disabilities.

Schools, and packing for Martin Luther

“If only kids with disabilities are wipHomes. ing down tables, we are, as teachers, facili-

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(Above) Choir director Amy Wesely receives her daily dose of coffee from Latrell Allen, Zach Jennings, and Alison Gruhn at the Patriot Perk cart.

Photo by Isabel Robb (Right) Daniel Ellison fills up a cup of coffee as the Patriot Perk cart makes its morning rounds. Photo by Isabel Robb

tating a social hierarchy. Without also thoughtful consideration to integrating social interactions with non disabled peers, students with disabilities will always be viewed as the “clean-up crew.”’ She continues by discussing the long term effects these classifications can have on all students. “Some day the non-disabled kids could be owners or managers of businesses and when the student with a disability applies for a job, the first and likely only type of job they are going to think of will be a janitorial type job.”

Vocational programs can be a difficult subject to dissect and assess. There

are many different sides to them, and they come with potentially positive and potentially negative outcomes.

Go Somewhere!

FULL SEMESTER

block schedule

New block scheduling means you’ll take just one or two classes at a time. This model allows you focus more intently on each class, and allows faculty to have more time to devote to every student in each class — and more fully invest in your success.

The schedule also creates more time for job shadowing, research, internships, travel and other unique academic experiences.

As part of this, our outstanding professors are reimagining new core classes for first-year students. The core will help you get off to a great start in college and set you up to excel in key areas.

iPad Pro + Apple Pencil When you arrive to campus we’ll set you up with an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil — and provide any support you may need to know how to best incorporate these technology tools into your studies. A bonus: They’re yours to keep when you graduate.

We know a lot of learning happens outside the classroom — and we’ve built a connected campus with supercharged WiFi (indoors and out) and Apple TVs in every classroom.

Why the Pencil? Combined with apps we’ll provide and teach you to use, Apple Pencil lets you take notes, sketch and do all the things that drive learning.

Study abroad experience During your second year at Hastings College, you’ll spend a two-week block studying away from campus — likely in Paris. We believe so strongly in the transformational experience of studying away from campus that we’ll cover the costs!

We’re making this commitment thanks to individuals who love Hastings College and share this belief. No gimmicks or fake scholarships.

Your second year at Hastings? You’ll have the opportunity to spend part of it abroad.

Period.

HASTINGS.EDU/VISIT

Features 11 • 9 • 2018

11

Basketball team wins Powder Puff Tournament Garrett Carbullido Negley Staff Photographer

The girls basketball team earned an early season victory in the annual powder puff football tournament.

Maddie Smith, their quarterback, led the team with 7 touchdown passes and 2 touchdown runs in 3 games. Her 7 passing touchdowns were spread amongst Jahlina

Barrett (3), Maddie Krull (2), Tess Calder (1), and Caitlyn Lessig (1).

Other standout athletes from competing teams that scored touchdowns were Roni Foote, Bailey Urban, Jayme Horan, Kara DeHaven, Ginni Lynam, and Emily Bare. Thanks to this tournament, Junior Class Board was able to raise money for this year’s prom.

Junior Jayme Horan catches a touch down pass through senior Makenzi Hoit’s tough defense.

Photo by Garrett Carbullido Negley Right: Junior Roni Foote looks to make a move past senior Tess Calder in order to pick up a first down.

Photo by Garrett Carbullido Negley

Exchange students experience a change in day to day scenery Nickole Kreutzian Business Manager

Silva.

Isabella Chavarigna Barrona comes from the city of Cali, Colombia. Cali is well

Starting high school can be a nerveknown for their music and dancing. wracking experience. Starting high school

“I love the parties we have there,” in a new country, that doesn’t speak your she said. “There’s so much more dancing, language, can and good food, be downright and going out at terrifying. This night,” she said. year, Millard Despite their South welgeographical difcomes three ferences, the girls senior girls have a surprising from all across number of things the world. in common. They Hailing all love to go to from Sardinia, the gym, lifting Italy, is Beaweights or doing trice Ferraro. cardio.

Her homeIsabella Chavarigna Barrona and Beatrice Ferraro are Coming to Miltown, Alghero, in Johanna Hon’s Pride Time. Photo by Nicki Kreutzian lard South has is somewhat of certainly been a tourist city, a culture shock, but she loves the beaches and view. “I miss but one they’re all taking in stride. They all the liberty and independence of being able agree that they love the positive atmosphere to walk everywhere,” Ferraro said. here, and give particular recognition to

Leticia Lima E Silva is from the metheir teachers, who have all been wonderful. tropolis of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Her favorite Nothing has quite topped off their Ameripart of her hometown, however, is the can high school quite like pep rallies and neighborhood of Campo Grande, which is football games. in the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro.

“I just love watching the cheerleaders!”

“I love the subway system in Brazil, Chavarigna Barrona said. and the fun things to do there,” said Lima E

Princess Bride

Clubs make the night sweet for children

Grace Hill, Abby Murray, Isabella Brown, and Jayden Smith prepare for the trick-or-treaters at Bryan Elementary’s annual Trunk Or Treat sponsored by National Honors Society. HOSA won the competition for their mad scientist themed booth. Picture by Maddie Rynes

Seven Jone, Javier Esperanza, Taylor Peterson, Jeerapal Kaewkampol, Lauren Linton, Asia Franklin, Kylee Seeger, Joey Kaipust, Sophia Caples, and Zane Frank pose in front of Forensics’ space themed booth. Photo by Maddie Rynes.

Sports 11 • 9 • 2018

12

Winning tradition never graduates from softball program

Swing for the Cure through the eyes of a player Carina Covington Sports Editor

Jacob Haas Assistant Sports Editor

2018 stands to be one of the most historic seasons the softball program has ever seen. This team set records and reached a few milestones on their way to an impressive season. They finished with a total record of 25-8 and placed 3rd in the class-A Nebraska state tournament making it all the way to the 3rd round before being knocked out.

The regular season ended on a high note for the Patriots as their last two home games were wins. The Patriots defeated Millard West, and Millard North in the final week of the regular season to provide a strong push into the post season.

The Patriots then took their home field for districts. After sending Columbus and Bellevue West home, the Patriots punched their ticket back to Hastings to compete for another state title.

Marian was the first team in Millard South’s way. The Patriots pushed the Crusaders aside with ease as they run ruled the team to advance to the next round. Millard South defeated Gretna for their second win in the state tournament. Shortly after, the Patriots fell short against Junior Jayme Horan reaches her contact point, looking to launch one over the fence. Photo by Logan Foote a tough Papillion- LaVista team and took their first loss in the post-season. Lincoln Southwest gave the Patriots their final loss to end Millard

By the end of this season, the team had one Omaha South’s season putting the Patriots at a 3rd place state finish.

World-Herald all state player: Bailey Urban. Senior Bailey

Despite falling short in the tournament, it still was a great Urban also was able to break the home run record for class-A season for the team adding to their reputation of being one of softball with a total of 21 home runs. During this season, Urban the best high school softball programs in the state. This season also was awarded with the Metro Conference Softball Coaches’ totals up to be their 9th consecutive year of winning their Association Player of the Year award. She is ranked in the top district tournament. During this season they were also able to 100 of her class in the state of Nebraska. achieve their 600th win in program history during the West Junior Jayme Horan was awarded a spot on the Super State side invite adding to what would become very good season. It team alongside Bailey Urban. cultivated into a very entertaining season full of excitement and Although there are 6 talented seniors leaving the team, hard work put in by these players to continue the dominance of there are just as many coming in ready to take their place and this softball program. carry on the mantel.

Softball has been one of the proudest programs at Millard “We always try and carry one year into the next in order to South. Year after year they are one of the best teams in the state keep improving and I am really looking forward to next year as of Nebraska winning 6 state championships in the span of the are the girls,” Coach Kerkman said. last 8 years.

With talented young players, there is no doubt that coach “Since I have coached here we’ve worked a lot on the men- Kerkman will continue to show his skills as a coach as he has tal side of the game, such as overcoming adversity and handling done for the many years that he has coached here. the pressure and when you combine this mental toughness with Kerkman has been the head coach for every one of the the talent that we have been blessed with it leads to success,” state championships this program has won. This season he Head coach Steve Kerkman said. achieved a record of 409-144, winning his 400th game during

This season was no different when it comes to talent and the regular season. mental toughness as a team. They were able to overcome a slow Now they look to the future and one can only anticipate start and have a successful season by working hard and played what is next for this storied program. at a very high level.

Patriots expecting to show out after last season’s success

Alex Kopf

He put up a season high 17 points and going a remarkable 6 Staff Reporter

for 6 from the floor, 3 of those attempts from 3 point range.

The Patriots defeated the Wildcats 66-63 in a thriller to the

After coming off an amazing 2017-2018 season the boys buzzer. basketball team looks to repeat its state bound efforts this year.

But, the 3 returning seniors will have some help from Last year the Patriots finished a impressive 17-8 including a newcomer from Omaha South, De’shon Thompson. spot in the State Championships.

Thompson has trans The Patriots, who performed ferred to Millard South this year and is greater than the national averforeshadowed to have a huge impact on We have a great group of guys age in every statistic except steals the team with the ability to score from and blocks, surprised everyone. anywhere on the court. Thompson had who are looking to prove we Knocking off the #1 seed, Omaha season high of 10 points last season can be just as good as last year awhile Central, with the infamous from only averaging 13 minutes a game. or better!

Tyrell Carroll shocked all of Class He looks to step into a bigger role for the A basketball .

Patriots who are not very senior heavy –Senior De’shon Thompson

There returning players who this year. will take the roll as senior leaders

“I’m very excited for the for the 2018-2019 season. Hopeseason,” Thompson said. “We have a fully the boys can push each other towards another great great group of guys who are looking to prove we can be just as season. good as last year or better!” he said.

Seniors A.J. Locum, Nolan Benak, and Robby DeArmond The Patriots will start their season with an opener against who have all been with the Patriot program since freshman Omaha Westside on Dec. 7, followed by games against Lincoln year are no rookies when it comes to varsity basketball. DeAr- Pius X and Bellevue West. mond played a majority of the game in the “Battle of Q Street.”

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”

After playing softball for 12 years, it all seems to get a little repetitive. Walking into the complex through the crisp morning air, lacing up my cleats, and playing game after game.

While Swing for the Cure is meant to serve as a tournament to recognize those who have battled or those who are battling cancer, it also serves as a huge reminder to the players of how fortunate we are to be able to wake every day, healthy, and be able to play the game we have been in love with for years.

For those of you who don’t know, Swing for the Cure is Millard South Softball’s tournament dedicated to acknowledging and remembering those who are battling or have battled cancer. Bellevue East, Omaha Central, and Lincoln Southwest join Millard South in an effort to raise money and awareness for cancer. Each player has the opportunity to honor a family member who has battled cancer.

Before the tournament games begin, the player walks on the field with the person who is battling cancer, or the player can walk in remembrance of the person who battled cancer.

I have played in the Swing for the Cure tournament for four years now. Despite the repetitive nature of other games, Swing for the Cure gets more special every year. Each opening ceremony brings me to tears. There is truly nothing like wearing a Patriot jersey, arms locked with teammates, walking for a cause greater than all of us.

This year, I was fortunate enough to release balloons with the seniors from each respective high school. We all stood in a circle around the pitcher’s mound while maroon (multiple myeloma), pink (breast cancer), teal (cervical cancer), and white (lung cancer) balloons were released after taking a moment of silence to remember those who lost their battle.

The Millard South family is especially impacted by this day due to the loss of two Patriot Softball family members. The passing of head coach Steve Kerkman’s father, and the passing of Nicki Glatter, mother of former player Peyton Glatter, aunt of former player Bailey Urban.

Swing for the Cure is always full of so many surreal moments. Out of my high school career, one of the coolest moments was watching Peyton Glatter hit a home run directly over the teal cancer ribbon hung on the fence. Teal represents cervical cancer, the cancer Peyton’s mother lost her battle to in December of 2014.

Moments like these make Swing for the Cure a continuously special day.

Millard South is still the only school in Nebraska to host an entire tournament dedicated to cancer. We all wear our Patriot jerseys with a little extra pride on the day of Swing for the Cure.

Sports 11 • 9 • 2018

13

Warner Bros: A tennis blockbuster Jack Towne

Staff Reporter

When playing Doubles tennis, it’s good to have a great connection with your partner. Some have more of that special connection than others. Competing at the 2-Doubles spot for the Millard South Varsity Tennis team, senior Ethan and sophomore Jonathan Warner have a better connection than most. They’ve been working on it for almost their entire lives.

Ethan and Jonathan have had a long time to work on being brothers, but being teammates took some serious honing.

“We started to play each other just for fun when I was a freshman and Jonathan was in 7th grade,” Ethan said. “It wasn’t until this year that we started playing Doubles together as an official team.”

It just so happened that at the same time they were finally brought together as teammates, the Millard South Tennis team was having its most successful season in recent memory.

“Everyone on the team was really excited about being seeded at the Metro and State tournaments,” Jonathan said. “It was fun because we actually got to win tournaments and be a force when we competed.”

It was definitely something special that the brothers got to experience this Millard South Tennis Renaissance, if you will, but now Jonathan is left without a Doubles partner, and, moving forward, without most of the Varsity Tennis team,

which was primarily made up of seniors.

“We’re definitely almost back to square one to start next year, because of all the seniors leaving. But we’re still pretty confident about continuing this success,” Jonathan said.

“They’ll do just fine. There’s a few of them that played on Varsity, and they’ll have the experience to be leaders for the newcomers next year. I know Jonathan will be a big part of that, for sure,” said the now departing Ethan.

After making it to the state tournament as part of a seeded 2-Doubles team, Jonathan certainly has reason to be optimistic. But 2-Doubles isn’t where that future most likely will take shape.

“I expect to play 1-Doubles, or possibly even Singles next year. It all depends on where my coach Senior Ethan Warner jumps to return an opponent’s serve as sophomore Jonathan looks on. Photo by feels I’m needed most. I just Cale Goodman want to do what’s best for first of the team, and even though they play on, always looking toward the next the team,” Jonathon said. weren’t always individual champions, they point, the next game, the next match.

That’s what the Warner brothers have always did their best to help the team always done. Though individual success is important to them, they’ve always thought achieve their goals. With this attitude, Jonathan and the other tennis players will

Patriot football proves hard work pays off Hailey Bos Secretary

against Lincoln Pius X. Chase Perchal had another outstanding game and helped the Two years ago the Millard South Football team was 1-8. This year they are 8-1, and Patriots to a 34-14 victory against Lincoln Pius X. The second playoff game was against were ranked second in the state leading into the state playoffs.

Grand Island. Through a tough battle against the Islanders, and the men in black and “Two seasons ago we changed the summer workouts,” Head Coach Andy Means said. white stripes, the Patriots were defeated 24-27.

“We focused more on strength training instead of conditioning. Players are stronger and “Being on the field and watching the clock hit 0 made it feel like I was about to faster than they used to be,” he explained. wake up from a nightmare, but I realized that it was real when the scoreboard shut off Means continued to stress the factor of speed and considand I felt my heart drop into my stomach,” senior Josh Reuting ered it the team’s biggest strength. said. Reuting played his final game in a Patriot jersey after his 4

Our speed gives us an edge over other teams, because it in the program.

We knew as soon as condition- years allows us to make up errors,” Means said.

“We knew as soon as conditioning started in November last ing started in November last

To start off the season the boys welcomed Gretna High year that we wanted to go far and change the culture of the team,” School to class A with a shut out of 27-0. The next week senior Gage Thomas said. “Playing with my team as a senior was year that we wanted to go far the boys carried out their intensity against Lincoln Pius X. amazing because we got looked up to in a sense of being the oldand change the culture of the Junior Chase Perchal saved the game with a 86-yard kick est and I remember being in their place doing the same and we team. return in the last few seconds leaving the score at 42-39. The created a strong bond that way,” he said. Thomas said he feels that –Senior Gage Thomas first and only regular season loss was against our rival on Q the seniors made their mark for the upcoming underclassmen to street, Millard West. The Patriots were defeated by 27-34 in carry on the tradition of a great program. overtime.

“We didn’t think we would make it to where we did. [being

After their first loss, the boys bounced back and finished the rest of their regular second seed in the playoffs and district champions] I think that goes to show all of the season with nothing but wins. The last two regular seasons games were supposed to be a work we put in during the summer and week in and week out and how dedicated our tough match up for the Patriots. In the second to last regular season game, the boys beat team is to making each other better,” explained senior Kolby Hanna.

Creighton Prep 38-30. For the last regular season game the boys beat second ranked

The Patriots finished the season 9-2. The seniors feel that the season didn’t end how Westside 14-13 to become district champions on a safety by sophomore Tate Hinrichs. they wanted it to but they set the underclassman with a great stepping stone to reach

Patriots were ranked second in the state entering playoffs. Their first game was state next year.

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Junior, Chase Perchal stiff arms a Lincoln Pius player to make room for a long run with the ball. Photo by Logan Foote

Sophomore TJ Urban, the quarterback, runs with the ball as the Patriots near the end zone. Photo by Logan Foote

Junior Tyson Gerdes, Senior Josh Reuting, and Junior Isaiah Harris celebrate a touchdown against Elkhorn South. Photo by Cale Goodman

14

Entertainment 11 • 9 • 2018

Halloween revamped Alexis Gamble Staff Reporter

Since 1978, Halloween has been one of the most iconic and classic horror movies to surface up during October.

Recently I saw the newest addition to John Carpenter’s Halloween series. It was a great movie with good acting, but being a Halloween movie fanatic, it was also a little disappointing during certain points of the film.

Although the overall movie was amazing, and I would definitely see it again, it didn’t quite follow the original story line. The first couple of movies follow the plot of Michael Myers (Nick Castle) and Laurie (Jamie-Lee Curtis) being related, this movie chose to take the route that Laurie was just survivor of the murders that took place 40 years ago, and Michael was coming back to finish what he started… of course on Halloween night. Don’t get me wrong, both plots are good, but I just personally would’ve taken the family route.

The director, David Gordon Green, did an amazing job incorporating some elements from the old movies while adding a 2018 twist to it. Now that the quality of movies have increased dramatically since 1978, it gave Green a lot more room for creativity during those gory scenes (which he did not hold back on).

The movie itself was so good, especially from an “outsider” point-of-view, there were a lot of jump scares, the theme

song from the series made an appearance, and the acting was actually pretty good. But again, I’ve been watching Halloween since I was eight. It was a tradition, and this movie just bugged me in different ways, the music was just a little off, like they speed it up and added a faint beat in the background, but that’s just me being picky.

Another thing that I was confused about is the whole point of the movies is the fact that Michael Myers isn’t supposed to die, and in each movie the main character thinks they killed him, but the end always shows Michael still living.

This time around they trap Michael in the basement and set the house on fire, which has happened before, and the end shows the burning basement, but no Michael, he is M.I.A. Now this could mean that he is living and that there will be yet another Halloween movie made, but the directors hinted saying that this is potentially the last Halloween movie, but we will see about that.

Now this version will never live up to the first and second movie of the series, but it was very frightening, very entertaining, and kept you on your toes the whole time. I can get past the small things that I didn’t like, because I would pay to see this movie five more times. So if your in the mood for a good scare, I would strongly recommend this movie to you.

Hill House haunts a family since 1992 Halle Benson Staff Reporter

A Star is re-Born

Lady Gaga makes Oscar worthy debut Cassady Alberico Staff Reporter

I walked into 2018’s A Star is Born completely blind to the history of the film. Having never seen the original 1937 film, a 1954 remake or the popular 1976 remake, I had little to no expectations of this fourth iteration. I was expecting a lighthearted romantic musical, based on the trailers.

What I found was much darker, yet much more memorable.

From the very first shot, Bradley Cooper’s alternative rock star persona, Jackson Maine, is characterized by troubling substance use. Washing down pills with shots of gin before heading on stage, the foreshadow of this opening was obvious. Maine treats his body very poorly - abusing various drugs, as well as ignoring his fading hearing as he slowly deafens himself with each passing concert. He is already a lost cause ripe for tragedy when the audience meets the star of the show: Lady Gaga’s Ally.

Gaga’s performance is the reason to see this movie. I was expecting her sheer star power in the film’s music numbers, but

I was not expecting was such a believable character portrayal.

The irony of this Star was not lost on the audience. Lady Gaga is no stranger to musical fame, and Ally’s developing career and forays into various music styles was similar to Gaga’s own rise to fame. Unfortunately, while excellently performed, Ally feels like a relatively stagnant character. Her fame and relationship with Maine are life-changing events, however, Ally was not different at the end of the film except in social status.

Many of these scenes are shot with handheld cameras, giving the audience a more intimate view of Jack and Ally’s relationship. Scenes that do not involve motion are almost entirely close-ups. Cooper and Gaga’s acting is entirely in their face and voice, an impressive feat by the inexperienced Gaga.

These characters felt real, I didn’t realize that I cared about them until after I followed their triumphs and tragedies.

Believable and identifiable characters are hard to craft in film, but A Star is Born managed to

cram all the multifaceted aspects of human life into its two leads.

A Star is Born also features originally written music. Admittedly, it wasn’t my cup of tea, but the songs were easily likable and catchy. Lady Gaga shines here, showing off her impressive range of musical styles. We first see her belting the classical La Vie En Rose before spanning the musical gambit from modern punk to acoustic ballad.

While the 134 minute film occasionally drags, the Oscar-worthy performances of its two stars make Star is Born a worthwhile watch.

Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut doesn’t try to do anything new, instead aiming to perfect tried and true film techniques. More aptly titled A Star is Re-Born, Lady Gaga’s foray into acting is one worth witnessing.

Netflix has been on a roll this year with coming out with tons of new original movies and TV shows such as To All The Boys I Loved Before, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Nailed It. One of the more recent shows that came out this year is The Haunting of Hill House and people should really be talking about it more. Mike Flanagan, the director the show, has also directed many other scary films such as Ouija: The Origin of Evil and Hush over the past years.

The show starts off with the Crain family’s present, but also flashes back to their past when they lived in Hill House. In the past, the seven members of the Crain family are living in a mansion called the Hill House for the summer in 1992. During that summer, everyone experiences some strange phenomena like the Bent Neck Lady, Abigail, and the Red Room while living in the house. Throughout these occurrences, the parents are trying to renovate the Hill House for someone else to live in it. When the show fast forwards to present time, we get to see what life is like for the Crain family as adults and how the Hill House has an effect on them now.

The Haunting of Hill House is hard to follow at first, because there are a lot of characters that have tons of flashbacks to the past, but in order to understand the show, you have to watch every single episode closely. Flanagan did such a great job of capturing tiny details when he filmed multiple scenes at multiple different angles throughout the show. I learned right away while watching the show to pay attention, because it is easy to miss important plot points.

There have been rumors roaming the internet that Netflix might renew The Haunting of Hill House for a season 2, which does not need to happen.

When I finished watching all 10 episodes of the show, I liked the way it ended.

It wasn’t too dark, it wasn’t too happy, it was a nice medium.

15

Entertainment 11 • 9 • 2018

Twenty One Pilots make a comeback with TRENCH Tori Barkus Cartoonist

Oct. 5 was a crazy day. So much happened in the entertainment world, but one of the most exciting, by far, was Twenty One Pilots’ album release. Twenty One Pilots came out with their fifth album entitled Trench. It features 14 tracks and is a total of 56 minutes long. For me, this album was something I highly anticipated for many reasons. One, they had already announced their upcoming tour for this album, and two, I was ready for new music. I will admit that I was slightly apprehensive about this new era because, like most artists, their sound was bound to change and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I wasn’t thinking it would be a complete 180 degree change from Blurryface, though I knew it wouldn’t be too similar.

On the morning of Oct. 5, I logged onto my Spotify account to finally listen to this album and I was shocked at how much I loved it. It’s an incredible album with a deep meaning and all of the songs have such good rhythm. Before the entire album came out, they slowly released a few singles - those singles also have music videos on YouTube that tie together and tell a story. They started with the first track on the album, Jumpsuit and the ninth track, Nico and the Niners. Both songs go together so well, they compliment each other in such an indescribable way. Then they released tracks two and four, Levitate and My Blood. Levitate was an interesting track when I gave it a listen for the first time. I wasn’t sure if I liked it but I knew I didn’t hate it. I listened to it a few more times and I really love it, it has a catchy beat and rhythm.

I would like to note that the majority of this album is on the slower side, not quite ballads but not quite upbeat pop/rock songs either. It makes for easy listening and it’s nice to hear a much calmer, quieter side from the band. Comparing Trench to tracks like Goner from their fourth album, Blurryface, you can still hear the raw

emotion in their music, yet you can feel how much calmer lead singer Tyler Joseph seems to be in his music.

In Goner, he builds up the music throughout the song

and ends it with screaming “Don’t let me be gone.” You hear the screaming in Jumpsuit but then every other

track is more poetic. Take Neon Gravestones for example.

Joseph’s words are poetic, in fact, the ending of the song reads like a poem with a beat backing it.

The one negative I find in this album is that every track feels lyrically repetitive. In Cut My Lip, the words “I don’t mind at all, lean on my pride / Lean on my pride, I’m a lion” are repeated often. In My Blood, the words “Stay with me, you don’t need to run /Stay with me, my blood” is heard through the entire song. I wish there’d be a bit more lyrical difference throughout each track, but it’s all still so, so good - and that’s an understatement.

Twenty One Pilots is a very unique band as far as sound goes and even as far as the way they perform and how involved they are with their fans in the audience. Their uniqueness has gotten them to where they are now and, if it’s even possible, they’re only getting bigger. Their music is a refreshing break from the annoying, overproduced pop music you find on the radio. It’s more down to earth, it’s written with the idea of having such a deeper meaning and to be something that helps their fans through hard times.

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16

The Hate U Give

Entertainment 11 • 9 • 2018

Film shows voice of a girl from both sides of the tracks Sadie Brower Entertainment Editor

The Hate U Give is a powerful feature exploring racism and police brutality in America today that provides information crucial to our understanding of African Americans and races in the minority. Released on Oct. 5 in select theaters, this film was immediately getting media attention and even criticism. The Hate U Give, based off of the best selling novel by Angie Thomas, stars Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Russell Hornsby, Anthony Mackie, and Issa Rae. This film was directed by George Tillman Jr. and written by

Audrey Wells.

Starr Carter, the main character played by Amandla Stenberg, grew up in Garden Heights or in her words “the hood”. However she is enrolled in a predominately white private school outside of Garden Heights.

Starr lives her life switching between two different personas , so that she would fit the standard of both societies. Early on in this movie, Starr’s life is flipped upside down when her lifelong best friend is unlawfully killed by a white police officer. While Starr hides her struggles from everyone at school, she begins to learn how to use the most powerful weapon anyone can have, her voice. This is nothing short of painful for Starr as she watches her community unravel at her feet. As Starr faces the difficulties of her best friends’ death, she also endures racist comments and feedback at school even from her closest friends.

Although this movie was very captivating, there were

Drama presents a classic tale of

Pure Imagination

noticeable faults in the general directing of the film. The script is written with many holes that would only be filled for those that had read the book. The main fault within the film’s script was lack of character depth. There are many important scenes left unresolved creating a misunderstanding of the story as a whole for anyone who may not have previously read the book.

That being said, this film is one everyone should see, having read Angie Thomas’ book or not, because the message in both the book and movie is greater than any faults the movie may have. Viewers will notice the difficulty of living as a minority in our world that cannot be overlooked.

As Starr fights for the rights she and the rest of her people deserve, the audience learns the hardship of racism and the legal justice systems unfairness towards the topic of racial profiling that many of us completely overlook whether it is intentional or not.

Many people watch The Hate U Give and read the book assuming these situations hardly ever happen. The Hate U Give shows the effects racial profiling has on minority communities but there are many cases just like the story told in this film that happen every day in cities all over the United States.

Starr teaches us not to unsee race altogether but to treat everyone equally while acknowledging the background and culture they come from. She teaches us to treat everyone with the respect they deserve without defining them with one glance. “The Hate You Give Little Infants [explicit] Everyone” teaches us that the way we treat other people is what determines the future, so it’s our decision whether we end racism today in order to change our country’s future.

(Left) Charlie Bucket (Cassie Wessel) encourages Mr. Bucket (Kyler Lawrensen) to think positive after he loses his job. Photo by Garrett Carbullido-Negley

(Below) Augustus Gloop (Cole Snook) celebrates after discovering a Golden Ticket. Photo by Isabel Robb

(Above) The winners of the Golden Tickets and their parents line up outside of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory in anticipation of the untold wonders inside.

Photo by Isabel Robb.

Show Times: Nov. 9 and 10 at 7 p.m.

Nov. 11 at 2 p.m.

Tickets at the door or showtix4u.com $8 for students $10 for adults

(Above) Townspeople (ensemble members) gather to see the winners of the Golden Ticket enter Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Photo by Isabel Robb (Left) Phineous Trout (Vince Hawkins) interviews Mike Teevee (Max Smelser) and Mrs. Teevee (Kirstyn Misek) after Mike claims the fourth Golden Ticket. Photo by Garrett Carbullido-Negley