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EAGLE EYE

Seussical

Lindale High School Volume 26 Issue 1 December 2017

Takes Stage The Theatre Program Puts on Its First Full-Scale Musical in Six Years

The Student Becomes the Teacher

Boss on the Field Student Soccer Referees

Junior Assists in Teaching AP Chemistry

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Staff Page

EAGLE EYE

editors and officers

Sydney Smith, Editor-In-Chief Isabelle Philips, Managing Editor Kaitlyn Barrington, Assistant Editor

Ronak Desai, Copy Editor Tyra Rodden, Sports Editor Anthony Wyatt, Video Editor

Kaylee Rodriquez, Social Media Editor Adrienne Parks, Social Officer Evan Bewersdorf, Business Manager

Haylee Haxton, Secretary Annie Evans

CONTENTS ACADEMICS

Students Take Advantage of Growth in Medical Program The Student Becomes the Teacher

Life Skills Students Experience Jobs

Audio Visual Class Prepares for Documentaries

ARTS AND TRAVEL

Lindale Students Venture to Europe

Faculty Member Returns Home to Egypt After Seven Years

‘Seussical the Musical’ Takes the Stage

Senior attends Photography Class in Costa Rica

SOCIAL

staff Alanna Kologey Bailey Spencer Caleb Smithee

Staff Blogs: Backpacking Through The Rockies and An Unexpected Love

Long Distance Relationships

Siblings In High School

Couples Who Work Together, Stay Together

SPORTS Carter Colvin Colleen Starkey Jude Ratcliff

Boss on the Field: Student Soccer Referees

Sports Seasons and Stats

Advisor: Neda Morrow morrownl@lisdeagles.net

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Check out our online magazine at http:/LHSEagle-eye.com The views expressed in the Eagle Eye are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Lindale High School.

Students Take Advantage of Growth in

Medical Programs

Story and page design by Tyra Rodden, Sports Editor

Jace Tomplait said. “ETMC is right around the corner, tudents adorned in colorful scrubs and and it’s really interesting that we get to go there.” cheerful smiles gather their things hurriedly Other classes set students up for their future. in preparation for another trip to the hospital. The Pharmacy Technician and Certified Nurses Aid Serving others and the community sits at the (CNA) programs help students earn jobs right out of top of their priority list. As the students finish high school. The classes go over material to prepare making arrangements, they load up on the bus in students for a certification test in their individual hopes that their experience will bring them one day fields. closer to a job in the medical field. “It benefits students because the programs This is a weekly experience for students that we are teaching actually allow them to go out enrolled in the medical program at the high school. and get a job,” Clemmons said. “There are so many The program has grown in many ways over the different opportunities and different career paths years. Student enrollment and class availability has they can take that really opens up lots of possibilities transformed the program into one of great interest for students and their future careers.” among students. “The program helps them by being able to help them get ready for a job in that career field,” CTE director Brent Berryman said. “It makes me really happy that the program has grown.” Five classes and about 230 students are involved in a medical related program. Teacher Sally Clemmons taught the first health science class nine years ago. The class had about 25 students. “It’s fun to teach down here,” Clemmons said. “We do lots of projects and students get to go out on clinicals, so I think they really enjoy getting to do hands on learning.” The classes provide real world experience for students. The job shadowing class allows students to leave campus and attend hospitals, schools and nursing homes to gain insight on potential jobs. “[The program] is giving me a first-hand experience with the Senior Brooklyn Bowman works with a young student as part of hospital and how it works,” senior her job shadowing duties. The job shadowing program visits the Early Childhood Center every week. Photos by Tyra Rodden

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TOP TEN Highest Paying Jobs in the Medical Field 1. Physicians and surgeons $208,000 per year or more 2. Dentists $159,770 per year 3. Podiatrists $124,830 per year 4. Pharmacists $122,230 per year 5. Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners $107,460 per year 6. Optometrists $106,140 per year 7. Physician assistants $101,480 per year 8. Veterinarians $88,770 per year 9. Physical therapists $85,400 per year 10. Occupational therapists $81,910 per year

“

The program is giving me first hand experience with the hospital and how it works. ETMC is right around the corner, and it’s really interesting that we get to go there.

Jace Tomplait, senior

“

Courtesy of monster.com

“It’s fun to teach down here. We do lots of projects and students get to go out on clinicals, so I think they really enjoy getting to do hands on learning.” Sally Clemmons, Health Science Teacher ACADEMICS | 3

The Student Becomes the Teacher Junior helps teach sophomore chemistry class

Story by Kaitlyn Barrington, Assistant Editor Design by Adrienne Parks, Social Coordinator

fter taking a deep breath, she walks into the classroom with confidence and her head held high. Instead of taking a seat next to one of her fellow peers, she walks to the front of the room with the lesson plan ready. Goals in mind and pen in hand, she writes scientific formulas for the students to learn and teaches them how to solve equations. Later in life she will be paid to do what she loves, but for now she receives a grade to teach. Junior Mara Griffin student teaches a Pre-AP chemistry class with teacher Mrs. Lyles. While students typically student teach elementary classes, Griffin’s schedule and ambitions work better to teach at the high school level. “She wants to be a high school teacher, and specifically a chemistry teacher, so I have tried to place her in that environment,” instructional technology teacher Rhonda Walker said. “[Also] the amount of time she is in my class really isn’t enough time to go to another campus.” On Mondays through Thursdays, Griffin is student teaching, and attends her Ready, Set, Teach class with Rhonda Walker on Friday. The knowledge that Griffin is gaining through this experience will help her get a feel for real world applications. “She is getting hands-on experience helping Mrs. Lyles,” Walker said. “She is making up lessons, so it is a very good experience for her.” Only two other

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students have taught at the high school level during Walker’s time at Lindale. Griffin teaching this class is a rare occasion for both herself and her teachers. “All of my student teachers have already gone through college and are in a teaching program or an alternate vocation program, so I haven’t had a student do it before,” Lyles said. “As we go through the year, I will start letting her do more and more.” Griffin was also in Lyles’ Pre-AP chemistry class for the 2016-17 school year and is a student in the AP Chemistry class this year. She is currently working towards being the valedictorian of her class. “I had over a 100 in chemistry all year long, and [the teachers] thought that I was perfectly capable of handling the students,” Griffin said. “When I graduate college, I want to teach in Texas

Photos by Adrienne Parks and Kaylee Rodriguez.

Junior Mara Griffin grades and passes back papers as she helps teach a sophomore chemistry class. Griffin loved her own time in this class so much that she began to teach it in addition to taking an AP chemistry course her junior year.

because that is where I will have my teaching certificate. I want to teach some sort of science, whether it be chemistry or biology.” Hard work and dedication go into being a student teacher. This program is not a typical elective class because students are put into real life situations and receive first hand experience. “When you are preparing a lesson, there is a lesson plan sheet that I have, and it has the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) number that goes along with the lesson so that you are abiding by state laws,” Griffin said. “I would say the hardest part is teaching in a way that everyone understands. Some people have to be able to see it, other people just want to listen, [and] other people just want to read the book because it’s a matter of reaching all of your

students and not just one type.” Even though Griffin is only one year older than her students, it does not distract her from the primary focus of being capable to teach the class. She is acquiring skills that most teenagers don’t have because she has to handle peers very close in age to her. “I don’t think I was really nervous teaching that class because I know a lot of the sophomores that I am teaching with,” Griffin said. “They know who I am, and I knew that they weren’t going to be rude. I know that there was a respect between us.” Griffin’s love for school and learning is what drives her to become a better teacher and student. It is a passion that she has had in her from the beginning of her schooling. “Whenever I was little, I used to love going to school because it was such a cool new experience for me,” Griffin said. “Whenever I was in geometry, there was this kid who was struggling, so I told him my way of memorizing the formulas. After the test, he told me that it helped, and I felt the sense of satisfaction that teachers get when a student lights up. ACADEMICS | 5

S T UDE NTS GA IN JOB SKILLS By Carter Colvin and Bailey Spencer, Staff Writers

Life skills aide Robin McCreery and junior Brandon Pullen practice restaurant skills at the Hideaway clubhouse.

Photo by Bailey Spencer Photo by Carter Colvin

Gregory Kelley gets right to work after he enters the Hideaway Clubhouse.

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Page design by Bailey Spencer

Laughter fills the air as the teacher pushes the door wide open and reveals the yellow school bus waiting by the curb. The students stride through the hallway with purpose in their hearts and a bounce in their steps as they take their seats. With a flourish, the bus driver closes the door and drives away from the brick school building. Life skills students, along with their teachers, leave campus every day to perform different jobs around the community. This opportunity allows them to learn and gain experience in the work field. “This program is important because it helps students gain job and vocational skills,” Lauren Backer, special needs teacher for community based instruction, said. “[This can guarantee] that they can be productive citizens and contribute to the community when they graduate.” The program began three years ago with Special Needs Director Ann Paine. This on the job training

“They are a big help. This year, I see them being leaders for the new students, and that is fun to watch.” --Jennifer Johnson between second and fourth period helps facilitate the transition from high school to the workplace once the students graduate. “I think this opportunity is good for the students because it teaches discipline,” life skills teacher aide Robin McCreery said. “We are trying to teach them how to work and how to have a job.” The life skills program rotates on a weekly basis. On Mondays, the group goes to the local food pantry, their favorite place, to sort cans and stock shelves. On Tuesdays, they drive to Petty’s Steak and Catfish to help roll silverware, and on Wednesdays, they go to Doc’s Pizza to fold pizza boxes. “It is really fun, and I enjoy this part of the day,” McCreery said. “The students are always fresh, always fun and they are who they are.” The bus takes the group to Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas to practice bowling on

Thursdays for a bowling tournament in November. On Fridays, they go to Early Childhood Center (ECC) to roll silverware and to the Hideaway Lake Clubhouse to roll silverware and fill salt and pepper shakers. “The kids are great,” Hideaway Clubhouse Events Director Jennifer Johnson said. “Hannah [Irwin] and Clark [Grace] have been coming out for the two years [since] I’ve been here, and they are a big help. This year, I see them being leaders for the new students, and that is fun to watch.”

“This program is important because it helps students gain job and vocational skills.” --Lauren Backer

The life skills program teaches its students the skills that are needed to go off on their own into the real world. For example, a Lindale graduate who graduated from the program over three years ago now works as a busser at Petty’s Steak and Catfish. “I’ve learned that they are just as capable of doing just as much as I can,” ECC Cafeteria Manager Diana Jarrett said. “There is nothing wrong [with their performance], and they do great work.”

Volunteer and Learn Photo by Carter Colvin

Left: Hideaway Clubhouse Events Director Jennifer Johnson demos the correct way to roll silverware. Bottom left: Substitute teacher Deena Turvaville volunteers with Clark Grace. Bottom right: Students sort through the plastic packages of silverware at the ECC cafeteria. The program strives to prepare these students for jobs after school.

Photo by Bailey Spencer

Photo by Bailey Spencer ACADEMICS | 7

Gabriel Ledesma and Zac Brooks set up sound equipment for the Yamboree ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo by Sarah Huseth.

Sarah Day creates a storyboard for the Larry Wilson documentary. Photo by Kaylee Rodriquez.

The Yamboree documentray film crew interviews Yamboree Queen Madison Dean. Photo by Sarah Day.

Film in Action

Audio-Visual Program Creates Documentaries for UIL Film Competition By Kaylee Rodriquez and Design by Bailey Spencer

They set up the cameras and test the sound. Everything is running smoothly, and they are preparing for the final shot. The director calls “action” and they begin rolling. Students in the advanced Audio/Visual Production program are making documentaries for the University Interscholastic League film competition. The contest opens in January, but students are given all year to prepare and produce the films. “The educational goal to making the audio-visual

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documentaries has to do with embedding ourselves in the real world environment of filmmaking,” audio-visual instructor Neda Morrow said. “In order to do this, they process the film from beginning to end just as they’d do in a real film studio.” There are two different documentaries being submitted: a large scale documentary about the East Texas Yamboree and a human interest piece about Lindale community member Larry Wilson. “We went through several months of preparation for this documentary,” director Sydney Smith said. “We made shot lists,

questions, and we did our research. We especially figured out what the [Yamboree] was and what it meant to the people of Gilmer.” The students filmed for the Yamboree documentary in Gilmer, Texas while the festival was taking place at the end of October. They attended the majority of the events that took place for the Yamboree in order to be as inclusive as possible with their film. “There is a lot happening when you film on location,” Smith said. “It is chaotic, and there are many people running around. There are so many things you have to cover. It’s a lot of preplanning that you have to put in to work. You have to know what you’re doing, and you have to have an idea to go along with.” The students are now beginning

Sarah Huseth films at Yamboree luncheon. The crew captured every moment of the event, including this 80 year old tradition. Photo by Sarah Day.

“I am hoping that the students learn how to rely on each other and how to use each other‘s strengths. I am also hoping they learn how to advance their technology skills. Neda Morrow, audiovisual instructor the editing and post-production process for the Yamboree film. Alongside that, they are preparing and planning the filming process for the second documentary about Wilson. “Right now, we are kind of brainstorming what we exactly want for the documentary,” director Sarah Huseth said. “We are also communicating with Larry Wilson to schedule times to interview and [about] other shots that we are wanting for this documentary. We have looked at other videos that could kind of inspire what path we would be going towards.” Once both films have been

Reese Britton sets up a tripod for filming on the Yamboree fair grounds. Photo by Sarah Huseth.

shot and edited, the students will submit a seven minute version to the UIL film competition. The film will be judged in several rounds in hopes of advancing to and winning at the state level. “UIL is a program that has a lot of academic qualities to it, and one of the things they have done is create a UIL film division,” Morrow said. “The film division allows students to create films from scratch, write them, produce them and [experience] all of the elements of filmmaking.” This is the second year for the new style of audio-visual program that started in 2016 when Morrow became the instructor. This is

the first year the class has had an advanced group (second year members of the program) working together to create multiple films to be submitted to UIL. “What I hope the students learn from this is how to operate with each other in a film environment and in a businesslike manner,” Morrow said. “I am hoping that the students learn how to rely on each other and how to use each other‘s strengths without it becoming an issue. I am also hoping they learn how to advance their technology skills.” ACADEMICS | 9

Lindale Students Venture To Europe

Photos courtesy of Julia Austin

Story and page design by Anthony Wyatt | Photo/Video Editor The sun’s rays peak over the horizon casting light across the Mediterranean as their boots crunch the white sand beneath their feet. Every step brings them closer to the sparkling coastline ahead, leaving civilization behind. Graduate Morgan Droblyn, seniors Coleman Allen and Addison Banquet and junior Julia Austin traveled across the Atlantic with theatre director Taylor Jarman this summer. The group left on June 15 and returned on June 27, and the trip was put together through the high school’s study abroad program. “These trips are about letting students experience other cultures and history around the world,” Jarman said. “I hope that students get to have a blast while traveling on a once in a lifetime trip with their friends.” The trip fully immersed Lindale students in a foreign culture to give a broader learning experience. Lindale plans to host trips similar to this one in the future. “My favorite part of the trip was the out of world experience,” Baquet said. ”I had never been out of the country before this trip, so it was a whole other culture experiencing all these other languages and ways of living.” The Lindale students were in proximity to other schools from around the nation but were

Top Photo: Addison Baquet, Morgan Droblyn, Coleman Allen, and Julia Austin stand with their backs to a Greek coastline. The students viewed these stunning vistas as the travelled across the Mediterranean. Bottom Photo: The Roman Colleseum glistens under a bright Italian sun.

largely by themselves during their travels. Their trip began in Rome, Italy where they spent four days exploring classic architecture and the local culture. “My favorite part of the trip was going to see the different architectural structures throughout Italy and Greece such as the Parthenon and the Colosseum,” Austin said. “I really love old

architectural design and how people in the past did incredible things without today’s advanced technology.” The group set their sights on Greece and the southern region of Italy. They ferried to the city of Capri, Italy, while also exploring the ruins of Pompeii and enjoying a night ferry to Patras, Greece. “My favorite experience this

past summer was traveling through Greece,” Jarman said. “I loved the entire experience. There was so much ancient history, so many great people to meet and so much great food to try.” Their trip came to a close with an adventure through Athens, Greece and a small three day excursion through the Mykonos, a collection

Left: From left to right Coleman Allen, Jacob Cox, Morgan Droblyn, Addison Baquet and Julia Austin enjoy a Greek cruise. The group traveled the Mediteranean soaking in the extravagant vistas and culture. Below: The Parthenon stands in stark contrast against the blue skyline. The Mediteranean country side is beautifully covered in historical architecture and monuments.

of Greek islands. They include Samos, Patmos, Crete and Santorini. “It was the most life changing experience I’ve ever had,” Allen said. “It was absolutely beautiful, and I cannot wait to go back if I get the chance.” Jarman has already begun planning a trip for next summer to explore Dublin, Ireland and London. “We will experience some great Irish culture then travel to Shakespeare’s home right after traveling through Wales,” Jarman said. “ We will end the trip in London, England touring Parliament, checking out Buckingham Palace, and visiting The Globe Theater in London. It is an experience students won’t want to miss. We keep signing students up through December, so if they still want to travel with us, they can come see me for an information packet.”

A Trip Back Home Story and layout by Isabelle Phillips, Managing Editor

he steps off the plane, the hot summer air hitting her face and the last 15 hours suddenly seeming worth it. Her eyes swell with tears as she gazes at her surroundings, memories flooding in. She cannot believe it has been seven years. She cannot believe she is home. Life skills teacher Gihan Boulus and her family traveled to Cairo, Egypt to visit for the summer. Boulus and her family left their home in Egypt seven years ago to pursue the American Dream. This was her familyâ€™s first time to visit since they left.

Boulus and her family pose in front of the Pyramids of Khafre. The family also had fun riding camels and exploring the monuments. Photos courtesy of Armia Abdelshahid. ARTS AND TRAVEL | 12

Abdelshahid poses in front of the Pyramids of Khafre.

“The summer of 2017 I graduated [from LHS], and I got to travel to Egypt,” Boulus’s son Armia Abdelshahid said. “I was very [excited], and I honestly did not know what to expect because I was 11 years old when I left Egypt, and now I’m almost 19.” Boulus’s husband worked in a tourist environment and fell in love with America and the people who live in - Gihan it. It had always been his dream to move to the U.S., and he had a specific place in mind. “He just dreamed of coming to Texas,” Boulus said. “But when I came here, I realized why. I like [the] Texas area, especially [the] Lindale family and community. It’s a good Christian community. I love it. People are so nice [and] very friendly.” While Boulus and her family loves their home here in Texas, she agreed that it was time for a visit. For Abdelshahid, the trip to Egypt meant reconnecting with not only his family, but his roots. He is the second child of four and the journey to the place he grew up was very nostalgic. “One of the main factors I visited Egypt for was family and friends,” Abdelshahid said. “It was an amazing moment to see all of them happy and in a good health. Now, the second reason would be seeing my [homeland], the place I learned how to walk, the room that I used to sleep

in. It was awesome sleeping in my home in Egypt. It actually did feel like [I was] at home.” During their time spent in Egypt they toured many of the country’s historical figures. They visited the pyramids, rode camels and scuba dived in the Red Sea. However, the beautiful scenery was not the only thing on Boulus’s mind. “I was very concerned honestly before I left,” Boulus said. “Before we Boulues [went] on that trip because of what we hear about what is going on in the Middle East, especially the Egypt area. We were really concerned, but when we [got] there it was really safe. Egypt [is a] beautiful country like it used to be.” Due to the religious persecution in the Middle East right now, Egypt can be considered dangerous for travelers. “Here is more freedom,” Boulus said. “More freedom to worship God. Nobody here asks you what your religion is. In Egypt you write your religion on your driver license. If you have an ID, you have to write down if you are Muslim, Christian, whatever your religion is. Here nobody [cares] what your religion is.” There are many differences between the United States and Egypt. From daily life to the economy and education, the visit revealed the differences in the two lands. “Family was something I noticed

“Human is human, American or Egyptian and everywhere in the world human is human.”

to be kind of different because in Egypt family seemed to be really close together,” Abdelshahid said. “Here in America, families kind of scatter [as] time goes by. I also noticed in Egypt every day is a whole new day and an adventure, in America I feel like most of the time life is like a routine, school to work to home and start over. It is kind of hard to find jobs in Egypt. I noticed it wasn’t something easy to get like here in the U.S. I also noticed education in Egypt was very poor, it wasn’t as great as America. I believe America has the number one best education. Finally, the most important thing I found here in America and not in Egypt was freedom–Freedom in everything, college, [clothes] we wear, religion and freedom of speech, and that is something very tremendous.” For Boulus, the differences do not matter--each country is her home in some way. Although, as time has gone by, Boulues feels much deeper roots for her life in America, specifically Lindale. She and her family acquired their citizenship two years ago and are very proud. “The very basics of [being] human, everybody has it,” Boulues said. “My kids like it here more, me too, even if Egypt is my homeland. When I [was] back this time I [felt that] I belonged to here more.” The family visited many historical monuments during their 2 month stay in Egypt.

ARTS AND TRAVEL | 13

Seussic

‘The Musical’ Takes the Stage Seussical is the first full-scale musical the school has put on in 6 years. By Annie Evans, Staff Writer

Kayleigh Melvin performs with Sarah McCeig. The two shared the stage for a scene. Photo by Adrienne Parks.

“Not only was performing for the community amazing, but performing with some of my best friends was even better. I’m so glad that this show came my senior year. Seussical will forever be one of my favorite memories from high school.” Klaire Hicks, Senior ARTS AND TRAVEL | 14

he catches a glimpse of the lights fading and hears the overture coming to a close. She takes deep breaths and dances through the opening number in her head. Whispers of, “Break a leg,” are scattered throughout the small crowd waiting backstage. Seussical is about to begin. The theatre department’s second production of the year was different than most shows that have been done in the past. Rather than a typical play, directors, Taylor Jarman and Kari McKenzie, chose to put on Seussical the Musical Jr., which is a cut version of Broadway’s musical, Seussical the Musical. “We chose Seussical because we wanted to do a musical,” said director Taylor Jarman. “We wanted one that was going to be super fun and involved. A lot of people don’t like a normal show, but people love to come see a musical because it is energetic and people are singing and dancing.” The play premiered on November 9, and ended on

November 13, after four shows. There were three community performances, which brought in around 750 audience members, then one show for the fourth and sixth graders of the district. “Our students took the challenge of Seussical head on,” director Kari McKenzie said. “What they accomplished was magic. We were so proud of their dedication to the show and the end result.” Students began rehearsals on October 5, so the cast had a little over a month to prepare the show. Unlike most plays, actors had to learn singing and dancing, so directors brought in the outside help of Vanessa Richardson, a vocal coach, and Alex Powell, a choreographer. “Rehearsals were chaos,” junior actress Kayleigh Melvin said. “[During rehearsal,] we had dances to choreograph, songs to learn and scenes to rehearse. A lot was always going on.” Not only were there different aspects for the actors, but the technicians had to learn new skills

for the musical. Spotlights, microphones and more extravagant lighting, which aren’t as commonly used were put into play for the production. “Seussical was very different than a normal show,” sophomore crew member Maekenah Lloyd said. “We used different tech elements, such as how many people were on stage that had to be lit, the element of the microphones, the spotlights used throughout the show.” The show required a very involved cast and crew. There were costume changes inbetween songs, scenes that required the entire cast to be on the stage, and constantly managing sound for microphones.

“A musical like Seussical is fun to perform due to the high energy that is demanded when performing,” junior actor Evan Howell said. “There is so much going on at any given time, whether it be on or off stage, that there was no downtime, and no room for sluggishness on stage. Seussical was a great performance for our theatre department, and welcomed new faces from both the community and the school.” Because of the music and dancing aspects of the show, a broader range of students auditioned for the show. Students who had never been in theatre productions before, to students who had only worked tech for shows were all on the cast list.

“Before Seussical, I wasn’t really involved in theatre,” sophomore actress Emma Cook said. “The show helped me form many new friendships that I cherish now. The whole show was a great experience.” From making new friends, to experiencing a new type of production, every cast and crew member enjoyed the adventure. Jarman and McKenzie have plans to continue putting on musicals every year. “Seussical made me more confident in singing in front of crowds,” senior actor Klaire Hicks said. “Not only was performing for the community amazing, but performing with some of my best friends was even better. I’m so glad that this show came my senior year. Seussical will forever be one of

my favorite memories from high school.” Left: Annie Evans sings a solo to the audience. She played the character Miss Gertrude McFuzz. Photo by Joy Nelms Top, right: In a closing scene, jungle citizens, played by chrous members, prepare to boil Horton’s clover. Photo by Morghan Davis Middle, right: Horton the Elephant, played by Giddeon Storkson, tries to explain that he heard voices from the clover. The monkeys were not convinced. Photo by of Adrienne Parks Bottom, right: Cast members dance and sing during an ensemble number. Photo by Adrienne Parks

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Senior attends photography class in Costa Rica

variety of wildlife in the area. “When I first found out I was going to Costa Rica, I wasn’t really sure what to expect,” Wyatt said. “I figured it would be in some kind of resort and we would be having classes in a typical classroom setting, but whenever I got to Costa Rica, we were set up in the middle of nowhere.” Wyatt was able to go on this trip Story By Colleen Starkey and Jude because he received a scholarship Ratcliff, Staff Writers through the Region 7 Education Spread By Colleen Starkey Service Center. On the trip, he reviewed the basics of photography After putting on his hiking as well as how to apply that boots, he grabs his camera, walks over to the rest of the group and the knowledge in an actual setting. The hike begins. Along the trek, he and students spent their time in the middle of a reservation containing the other students take pictures of a rainforest, as well as in the the flora and fauna in Costa Rica. Senior Anthony Wyatt spent five wilderness and in classrooms of the days in Costa Rica over the summer learning center, and they hiked and went on different adventures while for a photography class sponsored taking pictures of what they saw. by Texas A&M University. During “I learned a lot of things while I the trip, he learned new aspects of was there, and most of them concern photography while exploring the how you structure your photos in

ARTS AND TRAVEL | 16

comparison to the environment around you,” Wyatt said. “You want to be able to not only

Far Above Left: Senior Anthony Wyatt snaps a photo in preparation for his trip to Costa Rica. Over the summer, he spent 5 days in Costa Rica at a photography class sponsored by A&M. Photo by Jude Ratcliff Far Left:A viper coils itself on a plant at a local reptile exhibit. Photo by Anthony Wyatt Far Middle Left: A gecko rests in some tall grass. Photo by Anthony Wyatt Far Bottom Left: A poison dart frog hides in the cover of some jungle leaves. Photo by Anthony Wyatt Above, left: A butterfly lands on a leaf to rest after a long flight. Photo by Anthony Wyatt Left: An exotic Costa Rican plant found in a botanical garden in Costa Rica. Photo by Anthony Wyatt

Below: A green snake suns itself while resting on some leaves in the Costa Rican jungle. Photo by Anthony Wyatt

capture the colors that are in the environment but went to Costa Rica returned with a new appreciation do it in a way that really reveals the true nature of for photojournalism and the environment. They are what you’re looking at.” taught to see past what is immediately apparent Along with Wyatt, 27 other students from and get a closer view of the smaller details to see the across the U.S went on the trip. beauty that those who haven’t been taught simply “I think this is an extremely positive trip for [the will not grasp. students] because, really, the only way to get better “This trip has definitely made a difference in the at photography is to do photography and go on a way I try to capture a setting or an environment trip where you’re bouncing ideas when I am taking photographs,” off of photography professionals Wyatt said. “It shows you that [and] learning from people in the even the smallest things within “This trip has industry with peers who have nature have their own unique definitely made similar interests,” newspaper and colors and their own unique a difference in yearbook adviser Neda Morrow composition if a good photographer the way I try to said. “Those are the kind of things can get the right settings to take capture a setting that you can’t get unless you that picture [they] can really make or an environment immerse yourself.” anything look beautiful.” In addition to having improved when I am taking photography skills, students who photographs.”

ARTS AND TRAVEL | 17

Backpacking Through the Rockies

Blog by Adrienne Parks, Social Coordinator & Design by Isabelle Phillips, Managing Editor Adrienne Parks on the last day of her youth group’s ascent up the San Juan Mts.

Brilliant

pink rays of the setting sun cast themselves across the wide expanse of the Rocky Mountain sky. We gathered together atop a cliff overlooking the winding stream of bone-chilling snowmelt in the ravine below us. As we unbuckled the straps which helped us support the weight of packs half my size, we were taught by our guides how to set up camp for the night. Stars began to emerge one by one, and we huddled around the fire to share our first meal on the trail together. In my experience, however, trekking through the mountains would not have been the same without that group of teenage girls who far surpass their label. One of our trail guides by the name of Hannah then introduced to us the way in which we would all come to know each other so very well: life stories. Starting with Hannah, we shared our stories one by one throughout our week of hiking through aspen groves, leaping over boulders, bushwhacking above the treeline, sleeping next to alpine lakes and scaling the side of a plateau. We shared meals together in a variety of breathtaking settings, all seeming to be from different parts of the world, yet all belonging to the same mountain range. During those times spent enjoying trail food together at meals or stopping to rest while SOCIAL | 18

admiring the beauty around us, we shared the stories of how we became the girls sitting with each other in the Rocky Mountain wilderness. A dancer with a superhuman ability to manage a fashionable appearance even after spending days living out of a backpack in the mountains was adopted from a faraway land as a child. I had no clue. An athlete endowed with geniality has endured the loss of friendships throughout her life that took an emotional toll on her. I had no clue. An artist with a kind demeanor, yet occasional propensity to dish out sassy comments to those she’s most comfortable around, struggled with significant health issues for a year. I had no clue. A sweetheart with a tendency to shy away from center stage, yet with the ability to converse comfortably with anyone willing to approach her, suffered through pain concerning family members that changed her life forever. I had no clue— until life stories. And those are just a few. I knew their names and was familiar with the small piece of their existences that is their lives at school until we were miles from civilization, sharing in complete vulnerability the experiences of hardship and happiness that molded us into the teenage girls who are so much more than friendly faces in the hallway.

An Unexpected

Love

Barrington poses with her brother on a family trip to The Grand Canyon.

Blog by Kaitlyn Barrington, Assistant Editor & Design by Isabelle Phillips, Managing Editor

That morning is so clearly etched into my memory. The moment my life changed forever. I awakened startled to the soft sound of a baby crying. In curiosity, I rushed out of my room to see who the sobs belonged to. There in my mom’s arms was Austyn, my cousin. He was three months old and a tragedy had already taken a very important person out of his life. Austyn’s mother had been in a car crash which had stolen her life the very next day. I overheard the conversation my parents had while my older sisters, Cheyenne and Tiffany were holding Austyn. “How long do we have to keep him?” my dad asked. “Just for a couple of weeks,” my mom replied. They have never been more wrong. Unfortunately for me, Austyn began taking my place as the youngest child. I had no idea what to think. All of a sudden, I had responsibilities as a six-year-old. I had to do dishes, take out the trash, help clean my bedroom and most importantly help take care of Austyn. To my surprise, I found Austyn to be unbearable. Every time I went to sit next to my mom, he was in her arms. Every time I talked to my dad, Austyn captured his attention. Every time I wanted to play with Cheyenne and Tiffany, I found Austyn had taken my place. However, I grew to love him over time. There was something captivating when Austyn wrapped his entire hand around my finger sticking to me like glue. To my dismay, Austyn seized my attention and interest after a few weeks. Even though it would not be my first choice to have a little brother, Austyn changed my heart with his blonde hair and green eyes. After having custody of Austyn for six years, my parents decided it was time to adopt him. He would officially be my brother, but the strange thing is that he already was. Even if there was no signed paper stating that he belonged to my family, he would never be anyone other than my brother. Neither blood nor signed documentation makes a family. It was my choice to consider Austyn as my brother, and I would never take back that morning I heard him crying. To this day, we get on each other’s nerves and poke fun at each other, but no matter what I will always love him with everything inside of me.

Austyn with his family on his fifth birthday. The family has had custody of Austyn since he was three months old.

Austyn poses in front of The Grand Canyon. The family vacationed there this summer.

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LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS IN HIGH SCHOOL Story and Spread By Sydney Smith, Editor-in- Chief

E PULLS

his phone out rapidly as it rings, a smile spreading across his face as he sees the familiar name. He accepts the Skype call without hesitation, and her face appears on the screen before him. The two exchange conversation fluidly, talking for hours and hours about every aspect of their days miles apart from each other. This is what it is like to Annie Evans with boyfriend Heimlich. Photo courtesy of Annie Evans.

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be in a long distance relationship, but it proves especially difficult while in high school. Many students in the high school are involved in long distance relationships as far as Pennsylvania. “The best part of being in long distance is when you finally get to spend time together,” senior Kale Walters said. “You have to make the most out of however much time you get together.” Senior Madison Lewis met her boyfriend when he was a student at Lindale, but they were split apart after he had to move due to family issues. The distance has been a struggle for both of them, but Lewis believes that the distance has helped their relationship develop positively in many ways. “The most positive thing is that when we are able to be together in person,” senior Madison Lewis said. ”Those moments are more special then if we saw each other everyday.” One student met his girlfriend online, something that happens frequently in this day and age. Senior Evan Bewersdorf met his girlfriend on the online platform of Instagram. Their relationship developed over common interests such as Star Wars, Spongebob, memes and their similar taste in music. “I find it fascinating to be able to see yourself

“The most positive thing is that when we are able to be together in person,” senior Madison Lewis said. ”Those moments are more special than if we saw each other everyday.” David Woods with girlfriend Peyton Jones. Photo courtesy of David Woods.

I think the most important aspect of a long distance realationship is the trust you rely within each other; if you don’t trust one another, then there isn’t much of a relationship. David Woods, Freshman in so many parts of aspect of being with another person and to another person. feel as though every part “We have grown closer of them is familiar to than I believe we would’ve you,” girlfriend Monique if we didn’t have to always Rottmann said. “I have talk,” Evans said. “When never felt more at home we are on the phone or with anyone else, and on FaceTime, it’s not just hearing Evan’s laugh hanging out- it’s talking and voice on the phone and sharing and building everyday makes the miles a strong connection with between us momentarily each other.” disappear.” Freshman Alex Freshman David Woods Covington met her met his girlfriend through boyfriend in a mall in mutual friends. Though Dallas, and the two quickly she only lives in Tyler, he hit it off and exchanged gets to see her only on rare numbers. They parted weekends. ways but continued to “I think it’s the trust you communicate- one in rely within each other, if Texas, and the other in you don’t trust one another Pennsylvania. then there isn’t much of a “You really don’t care relationship,” Woods said. about the distance because “If the distance is a huge I mean it sounds cheesy, Madison Lewis with boyfriend one (ex.: Lindale to Dallas) I but when you know the Hunter Smith. wouldn’t bother.” love is real distance doesn’t Photo courtesy of Madison Lewis. After moving from matter as long as you have Keller, TX to Lindale, junior each other’s trust and love,” Annie Evans formed a freshman Alex Covington relationship with one of her said. “I know when I had former Keller friends. Through her relationship, mine I used to be super excited to talk to them after a she has learned that communication is a vital long week of school.”

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Oh , brother!

Siblings Share Their High School Experience Story and Spread by Adrienne Parks, Social Coordinator

Junior Joy Nelms and her freshman sister Hope Nelms pose for a photo. This is the first year for these sisters to be in high school together.

Cars

swarm the parking lots as the beginning of the school day approaches. A senior pulls up to the school with his brother as their typical music blares. Students crowd the halls as a girl catches the eye of her sister amid the masses, greeting her with a smile and a wave. Later in the day, a sophomore sits down next to her freshman sister at lunch. Such is the life of those who attend school with their siblings. For most siblings, the only difference between home life and school life together is the amount of interaction and the level of comfort during those interactions. Siblings are less likely to be animated at school where a more reserved attitude is called for. “At school we don’t see each other as much [as at

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home],” sophomore Annie Barr said. “I guess it’s more formal because it’s school and we can’t be as crazy as we are at home.” Regardless, for most siblings who attend high school together, being around each other more than in the past causes a closer relationship. Whether it’s sitting together at lunch, hanging out with mutual friends, or jamming to music in the car on the way to school, opportunities to bond are more present than before. “I think [being in high school together] has brought us closer, because we get to spend time together and just get to know each other,” senior Austin Walker said. “[The best part of going to high school together is] knowing no matter what, you have a friend.” Some challenges of going to school together may include too much time spent together or a lack of

Junior Joy Nelms and her freshman sister Hope Nelms pose with their older sister Grace Nelms for a group picture. Joy is the only sister to attend school with the other two.

Sophomore Annie Barr and her freshman sister Grace Barr smile for a picture with their older brother Andrew Barr. Annie is the only sibling to attend school with the other two.

Senior Austin Walker poses with his sophomore brother Stephen Walker for a professional photo. High school has been a bonding experience for them.

Junior Colby O’Conner hugs his freshman sister Cassidy O’Connor for a picture before school. The siblings see each other during band or in the hallways.

space. Practical advantages, however, include only needing one vehicle to get to school as well as having a free tutor for younger brothers and sisters. “Cassidy doesn’t have any of my [current] teachers so it doesn’t affect her really,” junior Colby O’Connor said. “I can help her with homework though if she needs it.” Attending school together provides a means for learning about another aspect of a sibling’s life and relating to each other through that. It removes the disconnect formed from an unfamiliarity of friends, classes, organizations, or even situations students commonly find themselves in. “[High school] wouldn’t be as fun,” freshman Hope Nelms said. “You can always talk about things together

Sophomore Annie Barr leans into her freshman sister Grace Barr for a picture on the porch. This is the first year they have been at the same school since junior high.

and go through things together, but if you’re not in the same school then you can’t do that.” No matter the extent of interaction between siblings at school, the comfort of having at least one person to rely on is a common theme among family members at school. “I think that you understand your sibling better,” freshman Grace Barr said. “You understand how they feel more because you’re sort of in the same situation. I think we’ve gotten closer, and I feel like I wouldn’t have known a lot more about her if we hadn’t been at the same school.” Photos courtesy of Joy Nelms, Austin Walker, Colby O’Connor and Annie Barr. SOCIAL | 23

Couples

who

TEACH Story and Spread by Alanna Kologey and Annie Evans, Staff Writers

very morning is the same. The alarm goes off, and the couple begins their day. They get ready and eat breakfast together, but unlike most couples, when it comes time to leave for work, they head in the same direction. For husband and wife pairs who work at Lindale High School, their paths don’t split ways until they step foot into the building every morning. Several faculty members work with their spouses. In the high school, there are multiple couple duos. For some, the experience is merely coincidental, but for others, it was planned from the beginning. “When we decided

that we were going to live life together, we looked for a job [in] a place that would put us in the same school,” speech and debate coach Rory McKenzie said. “We first started teaching together in Royse City. I was her assistant, and she was my assistant, so we really were doing everything together, and it was good. It really helped us create a good sense of family.” On the outside looking in, some might assume that couples who work together are around each other for the entire day. However, this commonly is not the case. “The only expectation I had [was that] I thought I would see my wife more than I do now,” counselor David Ramsey said. “We’re at opposite ends of the

building, so it’s rare that I see her, or one of us has to make a special point to go and see the other. There are a lot of days that I don’t even see her at all.” Like most situations in life, there are negatives and positives that go along with working alongside a spouse. For the couples at Lindale, there seem to be more upsides than downsides. “The pros and cons probably kind of correlate together,” business teacher Jennifer King said. “The pros are [that] we know the same kids, so we get to share stories and encourage each other when we have challenging issues or cases. The cons are kind of the same way. We end up talking about school all day, so sometimes you

don’t get away from it. I am pleasantly surprised that we have a good time, and it is nice to know he’s down there [in the main office] and if I need something, I can run down there and ask him, so we’ve actually really enjoyed being in the same place.” While being separated during the work week, scheduling aligns perfectly for days off. Teaching for the same district allows these couples to coordinate holidays and vacations easier than if they worked for separate districts. “We’re on the same schedule,” Ramsey said. “When I worked in other districts, the district calendars might not correspond. Spring breaks may be different or

Thanksgiving. Sometimes the other districts might have the entire week and Lindale would only take three days off. So the schedule wasn’t always the same. It’s been nice to be on the same schedule.” Being a working couple in the same district in Lindale has proven to be

a positive experience with few, if any, drawbacks. All of the pairs seem content with their situation. “It’s a good situation for our family,” English teacher Renee Ramsey said. “We’re both close to home and we’re all on the same schedule, so it’s good.”

Top Left: Rory and Kari McKenzie have taught together at various schools. Rory McKenzie teaches speech and debate, and Kari McKenzie teaches art and theatre. Photo by Annie Evans Left Bottom: David Ramsey works as the grade 9th and 11th grade counselor. Renee Ramsey is the English department chair. Photo courtesy of Renee Ramsey Middle Bottom: Michele and Randall Namanny both work as coaches for the district. Photo courtesy of Michele Namanny Right Bottom: Joey King is the district’s police chief and high school SRO, while Jennifer King teaches in the Career and Technology department. Photo courtesy of Jennifer King Top Right: Jason and Kelly Lawless have worked together for years. Jason is the boys soccer coach, and Kelly works in the counseling department. Top Below Right: Steven Hindman and Britney Hindman work for different LISD campuses. Photo by Steven Hindman

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SKILL 2017

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BOSS ON THE FIELD Eight LHS students currently referee soccer in Lindale

Story and Spread by Colleen Starkey hey grab their whistle, their referee certification badge, some gatorade and put on their yellow referee uniforms. They get in the car and head to Faulkner Park. They walk onto the field, flags in hand. They put one at each corner of the field before checking each player’s equipment and finishing with the coin toss. Eight Lindale students currently referee for the Lindale Soccer Association. Senior Hope Williams, juniors Emaleigh Davis and Daniel Smith, sophomores Colleen Starkey, Salomao Saboia, and Elijah Bendana and freshmen Raya Rand and Jake Allen all spend their Saturdays at Faulkner Park refereeing other Lindale students ranging in age from four to fourteen. “I am excited about the referees that we have in high school,” coach and league president Jay Telfer said. “I think it’s tremendously awesome for our younger referees to be a boss on the field, and, to me, that shows that you’re earning respect and that they’ll be able to carry that respect down the road in other things in life.” While refereeing a game, referees must control the field where the game is taking place. They also have to keep up with the time, the crowd and the teams, as well as make quick decisions in order to make good, unbiased calls to keep the game running smoothly. “You’re learning how to be a boss or a manger,” Telfer said. “I think that those skills you learn from being a referee will carry through to the job place. You can either fulfill your goal as being a referee for life if that’s what you want to do, but I think in a managerial position, it helps to mold you into the person you need to be for future experiences.” For anyone interested in becoming a referee, you must first take a class that teaches them the

rules of the game and gives them helpful tips from experienced referees. Aspiring referees are cautioned to have thick skin when they begin refereeing because many coaches, parents and players tend to argue calls they disagree with. “I feel like [the referee class] helps you, but some things, the class can’t teach you,” referee Raya Rand said. “Don’t listen to the parents. You’re a ref for a reason, so you know what you’re doing.” Referees often ref multiple games on one day sometimes as many as six. Though many referees say it is a tiring job, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. “[The referees] are showing responsibility as high schoolers,” Telfer said. “To me, that’s just humbling. That’s just a great experience for Lindale and for our referees.” Far Left: Senior soccer referee Hope Williams walks down the sideline to get in position. She has refereed in Lindale for several seasons, and she plays soccer for the Lindale High School team. Right: Solomon Saboia refs at a youth league game. Photos by Scott Starkey

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The Seasons Volleyball On October 31, Lindale beat Temple in four sets to claim the BiDistrict title. Leading the Lady Eagles at the net were Brina Kuslak (10 kills, 3 blocks), Shelbi Steen (10 kills, 10 digs), and London Reue (9 kills). Setters Harleigh Thurman and Kalaya Pierce spread the ball around well. Thurman had 25 assists, 6 digs, and 5 aces, while Pierce added 13 assists and 8 digs to the night’s totals. Leading the defensive effort was Libero Alisha Kiser with 29 digs, and right along side her was defensive specialist Jennifer Moyer, adding 14 digs for the Lady Eagles. By Michelle Namanny

in Stats Football

The football team finished their season with a 4-6 record. Three athletes stood out on the offensive line. The leading passer was Dillon Heinaman, with 159 yards/game and 133 completions. The top rushing offensive player was Jordan Robinson, with a total of 869 yards and 206 carries. The leading receiver this season was Colton Brown, with 48 catches and 7 touchdowns. Three athletes stood out on the defensive line. Brian Edwards led the team in total tackles with 112. Justin Little led the team in sacks with 4 total. Ty McDaniel led the team in quarterback presses, with 5 total.

Cross Country

The district cross country meet was in Ennis October 11. The coaches and students worked to advance to the regional competition held at Sam Houston State University October 23. To advance, the teams needed to place in the top three schools or an individual had to place top ten in his or her race. Freshman Colton Taylor placed eighth in the varsity boys and is the only runner who competed at the regional level. “I’m very excited and I feel honored that I get to represent Lindale at the regional meet.” Taylor said.

Tennis The tennis team beat Corsicana on October 12 to earn the 2nd place team in the district. The first round of playoffs was played and won in Ennis October 16 against Temple High School. The team then lost to Tomball High School for a spot at regionals. Congrats to Caroline Colliver, Faith Rogers, Jaede Long, Tayllor Lane, Madison Ortiz, Autumn Ellgass, Jacey King, Emily Huber, Jared Maeker, Marshall Rexroat, Nicholas Anderson, Carter Colvin, Aaron Gambrell, Brady Smith, Levi Watson and Brennon Steck. By Randal Namanny

By Tyra Rodden

Junior Jennifer Moyer high fives her teammate after her turn on the court. Photo by Josie Gradick.

Spread by Tyra Rodden

Senior Ty McDaniel laughs with his teammates at the Homecoming game against Gladewater. Photo by Sarah Day.

Freshman Colton Taylor runs as Junior Faith Rogers swings at the only cross country member the home tennis match against to advance to regionals. Photo by Corsicana. Photo by Mary Ray. Sarah Huseth.

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