Lot 12 18 15

The The Line Line O’ O’ Type Type

Page 5 - Students criticize finals policy Pages 6&7 - ShareJoys!

December 18, 2015

Page 8 - Top 10 elf treats

Volume 99, issue 3

Page 12 - depth is winning for wrestling team

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News

12/18/2015

Anti-Islamic sentiment shows up frequently throughout the media

By: Riya Jain L’OT Reporter Recently, the media has been laden with anti-Islamic sentiment. In response to the terrorist attacks, critics and commentators have been making ignorant and biased statements targeting innocent Muslim people.

On CNN, news anchor John Vause asked anti-Islamophobia activist Yasser Louati about the Paris attacks, “Why is it that no one within the Muslim community there in France knew what these guys were up to?”

Louati stated that the world’s 1.6 billion Muslims should not be held accountable for the actions of a few. He said, “Sir, the Muslim community has nothing to do with these guys -nothing. We cannot justify ourselves for the actions of someone who just claims to be Muslim.”

Vause claimed he had “yet to hear the condemnation from the Muslim community on this, but we’ll wait and see.” A single Google search would have given him hundreds of examples of the Islamic community condemning the terrorist attacks, as well as the social media campaign #notinmyname.

Fox News has been a major force in spreading anti-Islamic sentiment. Bill O’Reilly declared, “Islam is a destructive force.”

Andrea Tantaros, equated terrorists with all Muslims and said, “You can’t solve it with a dialogue. You can’t solve it with a summit. You solve it with a bullet to the head. It’s the only thing these people understand.”

There were times where the “facts” in the news were no more than a complete lies. Donald Trump on the MSNBC

program, “Morning Joe,” stated, “Paris is no longer the same city it was. They have sections in Paris that are radicalized where the police refuse to go... We have places in London and other places that are so radicalized that the police are afraid for their own lives.” In reality, these statements had no factual basis.

An experiment on the YouTube channel Dit Is Normaal revealed anti-Islamic bias. The team disguised a Bible as a Quran and showed people unusual Biblical verses such as, “If you reject my commands and abhor my laws, you will eat the flesh of your own sons… and the flesh of your own daughters.”

The people, under the impression that they were reading verses from the Quran, responded negatively, with remarks such as, “If you’ve been raised with this book and these kinds of thoughts, it’s going to influence the way you think.”

The people described Islam as an aggressive and harmful religion. When it was revealed that the verses were actually from the Bible, the people responded with surprise. One man remarked, “It’s all just prejudice, really. I always try not to be prejudiced myself, but apparently I already am.”

Another woman concluded, “It has a lot to do with the media, of course.”

All faiths may have messages of love and peace, but in every group there can be people who use their religion as an excuse to harm others. These few violent individuals will unfortunately impart negative bias on innocent members of the same religion.

While under the influence of media, it is crucial that people

are mindful and maintain their own judgments regardless of bias.

Terrorist attacks in Paris shock the entire world

By: Emme Schwabe LO’T Reporter A series of coordinated attacks on the night of Friday November 13th left 130 people dead, 352 wounded, and 99 critically injured. In the city of Paris, many people were out and about and enjoying the night. They were unaware that this magical city would erupt with complete chaos, anguish, pain, and fear, all within three hours.

Seven attacks were made that night. The terror group ISIS claimed responsibility for these attacks, which were described

by French President Francois Hollande as an “act of war.”

The first attack occurred at 9:20 pm on Friday as France played Germany in a soccer match. The first explosion rang out near entrance D of the stadium, and minutes later the second also rang out - the sounds of the suicide bombers.

President Hollande, who happened to be in the stadium watching the game, was evacuated to safety.

At 9:25, the terrorists made their way to the corner of Rue Bichat and Rue Alibert. Le Carillon and Le Petit Cambodge were the second scenes of brutality as terrorists opened fire on both the bar and restaurant. Fifteen people were killed.

The fourth attack was targeted towards Rue de la Fontaine au Roi. The same group of terrorists drove down and opened

fire on diners, including Casa Nostra. were killed and eight others were seriously wounded.

At around 9:36 attackers arrived La Belle Equipe, another restaurant. After opening fire, nineteen people were dead and nine were wounded. Shortly after, Comptoir Voltaire was attacked by a suicide bomber, but no one was killed.

At about 9:40 pm three gunmen entered the small concert hall, the Bataclan, which housed 1500 attendees. The attackers entered screaming and began randomly firing. Several people were taken on stage as hostages. The gunman, wielding AK-47’s began killing execution style. Police during this time attempted evacuating many fans who were hiding.

Around 12:20, French elite force police were able to raid the Bataclan, and the assault lasted three minutes.

Another five people

Three gunmen were killed, and two activated their suicide belts. Eighty-nine people lost their lives.

Around twenty people may have helped plan and carry out the attacks.

Twenty-seven year old, Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the designer of these attacks, is believed to be responsible for four of the six of them, and he is possibly linked to the attempted attack on the Paris-bound train in August.

Among Abaaoud were seven others who helped carry out the attack. Authorities claim the eighth possible attacker is still alive and an international manhunt has begun. Several reports have also shown that there may have been a ninth attacker as well.

This is one of the many posts made about the French interior minister Bernard attacks in Paris, praying for those affected.

Cazeneuve stated that 23 were arCourtesy of Kim Kardashian’s Twitter rested in the raids. He asserted, “Anybody who attacks the Republic, the Republic will fight back.”

3

News

Welcoming Syrian refugees in America causes controversy

By: Mihika Rajvanshi L’OT Reporter Texas has recently resettled a handful of Syrian refugees despite its Governor Greg Abbott’s move to block refugees from entering the state. Twenty-one refugees were placed in Dallas and Houston. Out of those 21, six are children. Out of the 1,854 Syrian refugees admitted this year, a total of 238 have been resettled to Texas. This state has accepted the second most Syrian refugees in America but has also become the most resistant to accepting these asylum-seekers.

After the Paris attacks in November, Texas Governor Greg Abbott was the first of many governors to attempt blocking refugees from entering their respective states. At this point 28 states have issued statements against the acceptance of refugees. This past Tuesday, Governor Abbott and Senator Ted Cruz unveiled new legislation, known as the State Refugee Security Act, that would give states the option of denying refugees into their territory “unless there is adequate assurance that the refugee does not present a security risk.”

Additionally, Cruz is promoting a bill that would place a 3-year ban, known as a moratorium, on accepting refugees

Syrian refugees are welocomed by Americans despite controversy for their accepttance. Courtesy of DailyMail.com.

from countries such as Syria and Iraq.

However, governors actually have very little say in whether or not refugees are resettled in their states. According to the Refugee Act, the federal government has the sole power to decide where the refugees live and how many come into the United States. Furthermore, the Washington Post emphasizes that “Multiple Supreme Court decisions dating back to the late 1800s make it clear that states are constitutionally prohibited from discriminating on the basis of national origin or denying the opportunity to live or seek work to immigrants once the federal government has seen fit to admit them.”

The states do have the ability to make immigration difficult for refugees, but they have no legal power to restrict them from entering once the refugees have cleared the extensive 18 to 24-month long security check from the Federal government; therefore, the more pressing issue is whether the federal government will continue to allow refugees in the United States. It is essential to stay informed on the matter since it is of great significance and affects many people living in the United States.

Abortion debate sparks Planned Parenthood shooting

By: Karthik Prakash & Grafton Carlson LO’T Reporters On the morbid day of November 27, a 57 year-old recluse wreaked havoc upon a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The shooter, Robert Dear, killed three victims and wounded nine. Dear lived in an RV located in an isolated area. He has been charged with a number of other felonies including domestic assault, invasion of privacy, and animal cruelty. Dear’s shooting was his cruel way of protesting against the organization Planned Parenthood.

Planned Parenthood is an organization that provides various reproductive services. Contrary to many people’s

beliefs, Planned Parenthood’s main focus is not on abortion.

According to Lori Robertson and Michael Morse, only three percent of the organization’s budget actually goes toward abortion services. The rest is divided up among contraception, STD treatment, cancer prevention, and a few other services.

Recently, there has been an increase in violence and threats towards Planned Parenthood clinics in general. Vicki Saporta, the president and CEO of the National Abortion Federation, claimed, “Since the series of highly edited, misleading antiabortion videos was released in July, we have seen an unprecedented increase in hate speech and threats against abortion providers.”

The Planned Parenthood logo. Courtesy of Gender Expanion Project.

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According to NPR, American abortion opinions from both sides have been steady over the years, and people are unwilling to change. These steady viewpoints contrast the radical shift in opinions on issues such as same-sex marriage and recreational marijuana legalization. Evidently, the constant debates are not having the intended effect on American citizens.

Furthermore, writer Kurtzleben says, “Abortion is an issue that fires up the bases of both parties. It is one of the top issues used by Republicans and Democrats to motivate, fundraise and organize.”

By advocating one side of the controversy, the political parties are capable of keeping this issue relevant resulting in more arguments and possibilities for violence.

Evidently, abortion viewpoints seem to be conflicting and unchanging; however, most people may agree that violence is not an effective method to resolve the issue.

Editorial

4

12/18/2015

Historic pact to slow global warming is celebrated in Paris

By: Tara Krishnan second largest carbon dioxide emitter behind LO’T Editor-in-Chief After rejecting the construction of the China. With the final draft of the global cliKeystone XL Pipeline due to possible en- mate change deal complete, the world is one vironmental hazards, the country has been step closer to a brighter and cleaner future.

Although many scientists and politicians looking to President Obama for more guidare in full support of environmental cleanup, ance on the current issue of the United a group of researchers from Princeton, MIT, States’ climate policy. “We know that huand other orman activity ganizations reis changing cently released the climate,” some interestObama said ing news. They during a visit stated that fears to Alaska last of man-made summer. “We global warming know that were “irratiohuman ingenal” and “based nuity can do on nonsense.” something Climate scienabout it... The tist Dr. Richard time to plead Lindzen stated ignorance is surely past. Diplomats raise hands after adoption of a historic glob- that “demoniThe deniers al warming pact at the COP21 Climate Conference in Le zation of CO2 is irrational at are increas- Bourget, north of Paris. best and even ingly alone, modest warming is mostly beneficial.”

He on their own shrinking island.” With China went on to say that the terms ‘warming’ and recently going into a global state of emergency due to its polluted air, the world ‘cooling’ only define tiny temperature changmust face a grim truth. Change must hap- es. He also commented on the UN’s claim pen in order to save our environment and that most warming over the past 50 years our futures. Accoring to the Environmental was due to mankind. “People get excited over Protection Agency, the U.S. is the world’s this. Is this statement alarming? No.” He be-

LO’T Editorial Policy

Line O’Type is the official school-sponsored paper of Moline High School. The paper is published by the students under the supervision of faculty advisors for the Moline High School community. The staff will strive to accurately report school, local, state, and national news that affects high school students. Line O’Type Signals is also a forum open to students, faculty and administration to encourage the airing of opinions respresenting all sides of an issue.

All submitted material must be signed, due to a code passed by the school board. All responses or questions regarding editorials should be directed to your Editors-in-Chief, Tara Krishnan and Colin Brown, and faculty advisors, Heidi Norcross and Jay Bohnsack.

Staff

lieves that although this is the warmest temperature period the world has experienced, it is a very tiny change period, and the climate will eventually return to normal. Princeton physicist Dr. Will Happer even said, “If plants could vote, they would vote for coal.”

I completely disagree with this statement. The science just can not be disputed and NASA has solid evidence that climate change is real. According to their website, “The current warming trend is of particular significance because most of it is very likely human-induced and proceeding at a rate that is unprecedented in the past 1,300 years.” The earth’s atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have only increased since the Industrial Revolution. Our emissions are at an all time high and aren’t going to be lowering any time soon unless something is done. People who live in places with high levels of air pollutants have a 20% higher risk of death from lung cancer than people who live in less-polluted areas. Pollution is a very real and current problem, and Congress must take action in order to preserve a future for the world.

After a two week gathering in Paris to reach a major global climate change pact, diplomats finally reached an agreement on Satur-

Roses

- Share Joys - Christmas decorations - Elves - Winter Break - Ice Skating - New Year - Holiday music - Share Joys shopping - Fuzzy socks - Christmas candy - Warm weather

and

day. The agreement includes a schedule of regular reviews every five years of national action plans, which will essentially push the nations to resubmit new and improved plans and keep everything up to date. Instead of bringing an end to emissions, the phrase “global peaking of greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible” was used. Basically, the diplomats want the amount of greenhouse pollutants to reach a peak and start declining. This is a much more reasonable goal than to completely terminate emissions. The agreement also requires developed countries to mobilize $100 billion in financing for devloping countries to cut their emissions. By 2020, the pact calls for developed countries to provide more than the initial $100 billion. French President Francois Hollande said the deal could act as a beacon for France and the rest of the world to leave behind the shock and pain of the attacks that terrorized Paris just one month ago. “The 12th of December, 2015, could become a message of life, and I personally would be happy, almost relieve, even proud, that this message would be launched from Paris.”

Thorns

- Swimming - Long lines - Food babies and overeating - Global warming - Holiday shopping - Awkward family reunions - Paris attacks - Finals - Ugly Christmas sweaters - Shoveling - Wrapping gifts

Editors-In-Chief: Tara Krishnan & Colin Brown

Feature Editors: Ila Mostafa & Isabel Zimmerman

News Editors: Riya Patel & Pranjal Kadwe

Head Photographers: Zach Baker & Quinn Daley

Focus Editors: Divya Badri and Saneha Borisuth

Staff Photographer: Makayla Penca & Ila Mostafa

Entertainment Editors: William VanVooren & Truman VanVooren

Business Manager: Manasi Baheti

Sports Editors: Katherine Douglas, Marcella Williams, & Dana Plagenz

Advisors: Heidi Norcross & Jay Bohnsack

5

Editorial

Students scrutinize Moline’s final exam policy By: Colin Brown LO’T Editor-in-Chief This year, when MHS students return from winter break in January, they won’t have much time to swing back into the school routine before Finals Week arrives. For some individuals, the second week of January will be spent stressing over these critical tests, but for others, this week will be rewardingly short.

According to Moline High School’s Attendance Incentive Policy, any student who has no more than two absences, five tardies or one major referral in a class is exempt from taking that class’s final exam. Absences due to school-related functions do not count against the student in this case, but any kind of excused or unexcused absence will be counted toward the final exam.

Being forced to take finals seems like a reasonable consequence for having too many tardies, referrals or excused absences, but many students have criticized the policy’s stance on excused absences.

While the Attendance Incentive Policy seems to do well at deterring truancy, some believe it unfairly punishes students who miss class for honest reasons. The policy altogether has many unnecessary side-effects, and it is for this reason that I believe we should reevaluate the policy’s place at our school.

One of the biggest problems that many teachers and students see with the current attendance policy is that it unintentionally promotes an unhealthy environment

at school. According to the policy, any student absences due to personal illness will count toward the final exam. Many students feel that as a result of this policy that they will be punished if they wrack up too many sick days, so as a result, sick students often opt to suck it up and go to school when they should be at home resting.

Every year during the winter months, there always seem to be a few weeks where teachers and students fall ill, one after another, to some flu or stomach virus, and all my classes shrink to 80% of their normal size.

While I’m sure many of these illnesses are inevitable, some of them could most likely be prevented if sick students didn’t force themselves to come to school when they are still so contagious. But who can blame these students for showing up in this condition?

For many of them, their class grades may depend on whether or not they take finals.

Besides sick days, students might have to take finals if they miss school for deaths in the family, funerals, religious holidays or other unavoidable events. Senior Ila Mostafa explains that whenever these types of situations arise, the worry over finals puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on the students who care about their grades.

“This year I went to Eid prayer in the morning, so I missed some of my morning classes since Eid fell on a weekday.

Though it would have been nice to spend the day with my family and friends, I came to school because I

didn’t want to take finals.”

The entire incentive of coming to school to avoid finals is quickly becoming irrelevant as well. Most teachers know that less than half of their classes will have to take finals. To make sure their students are retaining what is taught in class, many teachers will give mandatory exit exams to all of their students at the end of the semester.

Even though most of the time, these exit exams are administered by teachers to measure growth in students, the all-encompassing tests essentially function as finals. If so many classes already include some sort of end-of-semester test, then requiring additional final exams for only a portion of the student body only creates unnecessary work for students and teachers.

While the Attendance Incentive Policy has been heavily criticised, principal Dan McGuire speaks highly of its effectiveness.

“The Attendance Incentive Policy began in the late 1990’s because the high school’s attendance was not where we wanted it to be. The incentive was put in place as a driving force to encourage achievement, and the school board has continuously voted to uphold the policy because it has shown good results.”

When asked about his thoughts on the students who say the policy is punishing, McGuire responded: “I don’t look at finals as a punishment. Students are always welcome to take finals if they feel the need to.”

And Mr. McGuire makes some valid points. According to IllinoisReportCard.com,

MHS has lower truancy rates and higher average attendance than both Rock Island High School and United Township High School, neither of which use MHS’s attendance incentive model. Even though no one enjoys taking finals, it is true that finals can be a good preparation for college academics, and they may not deserve to be demonized.

But at the same time, IllinoisReport Card.com also shows that MHS has seen chronic student truancy grow from 3% to 9% from 2011 to 2015. Administrators tout the policy for being highly successful throughout the 2000’s, but this data indicates that the policy’s effectiveness may have started to wane in recent years.

There are facts to support the arguments for and against the Attendance Incentive Policy here at MHS. Students may have their grievances with the policy, but unless the school attendance rate takes a serious dip, it seems unlikely that the policy will be going anywhere anytime soon.

6

Focus

12/18/2015

Students scarf donuts for funds

By Ryan Reed LO’T Reporter

Above: Taylor Gray and Gabi Lenger devour donuts in the hope of becomimg Donut King and Donut Queen. Photo by Tara Krishnan. Below: Non-eating teammates cheer on their eaters. .Photo by Tara Krishnan

The donut-eating contest is one of Moline’s most classic and well-known tradition because it brings in large funds for Share Joys.

As usual, Donut Delite sponsored the event, which took place on December 2, 2015 at 7:00 a.m. Raising a total of $14,070, twenty-five teams raised a $500 minimum to participate. For those

of you who don’t know the dynamics about the contest, each team designates an eater, who must eat twelve donuts without outwardly cheating to be eligible to compete for the titles of Donut King and Donut Queen. Boy eaters then compete to finish a donut first to become Donut King, and the girls do the same thing to be crowned Donut Queen. Gavin Graham and Stephanie Theofilis walked away Donut King and Queen.

The Top Banana award for most money raised went to Bailey Rogenski’s team. The Big Donut Award for the second most money raised went to Lexi Bull’s team, and the best costume award went to Gabi Lenger, Carolyn Wehr, Allissa Krogman and Emma Kindred for their epic get up, which included Alissa as a light saber and Gabi in a R2D2 box.

Overall, this year’s contest was a great success!

Nam-Phuong Brennan paints a penguin on one of the windows in the library in order to get Moline High School even more festive for Share Joys.

Photo by Quinn Daley.

MHS shops for district children

By Divya Badri LO’T Focus Editor This year for Share Joys, Moline High School raised more than $49,000, exceeding the amount raised last year. With all that money, the students and teachers who shopped for the underprivileged in Moline were able to buy shoes, coats, mittens, and other clothing staples.

Shoppers got to see firsthand who was affected by Share Joys; each shopper was assigned to a child that needed clothes and went around with them to pick what the kid wanted. Provided that the total price was no more than $205, almost any clothing

item was fair game.

Recipients of the goodies were not the only ones whose hearts felt warmer after shopping. Many of the shoppers felt really good knowing that the money they spent on things such as oreo balls, puppy chow, the improv room, and hot chocolate paid off in such a big way.

Junior Pranjal Kadwe said that she felt good about contributing to something bigger than herself, adding, “Since I was born, I have been blessed with all my necessities, like clothing, food and shelter.

Now I can make others feel that same way, and it’s really nice.” Senior Ila Mostafa

added, “All I did was add numbers and walk around with the kids, but I felt so rewarded, especially when the kids would get so excited about things such as Batman shirts!“ Thanks to MHS’s selfless sacrifice of time and money to sell food and run events, among other things, numerous members of our community were able to get necessary items that keep them warm and boosted their selfesteem. With luck, we can make even more of a difference in years to come!

Madeleine Dewilfond eats a donut after the contest. Photo by Tara Krishnan.

Isaac Waddell posing in his Christmas costume for Share Joys. Photo by Ila Mostafa.

Above: Jake Adams and Gavin Graham scarf down their final donut to compete for the Donut Eating King. Photo by: Tara Krishnan. Right: Moline High School student helps children in the Moline School District find winter clothes thanks to the funds collected during Share Joys. Photo by Mikayla Penca.

Focus

7

12/18/2015

Maroons showcase their skills

By Divya Badri LO’T Focus Editor

Morgan Anderson sings her composition, “The Diggin’ Blues.” Photo by Mikayla Penca.

Riya Patel whispers her holiday wishes into Santa’s (Manasi Baheti) ear. Photo by Ila Mostafa.

Chase Austin performs in the Improv Room to raise money for Share Joys. Photo by Ila Mostafa.

This Share Joys, Moline High School had its second talent show after the variety show tradition was halted last year. There were twelve acts this year, all of which were received warmly by the audience.

As usual, the talent show started when seventh period began on Friday. Divya Badri, a senior, played the traditional Christmas carol “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” as people began to fill the auditorium. Senior Livvie Lyman followed Divya’s performance, singing “Defying Gravity” from the musical Wicked. After that, Lauren Boswell blew the audience away with her fierce performance of Beyoncé’s song “Listen”. Coincidentally, junior Abbey Gustaf danced to renditions of “Crazy in Love”

by Beyoncé right afterward.

Greyson Driscoll and Hannah Frye followed Abbey’s dance, singing Sam Smith’s

“Stay With Me”, which was enhanced by emcee Chase Austin’s piano accompaniment. Following that, senior Bryan Ferreira drummed to Boys by the Beatles in honor of his uncle, who inspired him to take up drumming. Next, senior Dylin Idle played guitar to his vocals for “Turn the Page” by Bob Seger. Then, Margarita Campbell charmed the audience with her soulful performance of Alicia Keys’s “Ain’t Got You”. Senior Morgan Anderson also sang; she debuted her original tune “The Diggin’ Blues”. After Morgan, Seniors Cole Swank and Jay Christensen had us jamming to an ad-libbed bass guitar and drum performance, which was enhanced fog sporadically shooting from the sides of the stage. Junior Jesse Hernandez sang Hallelujah while playing piano before the final act, a tribute to Mrs. Griesenbeck, took place. In honor of the late theater director and English teacher, Emma Kindred, Han-

nah Frye, Elizabeth Antolik, Chase Austin, Adam Sanders, Aric Fowler, Andrew Parker, and Ryan Reed sang “For Good” from Wicked with bass guitar accompaniment from Maddie Hunt, drum accompaniment from Sage Weeber, violin backup from Ethan Johnson, and piano backup from Janie Adams. During the performance, a slideshow with pictures of Mrs. Griesenbeck (aka “G”) played as a backdrop.

Overall, this talent show was just as good, if not better than last year! Not only were the performers outstanding, but the emcees, Chase Austin and Carolyn Wehr, introduced each act with poise and humor, and Mrs. Shelton and Mrs. Vanderzeele did a great job once again in selecting the acts and rallying everyone for rehearsals. Hats off to everyone involved in the talent show, and here’s hoping talent shows for years to come are even better!

Poll: What is your favorite thing about Share Joys?

By Divya Badri LO’T Focus Editor

“No homework!”

-Pranjal Kadwe, junior “The Christmas spirit in the air.”

-Dana Plagenz, junior “Lots of good food!!!”

-Tara Krishnan, senior “A close tie between the Improv Room and hot chocolate.”

-Divya Badri, senior

“Tacos in the Spanish room.”

-Mr. Jay Bohnsack, business department teacher “The Improv Room.”

-Quinn Daley, senior “The good vibe all around.”

-Ila Mostafa, senior “The relaxed atmosphere.”

-Ian Brown, sophomore “Doing nothing!“ -Dallas Hanson, senior

The first four students to tweet at the Line O’Type (@mhs_lineotype) a picture of them reading the December Line O’Type paper will win a gift certificate.

8

Entertainment

12/18/2015

Good luck leaving this lonely wasteland

By Truman Van Vooren LO’T Entertainment Editor Since Fallout 4 is probably one of the most hyped games this year, the question is, “Does it live up to the hype?”

The answer is mostly “yes,” but it does have its flaws. The key components of the game are story, gameplay, graphics, and technical issues.

Story: The story of Fallout 4 follows a veteran who leaves the fault looking for a family member. Even though the premise of the story is very similar to Fallout 3, it is different in that there are more thoughtful choices and some plot twists. Since the dialogue has changed from Fallout 3 and is more watered down, the story loses

some very unique dialogue options. On the other hand, one thing that I feel the creators did a much better job on was making companions more accessible, making for some unique quests.

Graphics and Tech: Fallout 4 is not a game you buy on graphics. The game’s graphics are not that good, but if you’re like me, the graphics of the game don’t matter if the story is strong.

Also, there are bugs in this game that are an issue, and some are just plain annoying, such as companions getting stuck or NPCs repeating the same line, and there have been reported crashes. Some of these will go away in following weeks.

Gameplay: This version of Fallout improves on almost every gameplay aspect from Fallout 3, such as VATS and hip fire. Their improvement on VATS were making time slow down instead of stopping it, which requires your reactions to be quicker.

Also, hip fire has been improved, making VATS not as necessary. Next, two elements of this game are not improvements but additions, such as building and crafting.

The new building system is where you build settlements for NPCs in the wasteland, and you are able to build your own house, defend yourself from enemies, have farms, and trade. However, one negative of this system is

that it can be finicky at times.

In addition to the building system, the new crafting system by Bethesda (the developer) is one I hope stays for the rest of the games. This new system is great for how deep it is and how items that seem useless have a purpose, making it hard to not be a hoarder in this game.

Overall: Fallout 4 is a must buy due to its story Mockingjay Pin Photo Cred: Screenrant.com and addictive gameplay, but it does have some technical issues. My score for Fallout 4 is a 9/10, and I highly sug- By: Savannah Hampton the rebels, led by Katniss, get gest buying it if you want to LO’T Reporter closer to the capital’s center, spend winter break focusThe Mockingjay, Katniss the stakes get higher as the ing on one game. This is the Everdeen, took flight for danger gradually increases. kind of game that will keep the last time in the Hunger Every corner in the once lavyou interested for weeks. Games’ franchise on Novem- ish Capital is now a death trap ber 27, and it left viewers for all rebels that is intended satisfied and yearning for a to capture the true prize, continuation in the world of the Mockingjay herself. All Panem. The second movie won’t be revealed in this arinstallment for Suzanne Col- ticle, but you won’t want to lins’ final book of The Hun- miss the climax of this series ger Games trilogy picked up because Katniss never missright where the first left off: es her targets. Join Katniss in with a distraught Katniss torn her fight for Panem’s people between saving her country against the Capital, and reand her strained relationship member: “Panem today, between fellow victor of the Panem tomorrow, Panem 74th Games, Peeta Mellark. forever.” (Lionsgate plans Katniss fought in a new type on releasing a prequel to the of game for this finale, one Hunger Games even though for the people of her country Jennifer Lawerence thinks it and not just her own life. As is ‘too soon’ for a prequel).

Fallout 4 is available on Xbox One, PC, and PS4. Fallout 4 Garage Photo Cred: GameTribute.com

Mockingjay review

9

Feature

All I want for Christmas is ...

By: Rocio Enriquez LO’T Feature Reporter Christmas will be here soon, and MHS students are putting together their wishlishts. Whether it’s electronics or something to make the world a better place for all of us, everyone has that special something that will light up their Christmas. Don’t know what you want yet? Here’s what a few students had to say:

Kelsey Eilers wants there to be world peace.

(Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa)

Sports Unlimited exudes friendship, love, a n d h a p p i n e s s t o w a r d s i t s m e mSecretary b e r sDana Plagenz By: Saneha Borisuth

LO’T Feature Reporter Sports Unlimited is a club that pairs students with learning disabilities with student athletes to develop friendships through nonDaniela Rios asks to be given competitive activities. The club has about 48 active stua hoverboard on Christmas. dent members including 15 (Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa) special needs students and meets on a weekly basis for one to two hours to discuss new and exciting activities that would bring together the students in the club.

Sports Unlimited organizes monthly games which have included: an indoor obstacle course, volleyball, Zumba, tennis, a Halloween dance, and a prom. We also Lucas Petre just wants participate in events involvDonald Trump to drop out ing the Special Olympics of the race. teams. Before our Special (Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa) Olympics basketball team went to compete at the Illinois State tournament, Sports Unlimited organized a send off aimed at building

camaraderie and team spirit.

The goal of Sports Unlimited is to foster unity and understanding among our student body by empowering them to come together no matter how large or small the gathering.

Currently, we are working on our “empathy” project, where we are collecting supplies for the organization

Syrian Orphans. Our goal is to work with the special needs students and use the bond we have created to give them a chance to make a difference as well. We will be making gift baskets filled with school supplies. Sports Unlimited hopes to be able to send these supplies to help out over 200 children in need.

Sports Unlimited memebers (Photo Credit: Dispatch Argus)

pose

with

State

believes that “Sports Unlimited is a great club that has a wholesome belief that everyone deserves friendship, love and happiness.

And that’s what is really important.. The members of Sports Unlimitied care about the kids a lot. It’s heart warming to see it happen.”

Representative

Pat

Verschoore

Top ten elf treats we can’t get enough of

Avery Carroll would like to have two monkeys.

(Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa)

Kate Helms is hoping to get new CDs and clothes.

(Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa)

Adriana Sanchez wishes to get books for Christmas.

(Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa)

12/18/2015

By: Isabel Zimmerman LO’T Feature Editor Elves are a much-loved tradition of Sharejoys week.

Their mobile bakeries are always filled with delicious food that no one can resist!

Here’s a list of the best treats they sell.

10. Candy Canes 9. Chocolate Covered Pretzels 8. Sugar Cookies 7. Scotcharoos 6. Chex Mix 5. Juice Boxes 4. Cake Balls 3. Puppy Chow 2. S’mores Bars 1. Oreo Balls

Morgan Anderson poses with her antlers and basket of goodies. (Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa).

10

Feature

Starbucks’s Christmas cup controversy can’t be controlled

By: Mikayla Carlson LO’T Feature Reporter Ever since 1997, Starbucks introduces a new holiday cup every year. Though customers enjoy the festive cups, the coffee conglomerate has been in hot water lately because of its “controversial” cup.

The coffee cups this year are red hombre with the trademark logo on front. Of course not everyone agrees, and there are a few perspectives on this change. On one side there are people who

think that Starbucks is declaring a “war” on Christmas.

Joshua Feuerstein, a social media personality, has expressed his discontent, stating that the “age of political correctness” has caused Starbucks to take “Christ and Christmas” off their cups, and “that’s why they’re just plain red.” People on the other end, however, feel that the change towards a more neutral holiday cup is good, as Christmas isn’t the only holiday celebrated during this time. There

is a also a number of who don’t really have an opinion, stating that a cup is merely a cup. Singer and songwriting Demi Lovato took to Twitter saying that the cups should at least represent the season of winter.

According to Starbucks, they were only trying to satisfy their customers, thinking of those that like to doodle on their cups, and in this way, the simplicity of the red cup included the diversity of other holidays and religions.

Mr. Rasche smiles proudly about his new classroom and his new career in the science wing..

(Photo Credit: Ila Mostafa).

Mr. Rasche is stoked to join the science department By: Ila Mostafa LO’T Feature Editor Last year, the science department was sad to see Mrs. Fitzpatrick retire. However, there’s a new physics teacher joining our ecstatic E-wing scientists. Standing in front of his RESPECT sign, Mr. Rashce tell Line O’Type about life before teaching, his love of science, and even his experiences at MHS. Where were you before you

came to MHS? I was at Illinois state where I competed as a part of the track team.

Why did you choose to teach science?

Well, I went to Moline, and I had Mrs. Fitzpatrick as a teacher, and she was the reason I fell in love with science.

We get that you love science, but do you have any particular field that you

like?

I love physics and geology.

Actually geology was my major.

When he’s not teaching, Mr. Rasche can be seen standing outside of his classroom, interacting with passing students and passing on the joy of science. Though we all miss Fitz, it’s nice to see someone as enthusiastic as Mr. Rashce joining the staff.

By: Trevonte Lockhart LO’T Feature Reporter

12/18/2015

11

Sports Boys basketball hits the hardwood

By: Marcella Williams LO’T Sports Editor The girls’ basketball season is in action! The Lady Maroons are leading the season with a record of 6-3 so far. “We have a really strong team,” says player Ava Gomez, “It’s full of really talented girls, and the season has been going well so far.”

With determination and effort, the girls are going to

take Moline far this year.

“We have so many versatile players, and the underclassmen are impressive,” Mackenzie Jacobs says, “I most anticipate our next game against Rocky. Our team is ready to dominate.

After taking a tough loss to Rocky, the girls started putting in more work. They plan to give it their all, and continue to improve their team-

work on and off the court.

According to Coach Steven Ford, “They [the team members] are improving everyday and should be playing their best basketball by the post season.”

Come support the Lady Maroons on Thursday nights at Wharton field house. The sophomore game starts at 5:00, and the varsity game starts at 7:30.

to go to Rocky and have an- varsity coach Jeff Schimmel, By: Britta McNinch other chance at beating one Borkhardt said, “He pushes LO’T Reporter of the best teams around.” us every day to become better It’s the most anticipated time Recently, the boys basket- players, and he is in it with us.” of the year. Basketball season ball team lost a heartbreaker The maroons have a rehas finally approached. Fri- by only two points against cord of 5-4 thus far, and the day nights at Wharton Field Rocky. They plan to work boys are ready for it to imHouse are always buzzing hard in practice to improve prove. The maroons play with energy and excitement. their individual and team games almost every weekSenior starter Jordan Bork- skills during this season. end, and the next home hardt feels that, “If our team When asked his thoughts on game is on January 15th. puts all the little things together we have a run at conference this year.” Currently, the team is 0-2 in conference, but both losses have been very close games.

Borkhardt also believes that the team’s most anticipated game is the upcoming away game against Rocky on January 29th. He The boys basketball team huddles up before their game against Rocky says, “I can’t wait Photo by Ila Mostafa

By: Katherine Douglas LO’T Sports Editor Senior Katie Stewart has played integral roles on the girls’ basketball and soccer teams throughout her high school career at MHS. Her performance this season has proven to be no exception.

She feels as though her soccer participation can be attributed to top plays on the court. “Soccer increases my endurance level, strength and speed,” said the point guard.

Aside from grueling practices associated with both intense sports, Stewart runs during the off-season to stay in shape.

Maintaining high fitness year round, it’s easy to understand why Stewart attributes her success on the basketball court to her athletic abilities, along with

her leadership qualities and confidence.

When asked what she she does in the off season to stay fit, Stewart said, “I spend time running.”

When asked how Moline’s coaching affects her performance, the senior replied, “Coach Ford has given me many great opportunities and set me up for success on the court.” She values his input especially regarding areas she hopes to improve upon as the season progresses such as shooting.

As far as this season goes, Stewart is most looking forward to Moline’s second game against Rock Island on January 14th. She hopes to seek redemption for the team’s loss a few weeks ago.

Stewart aims to complete a winning season by pull-

ing together with her team in order to defeat all other conference opponents.

In the future Stewart plans to attend Iowa State University. She would like to walk on the soccer team or play for a club team. “Either way,” says Stewart, “I can’t give soccer up.”

Dana Plagenz LO’T Sports Editor This season has started out with some hard fought wins but also some tough losses for the boys basketball team.

One player who has proved himself to be a main component of the team is Senior Anfernee Crompton.

Girls Varsity Basketball plays defense against Galesburg at Wharton Field House. Photo Credit Moline Lady Maroons Basketball Facebook.

Girls basketball shoots for victory

Maroons of the Month: Anfernee Crompton and Katie Stewart Crompton is a three sport athlete; He plays soccer, basketball, and baseball.

Crompton says that his goal for the year is to win a regional title in all three sports.

With the soccer team having won regionals and the basketball team being off to a promising start, Crompton’s goal seems very attainable.

When asked what he contributes to the team, Crompton said his determination, intelligence, and positive attitude are the best qualities he has to offer.

The basketball team is currently 5-4, and is hoping to improve their record from here on out.

According to Crompton, “Our team’s chemistry is so strong and it motivates me to be a better teammate.”

The starting lineup this year is made up of all Seniors, so most of the basketball team has played together for many years; thus they are able to successfully work as a team.

Also contributing to Crompton’s success are his coaches. “Coaches have really driven me to be a better athlete by giving me constructive criticism and positive outlooks,” says Crompton.

All in all, Crompton is a determined, hard working, three sport athlete who is currently doing big things for the basketball team here at Moline.

He plans to attend either West Point or the University of Chicago next year. He would like to play baseball in college, and his motivation is sure to take him far in whatever he chooses to do in the future.

12

Sports

12/18/2015

Boys swimming speedos up Wrestling pins down wins

By: Kiya Ritchie LO’T Reporter The 2015-2016 boys swimming and diving season has begun solidly. The varsity picked up a win against Davenport North last Tuesday, setting the tone for a successful season.

Austin Morris placed first in the 100 butterfly and in 100 backstroke with a lifetime best of 55.32. Joey Lavin also earned a personal best time of 1:05.03 in the 100 breaststroke. Each member of the team performed well, winning all relays in the meet.

According to Morris, coach Craig Fredericksen’s practice style is not easily outdone. “He’s stellar. He works us so hard and is by far one of the best coaches

Austin Morris wins the butterfly stroke against Galesburg Photo by Riya Patel around.” Swimming is cer- January 12th against Daventainly a strenuous sport, port Central and the Maroons and Fredericksen is pushing are expected to make a big the boys toward swimming splash against the oppositheir fastest times as the tion. Best of luck to the boys season progresses through swimming and diving team proficient sets at practice. in the rest of their season!

The next home meet is

By:Ethan Blevins LO’T Reporter Moline wrestling has kicked off the 2015-16 season with a bang. The varsity team is currently undefeated at 8-0.

Top performers include Daltyn Dodd, Daniel Terronez, Paladin Martinez, Caleb Schnell, and Trenton Jackson; each stands undefeated with 8 wins and no losses. As of December 9th, Daniel Terronez is currently ranked 5th in the state of Illinois in the 145 lbs weight class not to be outdone

by Jackson’s 9th place ranking in the 120 lb weight class.

Numerous other members of the varsity team are State-ranked, contributing to their undeniable depth.

Along with pure talent, strong work ethics and intense

dedication the Moline wrestling team brings a strength to the mat that is unparalleled by MHS groups past.

When asked what inspires his motivation, senior Trenton Jackson responded, “It’s my last year to do big things so why not go out with a bang; as a team, we have so much potential to succeed.”

Riding on the current strength and potential, the team collectively hopes to win a state title. A dual tournament in Dekalb on December 28th will mark a decisive point for Moline wrestling’s momentum leading into 2016.

Every year the wrestlers continue to impress the community and make Moline proud.

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