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Feature tor become President. The goal for Student Votethis year ThisyearLincolnHighSchool'sStudentCouncil is to increase voter turnout. Hopefully teachers will is holding a voter pledge drive in conjunction with see the importance of voting and bring their students Freedom's Answer, anon-profit .,,:wtm@1!Miilittii;", to the polls.
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with disabilities or you can go to http://www.fec.gov/ votregis.vr.htm and register online.
Voting is essential in making the democratic laws, it's your highways in that politicians pick what road construction occurs, it's your (grandparents) social securitywhen politicians determinetaxes,benefits, COLA and Medicare, it's your water and air because politicians set pollution standards, enforcementstrategies and allotted funds, it's your neighborhood in that politiciansmake laws about crime prevention,laws and their enforcement,housing, traffic outlines, parks and increasing voter turn-out in the Jii.,.,.,,.'ilf}l~¾:~"\{lf;;i~J~lfl'''~~iliil~f i!l,~J-·., ll:it. To register you must fill out a fonn
It should be duly noted that one needn't register only \Viththe Republican or Democratic party. There are numerous other parties available for you to sign up for such as the Green Party, Non-Partisan, Libertarian Party or "Other.
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ByNhu•YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief·-----
On September 13, 2004, the Lincoln Bill of Rights Defense Coalition won a huge victory in its fight against the USA PATRIOT Act (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act). The Li11coln City Council passed a resolution the Coalition had proposed which denounced parts of the PA TRIOT Act. The Coalition was able to convince the Council "to change those sections of the USA PA TRI OT Act that unduly infringe upon fundamental rights and liberties as recognized in the United States Constitution." Lincoln is now one of 350 other cities in the United States which have formally opposed the Act.
The USA PA TRI OT Act is legislation composed of 51 different bills passed quickly after September 11th, 2004 with a 98-1 vote. Amid the hysteria and fear stemming from the 9/11 tragedy, the Act took only six weeks to pass. Critics of the bill claim that parts of it infringe upon the civil liberties given to citizens and are unconstitutional. "Many of the provisions in this 342-page bill contain things that everyone aggress are appropriate," Mark Weddleton, representative for the Lincoln Bill of Rights Defense Coalition said during the Council meeting. "But now, three years after its passage, we can look back more dispassionately and ask ourselves, 'Don't some of these sections go too far?"' Proponents fire back saying that it is necessary in keeping America safe from terrorist threats. United States Attorney for the District of Nebraska Mike Heavican argues that the PATRIOT Act hasn't bothered anyone in Lincoln. "There isn't anyone in Lincoln, Nebraska, who's had a constitutional problem since the PA TRI OT Act was enacted," he said during the hearing. "I can guarantee you that."
America about the PATRIOT Act-a large piece of legislation which many Americans have not read entirely- as can be seen in the rising number of communities that have chosen to oppose it. An Associated Press poll taken last year on September 11 th showed that the majority of i\mericans were "concerned" with the PA TRI OT Act and how it would affect their rights as citizens in the future. "This poll came on the heels of a press reports that the U.S. Department of Justice was using the PA TRI OT Act primarily for routine criminal investigations rather than for terrorist related investigations," according to the American Civil Liberties Union's Nebraska Chapter website ( www .aclunebraska.org). Such concern prompted Council member Jonathan Cook to bring the resolution drawn up by the Bill of Rights Defense Coalition to
th e t~~le.
members J o nathan Cook , Annette McRoy , Patte Newman, and Terry Werner were in favor of the resolution. )< en Svoboda, expressing disdain for the debate-claiming it inappropriate due to Lincoln's lack of juiisdiction over the Federal matter-voted against the measure along with Glenn Friendt and Jon Camp. ;;
of America, and finally it's your Democracy and the only way it will work is if you register and vote."
Yourvotes do count and they could be the critical role in making or breaking the next President of the United States of America.
It should be noted that Adolph Hitler won the German Chancellor position because of a single vote.
tovoteascited are due by October 15th. feet the lifestyle of children from the web- --------------------~ which affects the future leaders about it because most people ··1iwmitmm,1tllilt"1l?, "'''W't{fl @;:,~~:·11tt.<;¥~J1Itttmmr· You can register to vote in just know a name and they vote ~:r:.,::~.,.,.,!]}IfaAiti!~II!iUm~r person or through mail-in appli- " · b 1MfJ.H]J@I1J@MWWIHJg@~JfifF AHW6}?%][--:;:'./t@tmm? · c I l · and that snot good, semor Ro ~?t%\ttrillb«t=ltmnmwnnw.A:lbtJ.t~:tk:t(m1:1EJW cations at any of the 10 owing. ·:;:;::;;:::,,::.::::::::::::;:?»::::,,~~;=c:::>i~====:=:::::,,=:::-;;,::{:::;:;:;:;:::;:::::::::;:::f'~:'''f'~~i=-::-;;,:::::,:;::=:~:;~, Gooding said ·•·t•::i:::I'l:':,1m::::::::itnv·'::? x;ipw:11:,:,:::,:,::,,,,,,,·::m:;;;,:,:,·County Election office the DMV Student ~otes throughout \1qf1[iilll'l~t'llrllit',1!iii1:iiliiillill!!f ll Aid to Fainilies with Dependan~ the LPS District and Lincoln '"@iffaiil%mlif!!Hll!ilfP' Children (AFDC) offices, MedHigh will occur on November icaid offices, Food Stamps oflst, 2004 at Lincoln High, and it will be computerized fices, Women, Infants and Children. (WIC) benefits Students will vote on a myriad of issues such as the offices, Agencies that provide services to people
land Security Department official, an d two employees of the FBI. Weddleton, an elementary school teacher for Lincoln Public Schools a11d long-time member of the Lincoln Bill of Rights Defense Coalition, along with University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor Laurie Thomas Lee defended the measure. "Upholding the PATRIOT Act is not patriotic," Lee said Former Republican U.S. Representative Bob Barr of Georgia even came to Lincoln to support the actions of the LBRDC. Numerous Lincoln citizens showed up to give their two cents. "I was very excited and glad to see that there was a good turnout," Weddleton said. "Many in Lincoln joined the debate and raised both pros and cons."
This decision is mainly symbolic because local governments have no authority to change federal law, but Barr feels that passing of the resolution and that of many others in the nation will get the attention of Senators in Washington D.C. and possibly persuade them into taking action against the bill.
Jassim Al-ldani, who was detainted by police
All people need to b e for two hours out side the Henry Dorley Zoo conc~rned about a nd ask in Omaha, speaks to a crowd at a rally opposques~ion_s about 1 .a~s th at in the USA PATRIOTAct at the Malone Cen-
There has been growing concern in may 1nfr1nge on civil liber- g ties guaranteed by the United t~r on July 22. Btll of Rights Defens~ CoaltStates Constitution" Cook t1on spokesperson and rally organizer Mark said at a press confe;ence be- Weddleto~ (le~) invited Al-ldani to speak fore proposing the resolution. after hearing his st ory. Photo by Greg Keller "I think this is an appropriate debate to have "
And debated they did. Discussion was fierce and lengthy that Monday afternoon. The City Council began the hearing at 3:30 p.m. and ended at approximately 9:15 p.m. with a vote by members. The measure barely passed with a 4-3 vote afong party lines. Democratic
Testimony was the main reason why the meeting lasted so long. Many showed up to have a chance to speak before the City Council; it was an example of democracy at work Both sides were heard. Among those againsf altering the PATRIOT Act were U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska Mike Heavican, a Home-
As a result of the resolution's passing, local librarians will now be asked "to inform local patrons of the law, including the portion that prohibits staff from informing them if federal agents have requested library records," according to a Lincoln Journal Star article (9/14/04, lB). The PATRIOT Act's effect on Lincoln residents will also be periodically reported to the public.
The Lincoln Bill ofRi.ghts Defense Coalition, established in August of 2003, is a grass roots organization set on protecting citizens from what they saw as the dangers of the PATRIOT Act. They had been planning the PA TRI OT Act resolution for many months What happened in the City Council chambers has helped their cause. For more information on the Lincoln Bill of Rights Defense Coalition, visit the national website www.bordc org, or call Mark Weddleton at 499-6672.
_____ By Marruslfall ____ _ BllSines.sE.ditor
I tried my best to not fall into the hype, but like most other things, it consumed me, and like most other teens in Lincoln, I attended the Nebraska state fair. Upon paying'the reduced Labor Day gate fee of five dollars, I had the sudden urge to ask for my money back. However, it was too late and I was stuck there for the day. The first thing I decided to do was see the fish in the Nebraska wild life area. Seeing the large mouth buffalo and the black crap " pie with cataracts was only a sample of the fun that I was about to experience.
Next on the list was the midway, the section of the fair that normally eats your money like popcorn. At only 5:30 p.m., the midway was just short of lifeless. Even the "carnies", who usually would call you out personally, trying to take your money in a game of chance, were eerily silent and in some cases, absent from their booths. On Labor Day, and several other days during the fair, you could •
get an unlimited ride wristband for $17, money well spent if you enjoy rides. For wristband holders, then would have been the ideal time to enjoy the Midway, when lines were short and ride times were longer. However, not being around 25 other screaming teenagers seems to take away from the experience.
After leaving the midway, I traveled back to where your parents got you all of those extra pencils last year, the Devaney Sports Center. Sadly however, the 100+ vendors \Vere packing up shop and the free fest that is wild advertisements and gimmicky sales pitches, was only a shadow of it's formal self
At only 6:10 p.m., vendors were packing up, and some had even left two days earlier. As I wandered around the remaining tables of religious speakers, hot tubs, AA brochures and sofas, I left wildly disappointed. ·
Leaving the Devany center I walked down the food court and took notice of the overpriced, heart clogging goodness that was Fair food As far as the quality of the food if it wasn't fried , it was on
a stick and in some cases, both Quickly leaving that area the closest building was the 4H building, which along with the Expo building housed some of the best amateur photography that I have ever seen. I truly hope that every single person who passed through the Fair gates, took the time to go to either of these buildings to see what was indeed inspirational and amazing pieces of art. These two buildings were where most of my time was spent.
At 7:30 p m., I decided to give the midway one final look. In that short time, the midway had changed into a bustling and congested mess of people and corndogs This is the section that most people are fond of, complete with long lines, short rides and too many people. The "carnies," who were once silent and lifeless were how I remembered them; loud, rude and irritating. Truly a fitting end to the day.
Almost half of the fun of going to the fair, is going with someone else, i.e a date. If we were to assume that you paid for yourself and a companion, you'd spend $10 dollars on gate ad1nission and at
least $10 on food if you eat at the fair If the midway was where you two wanted to go, you'd shell out $34 on wristbands for the rides, and/or $20 to attend an event at the grandstand. That's almost 75 dollars! For that amount of money, the two of you could go to the latest movie, out to dinner and probably still have enough to get ice cream or something afterwards
However , it's not the money that's the issue here, it's the fun factor, and until I saw the Expo and 4H building, I wasn't having that much fun. But when I stepped into the rooms of photography and artwork, I had forgotten all about the shortcomings of this year's fair. This year's fair was advertised as having, "something for everyone," whether your idea of a good time was looking at the quilts in the Lancaster Building, staring at the prize winning livestock, or attending any or all of the four free shows. The Nebraska State Fair of 2004 wasn't tbe most exciting thing in the world, but if you had gone, yot1'd have found a good time, and probably left with a smile.
_____ By Neel,\min.____ _ NewsE.ditor
The Republican National Convention was held between August 30th and September 2n_d, 2004 in New York City at Madison Square Garden. There were many speeches given during the convention, including President George W. Bush, Vice President Dick Cheney , Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Former Mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani, and Democratic Senator Zell Miller They spoke about many issues, including the economy, terrorism, taxes, unemployment and the war in Iraq to help get their supporters enthusiastic about the upcoming election
The main purpose of the convention was to officially nominate President Bush and to get the party ready for the election on November 2"d.
President Bush accepted the nomination on the final night of the election to help conclude the convention, but not before addressing the nation about his views for the future of America and his job as president, hoping to sway undecided voters. "We
have fought the terrorists across the earth, not for pride, not for power, but because the Ii ves of our citizens are at stake," said President Bush about terrorism, which is one of the biggest political issues facing the nation.
Bush for the most part spoke of terrorism and the efforts put forth in preventing it, but he didn't forget to include important domestic issues and throwing a little criticis1n at Senator John Kerry. "My plan begins with providing the security and opportunity of a growing economy," said Bush about the importance of having a good economy for other things to fall in to plan. Bush felt it was important that more jobs are created and trade is increased with other nations because he wants to make America "the best place in the world to do business."
The first night of the convention started with the remembrance of September 11th with eyewitness accounts of the attacks. The most important speaker of the night was Former Mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani, who took the opportunity to praise the job done by President Bush. On the morning of September 11'h, Giuliani said that all he could think of was "thank God that George Bush is our president." Giuliani went on to talk about the work George Bush has done as president against the war on terrorism. Giuliani didn't forget to criticize Kerry, especially on his vote for a war on Iraq and then his vote against eighty-seven billion dollar budget to fund the war. ·
The second night the Republicans attempted to show their more compassionate side with keynote speakers FirstLady Laura Bush and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Laura Bush talked about the type of man that George Bush is and how com milted he is to America. She talked about how George struggled with the idea of going to war in Iraq, but she said, "he knew the safety and security of America and the world depended on it."
Schwarzenegger focused on talking about America and his views of America. He talked about how he became a Republican. the strengths of the Republican Party, the economy, terrorism, and President Bush. His speech was filled with passion and had a very energetic tone, which helped to fire up the crowd and gave many Americans the first opportunity to hear Schwarzenegger make a big national speech.
The theme of the third night was quite clear and that was to destroy the character of Kerry with speeches from Senator Zell Miller (D) and Vice President Dick Cheney "Twenty years of votes can tell much more about a man than twenty weeks of campaign rhetoric," said Miller, who started out by attacking Democrats. He even attacked Kerry's leadership qualities, especially during this time with the country fighting a war on terrorism. Cheney's speech was overshadowed by Miller's powerful speech, but his speech had the same intentions. Cheney also went after Kerry's record and his supposed indecision. Cheney mainly focused on Kerry's weakness on
defense and said that Kerry would take the defensive, instead of the offensive that Bush has taken.
The convention went off without a hitch inside of the building, but outside was where the problem was. Protesters had come in large numbers to protest the Republican National Convention. More than 1800 people were arrested related to protesting, which is the most at any Republican convention. Protesters protested for many reasons including dislike for President Bush and the attention brought to New York by the convention. The fear of a possible ter-
rorist attack made many people uncomfortable about having the convention in New York
The convention was initially a great success for President Bush because he gained -some points in the poll, but it is now back to where it was before. The Republicans had hoped to get their party ready for the election, which they accomplished through their speeches. It is still another month before the election occurs, bllt the Republicans feel that the convention may give them the push that they need to reelect Bush.
____ ByNhu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief ____ _
Changes have been made yet again to the attendance policy. The most noticeable adjustment is the reduction of nl:lffiber of allowed absences from class, before a student g<\insan automatic failure, from 15 to 12 The tardy policy has also been altered. The days of carbon copied tardy sheets are gone-in its place is a single piece of paper. Instead of lunch detention, students will now have to go to after-school detention upon the fourth tardy. , Staff is no longer available to supervise during lunch because of budget cuts.
Something that's also different is the focus on truancies. Last year some students would rather skip than be counted truant because tardies were punished more severely than unexcused absences. This time around, after three truancies a consequence of ISS, OSS or the ominous "other" is taken. Along with the tardy sheet, students and staff will have to deal with the extra paper work of truancy forms. The administration hopes that thi:s will curb the rates of skipping.
There is mixed reaction from students. Many don't care, while others feel that the attendance policy is useless. "I think that in high school, attendance should be optional because it would lower freshmen dropout rates in colleges, and as long as you can get an A on graded work and get an A in class, why go?"
Richard King (12) said. The reaction is from a few since many students don't even know the rules have changed. "I know that they changed the number of days you can miss, but other than that, I'm not really sure," Emily Zimmer (12) said when asked how she felt about the new policy.
This new attendance policy is one of many in Lincoln High's history, but Instructional Coordinator Russ Uhing says that it has •
been consistent in the last five years. "I've been working here for 14 years and actually, it's been more consiste11tin the last five years than it had been previously," Uhing said. "We added the tardy policy last year and the truancy policy this year, but the spirit of the entire policy has been consistent."
What has spurred these changes? One could be the retirement of Attendance Coordinator Dr. DeAnna Jurgens. Mr. Uhing has taken over some of her roles, along with a new Attendance Technician, Nancy Willemsen. "She will do some of Dr. Jurgen's responsibilities. She will also do some of the
-
dropped from the class. A change was made to that policy to raise attendance numbers. That is the same reasoning for this year's adjustments. "We're also trying to get more in line with District policy that states that if a student has more than 20 absences in a year, it's considered excessive, " said Associate Principal Pam Cox (Robinson). Lowering the allowed number of absences to 12 puts Lincoln High closer to that.
Isaiah Droud (9) checks in at the attendence office with Secetary Kris Robinett after arriving late.
by Cathy Danner record-keeping'--------------------------'
A survey was sent out last year to both students and teachers, and advice was taken from there. "We had input from the teachers, and the administrative team talked about parts and work a lot with students and parents as far as son1e intervention for students," Uhing said in an interview.
According to Assistant Principal Annie Scott, the District and Lincoln High receives funding based on the number of students in attendance. The amount recei,,ed is based on the amount of students enrolled and actively attending class. "We get our official numbers on the first Friday of September and then from that percentage of kids who attend each day," Scott said. Five years ago, if a student had five unexcused absences, he/sl1e was automatically
it," Cox said. According to Cox, most of the students didn't want a change, while some students even suggested lowering the number of allowed absences. The attendance committee also gave input. "One of the recommendations that came in from the (Attendance) Committee was to lower it to ten. We felt that to lower it f:rpm fifteen to ten was a drastic change so we thought twelve was more reasonable," Cox said.
Teachers are pleased to see tardies dealt with, but the attendance policy along with the numerous other changes with this school • ••• g a1n
year have caused headaches. "I have found this school year to be overwhelming with the tremendous amount of responsibilities added to our teaching assignment," English teacher Deborah McGinn said. "Classes alone are overcrowded with 29+ students, and that makes it difficult to keep up with attendance, tardies, grading, standardized testing along with preparation for those tests, and other expectations."
State law has also been altered, and the school must now deal with that. It (Law 79201, revised by LB868, 2004) states that "prior to July 16th 2004, a child is of mandatory attendance if the child has reached seven years of age, did not reach sixteen years of age prior to July 16, 2004 and has not reached eighteen years of a:ge." If a student does want to drop out at the age of 16 or 17, a parent must sign a notarized release allowing the student to do so. There is a grandfather clause on the whole issue-if you turned 16 before July 16th , you can still be released from school.
"I don't see a lot of changes to the policy (in the future), but maybe a little bit more of how we do business around here and working more with kids and parents," Cox said wJ:ten asked if we would see any more changes in the near future. "We're trying to do a lot more interventions. Just here, the first few weeks of school, they (Uhing and Willemson) are meeting between 80 to 100 kids a week, along with parents, trying to get kids here." This will probably affect most stude11ts in that the Administration is trying to have more intervention in the attendance process before a student hits 12 absences. For now, there won't be more changes, unless Lincoln Public School alters its district-wide policy that makes the policies at all High School's the same, which has been discussed according to Cox. Students will have time to adjust, hopefully
By cathyDanner PhotoE.ditor
At the end of last school year, Spanish teacher Mrs. Jill Hanshew, German and So-
David Ingram (Volunteer) cial Studies teacher Mr. Terry Hanshew, and English teacher Mrs. Judy Keller all left the building for the last time to enjoy their retirements after a combined 97 years of working at LHS. Their departures from LHS left a large gap that will be felt by everyone especially to those students and teachers who have classes on third floor.
"Mrs. Hanshew was a teacher of limitless energy. Her love of students Deb Helzer (ELL) was very apparent I I in her caring ways, her school spirit and l1er very active teach-
Jon Gruett (Vocal Music)
ing about applying to be a substitute in the Raymond Public School," Stark added. Mrs. Hanshew was a teacher here at LHS for 32
ing style," Spanish teacher Jeanne Stark said. "Mrs. Hanshew now loves to garden in her free time but admits that she misses LHS students. She is think-
Stark said. "He is still working and has
Nancy Wilemson (Attendance Tech) one class he teaches at UNL." "Now that he has retired he is happily building a garage for his new home." Mr. Hanshew was a teacher of 30 years here at LHS.
Laura Gapp (English)
Zoe Schell (Math) years. "Mr Hanshew was also known as "Mr. Fix-it" in the World Language Department. He could repair everything that was broken,''
Judy Keller was a teacher here at LHS for 35 years. This made her the senior teacher at LHS during her last years. "She was a good teacher I learned a lot in her grammar class," said senior Sharlyn Greenwald. I caught up with Mrs. Keller to see how her retirem en t was going. "I enjoy the free time I am going to the gym, reading books and seeing my new grandson more" said former English Teacher Judy Keller. So now that Rod Droud (English)
third floor is missing three teachers, what are we to do? Well, have no fear. Over the summer eight new staff members were hirtd and have now started to become links in the Marissa Wanamake chain at LHS. Twan- (German) ya Blades has been hired to teach Zoology. Rodney Droud will be teaching English 9 and Oral Com-
Tawnya Blades (Science),._ ______ _.. munication. Laura Gap is a new English 10 teacher. The new vocal music director is Jon Gruett. Deb Helzer will be a part-time ELL level 2 teacher. Zoe Schell will be new in the math department, teaching Geometry and Foundations Math I. Dawn Sebek will be in the Special Education department. Marissa Wanamaker will be Lincoln High's new German teacher.
ByA.nnittaWilkinson OpinionEditor
Vice President, Dick Cheney, was actually born here in Lincoln, but grew up in Casper, Wyoming. He was married in 1964 to Lyr1ne Cheney, and they have two daughters together, Mary and Elizabeth. In 1981, Lynne wrote a book called Sisters. The story is about two women in the West who fall in love. Being that the two women were lovers in the early 20 th century, they had to run away to be together.
Mr. and Mrs. Cheney's daughter Mary is a lesbian. She came out about 5 years ago, in 1999. That couldn't have been the best time for her to come put! It was a year before the presidential election, and he was the George W. Bush's running mate . For the past couple of years since Bush has been in office, he's been trying to get an amendment in the Constitution to ban gay marriages. Being Vice President, Cheney doesn't always have to agree with Bush's decisions.
Although Cheney doesn't agree with the banning of gay marriages, he does believe that the states should be able to make the decision of having or not having legal gay marriages. In a town hall meeting in Davenport, Iowa, Cheney said, "Freedom mean~ freedom for everyone. People ought to be free to enter into any kind of relationship they want to."
· Right now there are 14 states that are actually trying to ban gay marriages • ama ·e
By Karisa&hweitzer CopyEditor
If you've turned on your television or opened a newspaper in the past few months trying to g ain some perspective on election issues you've probably found instead a bombardment of coverage for the controversy created by advertisements attacking the candidates' military records. These ads were released by organizations called 527s funded by either party to distract the public from real issues. You may be thinking, now, that these orgarli.zations are therefore the devil, the big sleazy downside to freedom of speech. But, this is not an issue of first amendment rights , this is an issue of funding: who is allowed accept unlimited funding and who is not. According to www.disinfopedia.org, 527s do not (1) use 'magic' words that expressly advocate someone's election or defeat, and/or (2) directly subsidize federal campaigns themselves. This is why lawyers have successfully argued to the Federal Election Commission that 527s are exempt fron1 the restrictions of federal campaign law and allowed to collect unlimited donations from corporations, unions and wealthy individuals, often referred to as
Laura Bush states on CNN.com that she believed the advertisements attacking Kerry's military record were fair because of the attacks made on her husband by MoveOn.org. Though it arguably makes it fair to the opponent it does not-make it fair to the people who have the responsibility to make an informed decision between the two candidates. Despite all the sports metaphors, two fouls do not make a fair game.
"I hope my opponent joins me in condemning these activities of the 527s I think they're bad for tl1e system," Bush said to CNN reporters on his Texas ranch. "All of them. That means that ad, every other ad. Absolutely. I don't think we ought to have 527s." But abolishing all groups classified as 527s would be a violation of our freedom of speech when many of these groups act as helpful non-partisan sources of information.
Whether they are emulating mass misinformation campaigns or showcasing well-supported opirli.ons does not matter in the case of the attack ads. Regardless of their form their purpose is still to expressly advocate someone's election or defeat. They are therefore no longer the 527s they claim to be because they abuse the privi-
in their states constitutions. Some of those states are Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Ohio, Oregon and Utah, and they're going to vote on Election Day to propose or oppose this state amendment. Similar measures were approved by Massachusetts, Tennessee's and Wisconsin's legislatures but must be approved again in 2005 before going to a statewide vo te. Of the 50 states, 4 states have already banned gay marriages in their state's constitution. Those 4 states are Utah, Missouri, Alaska, and Nebraska.
Although the president is trying to ban gay marriages in the constitution, not every republican agrees. "Writing discrimination into our constitution violates conservative and republican principles. This amendment would not strengthen marriage - it would weaken our 11ation,'' said Patrick Guerriero, who's the Executive Director of The National Board of the Log Cabin Republicans.
Cheney should continue to stand up against Bush's amendment proposal. Cheney is correct in saying that gay marriages should be left to the states to decide. If two people are truly in love with one another, and they want to spend the rest of their lives with each other, let them be married. Males and females, gays, or straight, having a marriage license is the sign of the rest of two peoples' lives together. If states decide to ban gay marriages, lovers should move to a state that allows the m to be married
"soft money." 527 organizations, as Sen. John McCain says in Newsweek, are beneficial to the voting process because they have the freedom to inform people about election issues.
The attack ads that have been causing such a stir attack one party's candidate and are therefore in breech of federal campaign law. It's the Federal Election Commissi0n's job to decide who fits the criteria of 527s and who does not. Clearly the groups that released attack ads are biased towards one party or another, thus violating the criteria as stated above. It's necessary that the Federal Election Commission exercise its nonpartisan authority over these groups so that elections can be fair. This is their fault and they need to correct this intolerable violation of our democracy.
leges allowed to real criteria abiding 527s.
Advertisements from the .;ibusive organizations destroy our freedom to choose. They replace -our knowledge with hazardous waste that we then have the responsibility of personally disposing of before it subliminally deteriorates valid truth based opinions and motivations. Spending the rest of your life soaking in the muck that is ill-informing political nonsense is a waste of minds, lives, and freedom. It in fact is a crime.
In this age where technology makes the scenes in 1984 such a disturbing possibility, the FEC needs to exercise its responsibility to protect our freedom, to keep the proverbial boot from stomping out our human face for the next hundred years.
SENIORS! Remember that the Deadline to submit SENIOR PHOTOS for the Yearbook is Monday, Nov.1st.
If you had your photo taken at one of the district-approved studios, then you don't need to do anything. The photographer will send us a copy of your picture. If you had someone else take your photo, then you need to bring a copy to the Yearbook Room, 310 by N9v. 1st If you'd like to use the Interstate Studios photo that was taken
ByChrisliatch F..ntertainmentF..ditor
Viva Las Vegas; it's not just a saying, it's a mindset. This year Lincoln High 's Student Council and the LHS Cheerleaders are bringing all the lights and glamour of the Vegas Strip to our very own school. This years homecoming theme is Viva Las Vegas and students will be able to attend the dance at Lincoln High on October 8th from 9-12. With the one and only DJ XL holding down the music this years homecoming looks to be one of epic proportions
" Last year's president came up with the idea of 'Viva Las Vegas' and we looked at some photos to figure it out better,'' senior morale officer of Student Council: Kim Mai said, "We're working with the cheerleaders on making it a great night, but I can't tell you exactly what's in store. It's ,, a surprise.
Students looking forward to crowning this year's Homecoming royalty will be pleased that nominations were scheduled for September 29.
This year student council hoped to also vote on spirit royalty, a new idea based on who dresses up for spirit week.Unfortuantely, for reasons undisclosed; the administration nixed this new idea. "Every person would get to vote for 1 other person in their grade due to uniqueness and funniness.You show school spirit and could've wort great stuff," Mai said.
While Elvis might have once been the "King of Las Vegas" our students get to choose the next one. Tickets to Vegas have never been this cheap. All you need is $5 to buy them from cheerleaders and Student Council reps. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Fortunately for the students at Lincoln High, neither Elvis impersonators nor any Wayne Newton songs will be used to n1ake this an authentic trip to our Southwest. I for one would welcome a chance to play a little No Li1nit Texas Hold' em but I fear the administration would be against any underage gambling. This leaves us to the dancing and as I've said before: with DJ XL working the tables this is going to be some kind of party.
We may not have Sigfried and Roy but we've got the next best thing: dancing the night away with all of our friends.
ByNhu-YNgo &Ii.tor-In-Chief
1. How long have you been teaching here at Lincoln High? This is my fourth year.
2. When is your birthday? My birthday's in August-I'm a Leo.
3. What the most interesting thing you have noticed in people? I think everybody is curious, and I think that everybody wants to be loved.
4. W h a t school of psychology most sparks your interest? I am most interested in Trans-Personal Psychology.
Trans-Personal tries to go beyond the rational so in a sense it's Trans-Rational.
It looks at soulful things, it looks at spiritual things, and it also combines sociology, psychology, and philosophy-all those things. It's beautiful stuff.
5. How was your summer?
My summer ! got into a nice flow in my summer. And I got
to engage in discussion then I'm good to go.
8. What one even has impacted you the most in your life? Oh, that's a good question 7 Well I think, I don't know if you'll be able to get this no\v, but in Rome I met this contemplative nun, and she was such a beautiful person and was so welcoming. I can remember the things we talked about, and afterwards I was like "Wow, my life just opened up." I thought I was open before. She just opened up my life. So I think that maybe that was one of those life-changing things
9. What is your favorite color? What is that color where it's thatplum. Yeah, plum. I painted my old mediation room plum, and I loved it
Lunch lines remain long even with the use of West
Most students at Nebraska Wesleyan graduate in four years-not five orsix, which is the going rate at most large state instituiioni.
10. So you have a law degree, stud- ff!ifii ied with Buddhist ~1111 i monks, and have
I~d an interesting l1fe ... what else do · you want to do
ames l'erry 1sgetting reaay to teac his eager Diff Economicsstudents. in your lifetime? What do I want to do? Oh, I do want
Photo by Cathy Danner
into this nice flow where everything just kind of fit together very nicely
6. What kind of music do you listen to? (Laughs) I get made fun of all the time, but I listen to the same music over and over, and I add one new person a year. So I listen to all that seventies -I mean, that Bobby Dylan, Grateful Dead. All that stuff, you know-Joni Mitchell sturr.
7. What class do you enjoy teaching the most? My favorite is always when-if there's a class that likes to talk, that likes to discuss things. So it doesn't really matter what it is, but if they like sooner, I want to go wander for a while.
to do this. When I turn 55, maybe wander. I want to
11. Do you h·ave any specific place where you want to wander? No, I want to wander, and I just want to be places and look around, observe, be with the place, meet new people, find places where I can sit softly and meditate. Yeah, I want to wander.
12. Did you watch the Olympics? I watched the 800 meter Free Relay 13. Do you have a goal for this year? No
14. What high school did you graduate from? Is this going to create problems? (Laughs) Southeast.
in
and
----ByNhu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief
My friend had been talking about the movie "Hero" for some time. I would listen on and off, sometimes genuinely interested, sometimes preoccupied with the person stepping on my foot as I tried to get to class in West hall. Each time, I would become increasingly drawn into the movie I made up images in my mind. It all became very intricate until finally I decided to go see the movie with her. Now I find myself telling others of its wonder.
The movie takes place during the Kiugdom of Qin (230 to 221 BCE) led by Qin Shihuangdi. Present day China at that time was separated into six kingdoms, but Qin would later unify them, build the Great Wall of China, and create what would later be known as the first dynasty of China Ent Qin was ruthless in his attempts to form the country of his dreams It is the turmoil of unification that sets the story.
Our hero, a warrior known simply as Nameless (Jet L-i) begins the movie. He is at the palace of King Qin (Chen Daoming) as a reward for his great accomplishments. Nameless clai1ns to have killed three of Qin's most wanted assassins, Sky (Donnie Yen), Broken Sword (Tony Leung), and Flying Snow (Maggie Cheung). Becaus e he was able to kill the skilled assassins, the warrior is allowed to have tea with the King-ten paces away. The story then gets deeper as Nameless begins to r.ecount of how he killed each assassin. Everything begins to unwind, however, as Qin sees through Nameless' story. Accusing him of lying, the king unravels the truth, and the movie takes a turn.
The truth is not given outright, which makes
ByAlina&lyukh AssistantWebE..ditor
Looking for a way to sweeten your life? Hm-m-m Let's see Do ' you like chocolate? Yes? Then stop searching ! Tons of candy and pipes of chocolate are coming soon together with a whole Chocolate factory!
The LHS Theatre Department presents the comedy "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" after Roald Dahl's book of the same name and the famous movie "Willy
this movie so good. The audience is left wondering what is fact and what is fiction. "Hero" then breaks into four parts and slowly (not a boring kind of slow, trust me) falls upon the truth. With each sequence, the characters are developed and emo- · tion revealed.
it later was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards. After its success, Mirama.x Studios and director Quentin Tarantino decided to bring "Hero" to America. In fact, in the opening credits, it says "Quentin Tarantino prese nts". There ·
why Nameless -' t, is really there, what the fates of the assassins truly were, and what happens to the king and the country he env1s1ons.
Those watch- X ;;, ing finally see ' crilr were some other changes to the American version from the Chinese one, including adding a physical sword fight to accompany a mental battle arid changing the phrase "under heaven" to "our land". The release of "Hero" opened number one at the box office with $17 8 millionbreaking a record for an Asian film in North America.
Dragon" and less performance worth seeing. "Rush Hour 2") underdevelopment as a character. She would remain as Broken Sword's pupil, while also fighting a couple of scenes, but remain mostly in the background.
"Hero" was made on a $20 million (US) budget-the most expensive Chinese film ever and actually released in China over two years ago. It went on to huge success at the Chinese box-office, and '
Though I have no problems with "Hero," one slight disappointment was Zhang Ziyi's c :crouc~ing Jet Li as Nameless in Hero provides a flawT1ger, Hidden • T h e movie is in Chinese with English subtitles. This may be bothersome to many, but I was able to adapt and enjoy the movie. The cinematography was beautiful; each part of the movie had a color scheme-crimson red, pale blue, lush green, virginal white, and finally black. Chinese director Zhang Yimou really outdid himself, and the cast is nothing Jess than stellar. Hero might not appeal to all, but I highly re commend it and thank my friend for introducing it to me.
and where "nobody ever nobody ever came went in and • ing only one of them who becomes an owner of the treout." .------------------, mendous factory.
For many years lots of chocolate makers tried to discover the secrets L of the Wonka factory and sent spies to do it, and now the factory's eccentric owner Willy Wonka (James Oliva) opens
"I want the audience to enjoy themselves," says Chris Maly, director of the play. "And I want them to enjoy the characters that they see created before them and just to enjoy the story." Wonka and the ~-------------~ the doors hi1nself.
Chocolate Fac''It will be 90 minutes of tory." fun! And it is better than This fact
Even if you television!'' are not a sweet tooth, you are becomes the main - Chris Maly one news reporters are talking abot1t. sure to enjoy this sweetest dream-come-true story of a poor boy, Charlie (Jordan White), and his four greedy and spoiled opponents - Augustus Gloop (St'ephen Cassada), Veruca Salt (Ella Wile s), Violet Beauregarde (Je ssica WallenThompson) and Mike Teavee (Jeremy Tinnean) - who find Golden Tickets in Wonka chocolate bars and win a tour into a super secret chocolate factory where weird, crazy things happen
The whole world is following the lucky CharlieandtheChocolateFactory
The 100-person-cast with crazy sets and weird characters starts Thursday October 14, and will go on for two more days.
You can buy tl1e tickets as well as some other interes ting things like theatre T-shirts and winners' steps with runsfrom0ctober14thtothe16th. the hearts pounding 1..- __. lots of chocolate and candy right before the performance. to finally find out the real aim of the contest - Wonka needs somebody to help him and later take over the factory
So through the whole tour kids and their parents are eliminated leav-
And before you go to the show there's one more advice for you: watch out for Oompa-Loo1npas and their fabulous Queen by Patsy Koch Johns.
•
By MarcusI-fall BusinessManager
It's kind of funny, as I began to write this article, I was very optimistic in the hope that there are indeed a lot of things to do in Lincoln. However, as I sat do\vn and brainstormed activities, I hit a wall, hard! I finally began to see that there really isn't that much to do in this city. That's why I had to turn to you, the students and find out what you guys like to do, in the hopes that my theory would be proven right.
After asking a hundred people, "What is your favorite thing to do in Lincoln in your free time.", I expected to get a hundred different answers, but that wasn't the case The definitive answer was "Going to the movies" and "Going shopping" with 20 and I 6 people. However, there were a few creative and surprising answers such as "Going to a hockey game", which I'm sure all six people in Lincoln thoroughly enjoy doing, and "Going fishing".
Although there were creative and surprising answers, it should be noted that most people struggled to think of something to do. In our society of cell phones, video games and the Internet, it shouldn't be too shocking that no one gave the reply, "Playing sports." I guess it makes sense in a way, why run the risk of getting hurt playing football, when you can sit in the comfort of your own home and play Madden 2005 for six hours. Is walking a trail outside of Lincoln and taking in the majestic beauty that is the country not an activity that you could enjoy?
Although Lincoln will probably never be home to a major sports team and will probably never host any huge concerts, we don't need the swearing of live
gangster rap, or an alternative to our mediocre semi-pro sports teams. Lincoln is full of gorgeous trails, great golf courses and is home a small town charm that you won't get in a Chicago or a New York City.
Most of the students that I asked also mentioned that if Lincoln were more like Omaha, they'd enjoy the city more. True, Omaha has a better zoo and better malls, however, I'll bet that if you were to live in Omaha for a year to a year and a half, you'd wish for a city that had more to offer and I'd argue that point with anyone.
I'll probably get yelled at for suggesting this, but volunteering is another great and re\varding thing to do with your time. Spending time your time with a child in need or elderly person can give you a feeling of accomplishment and also gives you a chance to give back to the community Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for people, \Villing to lend a hand to those in need. In addition to volunteering, take out time to spend with your friends and family. Through conversation, you might discover great things about a person that you might not have known.
When it comes to finding something to do in Lincoln, it shouldn't be that hard, go downtown and enjoy the local eateries and see a film at the Ross Media Center. There are more parks in this city than kitchens in John Goodman's house. Some parks are home to disc golf courses and trails that snake into some of the more attractive parts of the city. Lincoln may not be the big city everyone wants it to be, but as far as finding things to do, it's not hard. You're either part oftbe problem or you're part of the solution, so stop reading this and voice your opinion about what you want to see here, you're not getting anything done just sitting there are you?
ByChrisliatch E.ntertainmentE.ditor
It's fall and that means it's time once more for one of the most overlooked Lincoln High School sports teams to take the court. The Links Boys Tennis Team has quietly continued to improve over the past couple years. Last year the boys fought hard at State and ended up a solid 16 th out of 27 teams.
This year's team has lost key Varsity players Mikah Meyers, Josh Ward and Peter Olds. The Links return 2 Varsity letter winners: juniors Dan Beckwith and Jimmy Clifford.
In the first tournament of the year, Beckwith and Clifford won the number 1 and number 2 singles titles, respectively. These victories were a promising start to what should be a good year for the 2 underclassmen.
The Links headed into their next meet looking to continue th eir winning ways. The Links traveled to Fre1nont and
-001 = Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii ~~ ' ~hrislfatch,"':':"'=-iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii, E.ntertainmentE.ditor
What has tight spandex, lots of yelling and athletic shoes? Actually, it's not a Richard Simmons work out tape. I'm talking about Lincoln High Volleyball. This year's team is full of talent and looking for another strong season under the guidance of 2 nd year Head
Coach Jill lill@tr
than headed to Grand Island after that.
The doubles combinations are as follows: #1 doubles with Beckwith and Clifford, #2 doubles with seniors Will Hutchinson and Derek Weitzel, and #3 doubles with seniors Eric Hoffman and Ben Katt.
Senior Eric Hoffman had this to say about the team and their chances against the competition. "We think we'll finish higher at state than last year. You always should set your goals high so you can reach your full potential." He also added, "all our guys are improving (Doubles Partner) Ben and I love to slam the ball down to intimidate the opposition."
The Links tennis team is looking to build momentum as the gear up to hit the state meet on October 14th and 15 th • They play the majority of their home games at Woods Tennis Courts. With our support, their skills and hard work, who knows but that we might just see the next Andy Roddick in the making.
throughout the summer and attended many camps. Countless hours were spent in hot, stuffy gyms during summer league games; all with the purpose of becoming better. The Links suffered a season opening loss to Gr and Island on September 2, then followed that up with solid action at difficult tour n a.men ts and matches around the state.
year we've Hitz. had some "This
The team hardships has 3 return- but we've ing letter win- 1 e a r n e d ners: Brooke from them Gillies, Bailey and are Heafer and •w rapidly imCarly Aker- proving," son from last ~•;a;~•~;..;..~~~?!,_...~~~~E':":".::'l' iii~~-~~ said senior year's varsity B a i 1 e y team. They He a fer came up liter- " W e ' v e ally just a few been getpoin ts shy L-----------------------~ ting ready of a berth at for the the State Volleyball Tournament, losi~g bigger tournaments by working on our 15-5 and 15-12 to Lincoln Southwest 1n weaknesses." the district championship gam~. T~e~e "Our district is pretty tough," addathletes remember just l1ow painful it 15 ed senior Maggie Starkweather; " but I to be so close to State, and _the~ hope to think that if we keep our team working use this experience as a mot1vat1ng factor together we can qo very well and make behind tl1eir new season. it to state."
This year's ~aptains are junior Jessy For yotl volleyball fans out there, Livers and seniors Brooke Gilles and Lincoln High has only 2 home games Carly Akerson. These women, as well left: October 9 and 14. Make sure you as many others on the team, worked ha rd catch them i11 action. ' ·oo-ru a
Chrisliatch E.ntertainmentE.ditor [)(]
Lincoln High at 2-2 not too bad considering neither major Nebraska newspaper even ranked them as contenders. Despite 2 tough road losses the Links have had flashes of brilliance on both sides of the ball that have been lacking in yars past.
Well, it's the dawn of a new age at The High. We're bigger, tougher, faster a n d downr i g h t more in timid -a ting this year then in any 1n recent memorJ ...:.Our of-
exception of the injury to (senior) Nate McKie, and that is a huge part of moving the ball."
The Links took a strong step towards erasing some of the bad memories of last season in their first game of the year against Lincoln Northeast. The team was able to pull out a thrilling overtime win that electrified tl1e crowd at Seacrest Field. After a beautiful pass to Ricky Mass a f r o m senior qua rterback
Der e c Schmidgall tied the game at 21 • apiece; Nor the a s t Senior Duane Shields fense is piling up the yards a n d the defense is steadily
a n d block
Ricky Massa(12) runs the ball during the game against North Star on September 10th. the Links won 31 - 17 trbt "'P-= to brea-k through the line for the second time that night improving.
Most experts agree that size along both the offensive and defensive lines are a definite strength for the team and a few bright spots were to be had despite the debacle of last season. Our coverage also returns strongly, as last season senior Ricky Massa led the state in interceptions, with 10. Several juniors started at key positions in 2003 and are now a year further along in their development and experience.
Coach Farrand believes that team chemistry has a lot to do with the newfound success of the Links. "The senior class is a group of kids that seems to get along together pretty good. They have really good chemistry as a group and we obviously have talent as well. I'm pleasantly surprised by such a good start. We thought this team could be good but we're very happy to be where · we're at."
The Links were near the bottom of the conference in total offense last year. I asked Head Coach John Farrand if any changes were in store. "The team has allowed us to make a few changes this year. Some kids are playing in different positions than last year and we've been really pleased with how that has worked out. Our offensive line has held up really well,with the
the extra point sending the game into overtime.
On the Links' first possession in the overtii;ne period senior tailback Randall Brumm took a pitch from Schmidgall and galloped 10 yards to pay dirt.
The Links won again in a hard fought battle against in-city rival Lincoln Northstar. The team then headed up to Bellevue East looking to stay undefeated and ranked in the top 10. Unfortunately, a victory was not in the cards for the Links as they went down 19-6.
Schmidgall had a sterling performance throwing the ball, with nearly 200 yards through the air, but the Chieftai1s' running game was not to be denied as they chewed up too much yardage and clock for the Links to stay in tl1e game. The Links faced Omaha North in another road loss 35-13. The Links generated plenty of offense but the defense couldn't contain the opposi'tions running game for the 2nd straight week.
It's game time at Lincoln High and that means it's time for us to start pulling out some much need ed wins as our season progresses. This year's team looks very promising but only time will tell if we have what it takes to make the state playoffs.
_____ By GarretDurst ____ _ -SportsE.ditor
our pitcher is a freshman taking a lot of pressure, but \Ve're improving." Said Sara Brozek. With new head coach Jennifer Schmidt, the Links are just looking to get that next win. Lisa Aguirre has pitched well for the Links. " She ( Lisa Aguirre ) has consistently pitched outs and is doing a great job of moving the ball around the plate." Said Coach Schmidt. =~ ~ki,.,._,nea;,en. S a"rali" S wanson "i s "lea di ng • til e " tea in= i n of f e n se,
The Lincoln High Links softball team is coming off an impressive 20- 19 record and a 9'" place finish in the state. But with a new head coach and just 2 returning starters, the Links have some big question marks to fill
The Links have started out the season on a shaky hitting 407 with a double and triple. Kasey Farwell is note, with a 1 - 22 record. The Links beat Nor~h Platte hitting 344. Senior Sara Brozek and sophomore Kay7- 6 to get their first win. Freshmen Stephanie Fr~ck lean Tenopir are both hitting around .300 " Offensively, went 3- 4 with a double. Freshmen LisaAgurrre, Junior they need to do a better job of executing with runners Kasey Farwell, and senior Sarah Swanson each had 2 in scoring position." Said Coach Schmidt about the hits. Kasey Farwell came up big for the Links rn the top team. of the 6 th inning with the game winning hit. The Links The Links have a double header against Northeast held North Platte to no n1ns in the bottom h_a":o~,th~ 6'h September 28 October 5'" the Links play 2 against the inning. The game was called due to time lrmit. It 8 a Silver hawks of Southwest. The district tourney starts building year for us. We lost a lot of good seniors and October 7<hat Millard South.
VarsityFootball
Oct 1st (F) vs. Southeast @Seacrest 8:00 PM
By GarretDurst s po~1,Jlaitor
The cross-country team is off and running with already three big meets under their belts, which included the Wesleyan Meet, Kearney Invite, and the Harold Scott Invite. The teain has had great success at all of the meets with both the men and women putting up great performances. The team hopes to continue this good streak with big meets coming up, such as the city championship, ·,· • /·. , · Heartland Conference, districts, and state meet.
The first meet of the year was held at Nebraska Wesleyan on September 4'". The boy's team finished in fifth place, while the girls finished in 6'" place. Senior Chris Hatch finished in fourth place, while Junior Taylor Hammack and Senior Ray Mikkleson finished 11 th
@ Fremont 5/6:00 PMOct. 14 (Th) Southeast@LHS 7:00 PM
• ,
season progresses. "I had another 12'h place finish for the a personal seasonal best time of 17:35 and I won a me dal. l ' was very con t ent with1 h ow ' l' race o, " saio';;;;;;;;; Mikkleson about his performance, which shows the confidence the cross-country team has.
The team is striving for a great season this year especially after sending three runners to state last year, including Hatch, Hurt, and Mikkleson. They have high expectations this year especially considering the tremendous amount of hours the team has put in to performing at peak form. "Our team has surprised me with how much we have improved, but I think if we can all stay healthy, we can be one of the top eight teams in the state,'' said Hatch about the cross-country team "I feel that if everyone performs to their potential at districts, we will be able to go to state," added Mikkleson.
Many individuals have also set goals that they want to stride for this year and considering that nine runners have set personal records, they are well on their way. "This year I hope to help the guys team reach state an<l perform well there, as well as move up on the cross-country all-time charts at Lincoln High," said Mikkleson about his hopes for the season. "I'm trying to improve and cut my time to under twenty-
""·•·•'•''''''''''''one minutes by the end of the season," said i!i[f\\10[t'\&'.llSenior Newcoiner Trung Nguyen. These 2~if,jij;i:il;;ii!ii!1ii goals will be great motivators for individu''''·"·' •''' ,,,,, '''' als to improve as the season progresses Chelsey Hurt (9) walks through the There is a tremendous amount shoot after the race at the Harold of preparations that goes into cross-counScott Invite on September 16th. and 2'" re- I Ph try. During the summer, they got up every weekday at 7:30 A.M. and met at Lincoln High to practice. The reason that they had to get up so early in the morning was so that spectively in their 3 .1 mile they could avoid extremely hot weather. They had to get run Sophomore Brandis Hurt finished in 9'h place with in peak condition so that when the season rolled around a time of 16:54 for the girl's team in their 2 5 mile run. they would be prepared to run. "A crucial aspect of the Of the nine people to run this race last B !!T/11 summer is to get year, eight of them improved on their ··· ' - ' ''\<UL} in high mileage, time. ,;: i .--.; c ' · · '\h which for me is ;:.:, :,,
The next meet to follow was the , putting in sixtyKearney Invitational on September seven miles in six 10'" The girls team finished tied for days of running." third place with Grand Island, but §&I said Hatch about the fact that they held the tiebreaker allowed for sole possession of third place because the top six girls on Lincoln High finished ahead of the top six girls on Grand Island. Hurt was able to finish in fourth place with a time of 16:49, while Senior Megan Ksionzek and Junior Ashley Embury finished 11 <h and 12"' respectively. The boy's team finished in fourth place with Hatch taking home second place with a time of 17:16. Hammack and Mikkleson also contributed with a 11 'h and 16" place finish.
competitive meets with numerous towards the finish at the Harschools participating. The girl's teain old Scott Invite on September was able to finish in fifth place lead by 16th.
The Harold Invitational was ,·~ held on September 16 th at Pioneers Mengistu Kuwa (10) races Park. The meet is one of the most • summer practices. "We run long miles, speed workouts, abdominal workouts, and some days we take it easy," added Nguyen about summer practices. During the season, they have practices after school at Lincoln High and once a week they go to Pioneers Park, which is a great benefit because it allows the team to run on an actually course
Hurt and Ksionzek, who finished 12'h
Photo b Renee Krenk T h e and 15threspectively. The boy's team didn't place at the meet, but Hatch finished in 4 th place and was able to set a personal record with a time of 16: 42 His time of 16:42 ranks as the eight best time in school history for Pioneer's Park. Nine members of the cross-country team were able to set personal records, which is an indication that things are improving as the cross-country team has worked hard and done well this season so far · and hopes to continue on this path The team continues to improve with each meet with better performances by many of the members. The meets ahead will show if this work has paid off and will allow them an opportunity to showcase their talents.
----E.ditor-in-ChiefByNhu-YNgo
___ _
The absence of Back to School Bash this year came as a shock to many people. The event has always been a staple with the beginning of each new school year. DECA, the sponsor of Back to School Bash for the past seven years, was unable to put the event together again because of financial restraints. "If we didn't have he money to do Back to School Bash the way we'd always done it, I wasn't going to be a part of it because I'm a perfectionist so I wanted it to be in the same caliber or else I though we had to do something different," DECA sponsor Trudy Hines said. Money
specifically; a committee was formed to organize the event. James Perry along with Student Council, Marsha Munger, Jack James, Annie Scott, and Mike Reinmiller made up the planning committee.
,There was a successful turnout, mainly because students couldn't leave school, but many, especially the freshmen, were excited for the event. Classes were shortened and students got out of school at l: 30 and had fun until three.
was short due to the end of the Cookie Link The Mummers' sale of vintage in which DECA sold cookies to the very clothes was a major attraction hungry masses of Lincoln High students. at fall festivus.
Last year, DECA spent $4000 on Back to Photo by Angelia Lewis
Entertainment was pros vided by the band Umbra, a live DJ with karaoke, and our beloved Jack School Bash while other clubs made a profit. .__ ...;... __. However, an alternative to Back to School Bash has been already established.
On September 17'", 2004, students once again enjoyed themselves with music and food on the front lawn of Lincoln High School. A group didn't -sponsor the event
James. DECA also had a basketball hoop for students to play, while Campus Life had a sumo-wrestling tournament.
Each student received 4 free tickets, each worth0 e r ant • • .. r1m1na
_____ By
GarretDurst
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Kobe Bryant is supposed to be the poster boy for young kids. At the age of 26, he has 3 NBA championships, he's a six time all- star, and just recently signed a seven-year $136 million contract to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers Not to mention his endorsements with McDonalds, Nike, and Sprite. But one summer night took a turn for the ages. Not only has Kobe's career been put in jeopardy, but his life.
On July 1, 2003, Kobe "Bean" Bryant was accused of raping a nineteen year old hotel employee, Katelyn Faber, at the Lodge & Spa near Edwards, Colorado, were Bryant was staying for off- season knee surgery. The alleged attack occurred late on the night of June 30 th at Bryant's hotel room. The young woman was staffing the front desk of the exclusive Lodge & Spa at Cor-
dillera, where the rich and famqus stay. By her own remarks, she was excited to meet Bryant and hoped to receive an autograph or two As it turned out, Bryant never signed any autographs that night.
According to Eagle County sheriff's Detective Doug · Winters, the woman said she kissed Bryant in his room the night of the alleged sexual assault. Then Bryant became overly aggressive and blocked her from leaving his room - The woman said Bryant bent her over a chair and raped her with his hands around her throat. The woman said "no" at least twice, according to Winters. According to Bryant, the sex was consensual.
On July 4 th four days after the alleged attack, Bryant voluntarily complied with the arrest warrant by turning himself into the sheriff's office in Eagle, Colorado. On the day Bryant was
$0 25 each, to use at Festivus They could use them at any of the tables sponsored by LHS groups. Numerous clubs participated in the event, including Arabic Culture Club's selling of traditional food items, Pomalinks with snow cones, and Mummers who had th,eir sale of vintage clothes. The National Guard showed up with a stretch hummer, like they did at Back to School Bash, to gain the interest of prospective recruits But there was
Festivus. "I think that there is some confusion because people, when they think of Festivus, they think that it's lunch and this isn't.''
"And I didn't think about it, but I didn't mean for them to'Use the name (Festivus),'' she went on to say. "I think if we do Fall Festivus, which is fine, then we need to come up with a new name in the spring." Hines also expressed some concerns with using the name Festivus, which was taken from a Seinfeld episode, because of the lack of official permission to use the name. One thing's for sure, Jerry Seinfeld is coming to town.
some controversy in Two students take part in the t~e name Fall Fes- jousting tournament at Fall Festitivus; !rud y Hines, vus. Only one was victorious.
marketing teacher p h t b Arth M w·ii· d DECA o o y ur c 1 1am_ an sponsor .._ _______ ;;_________ __. who helped make Spring Festivus a reality, hopes that this event might not be confused with Spring Festivus. "Festivus in the spring (last year) my suggestion was to use the same format and do something in the fall," Hines said before Fall
The reaction to Feslivus was mixed "I like Back to School Bash better because it was optional," Senior Anthony Lang said. Sophomores Heather Johnson, Miranda McClees, and Becky Call thought differently. "We like Festivus better there were more things to do." Teacher Patsy Koch-Johns saw no difference "I think it's
the same (as Back to School Bash), just renamed, "she said. "My favorite parts were the vintage clothing sale by the LHS Theater and also the egg rolls."
Overall, Festivus was a nice break from the day.
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charged, he ordered a news conference where he On Wednesday September 1, 2004, 411 days h eld his w ife s hand, .]l!ith a $4 millio n diamond a f te r th½. a )l eged attack 11nd j p st 6 day s bef or e ring on her finger. Bryant wanted everyone to opening statements in the case, prosecutors drop know that the sex was consensual." I sit here in charges filed against Kobe Bryant. The victim's front of you guys, furious at myself, disgusted at attorney, John Clune, said the victim has been myself for making the mistake of adultery," said through an extremely difficult time over the 14 Bryant." I've been falsely accused of something months since the incident. " It is in her sincere and I'm innocent." belief that when this case ends, she does not want Over a year later the case has started to take to be brought back into the criminal process," shape. On May 11, 2004, Bryant plead not guilty. Clune said What stunned me an d probably Two months later the judge allowed information everyone was when Bryant then apologized. " about the accuser's sexual history. On August 27 th Although I truly believe this encounter between the jury selection began. More than 600 Eagle us was consensual, I recognize now that she did County residents appeared at the courthouse to not and does not view this incident the same way answer 82 questions that would help determine I did," Bryant said. " I now understand how she if they were qualified in the case Most of the feels that she did not consent to this encounter." If ' potential jurors appeared to be in their mid- 20s Bryant would have been convicted he could have to late 30s, which would have been a plus for the faced 4 years to life in prison. Bryant still faces victim. a federal civil lawsuit filed by the accuser.
Izzy Koch Journalism Student
On Friday, October l S'h LHS's DECAclub organized a walk to help raise awareness of breast cancer. The "Making Strides," walk was he.Iddur-
because a lot of us have to work on Sundays, have church, or other commitment. Hines felt that Lincoln High would get a better turnout if we held our own walk during the school day.
A variety of companies donated money to the American Cancer Society (anywhere between $25-$200), and instead of having a crew go down to walk on Sunday, Lincoln High's students walked for them.
The total amount of money raised from walking, and the circles that were sold in different classrooms for the past few weeks, was $1,230.46. Each student was expected to walk around the track four times (equivalent to a mile).
Students and staff pack the LHS track walking to raise n1oney and awareness for breast cancer research on Friday, Oct. 15.
ing third, fourth, and fifth period classes. During each period, an average of around 8 classroon1s (30 students each) were down on the Harold Scott track walking laps. There were a total of 1430 students who walked.
Senioi:Allison Schinstock and DECA sponsor Trudy Hines were the main organizers of the "Making Strides," walk with DECA right along behind them, and all LHS students that participated helping out
Lincoln's city-wide walk was held on Sunday, October 17th • The reason that LHS held our own walk, when there was a city walk also, was
Estimated at 527 steps arou nd the track once, four times around the track made 2,108 strides per student, totaling 3,014,440 strides to raise awareness and money for breast cancer research. '
Stationed at strategic points around the track, were fifteen signs with helpful
information about breast cancer. If you missed the walk, here's some information about breast cancer:
Despite the chilly temperatures, students and staff waLted a combined total of over 3 million strides around the track tl)ioughout the day, raising $1,230.46 for the American Cancer Society.
-Breast Cancer 1s a very se !'1ous disea~e, that actvally afft>..:tsboth men and women, although it is more common 1n women than men.
-Usually, when men develop breast cancer, it is fatal- doctors never think of the possibility of breast cancer.
-Nearly 43,300 women die every year from breast cancer- that's one woman every twelve minutes.
Allison Schinstock, and her family were some of the unlucky many that have been affeGted by breast cancer; earlier this semester, Allison's mother passed away after a struggle with breast cancer. It only seemed right then, to dedicate Lincoln High's efforts to Jan Schinstock, Allison's mother.
Another part of the outreach about breast cancer, was to sell circles for fifty cents each. These circles were donated by the American Cancer Society for free, and then sold to students and staff for 50 cents apiece, so that everyone could contribute a little if they wanted to.
____ ByNhu-YNgo.___ _ &litor-in-Chief
On October 19, the Lincoln High Student Council held its annual Trick or Treat for Children with Disabilities event. Student Council has 1011g been sponsoring the event, in which students with disabilities from various elementary schools throughout Lincoln are able to "trick or treat" in an imaginary neighborhood created at Lincoln High. It is seen as a safe alternative to actually going from door to door on Halloween night asking for candy.
Student Council had been sponsoring Trick or Treat every year until last year when planning went awry due to conflict; StuCo could not use the usual West Gym becaus e it was used for lunch and all the other gyms were bei ng occupied. To avoid a mishap again, Student Council made sure to reserve the much spacious Johnson Gy.rn about five months in advance, near the end of the last school year.
This year, there were high hopes of revitalizing the project, and it went off rather well. "I'm really glad that we got
to do it once again," sa1d Stu Co Secretary Jessica Thompse n (10).
Students attended from Kahoa, Carnpbell, and McPhee Elementary schools dressed in their Hallovveen
costumes and ready to have some fun. They were able to go and trick or treat anytime from 9 AM-12 PM.
Much plannin g was done to make the event a success. Right after Homecoming, a major project for Student
Council, the group focused on Trick or Treat and began making the imaginary houses. They had only a week to prepare. Pumpkins were donated from area businesses, but much of the expenses were taken care of by Student Council itself.
All the students seemed to ha ve fun. In addition to the houses giving out candy, students could have their face painted, color in scary pictures. and play various other games. A duck pond was placed in the middle of the gym where children could try to win candy The haunted house seemed to be the greatest attraction.
"It was a lot of fun playing with the awesome children, especially Buzz Lightyear," said Chris Moore (12) who co-chaired the event committee.
student Council olans to continue the program next year because they see its importance. "This is a tradition that we really want to continue," com1nented Allison Schi nstock ( 12). In the May, StuCo holds a similar event for the May Day Holiday. StuCo's next goal is to do various school and c ommunity improvemeot projects.
___ By MichaelCullinane ___ _ FeatureE.ditor
In 1977 there wasn't very much going in Amei-ican cinema and movie goers were tired of watching the same old Hollywood movies with different faces and names but the same old story recycled through the creation ~f a film that would change cinema forever while making Lucas a living legend and his actors overnight celebrities. A small cult-gathering mushroom clouded the nation as it spread from less than 100 theatres showing the film to Star Wars being a nation wide phenomenon.
(sounds like another movie industry we've come to know and abhor )
In addition to all -of the old footage available
hundreds of times r-""""7"""" -,,,"" • -----==---- to watch, they've included new scenes that were previously deleted from the old showings due to a lack of technology to meet Lucas' vision and also they've thrown in a two and a half hour long documentary called Empire of Dreams.
This however was to change when George Lucas, at the time riding high off of his success as the director of American Graffiti, went to the studio to produce Star Wars.
Enter Wars. This Star is the tale of an adventure long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away. Luke Skywalker is the pro- ·•-- ,,, tagonist through OU can buy the Star Wars DVD at stores
The Star Wars DVD is available for purchase at stores near you after it's release date of August 25'" through September 20'" nationwide depending on where you lived, in Lincoln it was released on the 21" of September because we live in Lincoln Nebraska. It can
most of the films as or $54.99 now. he travels through a Photo Courtesy of Vegatransport.com galaxy that's been ._ ____________ ...;..__ ....;;______ __. be purchased from numerous s t ores such as Best Buy or your neighborhood Block Buster Video or possibly even a mom and pop's shop around the corner, although I can't guarantee on the last retailer.
completely corrupted by a dark emperor who goes only by the name of "emperor"- Luke meets up with a street hustler , a princess who turns out to be more than an annoying snob and a 7 foot tall walking carpet, the blasted character responsible for the geeks you hear wandering around going "groor", as they fight for galactic freedom.
It was a risky move for his career as a director and his reputation in general to make a movie like this, even the cast has been heard commenting years later that it seemed like a "ki "ddie" movie to themselves and the corporate big wigs see1ned to share a similar opinion.
Regardless of any obstacles Lucas pursued
If waiting in line and shopping around isn't your cup of tea, you Can instead hop on the internet and shop around there. There are many stores which sell the DVD Set for 1nuch cheaper than would be offered at a store ($54, 99 plus tax) and you may find it for $42 from Amazon.com.
So if you haven't already gon ,e out and felt the overwhelming power contained within the Star Wars DVD, do so now and jojn the rest of the galaxy and until the end of days, may the force be with you
ByMarcusliaII BusinessManager
Matt Parker and Trey Stone, the directors of Baseketball and South Park the Movie, now bring · you the gimmicky and over the top political statement that is Team America: World Police. Team America is, just as the title implies, the world's police force, taking it into their own hands to enforce freedom. The movie stars Gary Johnston , a successful Broad,vay performer stan·ing in the popular musical, "Lease", a parody of the no,v famous , "Rent". After a performance, he is approached by Spottswoode, the leader of Team America, who tries to recruit Gary for his valuable acting skills.
Gary takes Spottswoode up on this offer to Join the Team and arrives at the Teams headquarters inside Mt Rushmore This is our first real chance to me et the rest of the team. There's Joe, the star quarterback from the University of Nebraska who occasionally speaks in football tern1inology. Also part of the team is Sara , the cliche heartbroken female who's fiance died in a mission shown at the beginning of the movie Rounding out Team America are Lisa and Chris. Chris, the foulmouthed driver who hates actors, and Lisa, the clairvoyant love interest of Joe are perfectly voiced by Trey Parker and Kristen Miller
Gary is then trust into the world of fighting terrorism as Team America's spy. Gai"y is reluctant to join, not knowing anything about spying, however Spottswoode explains, "Spying is only acting, and you're the best." Team America receives intelligence of a terrorist plot fro1n their supercomputer, I.N.T.E.L.
L.I.G E.N.C.E. Team America travels to Cairo, where they learn of a much more dangerous plot, Involving North Korean Dictator , Kim Jong IL I'll end it there , so I'm sure not to give any spoilers.
The movie follows a track that 1novies behind it had set and followed for years. The characters have their love interests , causing tension, but this Matt Stone and Trey Parker we're talking about, so tension equals humor in this case. Sarah is still 1nourning her loss, but Gary is attracted to her. Lisa is attracted to Gary, but Joe is attracted to Lisa, making for sgme tense, but funny moments Gary and Chns are fighting demons from their past. Throughout the movie, an incident that was caused by his acting constantly plagues Gary's actions in the field. At the en:d of the film, Chris reveals the reason why he doesn't like actors, one that I wish was suitable for print, but isn't.
This movie is entirely real, noting was made ,vith computers, with the exceptions of I.N.T.E.L L.I.G.E.N C.E. and the credits. The characters are played by marionettes and the backdrops and
backgrounds are all handn1ade. Early in the movie it is tnade apparent that you are watching marionettes instead of actors , a joke that quickly wears thin. Models of full-scales cities and locations such as Times Square are also home to toy cars and marionettes. The puppet aspect is very gim1nicky, a factor that likely helped sell the movie, however Trey and Matt make it work.
As anyone who has seen South Park , or South Park: Bigger Longer and Uncut knows, Maft and Trey compose and perform the.ir own music in n1ost of their movies. Again, Matt and Trey deliver with hilarious songs such as, "Everyone has Aids," and "Peart Harbor Sucked Almost As Much As I Miss You". Other songs that appeared on the movie include the song "Montage," 1nade famous by the "Aspen" episode of South Park, and Kim Jong ll's "I'm So Ronery ," which is one of the best songs in the 1novie. As of print, a soundtrack has not yet been released. If an album for the film ,vere released, it would be a great purchase. Please highly consider buying the album if it becomes available. It would be a n1uch better buy than the next rap album that so many of you will waste your money on.
Made famous days before it's release , Team America was given an NC-17 rating · for the once graphic "Puppet Love" scene. It took Matt and Trey several attempts to tame it _enough so it would receive an R rating. The "Puppet Love ," scene is still there and
it's still hilaTious and graphic , yet you can tell that there -is one thing missing, one very important thing missing from the scene. It will be interesting to see if the scene will be presented in it's entirety on the DVD release. Team America: World Police is over the top, vulgar, raunchy, violent and hilarious. It's Matt Stone and Trey Parker to the core With its attacks against celebrities and hidden political 1nessages, it's a worthy addition to their credit It ,vould be unfair to compare this movie to Baseketball, however it can't be helped.
When you see a movie from, "The Creators of South Park," you expect to laugh Not to say that the movie wasn't funny, but it suffered from identity crisis. Sections of the movie were just like Matt and Trey However, suddenly gears \vould shift and we're forced to watch a ro1nance drama th-at rivals that of a soap opera. But that's the beauty of it I guess, it's over the top but would settle down enough to give the audience a rest and to prepare you for the next ten minutes of 1nadness.
I'm giving Team America an 8. 75/10. Team Amerfca: World Police is worth seeing, however be warned. _ If you are not a fan of South Park or that brand of vulgar , over the top humor, then you will hate this movie. _ But if you aren't closed minded and willing to let yourself witness a new and different type of movie, then please see Team An1erica. !
• -
ByNhu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief
Scary movies have never really appealed me. I stick to the sappy movies, comedies, or-to kill two birds with one
After see.ing the movie "It" as a young child, I realized being scared senseless is not a very enjoyable experience.
But being bored on a Tuesday night makes a person do things she thinks she will never do, such as see the much touted psychological thriller, "The Forgotten." · I also had a reason, however: to do this review.
As I stepped into theater, I began to doubt if I really wanted to seejt. "Friday Night Lights" was also showing aRd Jude Law's movie was across the street, but I
stuck with "The Forgotten." U 1anne oore S ars as Te ly
It wasn't a good sign when Paretta in the psychological thrillmy companion and I were the er, The Forgotten. only ones in the audience. I Photo courtesy of lmdb.com now wish that I had stuck to good ol' Jude Law. "The Forgotten" starts out harmless enough,
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with our main character Telly Paretta (Julianne Moore) viewing items of her beloved 9 year-old son, Sam (Christopher Kovaleski). She views videotapes of him playing as a toddler and also takes out his baseball cap and glove. It is later revealed that Sam had died in a plane crash, and Tally is still holding on to stone- romantic comedies
T h e story then takes a weird twist as those a round Telly, including a psychiatrist (Gary Sinise) through whom she seeks help and her husband (Anthony Edwards of ER fame), begin questioning Sam's existence altogether and tell her that the little boy was just a figment · of her imagination. Pictures of Sam and his toys mysteriously vanish as close family friends also begin to contend that Telly
• never had a child.
Diagnosed by her psychiatrist with something called "Paramnesia," Moore's character seems rather psychotic as she goes on a quest to prove everyone wrong. She finds someone to join her, retired hockey player Ash Correll (Dominic West) who lost his daughter in the sa1ne crash that Sam had supposedly died in. Adventure ensues as Telly and Ash try to elude the police, government, loved ones and an unknown force. Quite dramatic, isn't it?
Directed by Joseph Rubin and featuring Julianne Moore, Anthony Edwards, and Gary Sinise, "The Forgotten" does not lack star power. Though it does lack a believable story line al)d ends rather typically. I had a hard time digesting what was presented to me, not because it was outside the box, but because it was just plain weird and, at times, predictable. Julianne Moore, an Academy Award winning actress, was one of the reasons why I wanted to see the movie. I know she's a good actress, but in this movie, she spends more of her time running and screaming than actually acting. Oh, Julianne.
Opening in September, The Forgotten received mixed reviews but a good box office turnout. Maybe the masses that saw it were dece.ived like me. I believed from all the hype that it would b~ an incredibly scary movie, but I found myself laughing at some points in the movie. I do have an odd sense of humor, but there is something funny about aliens.
I do admit, however, that there are about five good parts that catch you off-guard. But they did not make me feel that the time and precious six dollars I spent were worth it. As a poor youth of America, I would like my money back.
I don't give out stars, becanse that's already done. I can't give out th11mbsup , because that would incite rage within Roger Ebert, so I am simply going to say that I don't recomme -nd this movie. My sister suggested giving clovers, but she thought "The Forgotten'' was a good movie, so I don't trust her judgment. I'm sure 1nany people found "The
The tenth annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Youth Rally & Marc h planning committee is now accepting submissions for its 3rd annual expression contest for grades 9-12.
Contests were established so youth can illustrate the passion, vision and contributions of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Contest and criteria are as follows: Expression contest criteria - Each submission should center on this year's rally and march theme: "Continu in g his puzzle with our pieces; a world of different backgrounds, one common purpose the dream "
Submissions can be any visual or written medium including but not limited to: photography, painting, colorings, video, power-point, I-movies, collages, murals, three-dimensional, poetry, short stories, etc Participants1nustbe enrolled in 9th - 12th grade during the 2004-2005 school year. Submissions must be postmarked no later than Friday, December 17, 2004.
The expression theme this year for 9-12 grade is "Continuing his puzzle with our pieces,
a world of different backgrounds, one common purpose the dream."
Each submitted piece should include: full name/parent or guardian's name/address/age/ phone/grade/school and sent to :
Pete Ferguson
MLK Jr., Rally Contests 920 "0" Street, Ste 300 Lincoln, NE 68508 441-4664
The MLK Jr. Youth Rally & March contest subcommittee will review submissions and winners will be informed the first week of January 2005
Submissions ,vi!J be displayed and winners recognized at the l 0th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally and March, Monday, January 17; 2005.
In its tenth year, the 2005 MLK Jr., Youth Rally Planning committee will host a march and rally Monday, January 17th, 2004 through downtown Lincoln.
By,\nnit1aWilkinson OpinionE.ditor
Every year for the past 3 years Lincoln High 's own Gay/ Lesbian/Bisexual/ Transgender/Straight Alliance (GLBTSA), holds a Halloween Dance for Lincoln area students. All Lincoln Public High Schools are invited, and every single student is just as welcome as LHS students are.
The Hallo,veen dance doesn't get as much recognition as Prom or Homeco1ning, but it's just as much fun.
"Children of the Corn," In fact, last year's dance was also a help to the homeless, because if you brought a can of vegetables you could get $1 off of your entrance fee. Each one of the cans that GLBTSA received they donated to feed the hon1eIess. There were about 60 students that can1e last year, and each year there are more and 1norewho co1ne
T h i s year's theme was basically a Halloween theme. There
Audio/Visual Tech Students dance Macarena style at the GLBTSA dance. was a costume party, and you must have been wearing a costume to enter. It was Mike Reinmiller has Photo b Jessie Wendelin been the Halloween Dance 's DJ for the past two years, and he's going on his third. "I do it for the kids," says Reinmiller on October 22, 2004 from 8pm to l l pn1, and the cost was 3 dollars at the door.Winners of the costume contest received $5 certificates for the Coffee Shop Last years theme was "The Wizard of Oz," and
ByMarcusI-tall Busines.5Manager
John Kerry Continued
Ken·y will do more to reduce risks as high risk targets such as nuclear plants and fresh water sources.
Kerry claims to do more to further secure trains and subways and increase security at chemical plants. To improve our readiness in the ho1i-or of a biological attack, John Kerry will put one individual in charge of our anti-bioterror efforts. John Kerry will expand A1nerican community defenses, more than likely creating a new age and more effective neighborhood watch. Kerry also hopes to add 40,000 active duty troops to better serve our military.
Health Care
To provide high quality health care to all Americans is a key point in Kerry's healthcare plan. As well as strengthening Medicare and Social Security, which are lifelines to around 45 million seniors. Without Social Security, the poverty rate for seniors would jump to around 50 percent, up from 10.4 percent. Kerry will grow the economy ; allowing it to better support a high number of retirees. As President, Kerry will not raise Social Security taxes or the retiren1ent age. He will also not cut the benefits for the people that rely on Social Security.
Through a plan that extends state based insurance programs, John Kerry's health plan \Viii provide coverage to 95 percent of all Americans and every child. Kerry's plan will also give all Americans access to the same coverage enjoyed by members of Congress. To combat the rising cost of prescription drugs, Kerry will allow the re-importation of drugs from Canada, allowing Americans access to large discounts available in Canada.
Kerry will push for a "Patient's Bill of Rights" which will include: a right to se the specialists they need,
of environmental excellence for America." John Kerry and John Edwards claim to "revitalize contaminated industrial sites, get toxins out of comn1unities, guarantee our children access to clean, safe parks and baseball fields, and take on traffic congestion and spra\vl"
They will enact a Conservation Covenant with America to ensure balanced protection for our public lands and adequate resources to enhance our national parks and protect our health by reducing dangerous air emissions. According to their website, approximately 45% of our nation's waterways don't meet the drinkable, swimable, fishable \Vater standard, set out by the clean water act 30 years ago. He will \York with states on the toughest water quality challenges, restore dan1aged watersheds, protect wetlands, invest in our waterfronts and coastal communities, protect our oceans.
'
Running Mate
John Kerry's running mate for the 2004 election is No1th Carolina democratic senator, John Reid Edwards. Senator Edwards was born in Seneca South Carolina on June 6 1 ", 1953. He cu1i-ently resides in Raleigh NC, with his wife, Elizabeth and his four children, Wade, Cate, Emma Claire and Jack
John Edwards first attended North Carolina State University in 1974 and later attended the University of North Caroline-Chapel Hill in 1977, where he received a JD. He was elected as a senator for North Carolina from 1998 to the present. He was once a Primary Candidate for United States President in 2003.
Senator Edwards severed as a law clerk for judge Franklin T. Dupree Jr. from 1977-1978. He was an associate for Dearborn and Ewing in Nashville, 19781981. He also served as an associate for Tharrington Smith and Hargrove from 1981-1983. He was a partner for the same law firm in J 984-1992 and became a partner for Ed\vards and Kirby of Raleigh, 1993-1998.
a right to real emergency protection, a right to hold George Bush Continued health plans accountable and protection that allows Also on his plan are opening global markets healthcare workers report quality problems without for American goods, promoting comp time and flex fear of retaliation. Kerry will also ensure that all time for workers, and helping small businesses by Americans have secure and private medical records by implementing more affordable health care. 2008, eliminating unnecessary tests and reduce serious President Bush's "No Child Left Behind" act has 1nedical errors by 88 percent. been met with mixed reviews, however President Bush Environment. · claims that i t is for the good of the children. "Under the John Kerry along with other Democrats have spo- No Child Left Behind Act, every student in this country ken against Bush's economic policy, or lack thereof. will be held to high standards, and every school wil/ The Kerr -Edwards plan clai1n to, "set a new standard be held accountable for results." The basic goal of
NCLB is to have every American child proficient in reading and math by 2014. President Bush proposed the NCLB act only three days after taking office.
Although Bush's website claims that federal spending on Public high schools has risen 49% since 200 I, it is hard to argue that point with LPS Look around you Lincoln High, see that cracked chalkboard, or that missing teacher, that's called the budget cuts, and \Vedon't have the money to fix it. However, President Bush claims to: strengthen Head Start, promote literacy, expand the Reach Out and Read Program as well as expand Healthy Start and Grow Smart.
Homeland Security
The President's plan of keeping America safe, has been constant for the last three years. President Bush has reminded Americans that terrorism isn't going away and that we need to be on the offensive against terror. Also on the President's agenda is the spreading of democracy. Starting with the liberation of Afghanistan and the ousting of forn1er Iraqi Dictator Saddam Hussein, President Bush considers those exatnples of "historic gains made by promoting freedom."
Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction is also a top priority on the President's list of things to do. With Prime Minister Tony Blair's help, U.S. intelligence officers shut down Pakistani Scientist A. Q. Kahn's secret nuclear proliferation network. President Bush led the creation of the Proliferation Security Initative, a partnership of more than sixty nations that are sharing intelligence, tracking suspect cargo and conducting joint military operations. In his second term, the Bush Administration will build on their multi layered missile defense system
The President has also stated plans for improving the nation's intelligence gathering. The President has ment ioned previously his plan to create a national intelligence director. The NID will act as the President's principal intelligence advisor and will oversee foreign and domestic activities. President Bush has also sought to create a National Counterterrorism Center, which will become the main bank for information of J,<:nownand suspected terrorists.
During the firsf presidential debate and \he town hall debate, President Bush stated that the arrrly would remain volunteer and that a draft wouldn't take 1lace. The president hopes to adapt our military for the 11" century. His official website claims that, "Ameril-, will develop a lighter, faster, more lethal force, with the best training for the new challenges of the new century."
Iraq
President Bush's stance on the war in Iraq has been constant, that Saddam was a threat and needed to be removed. He has spent over 200 bi Ilion ~ollars on the war and reconstruction of Iraq. Now that Saddam has been removed fro1n power, President Bush is pushing for free elections, set to take place this January. The President plans to have 200,000 Iraqis trained for military and law enforce1nent jobs by the end of the year
The President has set criteria of when our troops come home, and that is, "When our general is on the groui:td and Ambassador Negroponte tells me that Iraq is ready to defend herself from these terrorists," President Bush said during the first presidential debate. A free Iraq is also at the top of the list, stating the Iraq would help secure Israel and become a great ally in the war on terror
Current Vice President, Richard Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on January 30 th 1041. He married his high school sweetheart, Lynne Ann Vincent in 1964. They now have two children, Elizabeth and Mary, three daughters ahd one grandson.
Vice President Cheney has received both a BA and an MA from the University of Wyoming, where he gre\V up in Casper. Richard Cheney began his political experience as a special assistant to Donald Rumsfeld. He is a past House Minority Whip and from l 975-1977, he served as the Chief of Staff He is a former member of the House of Representatives and a the former secretary of defense, 1989-1993 Perhaps his most famous connection, are his ties to energy and oiJ giant, Hallibu1ton From l 995-2000, he served as Halliburton 's Chief Executive Officer.
Both candidates are currently focusing on
The election for the presidency as of now has come down to a battle over the issue of the War on Terrorism and each other's character. In the last month, the battle has intensified with each throwing blows to each other's ability to lead the nation. The debates were the key way that the two candidates showed their opposing views and dislike towards each other.
John Kerry was able to come out ahead after the three debates, winning two out of three and a tie in the other according to nonpartisan evaluations. His victories in the debates weren't by much and not great enough to win him the election or take a great boast in the polls. In fact, his numbers actually dropped back down to were they previously were after the debates. The debates allowed the two candidates to have a face-to-face encounter over issues, such as the War in Iraq, Social Security, foreign policy, national security, education, health care, and other issues.
Each candidate put the i r own spin on the issue of the lack of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. "We were right to take action, and America is safer with Saddam Hussein in prison," President George W. Bush said about the findings. He cont i nues to believe that the war in Iraq was the right decision and that the war was justified. Kerry, on the other hand, decided to attack Bush's reasoning for going to War in Iraq and used the discovery to further critize Bush's
the battleground states that are still up for grabs. The battleground states include New Mexico, Colorado, Florida, New Hampshire, Iowa, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and a few others. The battleground states have been receiving most of the attention from the both candidates, which includes spending their time and funds in these states. Many analysts predict that the election will come down to Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, which are the three largest battleground states. They believe that the candidate who wins two out of the three states will win the election. These three states alone will account for 68 of the electoral votes out of the total 538 votes and 270 needed to be President.
According to www.electoral-vote.com, if the election were to be held today Bush would win with 274 electoral votes, Kerry would get 247, and Iowa would be undecided. The projections are based on polls conducted in every state, which have a certain margin of error, so results could change come Election Day. Also, some states have only a small lead for Bush or Kerry, which means that it could easily go the othe r way. The election will be decided when voters go out to the polls on November 2nd. Many voters already may know the likely outcome of their state, but probably won't know the likely outcome of the entire nation. The power that the battleground states hold will decide the future of America whether or not the candidate they select wins the popular vote or not.
By Alina-selyukh A.sst.Webooitor
The LHS Music Department now has a new member. Instead of the former choir teacher, Wes Hansmeyer, who moved to the Norris High School, the new teacher Jon Gruett now conducts choirs.
"The Choir bas just been getting used to me, me to them," Gruett said about how he feels about his new job so far.
As for the students, senior Jessica Maske, the Concert Choir vice president, said that having a new director brings changes and makes life a bit different from what it used to be like
By Nhu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief
the future of Lincoln High. And when they the beginning, I just needed to make a Tiving come in, you know, they're kind of a n1otley for my fa1nily. Music was what my major had
1 W h 11 b t· ,, th" 1 1 crew from all different schools, and it's really been, and as I started doing it-this is my 26 th o w1 you e vo 1ng 1or 1s e ec ion · ? Wh ? B h M h h. neat to see them come together and become year teaching-I began to enjoy the challenge year. y. us ore t an 1s economic
1 • d h " 1.k h I 1 a unit, develop friendships, and create a and being around kids because I like the fact po icies an t i ngs i e t at, support 11s ft· 1 unity. That's really, really fun to see because that students, if they're focused and really v1ew o ami y. , ,
2 H I h b t LHS ? 13 they re the future of the Lincoln High ba11d believe 1n something, can achieve anything. ow ong ave y ou een a _ - >!!'!!!-!c."!'!'-!'!!!'! -. ~ years. · 1 1oce see1 ng tne a r ive ana • fiara
3 Wh t' t · I d J"k ? I }f!!!f:fif_lf!f!ff7i( 1f'f!f1!!,f#Jtft!iflflii!ftfi/?&.work, and that's what fuels me a s your yp1ca ay I e , ,,,,,_,1~1;,,;1,-;;JJ;11t1,J,t!CiJiiilJ!i!L!/iliififfilt1,,,,1J:u teach freshman band first hour elec- ,_ ..,.,,,-,'. / !7!'.7f!ioif!!!id!ii!!1iJ :! -~~~-- as a teacher and makes me want ' ·
···- ··-··- - -·-·- ·-·- to continue teaching. The skep- tronic music theory fifth hour, then we have lunch in the bantf room both lunches-I sponsor both lunches. Then we have marching band until 3:30. · 4. The Simpsons or the Jetsons? · The Simpsons.
S. Do you own any pets? Yes, I have a miniature dachshund names Max w ho is not well behaved at all.
6. I was told you have a love for funnel cakes. Can you .explain that love to us? (laughs) Part of it I like snacks, I Jove food. It's just a fun thing between ['.1 t,, the kids and myself. It's a part of hanging loose and just having fun. When you're working at contest and you're working really hard, it's really intense, and you h ave to lighten up. So I always say that the best thing about Worlds of Fun is the funnel cakes. When you've been werking for three, four days, hammering a passage for hours, you have to lighten up and I do love them. I try to get one e ach and every place I go.
7. Has anything exciting happened recently that you would like to share with us? Couldn't say the Huskers, even though I taped them I've enjoyed having freshman band, whether it be last year's group or this year's group, because I know they're
ticism just isn't there. When you're striving for a goal when the lights come on and they say "We've got it"-that's the excitement, that's what drives you as a teacher.
10. What book is on your nightstand? It's been a long time since I've read a book, and there's no nightstand. The latest book I've read, and I can't tell you the title, but it's by Max Lucado.
11. If you were given a chance to meet anybody, who would you want to meet? Why? Jesus, but you know what? I will meet hin1 so meday.
12. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? program.
Photo by Cathy Danner
8. Are you a day or night person? I'm whatever it takes, because right now I c ome at 7 o'clock for Flag Squad Given to my own preferences, I'd have to say I'm a night person, but with this job, you have to be both a day and night person.
9. Why are you a music teacher? Well, I didn't really plan to be a music teacher. In
Hang around with my family.
13. What is your favorite piece of music? Probably the Gershwin stuff we did about eight or nine years ago because I love Gershwin.
14. Favorite band? Boston. It's an old rock group. It's an old heavy metal band, guitar group. Though I do enjoy any kind of music-I'm not a music snob.
Moreover, the Varsity Jazz Choir and the Concert Choir undergo one m'Ote change. It's sophomores. Both choirs this year include sophomore members as well as juniors and seniors. Surprisingly, they make up almost one fourth of both choirs.
"It's kind of a new way of thinking," Maske said " We have to deal \Vith different people. There \Vere only 17 juniors, who returued from the last year, and now they are seniors and so everybody else is younger. It's just a different concept of thinking."
However, both Maske and Gruett sounded posifi ve "aoou t t he tac t t haf it ' s al !"go1ng to improve soon "Once we get into the year, it's going to go a lot better ," Jessica said.
Despite all this , the choirs don't stop singing and working hard. Not for a 1ninute. They were heartily getting ready for their Fall Concerts and the results of that could be easily seen and heard by any of you on October l 9 (Varsity Women s Choir, Freshmen/ Sophomore Choir, Varsity Jazz Choir and Vocal Links) and October 21 (Concert Choir together with the LHS Orchestra).
Six singers from the choirs also took part in the auditions for the All-State Select Choir. Three of them - Allison Frenzel, Lynette Staswick and J. T. Ehly - were selected, whereas Lindsey Hand was chosen as an alte rnate candidate. Congratulations!
So no\v, after all the fall performing is over, the next aim for the Choir is a successful Winter Concert, which is coming on December 13 for the Concert Choir and on December 21 for the rest. Furthermore, the Varsity Jazz Choir is also performing for the Memorial Hospital February and other choirs are singing at the Lincoln Community Play House Luncheon. In December they are as well traditionally auditioning for " Anything Goes" - this year's musical. Working to gether unites; this is undoubted. "By the end year we are like a family. I guess, • it's because people know each other so well , " said Maske. S-0getting to know each other better for them is just a matter of time. It's just important that they work hard, they put effort into it and they finally succeed.
I've taught college level and compared to the high school choirs that I've known," mentioned Gruett talking about the LHS choirs, "I should say it compares favorably." r
ByMarcusI-fall BusinessManager
When Grand Theft Auto III released in October of 2002, the world changed forever. Games, the media and society would never be the same. GTA's influence can be felt in video games ranging fronJ thefree roaming, non linear mouriiain snowboarding of SSX 3, to the more obvious rip off of Simpson's Hit and Run. However, despite being the envy of almost all in the video game industry, 1nany have targeted this game for it's excessive violence, adult content and stereotyping.
It can't be denied that Grand Theft Auto is violent, and earns every bit of its M rating. It hasn't been the violence that has sold almost eight million copies, it's the beauty and art of being dropped into a living, breathing city, and being forced to fight your way back to the top. It has been said however, that presenting this kind of violence has led to the moral decay of our society.
As long as there have been televisions and movie screens, there has been violence. The Three Stooges can be considered an early form of Jackass, using pain and humiliation to get a laugh. According to the Clickz network, 61 % of teens today have a television in their room, and take away the gambling of Texas Hold Em' or the swearing and large breasts of BET, and you're left with _ the violence and rape of Law and Order SVU, or the dramatic realism in the car chases and drug busts of Cops. If GTA is responsible for the "moral decay of our society," then Maury Pavich, Denzel Washington, Maximun1 Exposure and the classic Herbal Essences commercials are guilty as well.
My solution isn't to get rid of all questionable forms of entertainment, however only to point the finger in the right direction. I love my excessive violence and nudity as much as the next person, however, if son1ethi11gis to be blamed, it's the parents. The ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) has given allthree of the next-gen Grand Theft Auto games an M rating, stating that game is intended to be enjoyed my those 17 and older. The rating is right on the box and is as clear as a bell, much like the warning on a pack of cigarettes.
AParents no longer seem to care what their children
ByNeelA.min
F..ditor
Bush and Kerry,much bas been said about thesetwo men, but yet does it really matter who becomes our next president Either way the Republicans will still have control of the Senate and House. The only differenceif Kerry is elected will be that he will have IDveto bills, which willjust clog up Congress. JfBush is still around, he won't have to worry about things going on in Congress. He can spend his time doing more importantthings, such as baseball games, vacations, and making speeches.
The only reason that I can see why it matters is because it will give one of the two parties the momentum going IDnext election. If the Democrats can pull off this upset they will be able to elect more congressmen and senators in the election of 2006. The ability to elect more congressmen and senators will allow the democrats to control in my opinion the most irnportant branch of govenunent The legislativebranch is responsiblefor making the laws and initial approval of the law. The ability to introduce new laws is where the true power is because congress controls the first step in making a law.
All of this goes without saying that the execute branch has some powers. TI1epresident has the ability to veto a bill before it passes inlDlaw. This ability allows the president to also have great power especially considering how divided congress is at this point Bush currently hasn't used a veto making him one of seven presidents not IDdo so, but Busli has bad a Republican majority sincebeing in office. If Kerry was elected,he may need IDkeep his abilityto ve1Din his shirt pocket •
This brings us 1Dthe candidates in one con,er we have Republican President George W. Bush and in the other one we have Democratic Presidential Candidate John Keny. We got the conservativeright-wing president and the so-calleddie-hard liberal, who have been debating the issues, such a, the War on Iraq, the economy, education, and national security. Both candidates don't seem 1Dbe very strong candidates and will likely never come up on a list of greatestpresidents.The factthatneither candidate is stronghas basicallymade the electionover the issue of the War in Iraq. Most Americans will probably vote for who
say, watch or do. It seems as though until something goeswrong and the parent or child is held accountable, a finger is pointed in another direction, shifting the blame to someone else. Parents should be involved with what their children are doing and pay closer attention to their actions. Although parents can't be around their kids 24 hours a day, actions can start at ho1ne. I'm not trying to preach, I only wish that people could take responsibility for their actions.
The content in Grand Theft Auto is not intended for children, and that has been said ti1ne and time again, even by Rockstar North (formally OMA design) and Take2, the companies behind the series. The content in Grand Theft Auto can be compared to movies and television shows that you could wat.ch every day on basic cable where the content is much worse.
Another issue that minority groups have called attention to, is the stereotyping in Grand Theft Auto , GTA3 in particular.
In Grand Theft Auto III, you play a nameless, voiceless thug, formally working for a group of Colombian drug lords. You set out for revenge on your former girl friend who double crossed you in a failed bank robbery. Spanning across the three islands of Liberty City, you meet up with middle eastern cab drivers, people of color with the obvious "blacksent" and mafia occupied Italians, just to name a few.
Grand Theft Auto is a work of fiction and 1nuch like a movie, any similarities between a person, living or dead is a coincidence. In Grand Theft Auto III , the pedestrians provide hilarious and witty commentary as you pass by on foot or in a car. Perhaps it isn't a coincidence that every Jamaican person in the game sounds like Ziggy Marley from Shark Tale, however, in reference to the "blacksent," this
they think will do a better job on the War on Iraq,which at this point is a toss up.
John Kerry seems like the person to vote for especially after the debates,but his ability1Dflip-flopcould be his downfall in theelection. The United Statescan'tstandbehindaman,who can'tmake adecisionespeciallyonan i&Suelike the Waronlraq. Kerry had actually voted IDsend troops into Iraq, but then voted against an $87 billion bill that would help fund the war. "I actually did vote for the $87 billion before I voted against it," said Kerry, which allowed him to be called a flip-flopperin the fiIBt place. Tus quote has actually been taken out of context by the Republicans, but the fact that he said it, doesn't help his case. Some people feel that Kerry's ability IDchange his mind is actuallyan asset because he will be more likelyIDthinkthings through. Of course, I think this is just hogwash because time is scarce, when you are the president Decisionsneed IDbe made in a timely matter especially during this time in America with possible terrorist attacks. Great leaders are built on their swift decisions,but they also need IDbe the correct one. Bush had his opportunity with the war on terrorism, but his decision to enter Iraq would be the \vrong one. I think if Bush waited longer 1D capitalize on the success of the War in Afghanistan, we would know that Bush would still be our President
I think in the end Bush should be able to pull out a narrow victory leaving many Americans once again hateful of their president and leaving the nation divided I predicted that we would have another close election and this trend will likely continue,unless the next generationof voter.;comes out in large numbers. If this election has proven anything so far is that in a close election, many people who previously didn't vote are voting now. The power in the next presidentialelection will be in the hands of 18-21 year olds, who weren't able to vote in the previous election. They could help sway the votes one-way or the other.
On November 7nd, many Americans will go IDthe polls and vote for who they think should be president Their decision has been most likely a 1Dughone and they are hoping not 1D regret it Most likely they will regret their decision because of the weakness of both candidates,but at least in anotherfouryears we will have 1Dmake the decision all over again.
argument would have never been brought up if BET didn't exist. BET is the worst thing to happen to people of color in a long time.
Hear me out, BET does nothing but further perpetuate the stereotype that people of color listen to rap music and all talk like "Snoop Dagg," and we (people of color) buy into it. I'm not again~! rap music in general, as a m atter of fact, A mixed CD containing the Black Eyed Peas, Eminem and Ja Rule is in my CD player right now. Yet, also on the disc are Sum-4 I, MxPx and the Gorillaz, where's their play time on BET? MTV isn't called "Cauca sian television," is it? However, this argument will have to wait for another day as I'm getting off track
What is it that is so forceful that you have to play the game if you are offended? If there is something that bothers you that much, stop playing, and move on.
When you see something in a movie that you don't want to watch, such as a death or scene of nudity, you turn away and get over it. Myself personally, I'm not at all offended by the stereotyping issue in the GTA series, as I see it for what it is, and that is art. However, I don't want to seem insensitive to the issue of taking offense due to race or anything similar.
The 1nost common defense against video games be-
ing targeted for their questionable content is, "It's only a game " This is true, it's fiction, it doesn't exist. People aren't stupid (save for a few), humans know what is right and what is wrong. Hijacking a car is wrong, helping a senior is right. Spilling blood is wrong, giving blood is right. It's all a question of morals but who's to say who's morals are right and wrong? Your conscience should tell you what is right and wrong. When the content of a video game clouds your judgment so much that it makes your decisions, that borders on illogical.
Furthermore, the argument has been brought up about the glorification of violence. Violence is not being glorified, only presented in a very open and realistic way. Don't believe me? Excluding the main missions, you can play Grand Theft Auto with taking a single life. Again, humans aren't stupid. We know that it doesn't take t,venty shots from a pistol to take a man down, it takes only one. The line between reality and fantasy can be blurred at times, however, it's always apparent. ·
America is, and has always been a "train wreck" society. When we come to the scene of a car accident, we are drawn to stare at the mangled metal and shattered glass. It's the taboo of seeing something that we're not supposed to, somewhat like watching a snuff film such as "Faces of Death". GTA has only been around for the last five years, our fascination with violence and death has been around for generations.
Love it or loathe it, Grand Theft Auto is here to stay, and as long as people are stepping into the shoes of Tommy Vercetti or C. J., there will always be a voice to say that it's wrong. And as long as that voice speaks, trouble will occur and parents and the irresponsible will need so1neihing to point their finger at, and Grand Theft Auto will alwi!ys be there.
,,
eBy Neeli\min NewsE.ditor----
Gambling occurs in everyday life bet,veen the decision to do your homework or n6t to do it. If you opt not to do it, you are gambling on whether or not you have to turn it in. Life is basically a gamble because at times you have to make a decision and go with it and hope it turns out well. The only difference between that gambling and the gambling that you do at a casino is that you have to wager money on your decision-making.
On November 2nd, Nebraskans will take part in gambling by voting either for or against casino gaming. The issue of gambling is decided by the state and not the federal government, which gives voters the power to decide their fate. This decision will have many consequences depending on what the voters decide. If we don't have gambling, most likely taxes will be raised, while if we do allow gambling, we will have more tax revenues to work with, but we may have many problems associated with gambling.
In the last few years, the amount of people gambling has increased greatly due to the evergrowing popularity of poker and games like No Limit Texas Hol-
dem. With the increase of people money and leave. There are only wanting to gamble and Nebraska a few people, who truly get adunable to meet this need, many dieted and most of those people people went to bordering states are probably people, who want to or simply gambled online. The get that big payoff. Why should a fact that people can gamble on- few bad seeds ruin the fun for the line shows that gambling isn't rest of us? Most people who have really restricted in Nebraska. gambling addictions won't likely The availability of gambling is gamble in a casino because their so great, why shouldn't Nebraska addiction will be strong enough capitalize and earn some revenue that they will just gamble at home in the proc ess? online.
Citizens of Nebraska should Most likely the issue of gamvote yes on all of the measures ' of casino gambling because any Nebraskan over 21 can already gamble, but the money they are generating isn't going to · N,ebraska. We shouldn't allow the money that gambling generates to go to Iowa and the other bordering states thit allow gambling. The revenue is just too great to allow this to occur. Casino gambling will allow for more tax dollars, more excitement, and create more jobs, which are all great benefits. Nebraska can't pass up a great opportunity to capitalize on this market.
Most people who are against gambling need to realize that there is nothing wrong ,vith gambling as long as you use your own discretion. Most people can real-
bling wi l l pass in Nebraska, ~M",:;h will be a good thing. The revenue that Nebraska receives will allow the state government to have more money to spend and will likely prevent tax increases on citizens. T , he increased revenues will allow Nebraska to spend more money on e ducation, which will be good for the future of Nebraska. In the end, Nebraskans are the true winners, while states like Iowa are the losers.
By Chris1-Jatch E.ntertainmentE.ditor
Buckle up \ inks fans: our football team is in the midst of a seriousroller coaster ride. The tea1n has, at times, been fanta 1<ic and, at other times, disjointed. Lincoln High footballiousted the Knights out of their place atop city footbalfvith a dominating win on October 1, 2004. For the l\st time the Links defeated Southeast i11a game of football you have to look back, way back, to 1991. George Bush Senior was still in office and the only votes Arnold Schwarzenegger had gotten were for Mr. Universe.
The offensive 11f
. line was phenomenal in the Southeast :# ••·• game, dominating the defensive line of LSE for almost the entire second half. "It feels really good to be able to domin~te up front, because that is how you control the ga1ne." Said senior linen1an Darren Reinhart.
In the game, the ,=:{dl/i.t
Just when things started looking like we had 1nade it back to the promised .land , Lincoln Southwest handed the links their 3'd loss 17-10. ln a far cry from the dominance displayed by the Links against Fremont, Lincoln High threw four interceptions and had two blown snaps.
The Links struggled offensively, a rarity this ye.ar, gaining only 221 yards. The defense played well but was often tin1es put in a hole after losing the field position due to the n1any turnovers lost. Had the Links been able to pull out a victory they ,vould have ,von the outright city title Now the team will be forced to wait and see how things play out with in-city games.
Rei nhardt had this to say after the Southwest defeat, "After a tough loss like the one to LSW, l try to just focus on the next game and work that much harde r in practice. We are definitely still in the playoff hunt so we can't let down."
Links went into the Lincoln High runs the ball against the locker room at half- Fremont Tigers on Octob,er 7th. time, down 7-0, but Photo by Tim Ondrak Lincoln High then traveled to class 'A' number
quickly scored in the 2"d half on a Ben Beranek 27-yard field g Qal. Ricky Massa then ran back an interception 43 yards for the score. After that it was all power football, son1ething that the Links are turning into an art form
The Links then squared off against t he Fremont Tigers in the homecoming football game. Following yet another strong showing by the offensi ve line, the links won 27-3 in an overpowering fashion. Vinson and Brumm put on another power running clinic as ihey combined for 143 yards on just 28 carries. Schmidgall had a banner performance g (\ing 6-10 for 142 yards through the air as the Links repe~tedly confounded the opposition with play-action pa ses.
5 Kearney. The game started out being delayed 45 1ninutes due to lightning. Once the game got under way, the Links were stifled by a swarming Kearney defense. Tbe first half was truly a defensive battle, with Kearney only able to generate one touchdown to the Link's none. In the second half, Kearney hit ti1nely, crucial,passing plays that were able to elevate the Bearcats to 28-0 victory.
The Links face off against Colu1nbus in a must win situation atho1ne next. The playoffs are still looming in the future. 1'111confident the red <)ndblack will step it up big, but just in case: keep all hands and feet inside the ride at al i times.
ByNeel,\min____ _ NewsE.ditor
The cross country season has come to an end following the state meet at Kearney on October 2?"d, 2004. The Girls Cross Country Team had qualified for state along with Seniors Chris Hatch and Ray Mikkleson The girls team had a great perfor1nance at state finishing in 8thplace with strong performances by Junior Ashley Embury and Somphomore Brandis Hurt. Embury and Hurt finished 16' h and 19"' respectively, which allowed for the eight place finish. h.tch finished in 15 th place with a time of 17 : 15, whic , allowed him to medal. Mikkleson finished in 57 th pla c,,, which was a disappointment in his eyes "Well, I w,l.lt out feeling pretty good, and as time passsed , I real i, .ed it wasn't 1ny race , " said Mikk\eson about his perfon'i1ance at state.
The team star ted their journey to state with the LPS City Cha1npionship, which was helil on October 1s t • The big story o f the meet was Hatch, who broke the school record at P ioneer's Park with a time of 16: 26 and fi,nished 4'h. "As a freshman, I told Chris I wanted to see his name a t the top of the school record list. I k11ow he has been working for that goal for the last three years. I 11mvery pleased for and proud of Chris," said Assistant Coach John Dawson about Batch's feat.
The girls team was able to finish in third place, thanks in large part to the efforts of Senior Megan Ksionzek, Embury, and Brandis Hurt. Hurt was able to finish in 4'" place with a time of 16: 32, which was fifteen s e conds bett e r than her p1:ev 1ous personal record. Ksionzek and Embury were able to finish 10 th and 14 th respectively.
able to finish in 5"' place behind four out of the top six runners in the state. The girl's team finished in fourth place with an 1mpress1ve
Photo by
The A-2 District meet was next on the list and was the most important
T h e Heart I and Conference was next on the agenda, which was he Girls Cross Country Team lines up for the start of a race at Pioneers Park. performance by Hurt. Hurt was able to finish in 5 th place with a time of 16:06, which is a pers onal record and good for six th on the all-time list at Lincoln High. Embury finished in 10"' with a time of 16 : 41, which was a seasonal best. held on October 7 that Pioneer's Park. Hatch was
1neet to date. The d istrict meet was held at.Fremont on October 14 and determined who would be going to the state competition in Kearney. The girl's team did more than well by finishing in third place, which qualified the whole team for state. Hurt led the team with a 7'" place finish with a time of 15:52. E1nbury was not to far behind with a time of 16 :01, which was good enough to finish ninth. The boy's team wasn't as lucky finishing in 4 th , which was one spot away fro1n state Hatch still managed to finish in 4 thplace with a time of 16:44. Mikkleson finished in 9 thplace with a time of 17: 18, which was Mikkleson's best finish of the season.
The completion of the season brings up the question of the future of the cross cottntry team. "Both teams are going to be in a bit of rebuilding stage We lose some quality runners that are seniors this year. We do return some runners with experience, but depth m.ight be a p r oblem at this point. We will have to see what the incoming freshmen bring to the team," said Dawson about the prospects for next year.
The cross country team had a great season with many ups and downs. From Hatch setting the school record to the Boy's team not n1aking to state. The tea1n wo rked together to i1nprove each week and as a result turned in a season full of great effort and accomplishments.
ByGarrettDurst -SportsF..ditor
The Lincoln High Links softball team came of a season in ,vhich they finished 9 th in the state.
Tenopir.
The Li.nks captain , senior Sarah Swanson finished her softball career at Lincoln High. Swanson led the team in batting with a .317 average. Swanson is one of two players to return fi-om last year's team.
But with just 4 seniors on this .----------------~---, "We had a lot of positive things happen and came really close in a lot of games, it just seemed as if the negatives overlapped tbe positives." Said SwanSoh years squad, the Links had a season of ups and downs. The Links will return 9 players next year, and the expectations will be - as high as ever.
The Links came into the season ,vith only 4 seniors on the roster, knowing that son1e young athletes would have to step up. One of those athletes was freshmen pitcher Lisa Aguirre. Aguirre pitched well for the Links, throwing strikes and letting the defense back her up. Another freshmen to play ,veJI this season was Kaylean Tenopir. Kay lean played first and second base , knocking down balls and makihg the routine plays. Tenopir finished the season with a bat-
!Zainab Kuwa ( 11) pitches in a game during the LPS JV Tournament on Oct. 6.
ting average of .227. ''.Next I Photo by Heather Price I season, our players will be
The Links ,vere looking to play spoiler at the District Tourney October 7 t h and 8 th The Links lost to Bellevue West and Papillion La- Vista to finish out the season. The Links finished with one victory , against North Platte earlier this year.
The Links will return 9 players next season in hoping for in1provement. The Links can only gain experience for the years ahead The future for the Links softball team is bright and filled with talent. We are looking forward to more experienced at the high school level." Said watching them improve next season
___ _
Faced with a limited number of players, the Lincoln High girl's golf team knew they ,vere up for a challenge at the beginning of the season , but it was a challenge they met readily. Coached by Sain Sharpe, the girls practiced every day at various golf courses throughout the city to prepare for tonrnaments. Though they didn't have enough players to officially make a team, they tried their best, and any good sport will tell you th.at that ' s what matters the most.
ity with. the game of gol f th.at is crucial. for a consis t ent performance on the green.
One standout th.is year was Katie Miller (l 0), the only returning member of this year's teain. She has been playing for about one and a half years. Katie's broth.er Jacob, a member of last year's varsity boys' golf team, had encouraged her to begin golfing. She averages about ,,,,,,.,J-;;,,,.,,,,,,, 114, with. a personal best of l 05. Working hard, Miller has been able to dran1atically improve her score from last year by 15 shots. "Courtney and Kayla built a foundation to do the same (as and Kayla, had never played the 7!}(,;;;ik,'f>,iJ!!;.t,i!!.,,f!f!/!!7!/!!!i!ff.lll/J;;t/f!f!Jf,1/f!!!f,f!J!ff!!#!Jiffi!!i'!!!U!f;J!!,t!!!Uf!J!tffifd/J!i!f!c hke to ,nv,te any young garne, but vvith some hard work $f/fj;//JJi:JllfflJ*;~fj(fYl.t!.fl,''lf#iJf,fifl/J[fl/;%§11/1fl/JfZ#/l$Jfl@%! women who like a chaland time they were able to play i}f;JI~{lf&. "if41fJff!/JJ//!Jfiti1Jt,1J{i%Jlff/ll{Jf/if/;Jf!li7/IJfi lenge, to come forward the game, just not at competitive ~flf1liJ~illl/lJ!t~?#,0ltiiillll~itll/Jz:.~i(if/;flilf!f/Jtfll~r!w111 and become part of the • g/!!]'!J!ffi#rj/!fff!iS - .- ij,w.t,ES4fi!/f.lS;7!''f.ii!J.'/ff/!ff!_
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n. _____ nyNtiu-YNgo____ _ E.ditor-in-Chief
The Democrats had been hopeful coming into 2004. The election of 2002 ushered in a conservative government, with the Republicans winning both the House and Senate as well as having a Republican president in po'3/er The outcome of the election this year, however, only increased the power of the Republicans, leaving Democrats in a daze.
George W. Bush won, clearly taking the much coveted swing states of Florida and Ohio, leaving John Kerry no choice but to concede the following afternoon. Nationally, Bush took 51 % of the popular vote and gaining 286 electoral votes. Kerry had 48 % of the vote and 252 electoral votes.
There was some controversy but nothing in comparison to the 2000 election fiasco in Florida. For example, in Ohio's Franklin Country, more votes were tallied than voters Records for the county showed that only 638 voters cast ballots, yet Bush led John Kerry 4,258 votes to 260 votes. This matter along with others has made groups such as MoveOn org request an investigation of the 2004 election by Congress.
In the House of Representatives, Republicans had a net gain of 4 seats, while in the Senate they added four new
cn warzenegger, a Kepu l'm.can7 bru K"epaTiy ranx s house district with 87% of the vote. Who can say no and voiced support for stem-cell research, something to a football coach in Nebraska?
President Bush is strongly against. Montana chose to In Lancaster County, Fortenberry barely won legalize marijuana for medical reasons, and Alaska said with 49% of the vote, as opposed to Coneally's 47%. no when asked if marijuana should be decriminalized District-wide, however, Fortenberry won with a greater altogether margin : 54% to 43%. The results of this election almost Tom Daschle, the Senate minority leader, Jost in exactly mimicked the results of the Nebraska Student his reelection bid-a huge loss to the Democratic Party. Vote. In his place, Democrats have chosen Nevada senator President Bush won with relative ea se in Ne- Harry Reid, the minority whip under Daschle. Reid is different from Daschle; be goes against traditional Democratic values by being antiabortion and anti-gun control yet no Democrat is questioning his rise to leadership Known to be a constant presence in the Senate, Reid is a persistent man who once spoke for 8 1/2 hours straight on the floor after angered by the Republicans' desire lo talk for 30 hours on rejected judicial nominees. For a time, he served as chairman of the Nevada Gaming Association and survived an assassination attempt in which his car was rigged with explosives He will provide steady leadership without much flash.
The losses this year have sent many Democrats back to the drawing board, and with new leadership by Harry Reid, they will try "' to once again gain control of the House and
braska, a state that has been red and Republican since 1964. Bush gained 67% of the vote and Kerry had 37%.
seen with President Bush's reelection despite the administration's blunder in Iraq and a net job loss.
How America voted for President in the 2004 Elec- Senate, something that escaped them in 2002 ion by County. and proved elusive this year as well. Moral values did play a role this year, as can be members. Now, the House bas 231 Republicans, 200 Democrats , and one Independent. The Senate consists of 55 Republicans, 44 Democrats, and one Independent.
Voting was at record levels, and the youth vote did not disappoint this year. More than 21 million of the youth electorate voted-a new record. The 1"8-29 range counted for only 17% of the _total vote, similar to 2000, but it ,was because more people voted this year. Record turnouts were everywhere. The youth of Ame r ica this year chose Kerry over Bush, 54% to 44%. And for the fjrst time ever, the majority of those in the 18-29 year-old age gro µp voted- "51 6%.
Here in Nebraska, Republican Jeff Fortenberry defeated Democrat Matt Connealy to take the first congressional district, and Lee Terry (R) crushed Nancy
There bad been some talk about Nebraska splitting its five electoral votes, but in the end Bush received them all. Nebraska splits up three of its votes between the congressional districts, and the two "at large" go to whoever received the majority of the district electoral votes. Maine is the only other state that can do this. Colorado voters bas a chance to begin using a similar system, but the proposal was defeated in the election.
In the Nebraska State Legislature, eight new senators will be welco1ned, including two new Democrats. The Unicameral now has 32 Republicans, 15 Democrats, and 2 Independents.
Nebraska passed Amendment 4, which was an adjustment to the Constitution giving the State Fair about $2 million from the state lottery, but chose to reject the gambling proposal.
In Lincoln, the city-wide smoking ordinance passed with ease. Smoking is now prohibited in all indoor public venues and places of employment. Mayor Coleen Seng says she will not implement the measure until January 1st in ordet to give business owners time to adjust. The proposal built upon Ordinance no. 18396 passed by the Lincoln City Council in June. There is now talk of having a similar smoking ban in Omaha
Had voters rejected the ordinance, the ban would still be enforced with exemptions for businesses where food makes up less than 60% of total sales, unless minors under 18 were allowed in the business. Support for the smoking ban was strongest in Southeast Lincoln, which also had the greatest voter turnout in the entire city. This area of town also heavily favored George Bush. Kerry fared better in downtown Lincoln, where he took the majority of the votes
Nationally, many hot issues were decided at the polls Eleven states-Kentucky, Georgia, Kansas, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah-chose to pass anti-gay marriage constitutional amendments These states will now legally define marriage as a union between a man and woman The anti-gay amendment craze began after Massachusetts began allowing same-sex marriages after ruling that prohibiting gay unions was in violation of the state constitution. Gay rights groups had been hopeful, but even in Oregon, a state where the groups spent nearly $2.8 million trying to persuade voters to defeat the measures, anti-gay marriage legislation passed. California passed a measure that increased ful)ding for stem-cell research. California Governor Ar-
However, it is now time for politicians, or their aides , to clean up the celebratory red, white, and blue confetti, dry those Democratic tears, and get back to work.
Jill Wieskamp, a junior majoring in Spanish and secondary education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Norris High graduate, lives - and loves-the Nebraska experience. She is involved in her sorority, she's a leader in the Navigators prograrn, she works on campus, and she even studied abroad in Spain lastsumn1er. A future every chance she gets. "It's a big' get involved - you can't help activity that fits you. And like till you're here - every FOR EXPERIENCINGMORE , Thereis no placelike Nebraska.
teacher, Wieskamp learning campus with so many ways to • 1$ but find some club or some you can't know what it's experience is different."
l
Are Y 0 t
ByNrel,'\min NewsE.ditor
The Great American Smokeout was held on November 18th in the auditorium to help students became more aware of the hazards of smoking. The Lincoln Council on Alcoholism and Drugs put on the smokeout assembly with the assistance of Student Council and Teen Takes on Tobacco. "Are YO Uth a Target?" was the theme of this year's smokeout, which asked the question, "Are teens the target of smoking by tobacco companies?"
A great amount of work went into planning the Smokeout starting with work from Student Council and Teens Take on Tobacco. The two groups worked with the Lincoln Council on Alcoholism and Drugs to help plan the event. Student Council members helped to promote the smokeout by handing out T-shirts to 9th graders and other students, who wanted a T-shirt The Tshirts featured this year's theme on the shirts, which was similar to last year's T-shirts with the theme "Don't be a statistic."
The Great American Smokeout has been held at Lincoln High for the last 28 years, which is the same number of years the smokeout has been observed nationwide. The smokeout was the creation oftheAmerican Cancer Society, which was created with the idea that people could stop smoking just for one day. The smokeout is held on the Third Thursday in November, which is
The third annual national Mix It Up at Lunch Day occurred on November 16th this year, but this was Lincoln High's first year participating ii/-the activity. Sponsored by Lincoln High School and Associate Principal Annie Scott , Mix It Up was intended to create cultural awareness and unity. Last year, 2 million students from more than 7,000 schools nationwide participated in the event. The goal this year was to reach a greater number of students and break down more barriers.
Annie Scott originally introduced the idea to Student Cou ncil during a meeting. Scott learned Mix It Up three years ago. "I read about it in the magazine for schools published by the SotJthern Poverty Law Center," she said. She wanted to bring i( to LHS because she knew "Lincoln High students tend to do things to make Lin;o.1n-3-bg.tt~r....p1aG€i=f@iS¥~P- f9P. &: to live " Student Council took up the challenge
On Mix It Up Day, stude nts were encouraged to sit with those they normally do not interact with during lunch and make new friends. · Student • Council members wearing Mix
It Up stickers helped facilitate
differences-that they exist, they are challenging, and they are something we must live with. "Stuff happens when you mix it up," Dr. Soto said. "But it pays to extend your comfort zone."
Joyce Welsh was a civil rights lawyer before becoming the Affirmative Action Director for the Mayor of Lincoln. She is also a Lincoln High alum. Dr. Welsh also asked the students of Lincoln High School to become more socially conscious of the different groups around them and become better acquainted with each other "I suggest to you that you should seek out other culmral experiences , " she said. Welsh provided humorous anecdotes about experiencing new cultures in her life, including encountering Vietnamese karaoke.
Dwight Brown works for HUB, a" central ax.is point for young adults in need " He spoke to the audience of high school students about diversit }'. and what it reall y i ii.'""Diversity is how you reach out, what vehicle you choose to use to reach out," Brown said "We have to make diversity a goal, and it's not just about attending an assembly."
A video was also shown at the assembly, the group bonding.
The activities of the day also went beyond lunch. Faculty members were given various activities to do in their classrooms for the day. They were meant to highlight differences and similarities among different groups at Lincoln High School, the most diverse high school in Lincoln.
The day before the lunch activity, Dr. Jose Soto, Dr. Joyce Welsh, and Dwight Brown came to LHS in an optional assemply seventh period to support Mix It Up's Message.
Jose Soto is a lawyer and equity director at Southeast Community College. He was born in Puerto Rico and grew up as a military child, moving numerous places before finding his home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Through his experiences, he was able to give students a perspective of what it is like to have to constantly adapt to new situations. He persuaded them to try something new in their Jives and meet new people. He also highlighted three points about
with, student testimonials on why Lincoln High should mix it up. Due to technical glitches, however, the video was cut short. Dr. Soto saved the day when these problems arose with an exercise about comfort levels.
"The Smdent Council committee worked very hard to bring interesting speakers and provide good activities from which teachers could choose to help their students feel comfortable in mixing it up," said Associate Principal Scott.
Kim Mai was the assembly's emcee. She found it to be an enjoyable experience. " It feels nice to be doing something good for Lincoln High," Mai said. "It's very important to be culturally aware and respect and accept differences."
Student Council will determine if Lincoln High will continue Mix It Up Day next year "I will support Student Council and staff who wish to repeat this activity in the future," said Scott. "I believe this was another 'job well done at the High."'
a week before Thanksgiving-:According to the American Cancer Society, the Great American ~mokeout is the 1,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,b,,,,,,,,,,,.,,,,,,,m,,, game show atmosphere, which helped students learn more about single most day in which people pledge to quit smoking
According to www.ash.org, smoking during the '70s was a very big prob!e ,m since about 45 percent of the population smoked , which has now greatly decreased to 27 percent in 2002. "The smokeout was an attempt to create awareness that if you could stop smoking for one day, lt could tum into a lifetime habit," said Teens Take on Tobacco Sponsor Dick Patterson, who has been involved with the smokeout for the last 15 years and was once a smoker himself.
"I quit smoking on my birthday after smoking heavily for 33 years, and I quit because I knew I was going to die if I didn't." Patterson said about his own expetience with smoking. Patterson didn't change his rnind about smoking because of the Great American
our stuelents take part in a ganieifuring he Great Am erican Smokeout rally meant o shed light on smoking myths. Smokeout, but he still feels thatjt could help ._ __, others to quit smoking.
how big tobacco companies target teens in particular. The game show was similar to the television show "The Price is Right" with students running down from their seat and onto the stage. In place of Host Bob Barker, we had Senior Bailey Heafer and Freshmen Emily Stanfield, who are both members of Student Council , as our host. The students, who
The assembly followed this theme through the use of a came down were then asked a question involving smoking and whoever came
the closest to the answer was able to play various game, which included shooting hoops and throwing Velcro dart balls The games featured more questions about smoking, and the more the contestant answered correctly the easier it got to win the game. The game helped to get students energized to the point that they started playing along with the contestant. "'There was a high level of participation from the audience and the contestants were amusing." said Senior Becky Lodes about participation at the assembly. Many students walked out with a sense of excitement and time well spent. "It was an informative entertaining break from a normal school day making it even more memorable." added Lodes about the success of the Smokeout.
In the future, the smokeout will still be here at Lincoln because of the great support that it has received from students and staff. "Just keep it corning. America is doing well with the smokeout, I hope it will spread to other countries," said Patterson about his hope for the future of the smokeout The smokeout was once again another success with attendance from more than 25 classes. The smokeout helped to send a message to students about the harmful affect of smoking, which has heen a goal of the smokeout for years The Great American Smokeout has now come and gone, but hopefully the message will live on
By.ShaunaBuck .StaffWriter
Most students probably have thought seriously about plans after high school. If your plans include going to college there are probably questions and roadblocks creating stress on the long quest to post high school success. Put that stress behind you, because there are lots of resources out there and people waiting to help you.
Lincoln High counselors make it very clear that you should start planning for college early. This means you, too, ninth graders!
When deciding the area of studies there are things to keep in mind and look into during your four years of high school life. Ask yourse.lf these questions: Is there a higher demand for this profession in the com1nunity? How many years do you need to complete the course of study in college? What do you need to take during high school to prepare for this particular field study? "The only way to really be prepared for college is to take good academic courses d uring high school," Lincoln High Counselor Dave London said. If you don't quite know what area of study you are willing to pursue ( which happens once or twice throughout high school) there is the undeclared alternative where you take general courses. "While they're taking the essential study block in their college programs, students can take classes in ot her areas and maybe those classes will trip their trigger, or interest them," LHS counselor Marti Oakeson explained.
After long hours of pondering what you want to study during college there is a second step to your search for college success. The study of your choice could possibly be pursued anywhere, but only one college is the right one for you. Make time to list the colleges that interest you, and go visit their campuses.
After contemplating the study you want to pursue, and after choosing at least three colleges you know that interest you, make sure to give a good impression in person while visiting their campuses, Also when filling out the admission form to these colleges you want to attend, keep up with the following checklist.
To get your chosen college right were you want it, remember to keep up your GPA (Grade Point Average). This is also important if you plan to graduate from high school. Take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) your Sophomore year, and continue to take the ACT (American College Test) and SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) during your junior and senior years Top it off by applying colleges that interest you. When visiting, remember to request an admission application Arrange to receive your transcript with the sea.I of approval from the counselor, and include an outstanding essay if it's necessary, Also formal! y ask at least three teachers, coaches, or counselors that personally know your academic status and success during the crucial 4 years of high school to forward recommendation letters with the mailing of your application.
Concerned about the stress a student has with college's h igh financial demand, London stated, "People just say' I don't have enough money and don't go' that's terrible."
Oakeson also had advice for students. "They [students] should not let money prevent them from applying, because you don't know what financial aid you'll receive," she said.
Getting accepted to a college is one thing, but being able to afford a high-priced school is another. According to Nebraska Careers and Education
Magazine there are many ways to beat the unbearable financia1 problems you face before and after you get into college.
The following are some ways to pay off or receive money for college:
Student loans- Student loans are based on a need and non-need bases. To find out if you 're in need for financia1 support take the time to go to Education Quest to fill out the FAFSA form. When in need of government tuition there are two types of loan plans, the Perkins loan and the Subsidized Stafford Loan. On a non-need bases there are the unsubsidized Stanford Loan and The Plus The amount of a Stanford Loan is 2,625 for the first year a nd The Perkins is an average of 1,200.
The Perkins Loan gives you a nine month grace period to find a job after college graduation giving you ten years to pay back. The Stanford gives you up to six months grace period, which also gives you ten years to pay back.
After filling out the FAFSA form a financial award letter will be sent out to the student detailing you on the types of financial options there are for you. If the route you're taking is a loan, the college will send a • loan application to you, remember to fill out the form and send -it back to the college. Some colleges will ask for a preferred bank, but others will not. Some schools will let students choice there bank called FFELP (Federal Family Education Loan Program), but a few years ago there has been a new way to pay off tuition called Direct Lending where the money directly goes to the colleges. If you have any questions about loan information call (475-5222), make a visit to Education Quest at 1300 "O" street or visit them on the web at W\VW.educationquest.org , Scholarships" There is a great deal of money available from private donors. Some of the scholarships are based on financia1 need, but others are based on academics, leadership, ta.lent, and athletics. Scholarships are always being sent to the Lincoln Counselors Office, so make sure to take a trip down to see what scholarships they have received today! Also check out the Financial Board outside room 213 · Grants- this is the best Financial Aid a student can get, because you don't need to work night and day to repay them. Your classes may all be paid for while your attend college. The grants may include, Pell Grants, which range from $400 to $4,050, Supplementa1 Education Opportunity grants (SEOG), State Grants, collegebased grants, etc.
Apprenticeship- Sometimes a student can work for an employer that pays for his/her college tuition while working for them.
The Military Scholarship- Before active duty the military will someti1nes pay college intuition, but they do expect you to serve in the military. Various branches of the military offer financia1 aid in return for commitment to serve Be sure to read the fine print.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)- This application is based on your parents/guardians' income and yearly wages, which determine the amount of 1noney the government is willing to give you for your college finances. Everyone should fill out this application.
According to Education Quest the forn1ula, Annua1 Cost of College+ Expected Faruily Contribution= Financial Need, used to determine the FASFA outcome is, To fill out a FASFA form you need the following: your parent(s) or guardian(s) W-2 forms and Tax return, current Bank Statements, Driver ' s License, and Social Security number. If you' re independent, you still need your parent income information.
Finally, make sure to bring any questions you may have to the counselors. If they don't have the answer they'll help you find it.
•
0 • 1 a s e e rate T rou out t e or
By,\JinaSelyukh___ _ ----f\sst. WebE.ditor
Red and white outfitted Santa Clauses everywhere, bright wrappers on presents, the smell of pine trees This is what you imagine when you think of Christmas, isn't it?
Ask somebody who comes from anoi):ler country if they imagine the same thing, though, lH[adon't be surprised if they start telling you about something very different.
Every country has its own special traditions and customs, and Christmas inevitably cannot be the same everywhere. In some countries they don't have it at all! However, practic~11y everywhere p~.ople celebrate the New Year or some other winter timifreligious holiday. And this is where our trij,lbegins Afghanistan 'if!/{1, j!if/Jf!!.;.Being one of the M~ti.mcountries·: Afghanistan f~~n 't celebrate Christriiiif; but has other traditional holidays. Eid is t~ one that take1:1hplacein w'it!ter.
Russia and Ukraine
Most of the population of Russian is Christian, and they follow the Russian Orthodox Church. The Christmas they celebrate is on Jan. 7. However, it is not as hugely celebrated as New Year. Being from Russian myself , I can say that in fact, New Year is considered the most popular holiday among Russians For many Americans, it seems that Russian New Year and fol19.wup holidays ( celebration often continues for almos'titwo v~~ks) sort of puts togeth ,,r a11the various holidays that ':1;'if!,'.-";;F ,,;i.-""iH!!",;, 01aj-ti"celebrated here in tll'e!l'JSA. :;;.-";.<,C.-"'fi!;: New Year and Chr'f!itn'\'asare the period for all the family to come together , like during Thanksgiving. On Christmas a lot ofkicl,~ also go singing around the neighborhood and get cafit'iy for their performance, which in .:".ay similar to Halloween They also decorate rees that are put up not long before the New and are usually take~,4own after Dec. 13.
· called "Old New ·•,t/f};fl/J'f!J.ay," a holiday that started }ust by being New Ye;;J"~"cliy according to the old system of chronology, but now it is considered to be the last day of the past year, the day when everybody says Goodbye to the last year and starts new life.
Two holi<;l..;tyweeks pass with lots of presents, Chris,. ·, ;; , food.
· "After 30 days of R!W1adan'i'ast, when you basically cannot eat anything ftomsunset to the sunrise, Eid is a three-days festival, when everybody ~l'!,'f.'!lnything they want,"f.s'~nior Uranois Amin, who ddhles from Afghanistan, said. On the tir11t.s!ilYof Eid, which this year was on Nov. 14, the.?ib~l~ family meets .either ;JJI0tl\Jfil('!~firistmasis the most popular at grandmQ!,per's or uncf~~s''if~~(~ to sinl$ldan/?@ and Ge11Ji/i.4jjfJ+1l.tf6fAnna Dierssen, a German 'e eat. Teen~g~s also often p\t{ritiUtl¾'eirhands with henna student, said. "The way we celebrate it is very sirnilar (reddish natural paint). A month <lfter the first Eid, there to Christmas here. The main difference is probably that is the second one, Jhich is atf!Wfillyalmost the same we give and open presents onJJ.an. 24, as opposed to • :i;;i/!Fljf;'/(;' :'if, !iiifi; • ?fifL'."if!':'.!fiiij!( thmg. ,..,,.. "iJ!i./!ii the morning of Jan. 25 heyeJlf;(!'/•!lthat day also, a lot C!Ffi-''f'- • • • 'ff,'j!;?jf!F:,'f.;'',f,'if/f'" • As for·ffie New Y~, 1t comes to Afghanistan, as of people go to church, ha'\'t.,~4g'!Chr1stmas dinner that well as many other Muslifu countries 1;~1J.!:i~first day of often includes Christmas du~k or goose, according to spring. "On tl!il!W4il'Y,kids usua11y cl,f¢@f;µjiffi'i:l,,waitfor AµmJ. Their Santa Claus comes on the 24 th too. As
•,: ,,._,_., ··:•, ~.,-. : : , ,_'·.·--: the man we 1i,iilff!i~at1aNawroozi '1,tlj/(l<1tl£i\i,';kij!,il'cking on fof'Jan. 25, "it is basically visiting relatives and more the door andhnb'i,$iliilm presents ana:ca¥iI1f~1,;Flfis day is presents," Dierssen said .,.,.:..,-,
-;.' ,.: ·.:·" ./·,. f' ·:~---: ,·---·
a very big festival"withl,a/11'51/;offood/iind!di'tco ni.tions. During Christmas preparation time, on Dec. 6, Australia and New •~~ifi'and ..;/tnJf;;;,. German kids put their shoes in front of the doors and Southern in the he ~ese countri¢"t%~.re situa'~~ih the wait for St. Nicolas to come and put candy and presents ' , Christmafli11d New Year come into it. However, Nicolas always walks around with an.1er.It doesn't mean, though, that other man, who has a stick and he uses it to punish those ' ;shave JW.verseen Santa. who ;f/f//.ifotbrave and good, Anna Dierssen said. No, their Bfitfslff86ts i~4\:,i/em w"f~fed and white ICEL clad Santa Clauses that'~x;~'noticed everywhere on The most unnsual part of the Icelandic Christmas '"ii" ,.-.-
• streets .0£the islands during the days before, and on, is that they have 13 Santas Starting on Dec. 12, they ChristiiiJl'-~ew Year. The day usua1ly starts with an come one by one from the mountains. The celebration
· · i ,eakfast;'(porridge, tea, tO,!!.~tfo or eggs) itself takes place on 25'", wh en a11of them have come ch and dinner are rarely'!"hot. Mos'.f[:;;down Christmas is a big family holiday, when everytate Christmas on the closest beach, in the body come~,;.tpgether and has a dinner, Jhat traditionally pools or clo_seto the water. They also decorate Christmas contains slftd~d ]~~' potatoes, wW,fi4ftvy and be<lllS. trees and give each other cards and presents. After the celebration 1s over, the Santa!Clauses go back Israel to the mountains, one by one.
Jewish people do not cel~brate New Year and The last one leaves on Jan. 6, which is considere d Christmas the way we are ust.i"dto Jhinking of it,. ,The the last day of Christmas Icelahders call this day "The holiday that is considered Jewishlfew Year takt~ Thirteenth" and t\J,eyspend it taking down their decoraplace in September-October on a different day every tions and Ch · "·'"' · year, because the counting goes according to the Kenya an Hebrew calt)tJ,9'¥, said freshman EmfSlI~tanfield. .,,,. "It alwi.ii~§,Ji;.elffi[veryexciting whe~t~stmas -•;!1::.-I!!;;,;;,.-, ·',;.-,_.,.-_._._.,;;;.- ,/:: !''".•i ii !,.•1: ,'!; '!i-•i', "Man}'ifipe'ople think that Hanukl<tah, that is eel- comes ," junior Zainab Kuwa said. Kuwa 'l's'/!ftom Suebrated a couple days beforij.'!:Ch.-istmas, is a9yery big "11ian."Before that day, we always have our hair done, get holiday for Jewish," Stanfield added ".Actually, it is not. new outfits and decorate Christmas trees. By the way, It is far not the main holiday for us. fitiwever, because our Christmas trees are just like here, but we usually ofit being so close to Christmas, many people celebrate}!,f;/!;Utthem ourselves. Al!!o, three days before Christmas '"'"'" !, " - .-_.:.-_.,-,.-/.-;;,;:, that day like Christmas, IManing they give presents, andrt%,we make cookies ,affi1if!li\l'm"e,,madecandies." ,_.,;;;_: "f.-"if..-"f.-",'ff:.-_.if_.-"i,.- -?i!iff..-"f!/ H have big dinners." On Chris~s'!ffl~jirieverybody goes to church, In fact, Hanukkah is a festival gffff/rl/lt;,..,Itsroots the,11the family .'{j,'fif.gf/!tf!iil,herto have dinner. They go back in time to the Y.ekJl'168 B.C.E!;~~~fdjflg to th~\\ usdally have soriiet'tili}J'ith;;f they don't eat everyday, history, that year Anti;f~feus, the Gree!<;!'iifi'bfSyria, chicken, for example "After 12 p.m., everybody goes outlawed Jewish rituals and ord~red the Jews to wor- out and just has fun. The presents come at the end of '"'"" ,'-..·' ship Greek gods. He destroyed !heir temp:f/j,,f!l\'!'JdJews the day. decided to fight back JU£J.ithMaccabee an'14:i~f'soldiers i!f1 In Sudan, adults usually go to ,;;.-.?;!-:;. 'i'iii"i• 'fi•""i."ii!:f" went to the temple and ·cleaned an4Jff paired 1t. When presents. "They hide them around the·Mil;JJ~g,e 1and most they were finished, they decided to have big celebr.a,t~Qn,.,1, , •.of the day is usually spent following the 'cl\.ies trying to They found a little flask th,i!,!%f.1JJtainedonly en,1.fi'i'ffqf!i;;/#tz,.fi.ndyour pres,;JJJs," Kuwa said. ~; " ,,.-,;:_..' "'· ,.-,;.- '-''' -""'·:-·, "' ;.-,.-. to light up the menoralyi.;f&i;;~n/.lday. Miracul~f#s,tf,¥/!~'ii!i;,1//{ff;;,,, For New"'i'ear all the family comes together and lasted for eight days. i~L.1&'V1.i 1}'" : •i!i$,..,1J;!i"'"!fi1.7;;'§everybody goes out to the field and dances. Every tribe, Today Jews celebra't'e'Ranu~~)~or eigh't'fd"ayf\'.$!'eyery village has its own traditional dance and culture. by lighting candles in a menorah in com- '"X'fter it gets dark, dances and traditional wrestling start memoration to the eight-day ~iracle. They go on till midnight, and then, everybody gets together and says "Happy New Year!" Some time later,
dances continue and finish only when the sun rises. "On Jan. 1, we all go to church, think of what happened last year, and make wishes for the new one,"' Kuwa said. Vietnam ,/Jkr1 r ::w.--:-'.; ·: tJ~ Most people in Vietnam'"'li':re Buddhists, and they do not celebrate Christmas. The Christmas that Vietnamese Catholic s celebrate is on Dec. 31-Jan. 1., according to freshman Sarah Nguyen. On that day, th,l}\. go to church to sing and pray for usually three or four · hours.
The New Year comes to Vi · goes on for Buddhists for two rrf...ik¥if!!ffll¢,tJJ.s. "On the '" , we light up special balld'i'iWi!#l111ltf put a special · ming papers in the house and leave it until it gO'es'ff\tt by itself," Nguyen said. " This is supposed to keep warmth at home. If you looked around the village you would see that every house has it."
Being a huge mel¥f~ pot of cultures, America has mostly all the types 'dfwinter holidays celebrated. 9,wever, there is one holiday that has its origin here anzaa.
Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits of the har_J Jz:, vest," is a unique African Ameri¢ was founded in 1966 by Dr. Ma~ijf!i~enga. It is celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan 1. ··
This holiday focuses on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and S1<{f:~i.mprovement.In fact, it is neither political nor relig{(),il'fijd is not really a substi.W,\efor Christmas. , :-,:;,,.--,,;, .-, '"'·:--.--.:..-, K wania is a time of reaffirming'"Africanpeople, their ancestors and culture. Kwanzaa: • to be observed by more than 18 mi11ion peop wide, as reported by the New York Times.
There is also a tradition on New Ye seeds and keep a11the trash on the floo •··· i!i";t)'ver.It is believed, that the more g/i;tDil:l!.\Wf\1/0'\l/have on your flootf;§°tf~more money you w~,.
"We often als"oJiiendlittle red envelopes wii'f;i,'fnoneyto our friends and relatives on New Year. Besides, there is a game, when you run and pick a bag from those •.hanging on a special tree to see if there is any money in it. This way you see how lucky you are."
On that day, Vietnamese people pray to their ancestors, spend hours cooking traditional food for the New Year dinner and gamble a lot,;JQtesides, there are a lot of parades, dragon dances anil.' fireworks held in parks.
On those days, pep ,.p}i,•<;J.ecoratetheir houses using the traditional red, gr,~','ijd}'l,,~ck colors and give a lot of presents. Creativitji~it~?fi~tation are indispensable ··-··--··' for these processes
There are also alotof§~al. details that are vecy importantforcelebratingKwanza.Itemsusedfordecoratingthehouse are among them. Candleholder with seven candles, placemat, - (fiuit and vegetables) are one of those • 31 is traditionally the day of the Karumu feast durcelebration. According to Dr. Karenga's model of the program for that celebration, it consists of many steps like Welcoming, Remembering, Rejoicing, UnicyCup etc. This event is vecy important, because it brings people closer to their roots and makes them cooperate in the communal effort.
•
''Dragonsand Fairies''provideshands-onlearningexperience - or youngand old
ByNhu-YNgo___ _ F..ditor-in-Chief
A traveling exhibit devoted to the culture of Vietnam has made its way to Lincoln. At the Lincoln Children's Museum, the exhibit, aptly titled "Dragons and Fairies," explores Vietnamese customs and traditions through vivid imagery and hands-on activities. This is the first of its kind in Nebraska.
The exhibit originated in Houston, Texas, an area widely known for its large Vietnamese population The Vietnamese make up over 30% of the A,sian population in Houston. "It was initiated by the Children's Museum of Houston and after its opening there, (it) traveled to the Louisiana Children's Museum," Lincoln Children's Museum Coordinator Joel McCleary said.
Created with the objective of spreading the culture of Vietnam, the exhibit has made its
• thrillU?.h...m.any,...pJ:U:tS_.J)Lth e...I.Jnitoo S.tate.s Its creators would like to see more unity in the different cultures of this country. It is easy to contrast different groups, but they would like others to realize that we should try to build bridges of unity and compare similarities. Key goals for the exhibit are to unmask the rich culture of Vietnam and encourage children's curiosity and openness about people who are differe nt from them, McCleary said.
"Dragons and Fairies" is in its first year of travel. Funded by the Freeman Foundation Asian Exhibit Initiative, the exhibit will travel through ten cities, and Lincoln has been chosen as one of •
them.
"We are very honored to have been selected through a competitive process to receive the exhibit," McCleary said "Usually, an exhibit is an extremely expensive undertaking to travel to a museum (from $40,000 to $120,000 for a three month rental plus shipping) but in this case, the entire project was underwritten by the Freeman Foundation."
To be considered for hosting the exhibit, the Lincoln Children's Museum had to write a proposal demonstrating Lincoln's diversity and desire to create a better understanding of different cultures. McCleary used census records, and he talked to human service agencies and
local Asian-owned
late October, with an official opening ceremony on November 13th • The local Lion Dance Troupe of the Asian Cultural and Community Center performed during the opening ceremony along with Taiko Japanese Drumming, and the Lincoln High Asian Caucus also helped in the festivities by leading museum patrons in the making of dragon hats. Asian Caucus intends to volunteer at the exhibit again in December and in
sity of Nebraska Lincoln, the Lincoln Community Playhouse with students from Roper and Elliott Elementary Schools performing Vietnamese folktales and songs, and North Star Chinese teacher Jeanne Kwan with Chinese calligraphy.
The opening celebration attracted much of Lincoln. "We had nearly 900 guests visit the Museum, go through the exhibit itself and take part in the day's activities," Children's Museun1 Special Events Coordinator Claire Shannon said. In the exhibit, adults and children alike can visit an imaginary Internet cafe similar to those in Vietnam. On the computers they can view a map of the country and learn exciting facts about major cities. "The original planners did travel to Vietnam for the filming, to visit and interview families, and to gather authentic materials, which were used in the exhibit," noted McCleary. "Authenticity was one of the primary issues for the development team to assure."
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By MichaelCUiiinane ___ _ FeatureF..ditor
If you have high-speed internet connection, some spare time and a desire to permanently erase all late fines from the library then this article is for ydu. The next time you have to go and read a classical book for an English class go to http~ //\vv,,v.gutenberg.org/ to download free books to read in the privacy of your own home and never have to worry about late fines or lost books again.
For those of you who are already familiar with downloading music this is a piece of cake because Project Gutenberg is the forerunner to those operations.
According to Hart "Replicator Technology", his idea which became the progenitor of the ideas on how technology would spread such as Napster, Kazaa, Imesh, Limewire and others worked as such "Once a book or any other item (including pictures, sounds, and even 3-D items) can be stored in a computer, then any number of copies can and will be available. Everyone in the world, or even not in this world (given satellite transmission) can have a copy of a book that has been entered into a computer."
There are many books of interest to students and even a top 100 list to choose from, here is a sampling and how they relate to you: #'3 "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu, (Asian culture, Warfare, Achievement) #11 "The Holy Koran", #12 "Dracula" by Bram Stoker (History, Fiction), #13 "Alice in Wonderland" by Lewis Carrol (, Philosophy, English, Fiction), #21 "Beyond Good and Evil" by Nietzsche (Philosophy, History), #31 "The Communist Manifesto" by Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx (History, Philosophy), #36 "Don Quixote" by Miguel de
Vietnamese New Year. businesses. He also contacted community and religious centers. The city of Lincoln also helped confirm that those of Vietnamese descent make up the largest Asian group in Lincoln. Fifty-three percent of the Asian population in Lincoln is Vietnamese, according to 2000 census figures.
"Dragons and Fairies "came to Lincoln in
"It was a lot of fun to interact with the children and see their interest in the culture of Vietnam," junior Lincoln High Asian Caucus member Phuong Tran said.
Other attractions on the 13 th included Bau Cua Tom Ca, a traditional Vietnamese game, hosted by the Phi Sigma Zsi sorority of Univer-
Cervantes (Spanish, Satire, History).
ers, but the idea of sharing books began to manifest
Now you may be wondering where they get from that point. the name Gutenberg from, well here's a run down. So what do you get from that idea? There are Johannes Gensfleisch zur Laden zum Gutenberg numerous authors (and 12,000 pieces to choose from) (commonly refered to as Gutenberg or Johannes that can be downloaded for free from the website Guttenberg) was born at the dawn of the 15'hcentury (http://www.gutenberg net) and here are a few ranand came from the small town of Mainz Germany domly selected from the top 100 authors section : where he loved reading books. He could never get Charles Dickens (1st), Mark Twain (2"d), William enough, however, because scribes had to write out Shakespeare (4 th), Johann Wolfgang von Goethe entire volumes by hand making them ludicrously (20'h), Lewis Carroll (39 th ), Miguel de Cervantes priced and therefore hard to come by. (60 th), Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche (64'h), Winston Gutenberg made it his mission in life to create Churchill (78 th), Albert Einstein (96'h) and the ever books for everyone. After living a life of abject popular "unknown" (70 th ) In addition to all of this pove1ty while pursuing his dreams, he watched them you may pick between a multitude of languages such come true as the first Bibles were mass produced on as Chinese, Esperanto, German, Yiddish, Spanish, February 23'd, 1455. Greek and many other languages.
Other elements of the exhibit include a motorcycle in front of a movie screen in which museum-goers can pretend to be riding in the streets of Hanoi, Vietnam and a "make your own Vietnamese name" chalkboard area where one can look at translations of common names.
"The day was entertaining, educational, and energizing!" exclaimed Shannon. The atmosphere of the day was indeed exhilarating. "Dragons and Fairies" will continue energizing Lincoln until January 23'd when it will leave for a new city. Admission is only $5 and the Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM and ori Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Fast forward centuries later from the 15thcen- As for the nuts and bolts of Project Gutenberg tury to the 21 stcentury and books are widespread and it uses a computer ptogramming code called "Plain popular. Despite this some books remain hard to get Vanilla ASCII" which is a low set of the American a hold of due to their inability to be mass marketed Standard Code for Information Exchange. such as massively influential yet controversial liter- In Laymen's terms this means that 99% of ary classics such as "Markafa" by Manneti. computers can read this file due to its simplicity Thankfully while this is occurring there is an regardless if you own a Mac, Ul'fIX, Apple, Atari or undeniable boom in the internet community. When what have you. Files range in size from 5 KB for you combine both of these factors you create the the Declaration of Independence (any computer can desire to use the internet to give anyone any book handle that if it's made after 1950) all the way up to that they want anywhere in the world.
multiple MB for a larger text such as The Holy Bible
Enter Project Gutenberg, established in 1971 or The Holy Koran. by Michael Hart when Hart was granted $100 mil-
Once you've selected your author and book you lion of computer time to do with what he wished can skim through the website and begin downloading at the Materials Research Laboratory inside the - it by using an author search, title words, E-text-No, University of Illinois After a short period of or even request alternative methods to retrieve Ebrainstorming with his friends, who were also his Books such as through a catalogue. Just as Gutenpartners, he decided that he would shotgun a copy berg produced a Renaissance of information in the of the Declaration of Independence out to everyone. lS'h century, Project Gutenberg is now unfolding the This turned out to as virus on the receivers comput- next step in that same Renaissance.
BusinessManager of their singers.
As Americans, we seem to be intrigued In the late 80's and throughout the 90's by failure. When we watch an undefeated many actors and actresses were extending sports team play in their 9 th week, we want their stardom by branching out into the music them to lose. You may not show it or say industry. In the late 80's, actor Steven Segal it, but in the back of your head, you want it released a little known guitar album entitled, to happen. We want to be able to taste their Songs From the Crystal Cave. William Shatsweet tears of sorrow as they walk off of the ner, the star of The Practice spin off, Boston field with their heads held low in shame Legal, has been waning in popularity since Perhaps I'm speaking for myself, but the death of his role of Captain Kirk, and the sudden sµccess of, Where Are They Now, released the album The Transformed Man. I Love The 80's/90's and The Surreal Life More Recently, Sh atner has released the is evidence that a new trend is emerging in album, Has Been. American television and movies and that is Even entire networks are devoted to the the "Sixteenth Minute of Fame." This idea rehashing of television. VHl 's ratings have of giving has-beens a second chance isn't a been taking a dive for years, and Viacom new thing. Since the days of the Cleavers, was in danger of losing the music network. cameos, guest spots and record contracts are (VHl 's main competition is MTV, which is
surefire ways to revive your career.
Many celebrities are trying to get their big comeback in the morning talk circuit. Tony Danza's most famous appearance was his role of Tony Micelli in 'Wh o's the Boss?' way back in 1984, since then, he has yet to star in a such a role. However, with the sudden demise of The Wayne Brady Show, Tony Danza has taken over with his own talk show: The Tony Danza Show, which has received decent ratings since its premier in early 2004.
In a quest to regain lost ratings, rerun network, TV/and has cleared the dust off of the lovable, cat-eating puppet from the 80's, Alf. Alf's Hit Talk Show premiered in the fourth quarter of 2003 as a special. H owever, TV/and saw it's potential and ordered a run of 20 episodes, which are currently airing on Friday nights.
Hitting it big in morning talkshows isn't the only way to make a comeback. Drew Carry has been in decline for years now, but a quick phone call to the WB led to Drew Carry's Green Screen which is used to fill up the vacant time slot left by Buffy. In all honesty, Green Screen's main audience seems to be those who view the hit sketch show, Blue Collar TV and are to lazy to change the channel. Yet Green Screen has captured that audience and has done well in its time slot.
Artists in the music industry are alsq experiencing the 16 th minute syndrome Think about the last greatest hits album you purchased. It's pro bably a complete rehash of songs that were big in their day. Greatest hits albums contain about as much value as a remix disc. The record label is making their·
also owned by Viacom.) With the network in jeopardy, VHl released several new shows for it's summer lineup in 2003, one of which was I Love the 70's. The / Love series is devoted to taking a look back at the trends in pop culture during that show's year, with stars and celebrities popular during that time providing commentary.
VH 1 has been riding the wave of retro ever since they created it, producing shows such as I love the 80's/90's, When 'something' Ruled The World and Bands Reunited. No 'w it seems that what's old is new again. VHl is still dedicated to taking a look back at the years that were I love the 90's: Part Deux is said to be in production and Bands Reunited returning with new bands to bring back for their sixteenth episode However, we all know that VHl hasn't started all this, there is more than one network that is responsible for giving shows a second life.
Tvland was created not a long time ago, and has since been devoted to bringing back extremely long forgotten shows like, Petticoat Junction, Leave it to Beaver and Green Acres. Tv land is now suffering a huge decline in ratings, and is resorting to producing new shows such as, Alf's Hit Talk Show and The 'something' Reunion. Tvland has since spawned other rehash networks such as Nicktoons, and GSN, both of which are suffering ratings losses.
With showing reruns, not only do they prove that the elderly can't let go of The Love Boat, they prove the one thing that we have dreaded for years: that creativity is surely dead, an d won't be coming back on a clip show anytime soon.
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Byl\.alisa..SChweitzer CopyE.ditor
The theater department has chosen The Pied Piper for their annual One Act competition piece this year. Auditions were held October 18, and senior Colby Woodson was chosen to play the starring role of the piper. Other lead roles we given to junior Lindsey Hand who plays Franca (a cripled orphan), senior Jordan White as the Mayor, senior Jordan King playing Herr Beckenholt (a school teacher), and senior Jessica Wallen-Thompson as Ernst. The play is being directed by Patsy Koch-Johns assisted by Chris Maly and Ben Koch as well as student directors Rebekka Hergenrader and junior Kaylene Tegtmeier.
Lincoln High's production won best ensemble for the fifth year in a row at the Kearney Play Festival on Noven;iber 17th and best ensemble at the North Star Festival on November 2nd. The first public performance of The Pied Piper is December 2 nd • Junior Lindsey Hand won awards for best actor at both festivals. The district competition will be on December 4"'.
!in trying to find volunteers who would help move settlers to the sparsely populated Eastern regions of the German empire causing a large number of the town's young people (represented by the children in the story) to leave Hamelin in 1284.
The play seems to be coming along nicely with a cast of 26 of Lincoln High 's finest thespians. "It's always interesting doing a one act because you never really know what's going to happen and you don't know how good the show's going to be at the be ginning."
senior Jordan White said. White played a minor role in last year's one act and had the lead role of Charlie in this year's fall play Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Senior Jessica
Wallen- Thompson, vice president of the I
the other schools." Senior Jordan King, also a veteran mummer, has a strong feeling that the play will go to districts. "We're going to do our best," King said. Junior Lindsey Hand, who's been in nearly all
feel that it will be very competitive to all of the other plays," Hand said, "The One Act is so much more of a bonding type of play. You get to know people better so you 're closer and it's more tight-knit. I think that the One Act is especially a great show because of that and all the connections not only on stage, but backstage with everything and everyone." "You get so close with all the cast members by the end of the show everyone will be like a family; it's amazing." added White.
Lincoln High 's telling of The Pied Piper follows the classic tale originating in Germany in 1284 of a skilled musician who promises to rid a small town of rats by playing a song to lure them away from the town and into the river where the vernun drown. In the original legend the townspeople refuse to pay the piper and so he uses his music to lure their children into a cave in the mountains. The story memorialized the event in German history when a representative of the Bishop of Olmutz had come to the town of Harneormance at the North Star Festival.
he "Pied Piper'' cast loads set pieces into a truck for a per-
The star of the play, senior Colby Woodson, thinks the play is going pretty well. "It's always improving," he said. "I suppose it requires a little more work this time around since there are more freshman involved, but only time will tell," he added. Woodson is a newcomer to the Lincoln High theater scene " I've never really done anything that big." Woodson played an extra in the Lincoln Community Playhouse production of The Outsiders and an oompa loompa in Lincoln High's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. "Its a lot more fast-paced and a lot more work " Woodson said of how the play compares to the others he's been involved in, "We've got to throw it together here really quick." To prepare for his role in the One Act Woodson checked
out other theatrical performances and books
mummers board and veteran LHS thespian feels the plays at Lincoln High since her sophomore year portraying the Pied Piper to get an idea of what kind that, Lincoln High 's One Acts are always unique in thinks that they have a very good show "I honestly of character the Piper was. some way. "We always have something different than
By ChrisI-latch E..ntertainmentE.ditor
Imagine, being at the Olympic trials. The one competition that is the pinnacle of many athletes careers, second only to the Olympic games themselves. One of Lincoln High's own was recently involved in such a fantastic event. Many of you know Mr. Bob White, who works in the social studies department and is the bead track coach at Lincoln High. He recently was honored by being selected to help as an official for the U.S. Olympic track and field trials held in Sacramento, California.
" My time at the trials was eye-opening.
Everyone you see on TV at the trials, I met; Marion Jones, (Olympic 200 meter champion) Shawn Crawford and (Olympic Bronze medalist) Maurice Greene. They all know me because I usually help out at a m eet at Stanford, so they call me the 'farm boy from Nebraska'." Commented White.
White also said that not everyone is
hite's ID badge: a souenir from the trials
Condoms pr-ovlde little, if ,;:iny, protection cigai• HPV, human papillpmovirvs, fhe mo!'.t comn. STOs in Amerlco today, wbi¢h is linked to ceN cancer. 14--16% of couples using con dams to a -· pregnon,e;::y will conceive within 12 mo nths. wit even hig h er perc enfcage fo r women under {Mearc :atJfdJtiture .-r-m--:-:s'¢xwa1i'i-Ef.titrh & ,cer.t1·iet f-<rJt.o,~s:e -@(j'" ';
friendly when you get to the internat ion a 1 level, "When you're making six figure checks that can o f t e n times go to your h e a d Certain coaches that I met, also w e r e not very nice, and
again I think it is because of the money. If their athlete wins the Olympic trials, their cut could be anywhere betwe en two and three million dollars."
Mr White was one of just 13 clerks on the track. "Over the last 23 years I have worked my way onto the short list, meaning that if the U.S. were to get the Olympics, I would be one of the people they call first to help."
It takes a long time to have your name put into the elite category and you have to go to many meets all over the country. "You have
to put in some time in order to be considered for this. I've attended meets from Richmond, Virginia to Edwardsville, Illinois."
A fantastic experience for anyone, and well deserved at that, but especially for any self-professed "Track Man" like Mr. White. Undoubtedly it gave him many experiences that will last a lifetime, and many stories to pass down to his family. Who knows but maybe someday we'll all get to see a Link participating in the famous U.S. Olympic Trials.
_____ By Neeli\min ____ _ NewsF..ditor
''Four More Years," "Four More Years," were the chants heard after the election of President George Bush to a second term, instead of a long-winded speech by Senator John Kerry. The defeat of Kerry can put to rest all of the crazy mule driven Democratic conspiracies about the Republicans stealing the election in 2000 Bush had narrowly won Florida by 537 votes after the Supreme Court ruled to stop the recount. According lo the New York Times, Gore would have won the recount if it occurred in Florida, which is still a disputable fact to many Republicans. It is unfair to say that Bush stole the election in the first place because he simply just outplayed Gore for the Presidency. His team of lawyers were able to take down Gore's team of lawyers and ended up becoming President. This time around, however, Bush easily took home Florida without there being a controversy
After the loss in the 2000 election, Democratic supporters proceeded to complain and show their
dislike for President Bush in the following four years without much regard to protecting his presidential image to the rest of the world. The cotnplaints against Bush's policies weren't the problem, but the way that many anti-Bush and Pro-Democrats went about doing so. They decided to just simply bash Bush by poking fun at every aspect of President Bush, instead of focusing just on the issues alone. From anti-Bush supporter Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11 to skits on Bush's inability to use the English language, making fun of Bush seemed to be the cool thing to do. This kind of humor can get old really quickly and not to 1nention it probably doesn't work well with older voters, 52% of who voted for Bush this election. Also, in the process many of the issues that the Democrats were trying to point out seemed to go unhe ard due to the amount of coverage given to Bush bashing.
In the end, the bad use of Bush bashing may have caused many swing voters to vote Republican because they might have felt that the criticism on Bush was really uncalleo for since he is our commander in chief. I would think that most Americans want our president to have a strong image with support from the voters, so that we show a world a strong image of America I doubt most Americans want to turn on their television and see bloopers of President Bush.
I am here to say that the Democrats need to stop their whining from the past few years because it is obvious that they don't speak for the majority of America. The Democrats are losing in every category, including the house, senate, supreme court, presidency, and even in the amount of governors. The Republicans have control of most of the states with 28 Republican governors with one still to be decided in the state of
Just as is Fahrenheit 9/ 11, it's a great and very inforrnati ve movie, however it's biased. However, these movies do more than inform the public of the Elepliant's shortcomings and secrets; it divides An1erica. What America needs right now isn't division, but unity. By uniting together and sharing ideas, we can combine strategies to fortn plans that satisfy both major parties.
By MarcusIfall ___ _ BusinessManm!er
One month ago, President Bush's victory over Senator John Kerry for the presidency dealt a heavy blow to The Democratic Party. Since before the Clinton Presidency, The Democratic Party has been struggling to gain significant ground against the Republicans, who now control The Senate, The House and The White House. So before the Democrats prepare for Hillary in '08, there are four years that they have to deal with. In that four years, they can work together and put this country back where it belongs, and that is at the top. Before you can begin to fix a problem, you need to address it and figure out the proper way to approach it. America can't be fixed in the next four years, however, together we can get a good head start. Right now, the Democratic party is in disarray and it has been suggested by some that the Democratic party is in danger of not existing in 20 years. This is an ·extreme prediction, however right now we have been given the task of climbing back up and taking back the White House. The most important task at hand isn't to retake Washington, but to work with Republicans and unite America, and Democrats can do that in four easy steps.
Step 1: Liberal attack media has to calm down for a while.
Please don't get me wrong, Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them is a fan'tastic and very informative book Al Franken 's book is also very factually correct, every piece of information that is presented in his book is 100% accurate, however, it's exceptionally biased
In Al Franken's and Michael Moore's defense, the book and movie isn't exactly current, nor are they alone when it comes to bias. Almost every documentary that has been released has been biased in some way. Supersize Me! is biased against the food industry, Outfoxed : Rupert Murdoch s War on Journalism, although factually accurate, is biased against the Fox News Corporation.
However, their effect is felt throughout most forms of media, including stickers and shirts, which I will address later Of course, it's not only the Democrats that need to halt with the attack media. Republicans are just as guilty, releasing films such as F ahrenhype 9/ 11 and the obvious right-wing network, Fox News Channel.
It's no secret though, that the media has a very conserwative bias. Take the 2000 election for example. In Franken 's book, Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them, which remember is 100% accurate, Franken discusses media coverage of the two candidates In the book, Franken uses a chart from the Pew Charitable Trusts Project for Excellence in Journalism. According to the chart, Positive coverage for Democratic candidate, Al Gore was 13% in the mainstream media. Positive coverage for President Bush was at 24%. That would be an 11 % difference, benefiting the right. That's odd, according to rightwing supporter, Ann Coulter, "The public square is wall-to-wall liberal propaganda."
Step 2: Do not rely on cable news for all of your information, 'make your own conclusions and beware of spin.
This could be the most important step, not just for young Democrats, but for all young Americans in general. Anyone who was fortunate enough to witness Jon Stewart's heroic performance on CNN's Crossfire, witnessed the beginning of something beautiful. Jon Stewart accused the show's hosts, Tucker Carlson and
•
Washington. The Republicans have 11 more seats in the senate and 31 more seats in the house. The fact that Democrats can't control a majority in any of the positions of great power shows that the party is on the fall.
Of course, it isn't fair to say that the downfall was entirely caused by Bush bashing because the Democrats didn't have Karl Rove, which seemed to be the key difference. The Democrats had their work cut out for them going up against probably one of the greatest political strategist of our times. Rove is one of the few campaign strategists to win two elections
According to Senator John McCain's strategist John Weaver, "Rove has moved closer to the goal of creating a Republican majority not by seeking one big realigning election, but by recognizing that political change often is incremental and using every election to get a little bit closer."
Rove's political plan allowed Bush to beat Kerry by 3% in the popular vote, which is pretty remarkable for what was supposed to be a very close race. Rove allowed Bush to capture 286 electoral votes, which is an improvement of 15 electoral votes. Bush was also able to walk away with more battleground states than Kerry, which allowed him to win 31 of the 50 states.
The thorough defeat of the Democrats will have a great effect on how the nation will proceed in the future. The Republicans can now pass just about any laws that they want for the next four years. The Republicans will take advantage of the situation and lead the nation the way that they see fit.
Most likely Bush will take advantage of the situation and push his agenda through Congress. According to the Washington Times, Bush has yet to veto a
Paul Begala. of inserting themselves into the political process and damaging the country. "Right now, you 're · helping the politicians and the corporations It's not so much that it's bad, as it's hurting America." Stewart said on the live program earlier this year.
The media's job is to inform the public of events that are important and could potentially effect their lives. The media's job is NOT to fill the publics head with propaganda. Currently, the government has a virtual choke hold on most mainstream media. And with a Republican controlled Senate, House and White House, the media is more than likely going to be further slanted towards the right. Hopefully, Jon Stewart's performance will spark a movement that can revert the media back to it's glory days.
Most of what is on a cable news debate show is propaganda for that person's political party, there is little fact or reason to baok up one's claim. If your will is strong and you enjoy this type of program, then please enjoy it, but beware. The "contestants" on a political debate show's job is to brainwash you. To convince you that they are right and the other is wrong. No one party wins on a debate show until you go the polls and mark an X in that small box. It is your right to think for yourself and formulate your own opinions and decisions, don't let the opinion of others cloud your judgment. This brings us to spin.
If you step into the, "No Spin Zone," there's a good chance that you might become dizzy As corny as that might be, it's the truth. It's unfair to say that MSNBC, and CNN aren't biased in some way, however, FNC (Fox News Channel) is the leader of the pack when it comes to spin. There isn't enough space to print all of the charges, however I will say this, if you see a Democrat on that channel make the party look good, chances are you won't be seeing him or her on FNC for a long time. Some of you are sure to claim that I'm breaking Step I, however, unlike attack media, I'm not saying don't watch it. I'm warning you that it might not be as fair and balanced as you once thought.
Step 3: Take off that "Bush Isn't My President" shirt, and get involved.
It's not a fashion statement, and it's not a statement of your individuality, it's saying that you are rebelling, that authority doesn't apply to you. I'm not
single bill, which shows his dominance over Congress. His next four years could easily be the same, unless something unforeseen occurs.
This unforeseen occurrence could be the dividing of the Republican Party due to the complete control that Bush has. It is important to remember that Bush has been leaning towards the religious right of his party, which may rub the moderate side of the party the wrong way. Members such as Former Mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani and Senator John McCain could become disheartened by the way Bush leads the nation that they might decided to break apart from the Republican party and run their own campaign for presidency , if they don't get the party nod in 2008. It is important to note that in the history of the Republican Party, the party has actually been divided into two factions at two different times in history, with Theodore Roosevelt in 1912 and Ross Perot in 1992 and 1996. However, both times the party did regroup within a few years after dividing.
If the Democrats continue to just whine about losing the se last two elections, then they are just leaving the1nselves open for another defeat. The Democratic Party needs to regroup and start planning already for the 2006 and 2008 elections. They need to start focusing right away on gaining seats in the Senate and House or otherwise they will continue to get eaten up alive
In the end, the United States will most likely go through a major change that may shape the future of the world. These four years may set the tone for the next twenty years and maybe even longer. Hopefully, it will be for the best or the future of the United States may be in jeopardy.
excited about it either, however, like it or loathe it, George Walker Bush is still the president of the United States. And as Americans, it is our duty to support our leader, more so now than ever. Now, this doesn't mean kiss the ground he walks on and agree with every single thing that he says. Where has any piece of Anti-Bush propaganda gotten us (Democrats) in the past four years? Hold on a second, I'll call John Kerry and ask him. Speaking of John Kerry, he did the right thing by conceding, and avoiding months of division against The Red and Blue and I applaud him.
If you really want to show your support for the Democratic Party, get involved in the democratic process. Use your voice and vote , get involved in a rally, or even a protest. Showing your support for one candidate doesn't mean attacking the other, it means supporting the candidate. However, don't let the word ''suppo1t" be confused with the words "purchase," or "donation". You don't have to buy something to show you care.
Step 4: Never, under any circumstances, give up, or allow yourself to be silenced.
If you never learn anything else from me, learn this. Your voice is the most powerful thing that you own. Collectively, the voice of the American People is the most powerful thing in the world. Together, we can accomplish incredible things We can change the world! If we stand back and let things happen, how can we get this country the way that we want it? Dc.n 't let thiI1gs happen, make things happen! Please don't hesitate, stand up and speak your mind. No matter what happens, no matter who says your wrong, no matter how many friends you may lose, no matter how many people tell you that you are stupid, never be silenced. Before going to war after9/l l, -The House needed to vote to authorize force. All House members passed the Resolution to Authorize Force except one, California Reprehensive, Barbara Lee Barbra Lee later gave a nearly 1000 word response as to why she voted against the authorization of force. Barbara Lee didn't give in nor did she give up. She spoke her mind and continues to fight for what she believes in "I am not convinced that voting for the resolution preserves and protects U.S. interests." That's what you should do, never give up your fight. Never follow the path, leave your own.
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- ""°1~••011z;u1 then the athletes work to prepare. The strategy IS to
CopyE.ditor build on basic fundamentals. "Our goal is to have kids
It's wrestling season again, and Head Wrestling competitively go to the state meet." Baker said, "We Coach James Baker is looking forward to another great want to see those athletes improve-that's my goal." year at state. The athletes work on cardiovascular fitness as well as
The team's first practice was November 15'•. Their being taught basic fundamentals; the basic moves that first varsity meet will be on December 5th at the Pre- they need to know how to do. Training also involved a mont Invitational tournament. The ninth graders went lot of weight training "Conditioning is a big key, and to Norfolk the next day for their tournament. The first weight training, to the sport; it's the only thing I know duel will be against Southeast. ""'"""''"""""''"""""""====m that you go full go. There's not a
head.)
over the match is over-but you
The prospective wres- don't stop until then so, we have tling team will be made up of to really gear our athletes to be past Lincoln High wrestlers able to go a full six minutes as ·including Jordan White, Luke hard as they can," Baker said. Franssen, Nate Franssen, Jose Why should you go Gibilisco, Alex Goracke, Matt to a wrestling meet? Coach Miller, and Nathan Tesch as Baker, a former Lincoln High well some athletes new to the wrestler, finds them exciting. team. Women are allowed on "It's combat between two the team but none tried out this individuals; you have to beat year despite the plethora of somebody, you know, or you get women participating in middle beaten," he said, "Some people school wrestling; North Star L...---------------- don'tunderstandit.lthinkthat's Middle School, for example, why they don't go people are has some female wrestlers. "We have some good lead- grabbing people, why would you want to go to ers," Baker said referring to seniors like Eric Horn, something like that? But it is the oldest sport known to Brian Logan, Nick Brance, and Nie Brandt who've been mankind," Baker said. on the team over the past four years, as well as Jan1es Lincoln High cheerleaders have not appeared Gomba-Obari who has wrestled for Lincoln Hig~ th_e at wrestling meets after a decision was made by the past three years. "We also had sonie good young indi- cheerleading sponsor about seven years ago to end victuals last year that were ninth and tenth graders who the "Mat Mates" because of lack of participation from have gained some valuable experience that I think will cheerleaders. help our team be even stronger than we were last year," There is no comparison to professional wrestling, Baker added. Overall two athletes went to state last Baker said. Some collegiate wrestlers have gone on to year, Bill Diekhoff placed sixth and Steve Amos who compete in ultimate fighting championships, according was in the championship match placed second. "That to Baker most wrestlers that compete at the high school was very significant for us to have both of the athletes level will go on to college. They may also try to compete we had place," Baker said at the Olympic level.
BoByGarretDurst
The Lincoln High Links Varsity Basketball Team is coming off an emotional loss last year at the state tournament to Omalla Westside. The Links season ended on the last play of the game on a lay up. This year the Links return two key players on the inside; seniors Yusuf Vinson and Preston Peterson. If the Links can feed the ball down low, this team will be a threat come March.
The Links will rely heavily on Vinson to carry the team. Last year Vinson averaged 13 points and 7 rebounds per game. This year Vinson hopes to show everyone why he is a force to be reckoned with. "Last year we had two of the best shooters in the state. This year our team has more size inside. Our strengths are different but we still have guys that can shoot the ball well," Vinson said. Another warrior on the inside is senior Preston Peterson. This is Peterson's third year on the varsity squad. Peterson averaged 8 points along with 8 rebounds per game last season "By the way practice has been going and the experience the seniors are going bring to the table, we 're gonna be extremely good. With the loss of guards Marcus Minzel and Seth Sharpe, the team will need someone to step up and
score on the outside Senior guard Bobby Weaver is not just looking to score "I'm looking to create and ' get everyone involved." Weave! said.
The Links shou_ld have depth returning from last year's team Seniors Andrew Klein and Christian Lewis will play a significant role this season in order to help the Links win games. "We have about 4 or 5 people returning from last year, and all of us are great leaders to guide the team in the right direction," Lewis said. "There is a lot of talent on the team, · we just have to keep working hard and we will go far."
Senior's Ben Beranek and Garrett Jones should also have good performances this upcoming season.''Each year we have very good seniors graduate and need players to step up and take their place." Head Coach Russ Uhing said."This year is no different and we have a number of players that have worked very hard since last season and are ready to have great years." Uhing has established a great basketb all program here at Lincoln High. Over the last 3 years, Uhing has led the Links to a 4 th 1st,and 3,<lplace finishes at the State Tournament.
The Links start their season on December 3,dat North Platte and their home opener is December 4 th against Creighton Prep.
By ChrisI-latch E.ntertainmentE.ditor
State football? Wait, did you say state football? First we beat Southeast, then we actually make the postseason? Believe it or not, the Lincoln High Links made it to the Nebraska State Football Tournament. After beating Columbus soundly at home 19-6 behind senior Randall Brumm ' s 181 yards rushing, the men's football team was headed to face #1 rated Bellevue West in the first round of the state tournament.
Things started well for the Links as they jumped out to a first half lead of 147. Although Bellevue West struck first to take the lead, Lincoln High answered with a 78 yard pass to senior Ben Beranek, who showed phenomena] speed on his way to outracing the entire Bellevue West secondary for the score.
passing in a season. He also averaged 15.2 yards per completion.
Vinson performed great after switching positions to running back for his senior year. He was # 4 in conference in rushing, with 98.2 yards per game and averaged 4.9 yards per carry. All this while sharing duties partially with the conferences #5 rusher, senior Randy Brumm.
Senior Ricky Massa, despite being injure_d late in the season, was able to finish as the #2 receiver in the conference with 405 yards and 19.2 yards per catch. In a perfect example of Lincoln High 's big play ability, senior Christian Lewis was right behind Massa as the # 3 receiver in the conference w/300 yards and 18.8 yards per catch.
Solid defensive efforts from both teams held the game tied until with 4:42 left in the 2 "' quarter senior runningback , Yusuf Vinson, scored Randal Brumm (12) runs the ball against outheast in a 17-14 Links win.
Photo by Jessi Hafermann
Vinson, Massa, Schmidgall and senior Darren Reinhart were all named to the Lincoln Journal Star's all-city team. from 6 yards out.
With a first half lead of 14- 7, the Links were riding high, but in the second half disaster struck. "In the second half their speed was just too much. We had a lot of injuries and so when our guys got tired they couldn't get rest." Said head Football Coach John Farrand. "We were really excited with how our boys played. We were really close to being very good(Because of injuries)."
Some individual highlights this season: Senior quarterback Derec Schmidgall had a solid season, as he was #1 in the conference in passing yardage, #2 in touchdowns thrown, and over 1,000 yards
Vinson was also named to the Super State First team offense. Massa was placed on the second team defense for the Super State team.
Overall the Links were able to finish up the season at 5-5, a huge leap from 1-8, the prior season. The whole year the team battled injuries to key players, but were still able to play well. The excite1nent of going to state in football is something that this school won't easily forget, and hopefully it will inspire some of our younger teams to step it up and see if we can't make it back next year as well.
By GarretDurst -SportsE.ditor
The Lincoln High Links Volleyball Team couldn't have asked for a better scenario. On November 5 th at Lincoln East High School, the Links took on number one ranked Bellevue West at the District Tourney. The Links could have showcased their ability and hopefully upset the best team in the state.
The Links were pumped up heading into the big match with Bellevue West. The team knew that it was win or go home. In the first match, the Links lost 25-10. In the second match, the Links played better but ended up short 25-14. Down 2 games to 0, the Links needed a miracle to keep their season alive. But Bellevue West was just too strong and ended up sweeping the Links 3-0.
The team played hard, but was simply matched up against a tougher opponent. "We didn't play our best gan1e ever but we played well."junior Jessy Livers said. "We were really pumped to play, and it was an exciting experience, although it did not turn out the way we wanted." Livers said.
The record of this team did not show how hard the Links played throughout the season. The team finished with big victories over Southeast, North Star, Millard South, and Omaha Benson. "I didn't think the season turned out as well as I thought it
would " Junior Mel Kepler said "We had our ups and downs but overall I think we did pretty good, even though the record didn't show it." Livers added. "We struggled at times and did well at times. It wasn't our most successful year, but it was a lot of fun. The team bonding experience was definitely one to remember. We had some very hard things to deal with, but all in all we handled them pretty well." Livers said
The Links will say good bye to nine seniors, Brooke Gillies, Maddy Biggs, Baily Heafer, Carly Akerson, Mary Madsen, Maggie Starkweather, Allison Schinstock, and Becky Lodes. "My senior year by far was my favorite. The team had some very hard obsatcles this year _butwe fought hard. We laughed, cried, won and lost as a team We lost a very loving mother this year that affected each one of us. All in all this season will be one to remember forever."
Gillies said
"We will miss all 9 seniors come next year. They stepped it up tremendously this yeaf " Said Livers.
The Links have some young talent that will be displayed next year Sophomore's Chelsea Coate ma11,Taylor Schmidgall, and Chelsea Capps are the young and upcoming stars for this team. With Jessy Livers, Mel Kepler, and sophomore Erica Anderson returning next year, the Links should shine in '05.
"I look for Jessy to have a banner year She led the team this year in kills, digs, and hitting efficiency."
Coach Jill Hitz said.
ByChrisI-latch _____ -as perimeter shooters, have certainly got big E.nterraimnentE.ditor shoes to fill, but the team bas a wealth of
1002, 257, and 1. These will be the key numbers for the Lincoln High girls basketbal I team this L ,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,
,: , , ,, , ,, , talent and promise.
Coach Bill Myers said, "this year's tryouts w e re ju st about as small as last ye a r. S 0 mu c b so, that we had to cut t be reserve t e a m entire] y. " Myers s a i d that the
season. 1,002 is the number of points that Jennifer Endres ('04) bad in her career. The Links will have to try to replace their main offensive threat from the previous 2-3 years. 257: that s the number of rebounds in o ne season by Alissa Holland, also graduated in 2004, that the Links will have to make up. Finally , l is for bow many returning startt e a m was hit hard by he Lincoln High Girls Basketball team plays a game during practice. gradu-
by Marcus Hall! a t i n g ers the team has back from last season, senior Maddy Biggs
Last year's Lincoln High Girls Basketball team had a good season. They rebounded from having the smalle st turnout for try-outs in years, by making a run through districts, to the first round of the state where they were defeated by eventual state champion, Lincoln East.
Finishing with a 12-10 record and some valuable postseason experience, the Links return many reserve players from last years' squad Many of the young players will be called upon to fill the holes from last year's graduating class. The post players, as well (• - .;,>:-,: 13:1
seniors last year, three of which went on to play college basketball, "it hurt losing such quality player but we have a lot of young girls in this year's varsity squad."
The coach also mentioned that ret4rning starter Maddie Biggs looks to have a breakout season in the post. The Links will have to be on top of their game as their district is truly formidable. "We have a very bard district. We have to go against Bellevue West, Lincoln Southwest and a very good Millard South team."
Well, Links, you all got a taste of what State was like last year, why not go back and d ,o it again?
Caring, Quality Faculty
Above: Sherry Wang O 1) receives a warm c11pplause at the honor's convocation after being announced this year•s H41rvan:t Book Prize recipient~
Jhe
'Photo
Below: Kim Mai (12) 'stands with the three
speakers from the Mix It Up rally. ·
Above: The "Sa ve th e Humans'" PaJlfJAhelps out the Links f!,llpto by Cathy Danner ETS support ~ smotce .:.Jreelife attlie GreatAmericc1n Smokeout rally. Sponson;:d l>y Stuijent Council and the Teens Jake on Tobacco C1ub, the rally educated students on t'.he dangers ot smoking and second-hand smoke.
by AngelaLewis
Lincoln High kept itself busy through numerous activities in Nqvember. Fall sports wrapped up as winter sports began. The Honors Convocation onNovember 2thhighlighted the achievements of Lincoln High students. On November 18th, studentstooloa stand against tobacco with the Gi,;eat American Smokeout The Asian Caucus took partinfestivities at the Children's Museu1nopening of its exhibit, ·"Drago . us and Fairies 11 And students were given a hIUt.:bneededThanKSgiving holiday break, -
December 3, 2004
Members of Asian
Eric;Neff(t2), Eukerla
on stage
the
Below: Members of the lion Dance Troupe perform at the Children's Museum.
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___ By MichaelCullinane FeatureE.ditor
Victory went to the Lincoln High Drama Department for the second year in a: row when The Pied Piper of Hamlin won the state Drama competition at the University of Nebraska, Kearney on December 10 th •
Director Patsy Koch Johns was proud of this year's victory a11d her students' success. "I feel really magnificent about it, and I think the kids did a really stellar performance," Koch Johns said. Lincoln High had scores of 60/60/ and 59 at both district and state.
A score of 60 is perfect.
Co- Director Chris Maly's experience
wi l h' 'I 'Ii='e="w~ P""i""e"=d'""· "' p"zp='e""r"""o""' ' Hamlin was one of great struggle and reward.
"The students literally toiled until the very last minute to get this play
right and it has been a The Pied Piper cast performs to a packed
great accomplishment, audience in the Lincoln High auditorium. The the fact that we went ensemble went on to win State at the One-Act with a cast that was so competition. See more photos on Page 12. young and so inexperi-
The costumes were realistic looking and had a good effect on the viewers, "The rats scared me," Maly said.
Senior Jessica Lee Wallen-Thompson, who played Ernst, the leader of the rats, explained the challenges of this year's production. "At the beginning it was very frustrating because we have never ha:d such a large cast, and it's rart: to have 50 people o n stage for a one act," Wallen- Thompson
., said. Normally there are 15 to 20 people if that, a:s was the case last year with the Orphan Train which also took a state victory. "So it was something new for everyone and it was frustrating at times trying to get everyone to work together," .,.Wallen-Thompson said.
Photo by Cathy Danne enced and we · were s o successful is astonishing to me," Maly said.
A n d pull it together they did. After putting on their best performance and enthusiastically awaiting the results, the links joined arms and eagerly listened to the judges called Fremont as the runner up. In a burst of excitement the Lincoln High ensemble was called to the .sta-g.€~ ,q4g€ G1at;€ victors again.
Senior Colby Woodson, who played the title role, explained the_ feeling of victory. "It's just like a really tense moment and every body jumps up screaming and
they're happy and it feels g ood to see all your friends in such a good state," Woodson said. Woodson added that it was a good experience to see all the hard work materialize ~nto really positive results
Lincoln High was the only troupe to put on a more light-hearted comedy this year which Koch Johns said positively affected the outcome. All three other troupes competing at state this year put on tragedies, and the judges indicated that The Pied Piper of Hamlin was a breath of fresh air.
Koch Johns has had more success with comedies than dramas, and this play has proven her talent again as a director and her ability to work with comedies.
Original music for the production was created and recorded by sophomores Devin McCauley and Meredith Ernst, creating the feel of a grass roots operatio n according to Maly, Maly mentioned that the tech crew did a wonderful job getting scenes running together smoothly and in time for everything to work and wished to express thanks to U-Haul trucks for renting the Lincoln High Drama Department a truck
Student Director Rebekka He.rgerirader is also proud of how far the group has come, "They've really pulled together at the district ana state competitions, and I'm very proud of them," Hergenrader said.
Far fromgrowing complacent, Lincoln High is hard at work procuring further victories with Director John Heinemen working on a musical Anything Goes which shows on February I 7 th 18'h and 19 th , Koch Johns is working with seven stu- dents to produce These Two Couples Went To Italy which premieres on January 6 th for their public performance and January 14 th and 15 th for the state thespian production. Riding high off the success of The Pied Piper of Hamlin we look forward to amassing further glories and honors
The collective Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/ Transgender/Straight Alliances of the Lincoln public high schools have organized a protest demonstration to be held on January 20 in response to government lack of tolerance towards the gay/lesbian/bisexual/ transgender community.
Student organizers have entitled this event ''Full Equality, NothJng Less: Peace, Love, and Pride- Protest for Your Rights.''
The demonstration •w ,ill tak .e place at the Nebraska State Capitol Building, with GLBTSA members, other students, and c ommunity allies meeting at Lincoln High
School at 3:15 followed by a march to the • Capitol.
Organizers hope that the event will raise awareness, create tolerance, and show the state of Nebraska the amount of s,upport the GLBT community has.
This event is sponsored by the Lincoln Public High Schools' Gay/Straight Alliances, Gay/Lesbian/Straight Education Network (GLSEN), Cornhusker PFLAG, Rainbow Celebrations, Nebraska GLBT Events.com, the Social Action Committee of the Unitarian Church, and the GLBT Welcoming Congregation of the Unitarian Church.
____ By OlthyDanner PhotoF..ditor
on Tuesday , November 30, the National Education Association released the news that Nebraska's teacher salaries had moved up five spots in the national ranking in the past year, going from 41 s t to 36 th Later, on December 6, the NEA announced that Nebraska had actnally dropped in the national rankings to 42 nd from the 41 st spot last year.
According to the Nebraska State Education Association, Nebraska teachers had their "extra duties" added in to numbers that were sent in to the NSEA Those extra activities included, coaching, sponsoring clubs and activities. According to the NSEA's web page this was the first year that the Nebraska Department of Education tried a new salary definition that added the "Extra Duty Pay" in to the teacher salary formula. The President of the NSEA, Duane Obermier, stated on their web page, "The extra dollars in the Nebraska Average salary figure created the illusion of Nebraska's rise in ranking among the states- a raise that simply did not take place. We need to compare apples to apples here and when we do that, it shows Nebraska ranks 42'd in
CONTINUJNG HIS PUZZLE WITH OURPIECES;A WORLD OF DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS, ONE COMMON PURPOSE THE DREAM.
10"'Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally & March
All are welcome and encouraged to attend and participate in the I 0 th Annual Rev. Dr Martin Luther King Jr., Youth Rally & March, "Continuing his puzzle with our pieces; a world of different backgrounds, one common purpose the dream " on Monday, January 17, 2005
Doors will open to the pre-rally program at 8:30 a.m. to be held in the Ballroom located on the second floor of the University of NebraskaLincoln Stndent Union (14 th & "R" Street). Elementary and high school art work will be on display with entertainment provided by Southeast High School Court Choir, African Dancers, and The Buddhist Youth Association beginning at 8 :45 a m.
A march to the State Capitol through downtown Lincoln will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a rally in the East Legislative Chambers (beginning at approximately xa January 12
2nd Period - 8:45 -10: 15
3rd Period - 10:30 -12:00
Lunch - 12:0D - 1:00
8th Period - 1 :00 - 2:30
the nation in average salary for teachers."
The NSEA's also stated that Nebraska's teacher salaries have not kept up with the inflation from 20022004. The average pay for a Nebraskan teacher went form $37,896 to $38,35. That's only a 1 2 percent pay increase, but the inflation rate is 2.5 percent.
The national average is $45,829 putting Nebraska behind by $7,368. Some of our neighbors like Kansas and Iowa are just ahead of Nebraska in the rankings, with Kansas at 40 th with $38,883 last year and Iowa ranking 37 th with take home pay at $39,432 for last year.
Lincoln High's Lincoln Education Association Representative Julie Doerr pointed out that, "The way data is presented affects the \Vay truth is perceived. "We have the best test scores in the country, and why aren't we rewarding our teachers for the quality results they're producing?" she said
"The challenge of having salaries that will attract and retain talented, dedicated teachers in Nebraska's classrooms remains," said Duane Obermier "It's a challenge that must be met if we are going to maintain and improve our excellent Nebraska public school system.,,
10:30 a.m.). Scheduled participants include: God Small Wonders (Litnrgical Dancer), youth soloist Taneah Kelley, The Angelic Temple Youth Choir, poetry reading, youth keynote, multi media presentation, inspirational readings and special recognition.
The March celebrating its 10th year is organized by a diverse group of area youth and is held in conjunction with the national recognition of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday. All events are planned to celebrate MLK's legacy and continuing contribution to society, especially to youth. The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally and March Planning Committee seek to promote the life and dream of Rev. Dr. King through positive youth action in the community.
All are encouraged to attend this free event, 'making it a day on, not a day off!"
For additional information please contact Peter Ferguson at (402) 441-4664 or pferguson@leadershiplin coln.org.
e Ule
January 13
1st Period - 7:00 - 8:30
4th Period 8:45 - 10: 15
5th Period - 10:30 - 12:00
Lunch 12:00-12:30
January 14
6th Period - 8:45 - 10: 15
7th Period 10:30 - 12:00
Lunch 12:00 - 12:30
Congratulations to Associate Principal Pam Cox (Now, Mrs. Robinson) on her recent marriage in October! Pictur~d above are the bride and groom surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues.
By Marcusliall Busines.sManager •
A 9 0 earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Indonesia, sending a tidal wave that demolished Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India and everything in it's path an December 26, 2004. The wave leveled parts of southern Asia and east Africa where over 155,000 are estimated to have been killed in over 10 countries. Millions have been left orphaned, homeless and without drinkable water.
The initial quake was first felt in parts of Indonesia and Banda Aceh in northern Sumatra at around 8 a.m. At 3: 14 Hawaiian time, The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Ewa Beach, Hawaii sent out a bulletin to colleagues around the pacific rim, warning of the im-
pending tidal wave. By that time, however, the wave was already well on its way to the Indonesian coast
The Red Cross has warned that the death toll may double or even triple, due to the threat of waterborne diseased contaminating the drinking water. The Red Cross warns that tivers that have been contaminated with bodies, added to the already poor quality of hygiene in the area could send the death toll over 300,000. The World Heath Organization estimates that more thar 500,000 people are in need of aid.
Since the disaster, aid has poured in from sev era] countries, including the United States, which ha pledged 350 million dollars to tsunami affected areas Donations range from 25 million from Qatar, to 50( million from Japan All together, over I billion dollar: in aid has been pledged
ByA.lina.SClyukh OpinionF..ditor
It was the first time my parents decided to go on vacation o.n their own, without me or my sister. They wanted to have an unforgettable Christmas and New Year 2005 Day under the warm sun of South Asia. And they definitely did.
I was sleeping and having sweet dreams when I was awakened by my host-family (I am an exchange student from Russia). They told me that they heard something about a tsunami in the Indian Ocean and wanted to ask me if that was where my parents were staying at.
They were. My mom and dad went to Thailand.
I didn't sleep the whole night and was watching TV reports on the tsunami only to feel more scared and helpless, not being able to call my parents or contact them in any other way. Every time I closed my eyes I thought about how my life would change to terrible if anything happened to my parents, I was praying for them to survive, and I realized a lot and saw all my life flash in front of me with my parents being the main
part of it
.It is always easy to look at the screen of a TV or compute1 that pictures the disaster somewhere far from you. It is easy tc read the newspaper reports on the ten·or that is happening on another continent or another country. It is easy to think that it's never going to come close to you. I thought so, too.
My parents were lucky enough to be just a couple of miles away from the territory that was absolutely demolished by the huge wave. Fortunately, they we not harmed
But just think of millions other lives that could have been turned upside down if they hadn't had that piece of luck.
Think of millions of lives that HAVE been turned into hell because of the natural disaster.
Think of millions of Iives that have just disappeared from the earth with one stroke of a wave.
Think of the chance that it could have been you, too. Who knows?
Think of what you would do then.
And think of what you CAN do now :j '\
____ ByNeelAmin___ _ NewsE.ditor
Iraq's frrstelections are schedule place on January 30, 2005, with the Iraqi people selecting 275 new members for the National Assembly. The responsibility of the National Assembly will be to draw up a new constitution for Iraq After the creation of the constitution, it is the goal of the assembly to have it ratified by the people and to help setup a constitutional gove1runentthat will be in office by the end of the year.
The process of selecting the National Assembly isn't as simple as choosing between two candidates. It involves first chooslng from numerous parties. There will be over 200 parties to choose from, which will make the decis,ion a difficult one From the parties that earn a vote, a number of seats will be distributed in proportion to the valid votes that each political entity received, said ChiefUnited Nations election official Carlos Venezuela. This would mean if a party receives about ten percent of the vote, they would receive ten percent of the seats. It is important that parties receive votes because it will determine who will have the most say in the constitutional government.
The elections will also serve as an opportunity for the United States to b1ing stability to the country, as power will be shifted to the Iraqi people. The Iraqis will be able to support a government that they choose themselves, which is a big step after years of being ruled by Saddam Hussein. They will also have the ability to set the groundwork needed
for democracy in the future.
The road to a free election may have obstacles in the way, including on-going violence and resistance from Sunni Muslinls. The S!Illni Musliiu leaders, who are in the minority with only 20% of the population, feel that the elections should be postponed six months due to the heavy violence, where Sunnis are predominant. They feel that the violence would prevent many S!Illnis from voting It is important to remember that Hussein was a S!IllniMuslim, which helps to explain the violence by insurgents in these areas , but not all Sunnis were Hl)ssein supporters. Many Sunni parties have submitted paperwork to be on the ballots, but still hope the election will be postponed.
No matter what situations occurs before the elections, it is clear that the Bush administration will push fo1ward with th e elections in Iraq. "I believe it's necessary for the Iraqi people to vote on January the 30th because it provides an opportunity for people to participate in democracy," Bush said about the importance_nfvoting for Iraqis. Bush wants to make sure that things run smoothly, which is why he has sent an additional 12,000 troops to make a grand total of 150,000 troops in Iraq. Bush has said that the troops are being sent due to growing violence as the elections approaches.
On January 30, 2004 history will be made when Iraqis will go to voting polls to cast their vote. This will be the first time a free election has been held in Iraq. But it still remains to be seen if conditions will improve for the better in Iraq after the elections.
etSecretary of Energy - Spencer Abraham replaced by Sam Bodman
Secretary of Transportation . - Norman Mine ta
Secretary of Agriculture - Ann M . Veneman, re- Secretary of Heath and Human Services - Tommy placed by Gov. Mike Johanns Thompson, rep laced by Michael Leavitt
Secretary of the In- ===,__
Secretary of the Treaterior - Gale Norton sury _ John Snow
Secretary of Com- Secretary of Homemerce - Don Evans ,1 · d b c rl-os land Security - Tom rep ace v a Gutierrez Ridge, replacement
Department of still pending (Bob Justice, U.S. Attor- Kerik was initial reney General - John placement, but then Ashcroft, replaced by 1/,i/iif!t~ withdrew nomination Alberto Gonzales due to nanny scandal, Secretary of Defense among other things) - Donald Rumsfeld
Secretary of Veter- ~;;;, SeEclr~tarCyhofLabor ans Affairs -Anthony ff,!!!,; - - a1ne ao
Secretary of Edu- Principi, replaced by cation - Rod Paige, Jim Nicholson • ~£ replaced by Margaret 1iii/iif1iii/i
= Secretary of Housing · Spellings e ras a OVernor I e O anns WI and Urban Develop-
Secretary of State be replacing Ann M. Veneman as the ment - Alphonso - Colin Powell, new Secretary of Agriculture. Jackson replaced by Condoleezza Rice
ByNflu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief
If you've looked out front lately, you may have noticed that new tables have come to Lincoln High. They ar e the latest addition to LHS, as a result of the Eliminate Tobacco grant from the state of Nebraska. Three years ago , Lincoln High students and two faculty members, Dick Patterson and Nancy Wolfe\ wrote for and received a grant of $100,000 meant to be used for anti -tobacco efforts. The grant money has come to fund various school improvement projects. '
The electronic marquee facing Capitol was purchased through grant money. Thirty percent of the messages on the marquee are anti-tobacco related. Great American Smokeout shirts were also purchased with the money. The tables on the Lincoln High lawn
will have smoke-free emblerns placed in their centers soon, according to Patterson, a Lincoln High counselor and co -grant writer.
The grant money was used to purchase anti-smoke materials for the Children's Museums and all the elementary schools in Lincoln.
Money from the grant has been spent. One of the stipulations of the grant was that it had to be used by May of 2005. The reasoning behind using the last of the funds on the tables was to provide a nicer smoke -free environment for s'tudents, "We want students to relax and have a good time In a smoke-free area," Patterson said.
Though the grant money is now gone, efforts to educate Qthers on the harms of smoking will not end. , "There were efforts before the grant," Patterson said. "There will be efforts after the grant, too.''
ByChrislfatch E.ntertainrnentE.ditor
nipping at your nose, name == , her favorite role, "(As yourcliche. The point is, is Clara) You get to be that winter is here and what onstage more and you would the winter months get to do some acting be without the Nutcracker too " Ballet? This ballet is a Make no mistake great part of the holidays about it, though, the and is indeed a magical trip show isn't all fun and back to the days of imagi- ,%,-:-,,,:;;;-.v:,;ec:/-,,.,._;:-,--- -- games. The cast has nation enjoyed by many in \Jf{--t}hTu*'¾~''
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in my stomach Overall, Ashley Durst ( 12) was both Clara and _college. 1 would love though, the performances the Snow Queen in the Lied Center's to dance on Broadwen,; pretty good. I had production of the Nutcracker. way, but those shows fun. L..---------------------' are really hard to get
All the hard work and years of training have paid some serious dividends. Durst is a veteran of the Nutcracker production, having been involved in the show for 10 years. This year
____ ByKaliS!l&hweitzer ___ _ Copy-E.ditor
The Star City Parade, put together by volunteers from the city of Lincoln, Updowntowners, Inc., and the Downtown Lincoln Association, was held on Saturday, December 4 th in downtown Lincoln. The parade included many familiar festivities ,as well as a few new surprises to commemorate the parade's 20 th anniversary. Tlle theme of the parade, "Our Lasting Treasure,'' refers to the children of Lincoln. The parade's steering committee believes the children are Lincoln's most lasting treasure
"This is the largest crowd ~e've ever had," boasted executive director Deb Johnson. The crowd may have shown up on account of the gorgeous weather with a high of 57 degrees.
People line d the streets and filled parking garages to catch a glimpse of the celebration.
New attractions included a Noah's Ark float sponsored and constructed by
Back to the Bible employees complete with Noah and the animals: two moose, rabbits, elephants, skunks, cows, tigers, pigs and other animals frolicked about the spray foam insulated pickup truck as it made it's way down 0 Street. "This is my first float," designer Carrie Nyberg said. "But it was so much fun, I'm thinking Lincoln needs to have more parades."
The float carrying Santa, always a main attraction, had also been spruced up with brand new animated penguins and a polar bear with visible breath.
All of Lincoln's public high schools'
marching bands were in the parade as well as ii few private schools like Pius X and Lincoln Christian, and some from small town high schools UNL's marching band was the highlight of the parade's musical festivities. Most of the bands were decked out in red hats with white trim (a nod to the jolliest fat man of the secular holiday season no doubt), and playing Christmas carols. Some even wrapped their instruments as gift packages. But the Holiday theme had one exception: Lawrence Nelson High School's marching raiders who mixed it up a bit sporting berets an d playing classic American rock 'n' roll tune "La Bamba."
The parade displayed a whopping total of 5 giant balloons (at least one or two more than in past years) including a brand new Arthur bal-
loon from the gang at NETV towed down the street by employees of the station dressed as the popular children's aardvark. Old favorites like Union Bank's Cat in the Hat , Pfizer's Orea the Whale, and Duncan Aviation's J.J. The Jet Plane also made their appearances. The Cat in the Hat balloon standing at fifty feet was the tallest balloon presented in the parade, and according to reporters from KOLN/KGIN news has become a favorite of children watching the parade in the past two years. ·
Another favorite was the Trashcan Band, a group of kids beating on actual waste disposal containers advertising the parade's status as a "litter free event."
Soldiers who have returned home from Iraq, families of men and women overseas , and soldiers who could be called to service also marched down the street in a salute to the people serving in the armed forces.
The Lincoln High marching band also marched playing "Pomalink Christmas," a medley of Christmas songs Freshman band director Dan Ehly wrote for the 1989 Orange Bowl, and Gershwin's "Strike Up the Band" a piece professionally rewritten for the Lincoln High Marching Band. The senior and freshma n bands were combined. "I thought the kids di d a good job," Lincoln High band director Terry Rush said, "The freshman were a little \Vide eyed that was a little ominous for them to be with the big kids."
The Pomalinks, the new Flag Corp., and the LHS cheerleaders also marched with the band bringing the total of LHS students involved t o nearly 300. Marching in the parade has been a n LHS tradition since the first Star City Parade 20 years ago. Rush, who's been band director at Lincoln High for all 20 years, said, "Everything went very well, it went very smooth. I'm always so proud of my kids; they're so professional in what they do. They have a lot of pride "
:I
____ By Nhu•Y-Ngo___ _ F.ditor-in-Ohief
Ken Jennings WO\ved game show viewers for over four months with his stint on the syndicated game show, Jeopardy!. He became known as the "Jeopardy Guy" for his record-breaking appearance on the game-show. Finally, on an episode airing November 30 th Jennings met his match in the form of a real estate agent named
locked out for a second, losing precious time. Jeopardy ratings had soared 62 percent when Jennings was on the air. At one time, a ten year high of 11.1 million view.ers tuned in. Tr~bek noted on Nightline that Jennings' presence really helped the show. Trebek also admitted to crying a little when saying good-bye to Jennings, who ' had practically lived on the game show's set.
Now that it is all over, Jennings hopes on Nan Cy Ze rg
Jennings was leading into the Final Jeopardy round, but lost on the last question - "Most of this firm's 70,000 seasonal white-coltar employees work only four months a year " His answer was · FedEx. Nancy had the correct response with H &R Block. Audible gasps could be heard after Jennings lost and before the audience gave him ame S OW p· enom en enn1ngs taste a standing ovation. or 74 days on Jeopardy, and won a record Word had leaked $2,522,700 in the process.
returning to his life. He plans to continue work1ng, saying that retiring at 30 would be a waste. Currently
a software engineer for a healthcare-placement firm, J~nnings is married and has one son named Dylan. Jennings told news sources that he was on Jeopardy for so long that his own out that he had lost
Photo courtesy of ABC New in September, but · the show didn't air until the next month.
Jennings finished with 74 consecutive wins on Jeopardy and a total prize of $2,522,700. Jennings broke over 10 game show records, includ• ing the highest total winnings record on a game show, previously held by Kevin Olmstead on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Olmstead had won $2,180,000.
Jeopardy actually tapes five shows a day, and Jennings was able to keep his time on the show a secret, for a time. "Nobody knew except my boss," the Jeopardy champ told ABC News. "So I'd be working at my day job, living my normal life and I'd feel like Clark Kent 'cause every couple of weeks I'd have to secretly fly out here [to Los Angeles] and have this secret identity as a game show star."
Jennings long-run on the show can be accredited to his vast knowledge of trivia. He helps NAQT, a quiz bowl organization, by writing and editing questions. He also mastered the art of buzzing in. The buzzer on Jeopardy is rather tricky and is activated by a human being after Alex Trebek is finished reading the question. If a contestant rings ii! too early, the buzzer is
son starting calling him ''Ken Jennings" instead of Dad. As for his winnings, Jennings wants to donate some to his church , public television, and National Public Radio. A trip -to Europe is also on the list. The rest of the money would be invested for his family.
Jennings is currently prolonging his 15 minutes of fame by recently appearing on the David Letterman show, Live with Regis and Kelly, and an A&E Biography about him. A book "just about my experiences, what in my life led me to this point, what are the bigger questions of trivia and knowledge in our society in general and what that has to do with intelligence, things like that" \vill be released next year under Random House Publishers. Jennings will most likely return during Jeopardy's Tournament of Champions next year.
The loss hasn't slowed Jennings down, q/l d he's received some perks from it all. H&R Block has offered free tax services for the rest of his life and recently asked him to be the comp any's spokesman. As for Nancy Zerg, the "giant killer," she lost in the next episode, fin i shing with only $2.
Over 73% of both gu-ys and girts soy they do not
By MarcusI-fall BusinessMaimger
January 27th 2004: William Hung's Audition premieres on Fox. Hung "performs" Ricky Martin's hit, She Bangs. Hung later receives cult status and is even given a record contract
February2nd 2004: Justin Timberlakecommitsthe w1thinkable. During the Superbowl at the end of their performance, the former N*Sync star ripped off a piece of lace from Jackson's chest,exposing her right breast.
February 26 th 2004: Rosie 0 'Donnell weds life partner, Kelly Carpenter in San Francisco.
July 19th 2004: Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers his now infamous speech, where he uses the phrase, "girlie men," to describehis democratic opponents. Also in July, Indie cult hit , Napoleon Dynamite is released in limited numbers.
September 12th 2004: Oprah gives over 150 cars to needy members of her audience, most of who had to forfeit the cars due to the high cost of insurance and taxes.
fter a failed attempt at becoming the next American Idol, William Hung found fame 1andbecame America's darlin ·
April 25th 2004: Blender Magazine releases the 50 Worst-Songs Ever naming We Built This City by Starship the worst song ever. Also in April, The Simpsons actors go on strike, demanding a raise for their services and MTV premieres hit show, l want a famous face.
May 6th 2004: NBC airs the final episode of hit sitcom, Friends. ', finally. Also in May, The Lord o_fthe Rings Trilogy is released for $89 ,98. If you have nothing better to spend $90 un, then you deserve this.
June 22nd 2004: Bill Clinton releases his memoirs in the fonn of a 950 page book entitled, My Life
October 8"' 2004: Famous homemaker, Martha Stewart is convicted of insider trading and is sentencedto 5 months in jail. Also in October, the Boston Red Sox defeat the Curse of The Bambino and win the 2004 World Series by sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals.
November 18th 2004: Jude Law is named "The Sexiest Man Alive," by People Magazine no argument here. Also in November, Former US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, and Actor Hugh Grant call it quits and Jeopardy giant, Ken Jennings, ends his winning streak, losing on his 7:;,' h game .
December 10th : It's announced that the "King of Soul," James Brown has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Also in December, rapper DMX pleads guilty to DUI and reckless endangerment. The rapper avoided jail time but was forced to give up his SUV.
By i\alisa-SChweitzer __ _ CopyE.ditor
Based on the award-winning play by Patrick Marber, Closer, a film directed by Mike Nichols, revolves around the lives of four strangers who meet, love, betray and ultimately ruin each other while seeking intimacy.Marber describes his play as "a love story," adding, "and as with most love stories, things go wrong."
The movie begins with Alice (Natalie Portman) walking in slow motion down the street in London in a crowd of people staring ahead at someone to a slowed down version of "Can't Take My -Eyes Off of You", then Dan (Jude Law) staring back Alice walks in front of a car and is knocked unconscious for a few seconds When Dan wakes her she looks up at him dazed and murmurs the opening line "Hello stranger," thus beginning the tragic series of events. Portman's character is the youngest and most open of the four, but the ironic thing about Alice is that she gave Dw a fake name and therefore was a stranger to him as well.
The mov.: focuses on the theme of str,.1gers Dan is an obit-
dreaded underbelly of people who live romantically and think that their intentions are pure and true even when it turns out horribly wrong I must say, getting all of that across is quite an accomplislub.entin itself
But it wasn't all one disturbing span of tension, wound even tighter with violent argument~ speckled with obscene vocabulary; thti,r e was laughter too. My sick sense of humor was saluted at special onscreen moments throughout the film For example tle scene where Dan, though he'd been all too eager to begin ill affairwith Anna, tells her that can't live with idea that she would go back to her ex-husband Larry (Clive
Owen) one final time out of guilt and pity-classic!
•'1;:v~=5:'.•=;: ,
Producer John Calley says Marber's play is "a remarkable document about our time, witty, immensely romantic and very dangerous-and I think,very important.'' And he's right; the movie proved itself to be something with meat, something you can dissect;like a Shakespearean tragedy or apiece of literature or a Nirvana song. It
uaries jo,mali st and failed novel- I Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures! isl, who "stole" his lover Alice's
a brief moment, this movie makes no tragic hero of a leading man or woman.
The aesthetic of the movie .shows a great respi:ct for modem London. The set design by award winning theatrical production designer Tim Hatley gave of an interesting vibe, a bit British, a little bit pretentious, a little too good fory dp The costuming design by Anne Roth added to the anti-romance feeling of the movie by showing the characters develop over time morphing from a youthful innocence to a jaded m~turity. The movie's well-done dialogue.stands independent of visual illustration, a raw style that malcesyou feel as though y ou've felt everything without actually having seen any of the physical events.
feels unusual yet realistic, with _fresh , ut somehow very tru !:_ irony. Notliing about the film is mindless, it's never too romantic, it never gushes about itself. You don't always love any of the characters, you might be struck with bliud admiration but it lasts life for his book. Dan points out to portrait photographer, Anna (Julia Roberts) that she steiµsthe lives of her subjects, strangers she meets at an aquarium As for the performances, Roberts acted too knowingly, as if she forgot that her character wouldn't have realized how profound the liues were at the time. Portman on the other hand maintained an enigmatic childlike quality hi king behind the adult role. "She's extremely clever. She's got some secret about her as truly intelligent young women always do," gushes Marber. Owen pulled off an amazing portrayal of his unique character as well; the brutality,'the shamelessness, the manipulation, though extreme ech oed with strange familiarity. Law was flaky,vulnerable, nai:ve displaying the
By MichaelCullinane...,..__ _ FeatureE.ditor
On September 13th 1996 the world of rap music changed forever as it was split into two di s tinct eras: bef9re Tupac and after Tupac. This era was ushered in completely with the equally untimely death of the Notorious B.I.G and rap music still mourns the removal of, arguably, its two greatest stars.
Biggie Smalls came out with an album called "Life after Death" shortly after his death and has an unreleased album available to be purchased via the internet, however Tupac has steadily produced CD's without fail despite his having been dead for 8 years. This leads many to question with varying degrees of humor; skepticism, and often times seriousness, about whether he is possibly alive in West Africa or at least to wonder, where is all of this music coming from 'that remains relevant to today.
Sometimes artists are more profitable dead than alive. The posthumous-deification of public figures is nothing new. Tupac has joined a long list of other dead performers: Lisa "Left Eye" Lopez, Selena, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Janis Joplin, Jim Croce, Jeff Buckley, Otis Reding, Elvis Presley, Bessie Smith, Eva Cassidy, Jam Master Jay, Aaliyah, Biggie Smalls, Jim Morison, Kurt Cobain, John Lennon and Buddy Holly.
it's bound to b e a very different experience than other Tupac CDs. On the roster is Eminem, who produced 12 of 16 of the tracks, 50 Cent, Young Buck, Obie
A lot of fans are upset about Tupac 's latest album, expressing disenfranchised attitudes in regard to Tupac's change in album styles as he's losTrice, Nate Dogg, the Outlawz, Sleepy brown, Elton John, Lloyd Banks, Ron Isley, Jadakiss. Italso features tracks · produced by DJ Quik and Red Spyda (the producer of "Tha Realist Killaz")
As far as the argument goes that Eminem is defiling Tupac 's legacy by bumping his crew on his CD, let's look at the competition: Jay Z quit the rap game last year with the Black Album, Ja Rule got smacked like a step child, DMX is a 40 soine odd year old rapper who tries to be Tupac, Nelly has his own crew to mind, the Beastie Boys ' and Ludacris' style is far too different to fit a Tupac album and Chingy couldn't rap to save his llfe
ing his "Death Row" feel. Let's look at something: every artist \\ndergoes an evolution throughout their career, although most artists a-it; at least around to call the shots, Tupac has to trust his mother in a round about manner to ens -ure a smooth transition between his alive albums and his posthumous albums. Look at Eminem and how vastly his style has changed from young, angry, funny and outright absurd, to a harder political edge as he steps up to the plate Courtesy of mp3.com! and begins to use his
famtl for something worthwhile as videnced by his songs such as "White America', "Sing for the Moment", "Like toy soldiers'', and the infamous "Mosh" which seems
to be a part two to "White America".
-Rappers getting publicly attacked by government officials is nothing new and their equally public retaliation isn't either. If anything, Eminem and Tupac on a CD makes perfect sense given the fact that both were bad mouthed by the White House. Former Vice President Dan Quayle disavowed Tupac, while E minem is under investigation from the FBI for rapping about dead Presidents. Both rappers then shot back in their CDs.
Eminem went fron;i rapping about mushrooms solo on albums, to sponsoring 50 Cent, G-Unit, Obie Trice, all-of-psychopathic-records-except-ICP, and a plethora of other artists That's Emin~m's evolution and this new series of posthumous releases is Tupac's.
This album s eems to be tied in correctly with the events of our times, following on the trails of Encore's release, Eminem and the Shakur Estate have successfully timed Loyal to the Game to come out at the peak time given that it is almost a year exactly since the relea'se of Resurrection (also produced by Eminem) and that it's perfectly in time for Christmas shopping.
With a variety of good songs such as "Ghetto Gospel" (featuring Elton John) and "Loyal to the Game" (featuring 50 Cent and G-Unit) by the late Tupac staring many of today's brightest stars this is an album to be sure to buy both for your own listening pleasure and also to keep Tupac 's message alive and thriving in absentia.
By Chris1-tatch
E.ntertainmentF..ditor
Can you imagine, making Lance Armstrong play ping-pong to get into better shape? Or maybe forcing gold medal swimmet Michael Phelps to walk a few laps around the track to get into better shape? If you can't, there's a good reason for that: it's ridiculous. Lincoln High 's Athletes, while nowhere near the above-mentioned stars in physical capabilities, face a very interesting problem. They have to take P.E. as a requirement despite the fact that they're already involved in athletics Last time I checked, a blazing game of non-competitive badminton doesn't quite get pe ople into better shape than running wind sprints in a basketball practice.
The fact is that PE is good for some people, but an utter waste of time for others. ·
Obesity is at an all time high right now, that I concede, but probably not on the schools' athletic teams People do need exercise, qut isn't that what playing a sport is? Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe these athletes aren't actually working up a sweat out there. All those armbaQds and headbands are for nothing.
Come to think of it, doin g the pacer is just the thing I need right now. It's not like I run very often for the Cross Country 'team or anything. All sarcasm aside, woulqn't it be a fairly simple step for the administra (ion to waive the P.E. requirement for people who par" ticipate in a sport. Most sports last a ( least one quarter, meeting 5-6 times a week foi at least 2 hours a day, with intense training and games. I would love to see a P.E. class that is anywhere near that challenging. Although, ma)"be that grueling archery unit would be just the thing to
_____ ByNeel,\min ____ _ NewsF..ditor
The holiday season has drawn to end with all of the t1,1rkeyfinally eaten, it is time to set a resolution to lose that extra weight Most Americans usually do this in the form of a New Year's Resolution, which allows them to have a goal to strive for in the upcoming year. Every year, nearly tialf of all Americans set a New Year's Resolution with only about 1/3 actually staying with them, acc ording to a survey conducted by the University of North Carolina. Americans set numerous resolutions, which include spending more time with family and friends, quit smoking, and exercising regularly.
I usually don't set a New Year's Resolution, but this year I figured I would give it a try. The problem is that I don't know what to select as my go<l.lbecause I don't drink or smoke, and those usually seem to be the obvious choices. I think the safe choice would be to lose weight in the upcoming year because I could stand to drop about 10-15 pounds, if I want to become a model. But the problem is that I don't want to become a model, and it also requires too much work, which would undoubtedly result in failure. The next possible choice is to spend more time with my family, but this leads to more arguments, so let's try to avoid this choice The next choice is to try to do better in school, but this is · my senior year, so I don't want to ?Yerachieye my final year, or maybe I'm just a slacker.
I think I have no choice, but to decide not to have a New Year's Resolution. They all require too much
bulk up our football players.
Can you imagine, making Lance Armstrong play ping-pong to get into better shape? Or maybe forcing gold medal swimmer Michael Phelps to walk a few laps around the track to get into better shape? If you can't, th ere's a good reason for that: it's ridiculous. Lincoln High 's Athletes, while nowhere near the above-mentioned stars in physical capabilities, face a very interesting problem. They have to take P.E., as a requirement despite the fact that they're already involved in athletics. Last time I checked, a blazing game of non-competitive badminton doesn't quite get people into better shape than running wind sprints in a basketball practice.
The fact is that PE is good for some people, but an utter waste of time for others. Obesity is at an all time high right now, that I
work and like most Americans I don't want to put forth the effort, especially if I am not forced tero. This seems to be the great flaw in the New Year's Resolution, which is that no one can force you to follow your own resolution, but yourself. If people were able to show some will power, then they could actually follow through with their goals. Of course, it is hard for ine to complain, when I make excuses f(!I why not to have a certain resolution.
I don't ha\:e the will power like most Americans, but congratulations need to go to the people, who actually follow through on their resolutions. They are remarkable people because they put the time and effort needed to accomplish their goal. They usually have set aside a plan and have told others their goal.,which allows them to have a checks and balance system. According to ~\l,vw.lessons4living.co1n, a website that focuses on solving life's problems, when you tell others your resoc lution, you are more likely to follow through. It would be nice if more Americans had their motivation, but most Americans looks for easy solutions, which defeats the whole purpose of a New Year's Resolution.
A New Year's Resolution requires effort and work, which most people forget They make it worse by setting their goals too high, especially for the effort that they want to put forth. Also, the lack of checks and balances allows the individual to get away with cheating on their resolution. If Americans were able to stick with their resolutions they wouldn't have to make a new one every year and could just have one whenever they pleased. But until that occurs, let's drink to the New Year'.s Resolution and the hope it provides.
concede, but probably not on the schools' athletic teams. People do need exercise, but isn't that what playing a sport is? Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe these athletes aren't actually working up a sweat out there. All those armbands and headbands are for nothing.
Come to think of it, doing the pacer is just the thing I need right now. It's not like I run very often for the Cross Country team or anything. All sarcasm aside, wouldn't it be a fairly simple step for the administration to waive the P.E. requirement for people who participate in a sport. Most sports last at least one quarter, meeting 5-6 times a week for at least 2 hours a day, with intense training and games. I would love to see a P.E. cl.ass that is anywhere near that challenging. Although, maybe that grueling archery unit would be just the thing to bulk up our football players.
____ By A.Jina&Iyukh OpinionF..ditor
Is there lack of interest in swimming as an activity among LHS students?
Everybody follows the Links football, volleyball, basketball, and cross-country teams in their way, but have you ever heard anybody discus sing the results of a swimming contest in the hall? Have you ever seen posters on lockers everywhere saying "Swim Good! Swim Fast!" or something like that?
"I don't think there is any problem with that at all!" swim coach Richard Conradt said. "Superficial, it's all superficial.
I've told all
'bought: it's so cool, just look at all those · young adults that want to participate and the don't even know what they're doing!"
Now, he said he is even more excited because he had seen them accept the responsibility, chose to make a commitment, and persevere through the workouts.
"It is a very good t e a m experience," Herrick s a i d Besides getting in a good shape, participating in the swimming team also gives you motivation to keep going, and respops1bility for all those people behind
Lincoln High swimmers dive into the pool at the start of a race. The Links competed at Lincoln Northeast on December 14.
my swimmers: if those kinds of things are the reason why you participate, then you are missing our on the whole point. It's not the outside that matters, it's the inside," Conradt said.
If there would be a basketball game and swimming meet on the same night, Gonradt agreed that they probably wouldn't get many people. However, it doesn't mean that swim team members don't care as much, he said.
"You can't just come and be on the team, and not show up at practices, and not contribute socially or athletically to the team," Condradt said. "Our standards are · very high."
There were no tryouts for the :,wim team this year; however, but it's an ongoing process and people eliminate themselves through the workouts, Conradt added.
Around 50 people are on the swimming team right now, and this shows that there is obviously not a lack of interest in swimming this year, according to Conradt. Around 60 people showed up at the first meeting, and to his mind, it was good for any sport.
"I think we needed it [large turnout]," Herrick said. "I've been in the team for already 3 years In the past years we had 15 swimmers in the team. We definitely needed t " I
Neither the coach, nor the team's members think that it ' s a problem that the team is large. "There is no space in the pool! And I think it is great," coach Conradt said. "When I just saw those kids for the first time, I
you, according to Herrick. 0 n
by Katy Stratman1 Dec. 2, the team had their first competition in Omaha against Millard South, on Dec. 9, LHS hosted a meet with Grand Island, apd on Dec. 14 LHS swimming team met with North East team at their school.
Boys won first two meets, and girls lost all of them, according to coach Conradt said.
"It was an outstanding performance, teamwise" Conradt said. "We are not going to win or lose every meet. But even if my students win, but work poorly and don't pull together as a team, and don't ,.practice things that they've been taught, then I'm disappointed. I know that our ~ociety is not set up this way, but I'm different and this is my philosophy."
Herrick also agreed that it was a good performance for the team. "Newcomers were probably scared and didn't know what to expect," she said. "But everyone kept a positive attitude , was excited and was cheering no matter what. We are team. It is very much like another family "
The season has just started, and for all of them there is still a lot to come The expectations of coach Conradt are for the students to continue to improve, to learn better technique, to come closer as a team, learn to appreciate each other and stand up for each other, and find the true meaning of what they're doing, which is participating and committing themselves to better themselves and the whole team.
«:!rs
By Chrislfatch E.ntertainmentF..ditor
Tht Links wrestling team recently hit the mats in their first few tournaments of ' the year The team did fairly well coming out wi t)l a · l and O record in dual meets. The te1m has had some great finishes in two to1rnaments, finishing 5 th out of a 14 team field in the Omaha South tournament. "We have had some good individual perf()rmances froin a lot of guys. (senior) Bryan Logan and (sophomore) Jordan White both have made the finals in each tournament we've gone too." Said coach Jim Baker.
Baker said that no captains have been
chosen due to strong senior leadership. "Pretty much all our returning seniors have a big leadership role on this team so we didn't see the need to choose captains."
;The Links look to have a good, solid year behind that veteran leadership They compete in districts up in Papio Lavista and will hopefully compete at the state meet in Mid-February.
Lincoln High has just three home meets this year so come s-ee them in action. January 15, 20 and 25 the links will be wrestling some tough competition and need for some of Lincoln High's (best fans in the state) to come out and give them some support.
____
BBy GarretDurst ____
On November 20, 2004, at The Palace in Auburn Hills, Michigan, a tragic event took place that will never be forgotten by those who witnessed it. The Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons were playing an early season rematch of last years eastern conference finals. With 45.9 seconds left in the Pacers 97-82 blowout, a downright ugly scene struck The Palace.
With the Pacers up 15 with less than a minute left in the game, Detroit's Ben Wallace went in for the lay-up but was fouled by Indiana's bad boy Ron Artest. Wallace turned around and delivered an aggressive shove to Artest's chin. This led to pushing and shoving between several players. Trying not to get involved, Artest laid on the scorers table with his hands behind his head, as if he was taking a nap. Wallace, being restrained by teammates, threw a wristband toward Artest. Artest stood up quickly, but went back to laying down on the scorers table. Within seconds, an unidentified fan hit Artest in the face with a cup filled with ice. This is when ugly tqrned into a scene like you have never seen before.
· Artest reacted to the fan who threw the cup ' of ice. Artest sat up and bull rushed into the seats _ after the fan he thought threw the cup. Artest started throwing fists at the person wh o he thought hit him in the face with the cup. The man who Artest was punching was not the person who threw the cup, however, it was the man who was trying to hold Artest back. Artest's teammate, Stephen Jackson, joined in on the assault. As Jackson started throwing punches, an enormous spectator started drilling him
in the back of the head. As Artest arrived back on the court near the Pacers bench, he punched a Pistons fan who looked like he wanted to pick a fight with Artest. Another drunk fan tried to tackle Artest and was trying to get on his feet, but 6' 11" all-star Jermaine O'Neal punched him -out on his back. In a scuffle between players and fans, O'Neal had a chair nearly connect to his face. As Pacer players were leaving the court, they were showered in popcorn, soda, and beer. When Artest was leaving the scene, it seemed as if he could have fed himself and family for a month with as much popcorn, soda, and beer that was sprinkled on him.
In the aftermath, NBA commissioner David Stern suspended nine players overall for more than 140 game&, all suspensions are without pay. The harshest punishment came upon Artest. He was suspended for the rest of the season, and he will loose up to $5 million due to the suspension. O'Neal received a 25 game suspension and Jackso n received a 30 game suspension. Wallace received a 6 game suspension for starting the brawl. "To watch the out-of-control fans in the stands was disgusting, but it doesn't excuse our players going into the stands," Stern said. "We have to - do everything possible to redefine the covenant between players and fans, and between fans and fans, and make sure we can play our games in very welcoming and peaceful settings."
On Tuesday, December 7, 2004, five Pacer players were charged in this incident. Artest and Jackson were charged with single counts of assault and battery, a misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of three months in jail. O'Neal was charged with two counts of assault and battery. Five fans were charged with misdemeanor assault and battery.
ByGarretDurst___ _ -SportsE.ditor
The Lincoln High Links Boys Basketball team was preseason #4 by the Lincoln Journal Star With some big match ups early in the season, the Links were trying to live up to the expectations.
The first contest for the Links was at North Platte on December 3,d_The Links headed into the game shorthanded due to the absence of seniors Garrett Jones and Andrew Klein for the first two games. The team knew they would have to step up and make shots without two shooters in the lineup. The Links didn't need many jumpers to secure a victory on the road in this one The Links scored 31 points in the 3,d quarter and punished North Platte 67-46. The team showed their strength on the inside, with Senior Yusuf Vinson scoring 20 points Seniors Christian Lewis and Preston Petersen also added 13 and 11. "Against North Platte we played a less talented team """"""""""""""'""""""'""' and didn't allow fb ,d,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.,,.,fr,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,:c"'''' them to change our game," Petersen s aid "We got into a good flow and our offense did well."
Junio.r Drew Bohlke also added 9 points in the win.
The next
night the Links had their home opener against pre.season # 7 Creighton Prep The student section was as loud as ever, getting into the head of 6'7" Nebraska football recruit Zach Potter. Potter shook off the remarks and had a strong second half performance. Tied at 16's at halftime, Prep jumped up to a 24-16 lead in the 3,d quarter. The Links made a run to cut the game to 36-30 with 5:20 left in the 4 th quarter But that was - as close as the Links would get. Prep quickly got up 12 and never looked
15-2 lead. The Links controlled the game in route to a 59-43 victory. Vinson had game highs in points with 22, shooting 9 for 12 from the field, rebounds with 9, and 5 assists. "Yusuf's outside shooting makes him a more multidimensional player and therefore more difficult to defend." Uhirtg said Bohlke finished with 8 points, going 2 for 2 behind the arc. Jones added 8 points and Petersen had 7 , "We really started out strong and that set the tone for the rest of the game." Said Jones. "We executed well on offense but more importantly we were strong defensively.
The Links had the hot hand, shooting 7 for / 13 from three-point land. "We were able to shoot the ball well vs. South wt,, because when they sagged inside our post players did a g'.)od job of kicking the ball out to an open player and our perimeter players were patient and willing to make the extra pass to th-eir teammates."
Uhing said
"Southwest has a few good players and they play ,.,,,.,.,.,.,d.,.,d,\,.,J,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,:,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,t,,,1,,,,,,,,,1we 11 together " Pe, tersen said. "We finally pulled together as a team and by the end of the game the Si l verhawks knew we were the better team . " 0 n December 17th, the Links were on the road at Omaha North. The Links played well and won 56-43 "Omaha North has some unbelievable athletes but they don't play great as a team," Petersen said. "We had to play 32 minutes to pick up a win in this one."
T h e
Lincoln High plays tough man to man defense in a 56-43 victory over Omaha North on Dec. 17th
back to pull out the L------------------------..J
by
Russell Schnittker
Vinson In the 4th quarter with 28 seconds left, Jones nailed a three pointer to secure a victory. "Fremont just came out ready to play, and they play a lot better than the first time we played them " Jones said.
The next night the Links faced the #5 ranked Knights of Southeast. The Links fought hard to the finish but could ne~er get a rythom going as they fell short 40-30. The Links jumped out to a slow start and couldn't start a run. But the highlight of the game was when Lewis threw down a dunk late in the 4th quarter , The Links played East on New Year's Eve in the consulation game. The Links regrouped and found momentum offensively in the 74-66 win. The Links were led by Vinson who scored 20 points in the victory. Petersen added 15 points and Lewis had 12.
Links were looking foward to the challenge of playing in the Holiqay · Tournament December 29th, 30th, and 31st. The Links opened up on the 29th against the Fremont Tigers. Tied at 27's at halftime, the Links came out hot in the third quarter, led by Jones and upset at Earl Johnson Gym 50-38 The Links were led again by Vinson who scored 19 and brought down 8 rebounds. Vmson was not just a threat in the paint, but also hitting shots from the perimeter. Petersen also finished with 7 points and Bohlke finished with 10 "Against Creighton Prep, we played a good team but they were not as good as us," Petersen said. "We forced passes and missed chip ins whic.h led to tu.movers and lay-ups On the other end we have to be better prepared mentally this week against Southwest," Petersen added. "We basically beat ourselves against Prep by not finishing close shots and giving up to many offensive rebounds," Bohlke said. Head Coach Russ Uhing thinks the team played well defensively against Prep but struggled on offense "As poorly as we played on the offensive end, we still had a chance to win, and I think it shows if we improve on our execution we can beat anyone," Uhing said.
On December 10th , the Links were looking to rebound against the winless Silverhawks of Southwest. It didn't take long before the Links started to run away. The Links shot out from the tip, jumping to a
The Links will face Lincoln Easton January 6th at Earl Johnson Gym. On January 8th the Links battle the Islanders from Grand Island The Links were preseason # 4 by the Lincoln Journal Star With a 6-2 record and only getting beat by two top ten teams, the Links are ranked 6th.
Byi\llisaFuenzalida FeatureE.ditor
Once again the Vocal Music and Drama departments collide to form a jaw dropping performance. This year's musical Anything Goes will blow everyone away with tap dancing and spine chilling voices. This year's cast consists of over 50 students "The chorus and the music sound better then it's ever been. They're working really hard," Director John Heineman said. Even though the acoustics in the auditorium are horrible I'm sure that this year's cast will be heard throughout the halls just as last year's did
This Cole Porter musical takes place in 1934 on the S.S. American luxury liner heading toward England from New York. A stowaway Billy Crocker (senior Chris Moore) tries to win back Hope Harcourt (senior Allison Frenzel) who is engaged to be married, but Billy believes that Hope is the woman he's destined to be with. Thrown into the mix is an old friend of Billy's Reno Sweeny (senior Jessica Wallen-Thompson) and his new companion Moonface Martin (senior Brendan McCauley). Reno Sweeny is a nightclub singer with backup singers known as her angels. Moonface Martin is "Public Enemy 13" who gives Billy a ticket and passport. Wjth the help from Reno and Moonface Martin in Billy's desperate
Continued on Page 5
Every third person in the USA watches the Super Bow I, and I had never heard of it in my life. Seriously.
After several 1aunches into the cyber space of the world wide web (I felt kind of stupid to ask anybody to tell me what it was after being made fun of a couple of times) I found some information that at least somehow explained the whole situation. American football is not something I've had been watching with my dad in the nice evenings of my childhood.
Honestly, I could never even understand why some game like that ~ould be called football, if it has nothing to do · with feet! In our country everybody plays
Continued on Page 10
In this
LHS students take a STAND for character - page 4
Hotel Rwanda; powerful profile of courage - Page 6
Iraqi Elections. an inspiration - Page 9 •
Lincoln High beats Southeast in nail-biter - page 11
Lincoln High Custodian Jabbar al-Hamdan1 recently traveled to Chicago
in his home country's first ever democratic elections. Iraqis chose a national assembly that will draft a constitution for Iraq, select a president and two vice presidents, and decide on a prime minister
ByNhu-YNgo E.ditor-in-Chief
The greatest right a citizen of any country can possess is the right -to vote The democratic experiment flourishes with each registration to vote, each cast of the ballot, each loss, and each win. On January 30 th many Iraqis exercised their greatest right. After years of the tyranny of Saddam Hussein, Iraq was finally able vote. Bombs exploded, lives were lost,but democracy was born. Although thousands of miles away from his birthplace of Nasariyah, Iraq, Lincoln High School custodian Jabbar al-Hamdani recently participated in the Iraqi elections The purple ink he dipped his finger into after
voting has been washed off, but the hope he has for the future of Iraq still remains "We (the Iraqi people) hope we have a new government that will once again make us feel good, that will feed us, and make us stronger," al-Hamdani said. "Under Saddam, we were hurt."
al-Hamdani'sjourney has been along one. Now 41 years old, he graduated high school in 1984 with hopes of continuing his education, but was forced to join the army for five years during Iraq's conflict with Iran. "I wanted to stay in school, but they didn't give me a chance." Al-Hamdani did not agree with the wars Sadda111waged. "We had a lot of people die, and it made no sense," he said. "We had to go to war with Iran and Kuwait." After both conflicts, al-
Hamdafii escaped to a Saudi Arabian refugee camp. He still remembers the nights in the desert, missing his home and his family. "It was very tough." He stayed there for six years, until finally arriving in America in August of 1996. Staying in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, al-Hamdani was thrust into a new environment without his children or his wife They would later come, and the family moved to Lincoln July 31 '', 2004. Today, al-Hamdani works as a custodian at Lincoln High School. He comes in daily at 2:30 ready to sweep up the remnants of a busy school day.
Last November, he visited his family in Iraq. Two days were consumed by travel. Upo n arriving, he found his father, dead of a heart attack. He arrived at l 0:00
a.m ; his father had died at 9:00 a.m. Last month, Al-Hamdani voted for all of Iraq, his family, and his father Al-Hamdani, his wife, and his sons all voted. They chose a national assembly that will draft a constitution for Iraq, select a president and two vice presidents, and decide on a prime minister The age a person needed to be to vote was 18. National assembly candidates were grouped into numbers based on their group affiliation. Al-Hamdani was not ~onfused by the 111 lists on the ballot. "It was easy to vote." For his family remaining in Iraq, it was a different case
For weeks leading up to elections, Iraqi insurgents had given warnings to Continued on Page 8
ByNhu-YNgo
More than two-hundred members of the Lincoln community marched and attended a rally for the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 17 th 2005. Planned by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally and March Planning C ommittee, the program included a pre-rally at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Union Ballroom, a march to the Capitol, and a program in the East Legislative Chamber (Warner Chamber) upon the arrival of the marchers
The Traditional African Dancers and Lincol11 Southeast High School Court Choir performed at the pre-rally. Attendants could peruse through art contest submissions from local elementary schools while enjoying the entertai11ment.
Marchers then braved the frigid temperatures to honor the man who gave his life for the civil rights movement. This year's theme was "Continuing his puzzle with our pieces. A world of different backgrounds, one common purpose the Dream." Upon arrival to the Capitol, marchers were greeted with a performance by the Angelic Youth Choir and a multimedia prese11tation pf the many months of the planning by the committee. A Multilanguage greeting that included Hebrew, Vietnamese, Swahili, and Spanish welcomed the crowd at the start of the program. Lincoln High School students Han Do (9), Elisa Mateo (10), and Emily Stanfield (9) all participated in the opening.
The rally was dominated by
emor 0 t e r. artin Lut er • 1n r.
the presence of youth. Lincoln East High School senior Rachel Anderson gave the keynote address of the program. Anderson encouraged onlookers to live the Dream. "Let us not sit here and remember a man who is now gone," she said. "Let us take action." Lincoln High senior Ashton Combs powerfully delivered Reverend Dr. King's last speech before his assassination, "I've been to tl1e Mountaintop," Combs recited to a packed crowd in the Warner Legislative Chamber. Over twenty minutes long, the message of the speech kept the attention of the crowd Monday morning, The plan11ing committee had worked tirelessly since last summer to create a meaningful program. Guided by their mission statement of promoting the life and Dream of Rev. Dr. King through positive youth activism in the community, the group consisted of area high school students, including _ Lincoln High School senior Tam-Anh • Nguyen.
Students became involved in different ways, either through the Youth in Action center, a part of Leadership Lincoln, or through personal iniative. ''I became involved with the Rally and March through the help of Peter Ferguson," Anderson said. "I had expressed an interest in doing it and we went with it."
Members of the co1nmittee hoped to enlighten Lincoln. "The rally is a complete learn.ing experience and one cannot explain what you get out of the event," Anderson said. "It is fat beyond words." Pete Ferguson, Coordinator of Youth Leadership Academy and six-year member of tl1e planning committee, said he feels honored and privileged to have played a role in contributing to the rally. This year has stood out for him. "Each rally brings with it own rewards and challenges," Ferguson
said. "I think unique to this year was the fact hat we learned so much
Photo more about each other on the committee as in past years."
Lincoln High School Family and
Consumer Sciences teacher Jareldine Mays has been with the rally since the beginning. "I became involved (ten years ago) when Mrs. Leola Bullock asked me to come to a meeting," she said. Mays says she is very happy with the increasing youth participation in the event and the direction the rally has taken. She wants others to also be aware "that racism is still being practiced and that the youth can stop racism."
ByChrisliatch
In the aftermath of one of the most horrible natural disasters in recent history, the ' bodies keep piling up. The death toll, while never low, has steadily risen to 221,000. The number injured is an astronomicaJ 500,000. Almost immediately, many nations of the world have stepped forward offering aide to the countries that were hit. The public sympathy felt \Vorldwide, spurred many to action.
From the U.S. government donating $350 million dollars to NBA players such as Jermaine O'neal donating one thousand dollars a point, virtually everyone is pitching in - According to the U.S. chamber of Commerce, private businesses and executives' private foundations have also donated around $300 million in cash, supplies and employee matching gifts to tsunami aid. By Jar the largest amount ever donated for a natural disaster by businesses.
The United States Army, which so far has been the main helper in hands on aide, has vowed to scale back efforts-. The money keeps pouring in as many world aid organizations pledge more support. Hopefully all the money is used to put these hard-hit countries back on their feet so they can start the long healing process.
•
• • I
February 11, 2005
By GarretDurst
You could say that we live in an era dominated by computers You can purchase anything from clothes to Elvis Presley's sister's first pacifier on a computer. Downloading music and videos has also become a necessity on a computer. But who could have thought that one-day collegiate football would be run by a computer? Well that day and age has come upon us. It seems as if everyone and their dog have fallen in love with the new technology, and even the football gods.
The Bowl Championship Series was created by the collegiate football committee in 1997 to determine the National Football Championship game. The BCS is a computer that ranks a team by victory, strength of schedule, and margin of victory. Thie Bowl Championship Series has the four biggest bowl games being played, the Rose, Orange, Fiesta, and Sugar The BCS has had it's up and downs over the years by getting mixed opinions about dumping this system and going to the "P" word, Playoffs.
It seems as if you don't have to win your conference championship game to play in the BCS title game Nebraska didn't even earn a shot to play
the Texas Longhorns in the big 12-title game as their perfect season took a spill against Colorado. But the Hnskers were given a shot to redeem their defense in the Rose Bowl against the Miami Hurricanes. The Huskers were chosen over Oregon to play the Canes in the title game. The Huskers clearly didn't deserve to be on the field with the Canes or even in the same stadium Who knows how much Oregon could have gotten beat by?
1Jie bowl season definitely has its advantages
It's two and a half weeks of exciting plays and great finishes College football is not like college basketball where every game doesn't mean as much In basketball you can play mediocre basketball for three months ·and get hot come March and make it to the elite eight. All you need to do is make the top 64 in basketball and you stand a shot at tearing down the nets If you lose a game in college football you are definitely hurting your odds of a shot at a national championship. Shoot, you lose a game to the number one team in the country you will not even get a BCS game,just ask California how it feels. This season the California Goldenbears lost one game to the dominant Southern C alifornia Trojans and were ranked fourth in the BCS at the seasons end. Texas and California
were battling for the last at large bid down the season's stretch. In the end the Longhorns got the best of the BCS and played jn the Rose Bowl. The Golden Bears on the other hand received an invitation to the Holiday Bowl and were shocked by the Texas Tech Red Raiders by a score of 45-31. All season long there was controversy about who should play in the Orange Bowl. Three teams battled for the two slots in the big game, Southern California, Oklahoma, and Auburn. The final rankings gave USC and Oklahoma the advantage • to play for a national championship and left Auburn stunned. The Tigers rolled through the most stacked conference in the land the South Eastern Conference. USC was a lock from the beginning because they were ranked nnmber one in the pre-season polls. It was the Trojans game to lose and they slipped by unranked teams such as Oregon State and UCLA to a perfect season and dominated the Sooners from beginning to end in the Orange Bowl. Auburn beat Virginia Tech 1613 in the Sugar Bowl and didn't even get a share of the national championship Well then why did the Huskers have to split the ship with Michigan in 97'? We are Americans, we don't know how to share. In the U.S. students can't even share
lockers due to health reasons. But we can share a championship trophy with another school.
A solution to all of this BCS controversy would be to install a playoff system Take away one or two of those exhibition games that established programs play every year to chalk up another win Take the top eight teams in the Associated Press and Coaches Poll and put them in a NFL format. Have neutral sites for the match ups and there will be no more controversy of who is the national champion We should still have pre-season polls due to the fact that they are consistent with the final rankings It's not like East Carolina or Duke is going to be a pre-season top ten.
A playoff system would draw more attention to th e non fan. Who wouldn't want to see USC play Texas then a week later play Auburn? The only reason I could see not using the playoff system is because it would run past Jartuary. Then people would complain that these men are student athletes and finals are right around the comer It's not like the star athlete is worrying about his math final while he's in Pasadena, California getting ready for the biggest game of his life. I'm sure his final is already taken care of He probably h.is someone already signed up to even take it for him.
February 4-20 - Noises Off, Lincoln Community Playhouse
February 11 Movies - Bride and Prejudice, Hitch, Imaginary Heroes, Inside Deep Throat, Pooh's Heffalump Movie, Schultze Gets the Blues
Fridays in February - Crescent Moon Coffee presents various Jazz artists from 7 ' to 10 PM.
February 11 - Scholastic's The Magic School Bus, Lied Center
February 17-19 - LHS Musical, "Any:thing Goes"
Thursdays beginning February 17
- KZUM 89.3 presents live acoustic mu-
sic at Mama D's Pizzeria (27 th and S), 7-10 PM
February 17 - Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Lied Center
February 17, 18 - Much Ado About Nothing, University Theatre
February 18 Movies Because ofWinnDixie, Constantine, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Son of the Mask, Turtles Can Fly (Lakposhtha ham parvaz mikonand)
February 20 _ - LHS Parent/Teacher Conferences
February 21, 22 -To Kill a Mockingbird auditions, Lincoln Community Playhouse, 7PM
February 22 - Lincoln Stars Hockey plays Waterloo Black Hawks, The Ice Box February 23-27 - Riverdance, Lied Center
February 25 Movies - Cursed, Jiminy Glick in La La Wood, King's Ransom, Look At Me, Man of the House, Up and Down
March 8 - International Women's Day, Lincoln Woman's Blub 4:30-9:00 PM, free for all ages For LHS sports schedule, check the online Advocate at http://lhs.lps.org/ advocate
BySherryWang projects that lend a hand to the community, such as participating in the activity "AdoptA-Family," where we bought gifts for families in need. "It's great. I liked the whole Would you like to represent Lincoln High Adopt-A-Family project. It was fun," said positively? Do you have any ideas you Mai Do (10). Community service does not want to put into action? If you answered have to be the typical volunteer work, We 1,~-~}--t,2~,,cS,~e.J?,~}t~,~
which are held at the LPS District Office, are for the purpose of encouraging character, and the LHS Character Club is to promote character within our school. So far, other thanLHS, Northeast is the only high school with their own Character Club, which rooted from STAND.
President George W. Bush took the oath of office under unprecedented security on January 20'', 2005. Watched on by his wife, First Lady Laura Bush, former opponent John Kerry, and millions around the country, Bush was sworn in by ailing Supreme Court Chief Justice William Rehnquist. House of Representatives Speaker Dennis Hastert administered Vice President Dick Cheney's oath. After being sworn in, President Bush proceeded to deliver his speech on the West Front of the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
President's speech. Toward the end, protestors could be heard chanting, but Bush made no visible acknowledgment of their presence.
out all high schools. have also done some fundraising, the most anyone to join and show character. We As Mullin claims, "STAND developed from recent being the marketing of the Village Inn need new people with new ideas, and Britthe goal to start a group based on student Pie Certificates. Becky Mullin, one of the tany Hergott (IO) adds that "it's a great involvement and guidance." One of the liaisons, says that "it is a great way to get experience meeting new people from other main focus statements of this group is "to actively involved, promote character, meet schools." If Tuesdays do not work, Muiincrease and awareness of the importance new kids from other schools, and participate !ins will be glad to assist you in finding an of good character/citizenship within our in community service." alternative means of participating. schools and between schools." We get There is also a get together at LHS held on together once a month on Tuesdays to plan Club Day, which is different from the disfun activities such as ice-skating, and also trict-wide meetings. The district meetings, •
BySherryWang
The State Thespian Convention \Vasan amazing festival, which took place at Bellevue East on the 14th and-15th of January.
LHS theater teachers Patsy KochJohns, Chris Maly, and John Heineman accompanied Linco In High's troupe, ma king it a great SU C Ce S S. We all had a wonderful
Performance, and the LHS Improv. Team, consisting oflyannaDeNovellis, CJ O'Hara, Mike Maly, Hannah Dovel, Maddy Hager, and Roy Gonzales, had made it to finals, ending up in 8"' place out of the total 32 ' teams Molly Pearson, Rose Staley, James Oliva, Matt Boring, and Zen Keenan were on the Tech Team. They did not end up competing in Finals, but placed 9th out of the • 20 teams thatcompeted.
ByIzzyK.och
With the Iraqi voting over, a new life for Iraqis is just beginning. Fourteen million Iraqi citizens were eligible to vote in the election, including the Iraqi citizens who no longer live in Itaq.
Bush made note of his visions of a free world. "We are led, by events and common sense, to one conclusion: The survival of liberty in our land increasingly depends on the success of liberty in other lands," he said. "The best hope for peace in our world is the expansion of freedom in all the world." The president made sure to note of his desire "too seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture." Reaffirming his own policy, Bush went on to state, "All who live in tyranny and hopeless know: The United States will not ignore your oppression or excuse you oppressor. When you stand for your liberty, we will stand with you." Not completely ignoring domestic issues, Bush · asked Americans to reject racism and heal divisions.
Few interruptions accompanied the
Although there was no intelligence in the days preceding the oath of office of a possible attack, security forces carefully prepared. The first inauguration after the attacks of September 11"', it \Vascharacterized by massive sec:urity. Rooftop snipers stood alert. Helicopters and jet patrols guarded the skies. Anti-aircraft missiles remained ready, and boat patrols on the Potomac River protected the shores. Six thousand police officers were on alert, as well as 2,500 military troops. The final bill for security totaled to about $20 million.
Protestors lined up in droves to make their messages known. Most acted peacefully, but at least five protestors were arrested. At one point, ice pellets were thrown at police officers. Well-wishers stood alongside these protestors, as the president drove by during the inaugural parade.
The President and the First Lady later went to the traditional balls. In the end, they danced at ten balls in under nine minutes, eight minutes and fifty-four seconds to be exact. According to the Presidential Inaugural Cemmittee, the total cost of putting on the events came to be $40 million. Many donations came from corporations she!ving out over $250,000. Bush ended the night, per usual, by going - early to bed.
ful knowing those people, knowing those soldiers-American soldiersare going to help my country. I guess it's just my way of saying thank you to them by going and voting."
Zuher also said that he felt great about the elections. While did not.
Asawer alRubaiai (12) was one who did not make it to vote, but she hopes "that they choose the right person for Iraq."
Asawer only lived in Iraq for three years, and then moved to a camp in Saudi Arabia, where " it was like all dust, and not enough food."
When Asawer was nine, her family moved here. She says that if she could have voted, she would have, but choosing who to vote for would have been the hard part- "there's a lot of parties. I don't know which one [I'd vote for]. I'll choose the best one in there." Total candidates, all factors factored? 18,900 were registered With the help of exper1e nc e. There
for their first chance to vc;i.te- there were also voting areas in the many European countries, and even to five different posts in the u ..s.
I r a q i families fron1 Lincoln made the long trip
In the Show'case of ,Stars, where everyb o d .y shows t he i r talents without the pressure of a up to Chicago ------------------------------~ were numerous workshops, such as "Magnificent Make Up," instructed by Paul Pearson, and "Meditation for Actors," directed by Lincoln High's Psychology and Econo1nics teacher, James Perry. Alison Frenzel qualified for National competition, Will Hutchinson wowed the audience with his phenomenal Chinese yoyo skills, and Molly Pearson did a convincing Ethel Merman's version of the song "Hey Ya." All in all, it was a fun experience for everybody. to vote. Lin-
coln High senior Zuher al-Hirez made it up to Chicago to vote. Zuher, his father, and his mother all did their part in voting. " It felt good [to vote]. It felt like I was really doing something for my country. It just feels wonder-
· ·· · · ne 11ves 1n Lincoln for now, Zuher wants someday to "go back there (Iraq), but I will not stay there unless it is somehow similar to America. I got used to America."
While there were families like Zuher's who made it up to Chicago to vote, there were also some who had a elections had a great turnout.
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Ray Charles & Various Artists
• American Idiot Green Day
• The Diary Of Alicia Keys Alicia Keys
• Confessions Usher
• The College Dropout Kanye West
Song Of The Year
• Daughters John Mayer, songwriter (John Maye r )
• If I Ain-'t Got You Alicia Keys, songwriter (Alicia Keys)
• Jesus Walks C Smith & Kanye West, songwriters (K anye West)
• Live Like You Were Dying Tim Nichols & Craig Wiseman, songwriters (Tim McGraw)
• The Reason Daniel Estrin & Douglas Robb, songwriters (Hoobastank)
Best New Artist
• Los Lonely Boys
• Maroon5
• Joss Stone
• Kanye West
• Gretchen Wilson
For all other nominations, visit www.grammy.com
ByMarcusliall
As many consumers were shelving their Ninten do 64s to make room for a PS2 or Game.Cube, several great games were released for the dying systen1, one of those being Mario Tennis. Even in the age of GTA and Final Fantasy, I still find myself wiping the dust off of the 64' and popping in Mario Tennis for a few sets. Imagine my excitement when Mario -Power Tenni.s was announced, which recently released on the Nintendo Game ,Cube.
Power Tennis plays and scores just like normal tennis. There are normal game modes, which consist of singles and doubles matches, or more unique brands of tennis, that throw items into the mix. Nintendo also brings i n some of it's most well known characters to par ticipate, such as Mario and Yoshi, and some lesser known characters like Waluigi and Plum The courts themselves range from a normal grass court, to courts showing off
Nintendo's licensed characters such as Wario's Factory, or Luigi's Mansion
fensive shot. This makes for some in a tennis game has the control rather heated doubles matches. The been so perfect, shot's are hardly simplistic control scheme is great ever dropped and missing a shot for newbie players, but leaves little is no longer a rando1n occurrence room for growth as mastery can be Wh erever you need your charac-
Nintendo has always been known for it's over the top (in a good way) and unique art ll'l,,,K<t,Mt.½s-Am b h h ·11
U%t¾WtUHk:~:b:::i:p-.fflfr:,f:#.M ter to e, e Of S e W l style. Th'is game is no exception. The backgrounds are full of vibrant and moving colors, some seem to push the Game.Cube to it's limit. The characters themselves are smooth and well rendered. Yoshi and the more detailed characters are shown here in their full glory
The game.play is · simple and not very deep, which is sort of a good thing. Hitting the ball consists of a normal hit re··
with the "A" button, and a slice with the "B" button. Smash shots are used by pressing both buttons and spin is applied using · the control stick. As an added treat ; each player can tap into both a power offensive and de-
attained in a rental period. Controlling the characters is one of the easiest things you'll ever do. The characters move · so smoothly across the screen, it s like butter on a hot skillet Never before
be their as fast as you can take them
The sound in the game is also done rath er well. When the ball is hit, the sound is perfect from the time is hits the racquet to the time it hits the ground. Nintendo has always scored it.'s games, especially it's Mario games with childish and simplistic music. This game c ,an be added to the list. The music is basically simple MIDI style and can be played on a piano with one hand. In a nod to Super Smash Brothers, some of the courts contain some familiar music from some of their classic games
The only complaint that I have with Mario Power Tennis is that the ball physics aren't as tight as they could be. The distance and height in which you hit the ball are not proportionate to · y,our position on the court. This -problem comes up infrequently, but it seems to happen at inopportune times. This will likely lead to some gamers accusing the game of cheat :ing.
I have been a fan of Mario from the very beginning, and I have also been a fan of the branching Mario games that have been released. · With it's goofy gameplay and impressive visuals , this is great Nintendo work , however, it's not their best My final r,ating for Mario Power Tennis is 9.25/10. Nintendo is capable of great things, and this game is definitely worthy of the ,Mario name. If you have two or more friends wanting to spe nd a weekend together, do yourself a favor and pick this one up
ByKaliSil.schweitzer
The Lincoln High Student Council held its second Semi-formal at the UNL East Campus Union on Saturday, February 5, from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. About 100 students clad in shimmering cocktail dresses and suits sans jackets danced to a wide variety of songs ranging from rap and pop to rock to established crowd pleasers harking back to the '80s. Songs included Marilyn Manson's new hit Artificial Jesus, Sir Mix-A-Lot's Baby Got Back, the B52's Love Shack, and Britney Spears' a few. Toxic to name DJ Jonas from
S.licer Enterprises jockeyed songs based on requests and a list of 20 something songs decided on by the Lincoln High Student Council. The Council based this list on a survey of the Lincoln High student body done earlier in preparation for the dance. DJ Jonas was also the DJ at the Lincoln High Homecoming earlier in the year.
that hung from the ceiling. Lights also decorated tables set up around the dancing area holding complimentary pastel marshmallows and party mix in coffee filters.
The off campus location was chosen for several reasons. "We chose this because: number one, it'd be the right size; two, it's pretty, it's nice--aesthetically it's nice; and three, the price is right," Perry said. Last year there was no winter formal; three years ago it was held, successfully, at the train station. Tickets were on
sale in the treasurer's office during the weeks prior to the dance for $5 per ticket. Unlike other dances such as homecoming the Lincoln High Student Council will lose money on the semi formal due to attendance. "We were expecting about 500 people," said Mr. Perry of the small attendance. The total cost of the dance was about $750: $200 to rent the 'tudenfsdp,!'l!a!!!!n!!!!c!!!!ielli,t!!f.!h!!i!le!!i!in!!!l!i!i!!g!!f.!h!Ji.!lt-·· · '9 location, $350 for a DJ, 1awayat Snowflake Semi-For- $200 for police officers. mal Photo by Kalisa Schweitzer In spite of cost and less than expected attendance
Stu den ts chose a medley of popular dance moves to celebrate the mid-winter occasion. Some even broke into an indescribable mix of skipping and flailing mainly reserved only for mosh pits and hardcore punk tunes, at the sound of Franz Ferdinand's Take Me Out. Still others maintained the style of close physical contact commonly depicted in popular rap and R&B music videos from song to song.
Students voted for the one male and one female dance attendee who they thought, based on personal preference, were "bestdressed." According to Lincoln High Student Council Sponsor James Perry, the Student Council decided to have a best-dressed competition because they didn't want royalty.
"We had a talk about royalty," Perry said. However, StuCo decided 11otto. "But still," Perry added, "we thought it would be fun to h ave something, and that something was Best-Dressed." Many students had tried, appealing to their fellow Links school spirit, putting together their best red and black ensemble. But, alas, only two red and black clad students claimed the title: seniors Brooke Gillies and volunteer Jack James.
Student Council members and their friends arrived at 2:30 P.M. to decorate the large room in which the dance was held. White snowflakes and red hearts cut from construction paper adorning the walls illustrated this year's winter semi-formal theme of snowflakes and love decided upon by the Student Council. The dark room was lit at key points by strobe lights, moving colored lights, a disco ball, and other assorted party lighting. The hardest thing about the decorations, according to Student Council sponsor Mr. Perry was putting up strings of lights
Perry and Lincoln High Principal Mike Wortman consider the dance a success. According to Wortman, "People are here. They're enjoying it and having a good time. They got a chance to dress up and spend some time with some friends, so yeah, this is a success."
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Slavery has been and will forever be a large stain on the history of the United States of America. The subject has spawned wars, genocide and mass suicide. So, why do we celebrate slavery by showering our loved one with useless hunks of carbon or artery clogging chocolate?
Valentine's Day, like Thanksgiving, was created with good intentions, yet the American people have sent the holiday in a downward spiral to mean nothing more than gluttony, meaningless casual sex, and · the support of underage labor.
Two of the most popular Valentine's Day gifts, dia1nonds and chocolate, co1ne to us at terrible cost.
Most of the workers that mine, polish and cut diamonds are not necessarily slaves, but more like the equivalent of migrant workers here in America. Most diamonds are mined in Sierra Leone, Africa and are
harvested by local workers who make less than a dime an hour. Some, however, meet the criteria to receive slave status. They are beaten, shackled in. slave barracks and work for nothing. The mines where these diamonds are harvested are open, meaning that salts, oil, and chemicals can seep into the ground water, rapidly spreading infection. Diamonds that are mined and polished in India are imported from India are often sold here for slashed prices and by our standards are "below average." Those diamonds are harvested by legit workers, earning some.what l)onest wages, however, according to the Anti Slavery Society, they are being cut and polished by underage workers, earning very little or next to nothing.
According to Liz Stanton a Center for Popular Economics Staff Economist, we've been "psychologically conditioned to want a diamond." According to Stanton, diamonds have no resell value and are useless for investment opportunities. Diamonds
ByNhu-YNgo
The following quote is inscribed on Nebraska's State Capitol building, "The Salvation of the State is Watchfulness in the Citizen " My parents took me to the capitol many times. Often, it 'would be for taking pictures. I would grimace, annoyed that we were seemingly perpetuating the stereotype of overzealous Asiap tourists But I soon realized that we were not mere visitors. We were here to stay. And I each time I noticed the capitol, I would -remember the walks with my parents in its halls. Climbing up the endless steps provided its challenges, but Rockyesque satisfaction only awaited me at the top. As my parents became busier with their work, I would seldom visit. Now I drive by each day on my way to Lincoln High School, and I 'see the state capitol in all its magnificence. I view it as a symbol of the flourishing democratic experiment America embarked upon when it aired its grievances against the king of England and subsequently revolted. The
social contract had been broken, and it was time for change. Evolving over the years, this country has only strengthened, but I question if we, the citizens of the United States of America, are holding true to our part in the contract with recent dismal voter turnouts But what would I know? I just became a citizen about a week ago.
On February S"', my family became citizens, and we are now eligible to vote.
My mother is excited, but lamented recently of how it is too late. "John Kerry didn't win," she said. She wanted to vote that November morning, but her application for citizenship was still being processed. I remember the disappointment she had when she watched as four out of ten eligible citizens opted not to vote.
Now an official citizen, I feel no different; I have always viewed myself • as an American. Although proud of my Vietnamese heritage, I have come to love my adopted homeland and embrace its deeply rooted ideals of democracy. My 18 th birthday comes in August, and I look
are also used in s mall arms trade and are the used to fund diamond wars, which Stanton claims are fought by child warriors. "Many diamond producing governments and rebel forces use children as soldiers, laborers in military camps, and sex slaves. Child soldiers are given drugs to overcome their fear and reluctance to participate in atrocities."
Another go-to gift for Valentines Day is chocolate, and Americans love their chocolate, consuming over 3.1 billion pounds of chocolate each year, or 11.7 pounds per person, according to a report by Mintel. According to NFR, 32.3 percent of couples will be giving candy, which equates to 35 million heart shaped boxes of chocolate. However, the chocolate has to come from somewhere, and Hershey, Pennsylvania isn't the answer. /
In Cote d'Ivoire , Africa, young boys · ranging from 12 to 14 are being sold into slave labor to harvest cocoa beans. The children who are currently enslaved are working
under extreme and depiorable conditions. This doesn't mean they are being docked pay or don't get a lunch break.
The children are constantly beaten and abused both mentally and sexually Currently, around 200,000 children are being trafficked yearly through western and central Africa; according to UNICEF. Combined profits for slavery currently amount to around $7 billion dollars according to the UN.
The end product of child labor and cocoa harvesting produces something that most Americans associate with bliss and love, chocolate.
However, taking pain in another s pleasure isn't a new American trait. This has existed ever since there has been an America, whether we mean it to or not. To give you an example of how far this problem stretches, according to the Child Labor Coalition, there are about 600,000 cocoa farms in Cote d'Ivoire , which is slightly larger than New Mexico.
forward to voting. My parents will vote for the first time this year. And so did many Iraqis in their recent election.
The Iraqi elections, though marred by regional and religious rifts and insurgent attacks, were indeed a triumph for democracy. Voters stood defiant against possible death in order to vote. Even after a suicide bomber killed five people at the Badr Kobra School for Girls in Baghdad, citizens were determined to participate. Many even offered to assist with monitoring the polling places. "Though performing this duty meant standing amid flecks of the flesh of the last officer who had the job, there were volunteers," the Washington Post reports.
After interviewing Lincoln High 'School custodiav Jabbar al-HaP1dani, ·· realized what voting meant for many Iraqi citizens. Al-Hamdani and others made at least two eight-hour trips to the Chicago, Illinois area from Lincoln in order to register and vote, yet many Americans will not take out an hour of their lives to have their voice heard. Al-Hamdani's
Why would a large company resort to such drastic measures? The answer is capitalism. In the last 20 years, the price in cocoa has dropped drastically.
To keep costs down and profits up, company owners hire slave labor to increase productivity and increase revenue While Cote d'Ivoire is one of the largest producers of cocoa in the world, 400 beans are needed to make one bound of chocolate. A pod could contain anywhere from 5 to fifty beans.
And remember how many pounds of chocolate Americans produce. 3 .1 billion pounds of chocolate each year and that's just America.
Although little will change in our lifetimes, and there is little that we can do other than not buying chocolate or diamonds, one might be a little easier than the other.
Next time you grab that sweet, nut filled roll of sugar, think who suffered for years just so you can have that one 'Sweet moment of instant gratification.
family in Iraq knew the possibility of death awaited them yet defied expectations and voted. Why is that people are willing to die to vote, but we will not give the time to cast our own ballots?
Candidates lived in fear in Iraq. Some were killed, others threatened. So afraid of the looming dangers, numerous candidates made themselves known only a few days before the Iraqi elections.
While I may not agree with the Iraqi invasion and following conflict sponsored by our current administration, I respect the bravery our soldiers and the voters in the January 30'" elections From them, Americans should draw inspiration.
It is disappointing that last November, the much touted "election of our lifetime," received a mere turnout of 60.7%--and this is the greatest turnout for a national election since 1968 What is worse, is that in Lincoln, in the last primary election, only 20% of those eligible to vote did. The 2004 Student Vote had about 76% voter turnout-the highest it has ever been here at LHS. Maybe I am
too demanding, but why is it not 100%?
Apathy is a growing epidemic we cannot afford to ignore.Many died for this country. Many continue to die for this country. And when I heard the oath of citizenship at 5 :25 that Saturday afternoon in Omaha, I realized how important it is to be an American now more than ever. We are given the greatest responsibility as citizens: the · right to vote. My grandpa is a 77-year-old man who is comfortable living in Vietnam, but never in his life has he voted. It is the inability to contribute that deters him from ,voting; no apathy exists in his heart. I find it wrong to squander such a privilege when many around the world cannot actively participate in their government. In an election, the most important result is the voter participation. It does matter who wins as long as democracy continues to flourish through the ,vatchjulness in the citizen A voter registration drive will take place at Lincoln High in March. Need I say more?
February 11, 2005
•
by ChrisIiatch
Forget giant squids, forget Jaws, don't even worry about the Loch Ness Monster. The real thing to fear in the water this year is the Lincoln High Swim team. That's right, the Links swimmers are repeatedly getting g ,ood times and coming through with clutch performances. With nearly 10 meets under their belts, the team is getting better and gearing towards the Nebraska State Swim Meet.
we will begin tapering for state As state draws near, the competition." team members with provisional
The boys lost 96-83 in a qualifying marks must wait to hard fought match against the see if their times make the cut. Fremont Tigers on January 27 "{sophomore) Jeremy Lenz is but the girls dominated from the really close to making it in the get go and won going away 113- backstroke and (senior) Jason 63. The boys had individual Castro is pretty close in the 50
I'm not where I
wan~ to be yet, but 1 think
I can put it together and make it in the breaststroke."
On February 3, the · ' Links squared off against the Navigators of Lincoln North Star. The girls team again dominated from the get-go, -wfnning every event except the , 100 yard breaststroke and
ByChrislfatch
Recently it came to my attention that a group of the "Usual Suspects" was. rounded up and interrogated by the administration in a basketball student section shakedown. A group of fans from the Lincoln Northst<!f game, where brought in and got a firm talking to by some of the Lincoln High staff Let's just say that the law was laid do\vn
It made me reevaluate myself as a fan : was I, Chris Hatch being overly zealous in cheering on my team, to the point of being rude? Heaven forbid such a travesty. Why, for shame, hado 't that been me pointing at players on the opposing team the other night? What had I become? Mother always said to point was impolite.
It seems that I had lost sight of the true meaning of the sporting world: courtesy to the opponent. Just like those wonderful Piston fans who aie my role models, I decided to come up with a few ideas to fix our atrociously offensive, downright slanderous student section.
Cue Card Night: In which the Athletic Department makes several large signs telling the students exactly what to say. I can see it now, all the students waiting around anxiously awl;litingthe "Applause" sign. Cheering along with the "Rah! Rah! Rah!" card is something I'm looking forward to.
Etiquette Night: When the home team is winning, we won't chant "SCOREBOARD.
own conclusions.
Invisible Student Night: Everyone just skip the game Instead, the students will probably gather at the Super C, get some slurpies, and have a nice riot. Since we're not at the game being rude and obscene who knows what kids will do oh I don't know maybe just rob a liquor store to kill some time
Bring Your Attorney Night: These days you can get a good lawyer cheap. If the administration tries to throw you out of the game, who better to defend your constitutional right to freedom of speech than your friendly neighborhood attorney On-Court Brawl Night: Can you say Ron Artest? (how' d this one get in here?)
Get it Krunk Night: and by get it krunk, I mean everyone will sit in the stands silently reading Maya Angelou poetry. That'll inspire the team to victory and promote literacy all at once. Hahahaha see isn't that great? We all win!
And finally
titles from seniors Jason Castro, Sapp, and Mikkelson. They were also victorious in the 200 medley relay and the 200 meter freestyle relay. On the girls side the Links were undefeated in individual events and won 2 out of 3 relays as well. All in all, not a bad night
football, or soccer if you please, and I never knew that there actually were any American football teams in the USSR. Strange, ha? So, there was no way I could write a news report on the fact that the Super bowl match 2005 is corning closer and closer as February 6 approaches, I thought. But then an idea came to my mind: if I don't know anything about it, maybe there is somebody else who doesn't, too, and just feels not verycomfortable asking people about it. And here I go:
The beginning of this professional American football championship game goes back to 1967 when the two best teams of the National Football League, or NFL (Green Bay Packers) and American Football League , or APL (Kansas City Chiefs) met in Los Angeles on January 15 to establish the best of the best. That game was the re suit of the merger between the leagues during 1966 football season that actually came to the full effect only in 1970, when instead of being inter-league, the game became just
NFL championship featuring the National Football and American Football Conferences.
' Both conferences consist of 16 teams that are organized into four divisions: South, North, East and West. After playing each team in their division twice, the top six teams from every division is established. After the series of matches among them, called playoff games, the best teams of both Conferences are found out. Those NFC and AFC champions play against each other in the Super Bowl.
The name "Super bowl" itself was given to this NFL-APL championship after the third game of its kind in the 1969 football season.
This year's Super bowl is already XXXIX (39'h) in the history. It is going to take place on the Alltel stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. The teams meeting this year are the New England Patriots (AFC) and the PIJiladelphia Eagles (NFC). New England Patriots (American Football Conference) became Nat,ional Football League champions last year as they tore their last score from th ,e Carolina Panthers at Houston Febn1aryl, 2004, with only 4 seconds of the game left. In fact, it was their
• third time in t~ Super Bowl and set'ond time they got the champion's title. This year they get still another chance to try to get the prize again. The chance is exactly 50: 50 - either they 'II get it, or not.
As for this year's National Football Conference representatives, Philadelphia Eagles, it is their second time in the Super Bowl after 24 years Last time they got this far was January 25, 1981, at New Orleans, but got defeated by the Oakland Raiders. Apart from being the hugest sport event, Super Bowl is almost the same way popular for its creative part - commercials.
This gam e is one of the mostly watched TV shows. Around 90 million people sit in front of the screen during its translation And no one knows how many of them actually watch it to cheer for their favorites team and what percentage - only for the outstanding commercials ,
• As for me, after having this unforgettable -experience of writing a story about Super Bowl I feel obliged to watch it. Well, not telling anyone what is its part of interest for me, I'm going to do that and "experience a huge part of American culture" as it was called by one of my friends-fans. I wish he's not reading.
-
SCOREBOARD " but rather say," our most sincere condolences, good sirs , on your exemplary, if somewhat unsuccessful attempt at victory." Nothing like a good cheer to fire up tl!e team.
Duct Tape Night: Give Mr. Fultz an industrial size roll of duct tape draw your
Warm Fuzzy Night: What better way to get into a game than all joining hands and singing kumbaya? Instead of that n1a1icious verbal assault of "YOU YOU YOU AHHHHH YOU" , which can be severely detrimental to an adolescent psyche, why not chant, "Character Counts Character Counts Character Counts". This being nice thing is kind of vindicating So much so, that I think it's time to unveil the newest Lincoln High tradition of all, HUGS FOR THE OPPOSING TEAM AFTER THE GAME IS OVER!!!!! Barney would be proud I would love to keep writing, but I'm going to be off picking daisies to give to Matt Hill.
BJ<Jam.Dwa
The Lincoln High Links Boys Basketball Team has a 10-5 record and is ranked # 8 in the state. The tean1 has been donlinating opponents by using their size on the inside And one of those key ingredients has been the play of 6' 4" Senior Forward Andrew Klein.
Klein has averaged 10 points per game along with 7 rebounds per game and a season high of 18 points against Freemont. What makes Klein so versatile is his shot from the perimeter and his ability to go inside. "I try not to focus too much on scoring, everything starts on the defensive end," Said Klein. "The offense ·might not be there every night but that's when I start to pick things up defensively." And it has shown as Klein is the teams leading rebounder. Not only is Klein's physically ability a boost for this teai.n but his grasp
"Andrew played well this
Bohlke. "We executed down the stretch and it paid off for us with a victory over a city team." The Links knew East's game plan since they faced them just over two weeks ago. "We played East in the Holiday Tournament so we knew we could beat them again," Said Lewis "It was just a matter of us doing it and we executed and played well as a tea1n "
Norfolk came to town on the 14""of January to take on the Links. The Links had to much talent for Norfolk to handle and dominated the game from .~tart to finish. The Links blew the game open with a 29-6 run in the third quarter. The Links pulled out an easy victory 62-42. Vinson had 17 points and Senior Christian Lewis had 14 points. Senior sharp shooter Garrett Jones had 10 points and Bohlke added 8 points. ''Norfolk was a pretty good team but we executed on offense and played good defense." Said Bohlke January 20'h was 1e day many high school basketball fans were waiting _ for since the end of last season thus far" season. The ' Said Head Coach Links took on Russ Uhing. "He inner city riplays hard every val Northeast practice and every in a battle of game and because ranked teams. of that he contin- The Links ues to improve did not start and get better." two key post
On January players, Vin8"' the Links faced son and Sethe Islanders from Grand Island. The Islanders gave the Rockets took Links more than advantage of the op-
basket by Klein. But North Star closed the deal by creating twenty Links turnovers. The Gators held the Links to four points in the 4 th quarter and stunned the Links 50-41 Petersen led the Links in scoring with 12 points and Klein finished with 11 points. The tinks dominated the paint by out rebounding the Gators 35-22. The Links just didn't make enough outside shots.
The next night the Links faced number two ranked Omaba Central, a team the Links have dominated over the past three years. Against Central the Links shot 6-14 from three point land compared to Central's 3 for 16. The Links were almost doubled in total rebounds due to the fact that Vinson was out. The Links played well but not well enough in a 56-46 defeat. Jones scored 15 points and Klein had 17 points in a tough loss. "We really competed hard against both teai.ns," Jones said. "Northstar just played better than we did that night. Omaha Central is a really good team and we thought we played them well. Hopefully we will see them again in districts and this time it will be a different outcome."
On the 4th of February, the Links battled the Knights of Southeast in a battle of ranked squads. Freshmen Josh Riser stepped up and put in two-three pointers to go along with 11 points. Vinson played tough in the middle and scored 13 points. Klein grabbed a key rebound on a missed free throw by the Knights late in the game. Klein then hit the game winning shot to beat Southeast 51-48.
The Links will take on Omaha Benson on February 12'h and Kearney on the 18'h. The District Tourney will be on February 26'', 28'", and March l ". The State Tournament is March 10-12. The Links are trying to play well late in the season like past -years. Go Links and good luck at Districts.
Links were to __ a,...,.., lllii!itl- 1111111 The Links strong and pulled , .•,_ , , _ wmi, would llim the · out the victory lead within 61-54. The Links L ____ _Jel] ioLJ~.i..JUJ.<.-"'I ~-..l 6 points but were led by Klein the Rockets and Senior Yusuf Vinson. Klein had the hot hand shooting 7-10 from the floor and putting in 15 points and grabbing 9 boards. Vinson had the game high in points with 18. The reason Grand Island was able to hang around so long was that they shot I 0-32 from behind the arc compared to the Links 2-12 performance I guess you could sey the Islander's live and die by the three ball. "Grand Island played a very good basketball game even though they do not have a great record," Uhing said. "Our players did not play a great game but stepped up and played well in the 4'h quarter and overtime."
On January 11'h the Links battled the East Spartans at Earl Johnson Gym in a battle bet.ween ranked teams The Links were trying to beat the Spartans again after beating them in the Holiday Tournament. The Links were up to the task and controlletl the gai.ne in the paint and pulled out the victory 51-48. Vinson again led the way with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Klein added 10 points in the victory. " Against East we played a good game," Said Junior Drew
were just too much. The Links fell to the Rockets 66-55. Lewis had 15 points and Petersen played well coming of the bench for the first time since his sopho1nore season by scoring 14 points. "At the start of the Northeast gai.ne, we were not ready as a team mentally and that led to the early lead," Said Lewis. "We came back in the second half and played a lot better mentally but we gave up to much in the first half."
The Lincoln Northstar Navigators came to Earl Johnson Gym on January 28'h. This is always a big gai.ne for both teams due to the fact that the Gators have players that transferred over from Lincoln High Vinson was serving the first of his two game suspension so the Links knew they would need to step up on the inside.
The Gator.s took a 27-26 lead heading into halftime. In the second half the Gators were sparked when Tyler Bullock had a breakaway jam with just over six minutes left in the game to give North Star a 41-37 lead. The Links would cut it in half on a
Though a tough start this year, the girl's varsity basketball team is getting focused and prepared to take districts. With 30 girls trying out and less than 30 girls on three teams the desperate need of players increases as the teai.n struggles this year after loosing 5 constant starters. As being the only starter returnee, senior Maddy Biggs must help lead such a young team towards victory
With our top scorer freshman Shakeela Johnson who is averaging 12 points per game and with the help of sophomore Taylor Schmidgall who is averaging 7 points per game our Lincoln High girls are making progress.
This year we have many tough opponents and many of them we already have played. Last Thursday Lincoln High
back. During second quarter Links scored 5 more points, which made us 23- 7, by the second half our teai.n was getting pumped up and more aggressive. After putting in some three's our girls we were still down by 34-16.
During 4'h quarter it seemed that our comeback was scaring Lincoln Southeast, scoring 20 more points. Unfortunately we lost to Southeast by 45-36. Our team still has 3 more teai.ns we need to play before districts. Hopefully our team will build up confidence and aggressiveness to take on these three tea1ns and districts.
ByAthalyn Evans
played against Lincoln Southeast who beat us by 45-36. Scoring only 2 points during the · first quarter it caused us to have a major set
According to Coach Myers we need to work on handling the ball. The next team we play will be at Columbus on
Friday. The next two teams are Omaha Benson (2/12) and Kearney (2/18) and will be held at Lincoln High School.
Visit us on the web at:
http://lhs.lps.org/advocate
By,\Jina&lyukh
LHS's and other high schools' Gay/ Straight Alliance members haven't been resting from the day of the GLBTSA rally, January 20.
Some of the topics on the agenda now are the anti-bullying bill LB627 and the opening of the new GLBTSA at Goodrich Middle School.
The anti-bullying bill, simply put, would make sure that every school in Nebraska in some way or another has a policy to address discriminating and humiliating students based on several factors, including their sexual orientation. The bill is currently in committee.
On Sunday, February 27, GLBTSA members and supporters came together to write letters to senators to convince them of the importance of passing this bill, according to senior Molly Pearson
One of the participants was Tony Alvarado Rivera, Student Club Leadership specialist at the O maha chapter of the national Gay/Lesbian/Straight Education Network (GLSEN).
· ramhere," he said, "with our resources from GLSEN supporting these students' ideas. After that we are going to talk about what other tactics we could create and see what Lincoln students want to do."
Coninued on Page 2
By A.llisaFuenzalida
What will you do March 28 th through April 1st for this year's spring break? Some will do extreme cleaning, or will be on tropical cruises, and others like me will be in the comfort of their own home watching other people enjoy their tropical paradise vacation on MTV. So just exactly what do students and teachers at Lincoln High do over this nine-day vacation? Throughout the years, I've mostly become a couch potato , watching TV and shoving my face full of food to suppress my boredom
Some people at this school are very fortunate to go to exciting places. Sophomore Vanessa Ventry will be heading down to Louisiana to have a week-long vacation
Continued on Page 5
Laura Bush takes gang war to the streets-page 3
More cuts for wounded Upward Bound program-page 6
NapoleonDynamite gets real old, real quick-page 8
Spring sports shaping up to be a success-page 11
By GarretDurst
It wasn't like your typical state wrestling or basketball tournament at the Devaney Center. There weren't 14,000 fans screaming as athletes pinned someone or shot a three-pointer. This sport's State Tournament had a shade under 200 people at the site during its championship match, but they rose to the challenge. What sport is this? Bowling; the sport in which the Links are now state champions.
On February 17th at Sun Valley Lanes, the Links clinched the Nebraska High School Bowling Federation State Championship with a 3-0 sweep against the Southwest Silverhawks. The Bowling Federation sought to make the state bowlers feel more professional, using music and setting the fans up much closer to the lanes than usual. Each team was brought in to the sounds of the Nebraska football team's tunnel walk and had their name announced as if playing in the PBA.
The team consists of sophomore Shawn McGinnis, juniors Clark Anderson, Stephen Amory, and Jarrett Stoppel, and seniors
Chris Blair and Mike Cigelman. Amory was named the tournament's most valuable player. Anderson finished in fifth place with · a score of 595. Cigelman finished in sixth place with a score of 590. Anderson knew this was a good opportunity for the sport of bowling to get recognized. "It was exciting
with all the cameras an d it was fun seeing myself on the news," Anderson said.
The team practiced on Thursdays from 4-6 at Sun Valley Lanes. The coach, Les Amory, had a quote he told his players often: "One ball, one frame, one more time.'' This team only loses two seniors and looks strong to repeat next year. "Yeah, I think we can definitely repeat as state champions," Anderson said. Congratulations to the Links bowling team on the state title.
(continued from Page 1)
If it goes well, Rivera added, they expect the bill to come up early-mid April. According to him, right now it's at an education committee.
The bill was introduced by Sen. Gwen Howard, Southwest High School junior GLBTSAmember Emily Evnen said. Evnen hopes that Howard's presence on the education committee will help to advance the bill.
Evnen also said that there was another similar bill a couple of years ago, but it never got signed just because schools said they didn't need a bill to have restrictions in their rules and they can create it on their own. However, it has never happened, she said.
''That's why we want this bill to pass to say that we need it, ." Evnen added.
Another topic of discussion is the starting of the first middle school Gay/ Straight Alliance. The pioneer sc hool is Doodrich Mi ddk_ Scbo..ol
"It is going really good so far," freshman GSA member Rachel Wallick said. ''There are about 15 members and a teacher-sponsor . " She also hopes that if everything goes well there, in the future other middle schools will join Goodrich.
''It happed after the GLBTSA rally," she added. "Students of Goodrich just came to their principal and said they wanted to have a chance to participate in GSA, too "
Another new idea of LHS GSA members is to raise student awareness of the suicide issues many people face, according to senior Courtney Craig. This is the new project that will be realized very soon.
However, Gay/Straight Alliance members are not only discussing problems of such huge importance
March 11, 2005
and scale They find time for fun, too.
On Friday before the Day of All Lovers, February 11, the Southeast High School GSA organized a Valentine's Ball-Masquerade. On its way is also the traditional Pride Prom that lesbian/bisexual/transgender community, students and staff of all Lincoln Public Schools, and their families and friends came together at Lincoln High and headed toward the Capitol, banners, flags, posters and signs in their , people that turned out was amazing and the speakers were terrific " Heineman added that ''any time a minority is feeling oppressed by majority, it's important for them to speak to out. This is what democracy is about."
The invitations to the rally were given out to many students in their schools. Some of them ignored it, but for the most it was an immediate decision to go or not: to go.
''I came here," sophomore Ashley Schenkel said, ''because I felt like I needed to let people know this is something that needs to be fixed that needs to be worked on and we need to have equal rights for everybody."
The idea of the rally was to draw attention to governmental inequality and to the problems that the gay/lesbian/ bisexual/transgender community faces in its daily life, such as unequal rights, offensive language and oppression l!= :fro1i -1+tr rttn:y- s id es -;--i-rreludi -r r g 1e l -i-g i o1•.., 1=
''I came here to support my brothers and sisters from GLBTSA," junior Kyle Dill said. ''I think it ' s total nonsense that we don't have equal rights! And I think what we did was a big step."
GLBTSAmembers and community supporters coordinated a march and rally in front of the State Capitol on January 20th. Many held signs such as this one
Among speakers at the rally was Lincoln High sophomore and Gay/ Straight Alliance member Chelsea Henning. which voiced a message of acceptence.
will be held March 19 this year, Wallick said. All in all, life of Lincoln High's GLBTSAhas been quite busy since the rally that was almost a turning point in its history.
The rally took place on the evening of January 20, inauguration day, when members of Lincoln's Gay/Straight Alliance and their supporters both from Lincoln and Omaha met to protest the inequality of rights on the steps o f the Capitol.
After gathering at Lincoln High, almost 200 members of the local gay/
hands and shining confidence in their eyes.
"Equal Rights are not Special Rights " ''Peace Love Pride " "Hate , , , , is not a family value." These message s and many others could be seen everywhere together with bright rainbow colors and proud faces.
The rally was all an idea of Southeast GLBTSA member Chapman Scarborough, according to the LHS rally sponsor Ruth Kupfer.
''It was all just about supporting what the students wanted to do," Kupfer said. "I was amazed and gratified and pleased by these great gifted young people.''
"I thought it was a great success," Lincoln High co-sponsor John Heineman said. ''I thought the number of
''My friend got me into the GSA when I just got to the high school," Henning said. ''And we were at GSA meeting at Southeast discussing what we wanted to do for the rally and I offered to do the speech on religion. I think the idea of this rally is really neat. I think GLBT people deserve all the rights."
The crowd of supporting listeners took every idea spoken by the presenters at the rally with eager and excitement.
''It is the fight for change , " senior Molly Pearson said. "Every single person counts. I've never felt more proud of my generation, because it is this generation that will carry on and overtake the current government and it's our job to step up for what we believe in." ·
jinificant other reo lly l9ves you, pressure you into something don ' t want to do --
,.sex is Worth the wait.
Byf\lina.selyukh
This year is the third and last time that a group of ten students and two teachers from Samara, Russia, will come in an exchange program to be hosted by LHS students. Their arrival is planned for March 16.
Lincoln High is the only school that has a chance for such an opportunity, said John Heineman , coordinator of the program
The exchange got started three years ago, when LHS theater teacher John Heineman and English teacher Tatiana Zaitseva from Gymnasium Perspective (Samara, Russia) won titles of "Teacher of the Year" together with this chance for a governmentally sponsored cultural program between their schools The exchange was planned to go on for three years and give an opportunity to build "cultural bridges" between Russia and the USA.
In the years 2003 and 2004 the first Russian students came to Lincoln, stayed for three weeks with families of their Amerioan host-brothers and sisters, visited all possible places of interest and learned about American culture-all for free, paid for by the American government. A couple of months later, their American hosts went to visit them in Samara, Russia, and learn about Russian culture. The only difference for them was that they couldn't speak Russian-and they had to pay.
However, their experience was very exciting and they enjoyed it a Jot, according to Miranda Freeman, a 2004 LHS graduate who was one of the hos,s last year.
"Ou, family hosted Russians for already two years in the past," sophomore Meredith Ernst said. "It was such a great experience! I think it is a ~rfect opportunity to learn about other culture, in fact, almost another world. And
also let them learn about ours. I actually cannot understand why somebody wo uld not want to host a Russian student!"
This year is the last year of the program, and in fact it was not even suppose q to happen.
"There was a budget cut,'' Heineman explained. Russia's economy has been so go od that the main purpose of this p rogram didn't prove itself, he said. "Most R u ssian kids can go anywhere on their own n b w; they don't need sp onsoring, as opposed to students from Armenia, for example. The program was closed only for Russia and not for the United States," he added.
However, many Gymnasium Perspective freshmen (you have to be at le <} st 14 to take part in the program) were very d l-sappointed to Jose their last and only chance and the teachers organized the last "exchange". Thjs year there are only two exceptions-Russian students will have to pay themselves (since the American government is not paying anymore) and they will be the only ones to go io another country, making this program a "one-sided," but not necessarily "worse," exchange. Exchanging cultl.lfes and learnin g about other c ,ountries is never meaningless, worthless, or simply put, "bad."
With the world today, building ties between the countries is crucial, as Meredith Ernst ,aid. "It is very sad to me that people don't jump in at the chance to host a Russian," she added.
"I think that if we could bring stude nts from many, many countries," Patsy Koch Johns sup,ported her idea, "and exchange with them ther e, would be a hope that younger people will know and understand each other and care about each other in a global way that those of us who are older did not have an opportunity to do Maybe it would make a future better for everyone."
March 4 - March 17 - King of the Corner, Mary Riepma Ross Film Theater
March 10, 11, 12 - Boys State Basketball at the Bob Devaney Center
Movies opening March 11- The Boys and Girls from the County Clare, Dot the I, Hostage, Mail Order Wife, Millions, Robots, The Upside of Anger, In My Country, Millions
March 11- Brass Blast!, Nebraska Wesleyan University
March 11 - March 13 - Nebraska Horse Council Expo, Lincoln Event Center
March 15 - Math Graduation Demonstration Exam
March 15 - Hard Bop, Embassy Suites Hotel, presented by the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra, featuring Greg Abate & the Lincoln High School Varsity Jazz Band. March 16 - Club -Day
Ma r ch 16 through March 20 - 60 th annual Shrine Circus, Pershing Auditor i um
March 17 - Vocal concert at LHS, 7 :30 PM
Movies opening March 18 - Ice Princess, Melinda and Melinda, The Ring Two, Steamboy
March 18 - March 31 - Home of the Brave, The Woodsman, Mary Riepma Ross Film Theater
March 22 - Alloy Orchestra, Buster Keaton's The General (silent movie), Lied Center for Performing Arts
Movies opening March 23 - Mondo• vino
March 23 - Earth Day Celebration, Lincoln Children's Museum
March 24 - End of 3 rd quarter
Movies opening March 24 - Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous
March 25 through April 3 - No School, Spring Break
Movies opening March 25 - D.E.B S., Guess Who?, Oldboy, Sex Politics & Cocktails
March 25 - Samantha Power, The Age of Genocide, Lied Center for Performing Arts
March 29 - The Bathtub Dogs, Lied Center for Performing Arts
Movies opening March 30 - Beauty Shop
April 1 - First Friday Celebration, Sheldon Art Gallery
For LHS Sports schedule, check the online Advocate at http://lhs.lps.org/ advocate
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March 11,
ByNhu-YNgo
Recently, President George W. Bush revealed his budget for the 2006 fiscal year. The toughest proposal yet in his presidency, it cuts funding to numerous organizations. There .is, however, increased military and international spending. Two of the proposed eliminations are of the Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search Programs. Upward Bound and ETS are programs designed for first generation college-bound and/or low-income students. There had been rumors for some time that Bush would cut funding to these groups, but many were hopeful that they were merely speculation. Speculation turned reality as the Bush Administration unveiled the budget early February. The news affected many students here at Lincoln High School.
Lincoln High sophomore Mai Do comes in almost everyday after school for tutoring from the Upward Bound Program. "I do my homework here because I know I won't be able to focus and finish it at home," Do said. "I also get help with my questions." She has taken full advantage of what the program has to offer from its college preparatory and career exploration workshops. · "My parents didn't go to college and Upward Bound is here to help me with my college decisions." Do had feared bad news. "I had a feeling [the budget cuts] were coming, but it wasn't a scary reality until it happened."
Carlos Leija, a current University ofNebraskaLincoln student and former Lincoln High student and Upward Bound participant, knows the merits of the Upward Bound program. "They helped me with all the stuff about college that I was lost in," he said. Leija now works for the program as a tutor. Upon hearing the news of the elimination of Upward Bound, he was disappointed and called into action. "We are going to write letters to our state representatives asking them not to support Bush's budget." Many in the Upward Bound program have been doing the same thing.
Nelson. Freshman First District Representative Jeff Fortenberry should be receiving letters soon also, said Joan Mendoza-Gorham, Assistant Coordinator of Upward Bound at UNL.
The cutting of Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search did not come as a shock to some in part because of an assessment by the Office of Management and · Budget to evaluate federally funded programs. The appraisal, called "PART" deemed , Upward Bound ineffective. The disturb-
In a February 6th interview with "Fox News Sunday," Vice President Dick Cheney offered some reasoning for the budget cuts. "It's not something we've done with a meat axe, nor are we suddenly turning our back on the most needy people in our society," he said. "It is a fair, reasonable, responsible, serious piece of effort."
Senior Thien Kieu disagrees. "Upward Bound has helped me prepare for the transition between senior year and college," Kieu explained. "I don't receive this help at home because both
ing part is that PART Mai Do ( 1O) receives homework help from found only two out of Upward Bound tutor Carlos Leija. President the 56 programs it an- Bush has proposed cutting Upward Bound and my parents never alyzed to be effective. Educational Talent Search in his 2006 budget. went to college." This prompted many
Photo by Nhu-Y Ngo The cuts not only questions of why we threaten him but can evaluate and judge our youth yet not educate also his younger sibling in eighth grade at Lefler them. Other studies have shown Upward Bound Middle School. Kieu says she had planned to
meeting its goals. A2004 evaluation for the Department of Education by Mathematica Policy Research revealed that approximately 89% ofUB participants had graduated from high school, in comparison to only 68% of low-income 18 to 24 year-olds as is documented by the United States Census Bureau. More than two-thirds of participants attended a post-
Current efforts by the program located at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln include letter-writing campaigns to Senators Chuck Hagel and Ben secondary institution.
Along with Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search, the proposed 2006 budget attempts to cut numerous other educational and social programs. They include Even Start, Literacy Program for Prisoners, Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Grants, Smaller Learning Communities,TeacherQuality Enhancement, and School Dropout Prevention. All of the eliminations "free up almost $4.3 billion" according to ,?lW\v.,vhiteholise.gpv.
enroll in Upward Bound. Now that its future in jeopardy, he does not know where she will receive assistance.
Members of the academic community have noted disappointment in the Bush Administration's plans. In a recent speech at the National TRIO Day celebration at UNL on February 26, 2005, Dr. James Griesen, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at UNL, expressed his feelings on the matter. "I am upset that the government is trying to cut these programs," Griesen said. "Upward Bound and all TRIO Programs make college available to students whose families do not have a long history of college admission."
Jirnmi Smith, Program Coordinator for Student Support Services (SSS)-a TRIO program-at UNK, made a more combative declaration. "We are in a TRIO war," he told the crowd. SSS Academic Counselor Giovanni Jones noted that "all this started with a belief, and with that belief came a vision. But a vision remains a vision unless there is action. I ask you to all take action."
For now, Upward Bound participants will continue writing letters, making phone calls, and trying to make a difference. They urge others to do the same. Mai Do still receives assistance each day, hoping for the best. "Without Upward Bound, I won't have anything to do."
ByNhu-YNgo
BTK Killer Caught
The notorious serial killer, self-dubbed BTK for "Bind, Torture, Kill," was detained in a routine traffic stop Friday, February 25 th 2005. His arrest puts to rest a three-decade long search. Fifty-nine-year-old Dennis Rader of Park City, Kansas had lived in a short distance from Kansas City-the scene of his crimes. His daughter's DNA reportedly led to his capture. Rader's apprehension shocked some neighbors, while it solidified the suspicions of others. He was his church's president but was also known to hassle neighbors and report them for violating minor city ordinances. At a press conference on February 26 th , the Wichita Police Chief Norman Williams made the arrest public. "Today is a very historic day," he said. i'The bottom line: BTK is arrested." The announcement prompted loud applause and a standing ov:;ttion.
Priuce Charles and Camilla Set to 'Marry
In a February 10th announcement, the British royal family made it known that Prince Charles and long-time Jove Camilla Parker Bowles will marry on April 8th Their relationship spans over thirty years, even during Charles' rocky marriage to the late Diana, Princess of Wales. The civil ceremony, originally slated to be held at Windsor Castle, will reat Windsor's Guildhall. Afterward, there will be a religious blessing. The Queen will not attend the civil ceremony but will be present for the blessing. The announcement of her absence prompted rumors of a royal snub, but Buckingham Palace has denied this. Parker Bowles will take the title of "Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall" upon marriage. When Charles takes the throne as king, she will then be known simply , as the princess consort. Public reaction to the engagement has been mixed.
Terri Schiavo Case Continues in Florida Pinellas Circuit Court Judge George Greer gave the parents of Terri Schiavo three more weeks to run further tests. Schiavo has been in a vegetative state for fifteen years, after a chemical imbalance as a result of a long-term eating disorder debilitated her. Her husband, Michael Schiavo, now living with another woman, contends Schiavo would not have wanted to continue living in such a condition. Her parents, however, have fought in court to keep their daughter alive. Schiavo's feeding tube had been removed for six days before Governor Jeb Bush of Florida passed Terri's Law, which was later ruled unconstitutional by the Florida Supreme Court. The extension gives her parents, Bob and Mary Schindler, until March 18.
Hunter S. Thompson Dead at 67 Hunter S. Thompson, the author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, killed himself with a gunshot to the head on February 20 at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado. Thompson was wellknown for his unique style of"gonzo journalism," in which he referenced his frequent alcohol and drug abuse. Thompson was the inspiration behind Gary Trudeau's character Uncle Duke in the long-running Doonesbury comic strip. He was reportedly on the phone with his wife when he committed suicide. Thompson's son said he was not surprised at how his father killed himself but was shocked at the timing.
Martha Stewart Released from Prison
Martha Stewart was released from prison Friday, March 4 th amid a mass of media following her every move. Having served five mo nths in prison, Stewart will know endure five months of house arrest at her $19 million estate in Katonah, New York. Allowed 48 hours of lea~ for work, shopping or other pre-approved errands, the 63year-old domestic diva can once again receive her $900,000 salary.
in New Orleans with her mother and grand- will be driving a 15-year-old mini-van 1700 mother Vanessa says that one of her goals while miles each way? Let's hope that they make it she is there is to try the famous jambalaya be- back! Once they get to Key West they will hop cause she has never experienced the bold soul on a ship and sail to the beautiful islands of the flavor of New Orleans. Bahamas. On this 12-day adventure she hopes
Not only are students going to interesting to continue to build on relationships with these places-teachers are as well. Take Shaunna members of the family and get to be a part of Meyer, for example. This spring break she her niece's early memories. will be accompanying her brother, sister-in- Some of us though aren't as fortunate to law, and their two children to Florida and the get out of this city we call Lincoln, or this state, Bahamas. She will take role as the nanny on this for that matter. My advice to you if you want to trip for her 3 year-old niece and 18-month-old feel the experience of a tropical vacation is to nephew. put on your bikini or trunks, watch some MTV
First they will head to Disney World, then Spring Break , call your friends over, and go off to Sea World, before heading dow n south to jump through the sprinkler and have a grand Key West. Oh, and did I forget to mention they ole time!
ByIzzyI(och by July 1, 2006, every Nebraska school distri~t would have to have developedand adopted therr
Bullying.Everyonehas had to dealwith itin own anti-bullyingpolicy.While the policy would one way or another,whethertheywere the person be decidedby students,parents,teachers,and the doing the bullying or """""""'
the person being bul- ty, one of the main lied. Some students focuses of the bill have it worse. They is to lessen the may get teased for bullying of people their sexuality, some who are transgenfor their skin color, der,gay,or lesbian. some for their sexual Kupfer saidthat "a orientation,and some lot of the bullying for gender identity. happens with
Most people perceived sexual would agree that orientation." everyone deserves 0 u r a kind, caring and own Julianna understand learning Felker (10), an atmosphere-some- l!!J/!i!li!!i, active member thing that cannot be of the Gay, Lesachieved while being bian, Bisexual, bullied.Newlyelected '!!!i!!f!!i!!,¥!!!!il!!!f!,¥!!!!i!!f!,~'lf!fl!!!!!!!p,Transgender, and Nebraska sena- Straight Alliance tor Gwen Howard ',!!i!iii!J.~~~~~1"=t~'::'::::':'1 (GLBTSA), had (District 9, Omaha) a few things to realizes this. With the say about the bill. proposed Legislative She statedthat she Bill 627, bullying L---------~.;.:,,,:.;:_:::.._;;;._ a..::=~ thought that it is would be prohibited really necessary. "I've seen kids be picked on in schools. because they're transgendered. Other kids say Morespecifically,thebillstatesthatbullymg things like 'You're a boy' snickeringly, when disrupts the abilityto educate students,and that that's how they really feel, like they should be a it threatensphysical safety-wha~begins as o~y boy. The last thing kids that are confused about words could soon turn into a flym~fist.The ?ill their gender identity need is to be made fun of. definesbullyingconductas any wntten or vernal They're already strugglingenough to fit in, in an expression,physical act, or gesture or pattern of environmentthatbynatureisn'taccepting,"added such behavior intended to cause distress upon Felker. one or more studentsand involves the victim's Both Kupfer and Felker had something actual or perceivedidentitywith regards1?race, positive to say about perceived gender identity color,nationalorigin,gender,genderidentityand and sexual orientationbeing included in the bill. expression,religion,sexual~ference, or m~n- 'There are plenty of straightallies who might be tal, physical,or sensoryhandicap.With the ~ill, perceivedas gay,who get harassed,"saidKupfer this would be prohibited.Ruth Kupfer (English "I'm really glad that 'perceived' gender identity teacher and one of the sponsors of GLBTSA) and sexualorientationwas added,because being says that this is important, because "it does bulliedcan be just as painful to a person that isn't include all the different classes of people who what they are perceivedto be. Especiallywith our get bullied, and it is really importantthat it does culture's emphasis on living up to gender roles, address transgender." and what a 'real man' is, or how they should act,"
The way that the bill would work is that said Felker.There have previouslybeen no bills
that include the bullyingof people who are gay, lesbian,or transgender.
LincolnHigh,known as a diverseand generally acceptingschool,alreadydoes a pretty good job to keep harassmentdown, in Mrs. Kupfer's opinion. She says, though, that there are other schools, other cities, smaller towns, that don't have anything about being bullied, don't have anything addressing the problem that needs to be addressed.Mrs. Kupfer also says that the bill will be really good "in terms of bringing awareness where it needs to be brought."
There will always be some religious effort againstthe acceptanceof gay,lesbian,and transgender people, but with this bill, maybe things will startto change.For the firsttime, this is a bill that will bringawarenessto the bullyingof people who are gay, lesbian,and transgender.
ByNhu-YNgo Centerbe evaluatedby LPSIffl\intenancestaff,"Associate PrincipalArlynUhnnacherexplained."Theydid thatand
The doors in front of the Media Center pose no have determinedthat the entranceto the MediaCenter problemfor many at LincolnHigh School. Students meets the requirementsfor accessibility.The only item oftentimes walkthroughthem,forgetto sign in on the they are consideringmodifyingare the door knobs to computer,and headfor the computersor begina search handles,"Uhnnacheradded. for a book. The entranceis, however,a barrierfor some CMF replacedthe doorknobon the exit door of students,staffmembers,andin thecaseof DavidIngram, the librarywith an easierhandle,but theywereunableto volunteers. =""""'""' n~"" "'"""""',,,..,,,.. remedythe entrance Ingram, husband door with a lock that of math teacher Cynthia would work ''They Ingram, volunteers saidit wassomething throughout the Lincoln about a double lock High School building. mechanism," McConfinedto a wheelchair Clungnoted. Media after a March2003 stroke Center staff asked if paralyzedhim on his left a mechanical door side, Ingram finds it dif- waspossible."It was fl.cultto fulfillhis dutiesat asked," Reinmiller LHS. said. "I don't know
The two main prob- if it was a priceissue, !ems for him are the staff buttheytoldus 'probloungeand Media Center ablynot."' doors. Because he has Manytimes,if a lost much of the function -., person is unable to in his hands, he cannot open the doors, staff open them. "The way it !Ii membersinthelibrary is nowI haveto waituntil arereadyto assist,but somebodycomes around ~"" budgetcuts this year and opens the door for Volunteer David Ingram (right) allows toddler have madethat more me,"Ingramsaid. ·ChristianCervantes(left) to explore the mecha- difficult.
Audio/VisualTech- nismson hiswheelchair. Ingram volunteers much "Studentsin crutches nician Mike Reinmiller of histime each day to monitor hallwaysand oc- andso forthknockon realizedthe situationonly casionallywork with the daycare kids. the door,"Reinmiller recently. "I didn't notice Photo by Priscilla Obakpolor said. "Sometimes the problemuntil I began L_________ ...;..._____ ...;...__ __, when Glenda [Willworking at the desk this nerd)andPaula[Mcyear," Reinmillersaid. "Oftentimes,you don't notice Clung]areteachinga class,andSean[Soper)is showinga problemsuntil they happento you." Ingram agreed. studenthowto connectto theserver,andI amcheckingout "WhenI startedusingmy chair,.that'swhenI foundout. a book,a studentneedsto waitlonger,"he said. It is all overtown,too." PaneraBreadandthe postoffice
TheMediaCenterlosttwostaffmembersandhashad nearIngram'shousearenot handicapaccessible,he said. to cutdowntheirhours,openingat 7:30AMandclosingat TheMediaCenterstafftriedto addresstheproblem 3:30PM,insteadof the usual7 to 4 in previousyears by sendingin a requestto maintenance"PaulaMcClung, ThefutureoftheMediaCenterdoorsremainsunclear. my boss,emailedArlynUhrmacheraroundAugu_st,"Re- Reinmilleradded,"I am of the opinionthatis it not going inmillerrecalled.Uhrmacherthensentin a workrequest to changeunless Dr.Wortman , Arlyn,or an administrator in September . "Weheardbackfromthemabouta month doessomethingaboutit." ago,"accordingto Reinmiller.
Buthe,andtherestof thestaffmembersin theMedia
"Werequestedat thebeginningof theyearforCMF Center,hope to fix get the problemfixedsoon. Student (Custodial,Maintenance,andFacilities)to comein Arlyn Councilis workingwiththemto possiblypresenttheissue sentme a notebacksayingthey'dcomein andlookatit," to the LincolnBoardof EducationandCMF. "IfI am in a MediaSpecialistPaulaMcClungrecalled."Theysaidthe wheelchair, I shouldbe ableto getintoa library,"Reinmiller doorsweremeetingcode" Reinmillerdiffers,"It isjustnot noted. handicapaccessible.He [Ingram)has a hardtimegetting Ingramexpressedhis thanksto LincolnHigh and throughthe doors.'' added,"I don't expectthemto changeit just for me, but
"Wehaverequestedthat the entranceto the Media it'd be nice."
ByIzzyKoch
Walking into my sixth period class, there are a variety of -different logos: McDonald's, Subway, Amigos , or Juice Stop. Every day brings a new one in. In a half-hour lunch period, students don't have many options of dining areas. Places with long waits are out of the picture, leaving fast food as the main hot spots.
Going out to lunch is reserved for juniors and seniors, but sometimes you can catch the oc- casional sophomore (and even freshman) who makes it outside. Once given the chance to leave the school for a half an hour, students jump at the idea, giving great rise to fast food restaurants. Because of this, there are many different options for lunch nearby
First, there are the restaurants where you can order ahead such as Da Vinci's and Sips and Subs Deli (a relatively new opening). If you're going for the closest fast food, Amigos wins, but if you prefer the healthier side of things, you can stop over at Ideal Foods.
Steve Wellman (11) and Sallie Dietrich (11) both respond that when they go out, a trip to Valentino's is usually in order. Also in the area of l 7'h and South are Subway, a second Amigos ,
and Burger King If you'd rather brave lunch hour traffic downtown, you can find Wendy's, Arby ' s, yet another Amigos, Starbucks, Subw ay, Doozy's, Jimmy Aces , or Juice Stop. Anew opening on 40 th and Randolph is Runza, and the Peace Cafe at 27th and R St. offers Mediterranian cuisine with discounts for students.
For some students, going out to lunch loses its thrill once they can legally do it. For others, it's a must. It's a break from your peers, and from the school atmosphere. Staying at school all day, even during lunch, makes the day just seem that much longer.
Students aren't the only ones who make a run out for lunch. While some teachers choose to stay and eat in their rooms or the teachers' lounge, there are some who go out for lunch too Mr Perry has an off , period during fifth, and takes a bike ride downtown everyday for a YMCA workout ~d a Doozy's sandwich.
If you're a Junior or Senior, lunchtime opens up a whole new world. It's a break from the building that you spend 7 hours in daily. It's relaxing But sometimes trying to get into these hot lunch spots can prove tough when it's a hot spot for everyone else!
By KentMasloskie
When one goes to the movies, one has certain expectations. Lines for concessions will be long. Keanu Reeves movies will be overhyped, and at least one movie preview will be ridiculously long, to the point that one stops caring which movie is shown after that -and prays for it to begin just to end the agony of the preview of a movie no one should ever have to see. Then comes relief. Finally the movie begins, but wait, it's Constantine, the first noteworthy movie Keanu Reeves has attached his name to since The Matrix: Revolutions. In Reeves 's first scene as John Constantine he appears to need to fire his costumer for making him wear the same suit he wore in The Devil's Advocate and the first Matrix. A few minutes later, Constantine throws a demon-possessed mirror through a window and onto the hood of his taxi, which is
driven by the plucky Shia LaBeouf (Chas Chandler), apprentice to Constantine and a freelance exorcist. Eventually the audience learns that (go figure) Constantine is mankind's only hope. As this is a Keanu Reeves film, that information is not only boring, but also obligatory. Note to Hollywood: when you use someone with a god complex to play the savior of all mankind, that's not acting.
Constantine has a veritable treasure trove of weapons with which to dispatch the demons he encounters over the course of his travels. These weapons range from vials of hol)' water, to shotgun slugs made from bullet shavings from an assassination attempt on the pope, to a mysterious rag which when lit on .fire acts as a sort of flamethrower. Constantine learns early on that he will die of lung cancer Later in the movie, Constantine learns that he must fight the devil's son Mammon, who possesses the Spear
of Destiny, which according to legend was the spear thrust into Jesus' side as he hung on the out. The star of the show was nowhere near as interesting to watch as the man who played cross. This spear is supposedly imbued with incredible power, which stems from the blood of Jesus that stains the point. Somehow Constantine is put in the position to fight with Mammon.
Okay, now that I have given you the obligatory background, I will tell you what I really think of Constantine. If you'll recall, Keanu starred
Satan, who was in the movie for no more than 10 minutes total. That's just sad. If someone is the star of a movie, he should be interesting, and have one other key quality it's on the tip of my tongue oh yeah, he should be able to act. The general col!sensus among movie patrons is that Keanu Reeves has only been in one movie that he made any worthwhile contribution to, Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure. The working theory is that the only reason he appeared to have any talent in that film is because in a movie a year ago, he wasn't acting. which due to laws re- The best thing I can say garding decency should about Constantine is that the not have seen the light .....______________ __. sound and the visual effects of day. Wellforthoseof were really quite good. That's you who wondered ifhe just not enough. If your actors can't act, it doesn't could make a movie worse than the third part of matter how great the special effects are, your the Matrix Trilogy wonder no more. If Con- movie can't be good. If you are a middle-aged stantine is any indication, he can't. The Matrix: woman who likes to watch Keanu, or the idea Revolutions was horrible, and Constantine was of spending six dollars to see some marginal just bad. The main thing Constantine has going special effects •interests you, maybe you would for it is that it isn't the third part of a series that like it. Otherwise, don't waste your money on should have ended long before the sequel came Constantine.
• 02 " I fl'i) ~St.
-)'oti k11o·vvit's spring when everyone is at Soutf1'Pc)it1tePavilions: F<)rsf1opping, ~Jrabblng a bite , catchir1g a rnovle or Jtist ha11gingout and enj<)ying th e \-Vearher, )/Ol, can't !Jeat the SouthPoir1t:e s<:entt.Get tf1e ht,ttest looks of the seasc)r1at all of yoL,r ffi\/CJrite stores like The Buckle Abercrombie & Fltc h, Holliste r Co., American Ea9le, Old Navy and Gap •
aByIzzyKoch
You've seen the 'Vote for Pedro' t-shirts. You've heard the increase in the usage of the exclamations "Gosh!", "sweet," and "Freakin' idiot!" You've heard the quotes: "Tina, you fat lard, come get some dinner." You know the funny stories.
If you don't know any of this, you 're behind the times. Napoleon Dynamite, though it was released last summer, is still psychotically popular. Most people have seen this phenomenon once, if not twenty times.
Sitting in my second period Spanish class, I was expecting just a regular ol' day of Spanish, but I ended up with something quite different-an argument about Napoleon Dynamite. On one side, you have the kids who think that the movie is amazing, hilarious, and something that you could watch over and over and over. This half immediately started to quote the movie, while the other half argued that it was way overdone, and maybe good the first time through but not really that funny.
This phenomeno n isn't even just a phenomenon in Lincoln, or just in our age bracket. Hot Topic carries Napoleon Dynamite t-shirts, Napoleon Dynamite buttons, and even Napoleon Dynamite track jackets. Some kids pass by, shaking their heads at the fad that they thought would pass months ago. Others walk by, and their heads snap to attention to their idol-Napoleon Dynamite, the geeky teenager who gets picked on. This geeky teenager with a red afro boasts that his favorite animal is a liger and shows off his drawing, dancing, and sign language skills, knowing that girls want
boyfriends with skills.
With all of this, Napoleon Dynamite is attractive to people all over the country. Schools all over have been plagued by the Napoleon Dynamite obsession. But more than just high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools have caught this disease--even adults have been struck by the Napoleon Dynamite bug.
As far as the quoting goes, it's getting kind of old. The jokes aren't funny anymore. My parents have started quoting the movie. Do you really want to be quoting the same movie that forty-some-year-olds are quoting too?
I stand by the kids who think that this obsession has gone too far. Yes, this movie was good the first time through. Yes, it's amazing that a film student made the movie, as oopposed to some huge Hollywood producer, but do we really need the town that it was set in to have a Napoleon Dynamite Festival? Do we need to have tetherball tournaments because of the movie?
Now, some of my friends have gotten far enough into this obsession to need some intervention. They quote it, own a track jacket of it, own the movie, and all that jazz. · It's split pretty evenly between my friends who love the movie and those who think that it's gone too far.
The makers of this movie have been rolling in the profits. With a summer release, the DVD was timed perfectly to come out right before Christmas. You would think that like most fads, the Napoleon Dynamite craze would have passed by now, since the mo vie
debuted months ago, in the summer of 2004. That's not how it's worked for Napoleon Dynamite. Far from forgetting the movie after leaving the theater, kids started quoting, and downloading the movie. I'll admit that yes, I did want Pedro's cousin's sparkly car, equipped with hydraulics, but I did not become obsessed with the movie because of that.
I'm not saying that Napoleon Dynamite was not a good movie. The first (and only) time that I saw it, I was laughing like crazy. It pulled me in. For a few days, I kept thinking back and laughing at the movie. After that, it slipped from my mind. I had other (better)
things to be obsessed with.
With a PG rating, Napoleon Dynamite appealed to many different age groups, from elementary schoolers to teenagers and adults. With a fan club that boasts that "150,000 people can't be wrong," the Napoleon Dynamite craze just keeps on spreading.
Maybe this obsession will stop. Maybe it won't. There is evidence that it may. Charleston High School in Charleston, Illinois, went through the obsession, and has now almost completely forgotten about the whole thing. So, will the same happen at Lincoln High, or is this a pesky obsession that will live on?
ByA.Jina&lyukh
By Marrusliall
Fifty years ago, if a child were to act up in class, his or her punishment was a wooden paddle to the bum. Sometimes, several hits were necessary; however, the embarrassment of being owned in front of your friends and the physical pain of the hard oak against your bare skin usually got the message across. Fast-forward to today, and our grand plan used to deal with kids that are arguably ten times as worse than kids in the fifties is to lock them away.
The intent of In School Suspension, or ISS, is to make the child sit and -think about what he has done, most of the time. For days at a time, kids are placed in a small room with walls between them and made to fill out paperwork. This is perhaps the most diabolical punishment known to man. Sarcasm aside, the theory of ISS was surely spawned with good intentions; however, it has grown into basically a study hall, or quiet room.
ISS usually sees around ten kids a week, and for the most part, their visitors are regulars. For the most part, however, kids are sent to the silent box for truancy issues, most of the time
As part of his plan to improve life in the homeland, President Bush announced a $150 million initiative to combat gang activity and growth, with First Lady Laura Bush as head of the program. The money will be split and distributed to faith-based groups and community organizations in the form of grants. This three year plan is part -of the President's "faith-based" initiatives, which he says will "help young people out of gangs."
The president made the announcement during the February 2nd State of the Union address, where he-ao-ton=l-y t-ook':!;,as-hots at rap - 1i1lJsf"c,Ourcflso-pu she-d' for his "faith-based" agenda. "Our government will continue to support faith-based and community groups that bring hope to harsh places." Hip-hop music is only one of the targets of the new plan, which according to the President is intended to "show young men an ideal of manhood that respects women and rejects violence."
The majority of thQ grant money is being pledged to "faith-based" groUl)s, i.e. churches While state funds are often given to churches, ignoring the separation of church and state, the president also proposed cutting after-school programs, whose main
stemming from being late to one class. As you know, six tardies or truancies will land you in ISS for the entire day. For missing a 49-minute class six times, your sentence is seven hours in a silent prison. What you miss in one class can be the deciding factor on whether or not you succeed in that class. Missing even two days of a world language or math course can really set you back.
Not to give you any ideas, but the system • of ISS is rather flawed. For example, if you are truant the day of a large test, the maximum score you can receive upon your return and completion is a 70 out of 100. However, if you just happen to have been sentenced to ISS on that day, you can take the test and still receive the full points available. In no way do I recommend manipulating the system, but that is one example showing you how the system can be worked around and the study hall format used to your advantage.
If you were to skip a test in this way, hopefully your conscience would catch up with you. Any ISS referral means around 20 extra sheets of paper that various people have to sign, including your teacher, you, administrators and the person that referred you. This waste of paper, time and
purpose is to get kids off streets. While $150 million is being pledged to combat gangs, here's an idea of how much is being cut.
From the 2004 State of the Union address given early last February and previous year's budgets, the administration requested $9.4 billion less for No Child Left Behind, according to the Center for American Progress. Title I is also under- funded by $7 .2 billion in 2003, according to House Democratic Leader Nancy Polosi. This brings the President's grand total of cut monies to $16.6 billion dollars, this does not include money that has been cut from other local after school and hool rela \t_d pr_g_gnim~, _ Trying to make up such drastic cuts with -;; p; 1try $ 150 million, of which we are only getting a slice, seems rather ridiculous.
With so many endeavors that our President has been taking on, taking on one more would seem very unprofessional. Enter first lady Laura Bush, who seemed rather optimistic when signing on for the plan. Bush hopes to bring the spotlight back to the well-being of young boys and their upbringing.
"I feel like, in the United States, that we've sort of shifted our gaze away from boys " Mrs. Bush said. According to Mrs. Bush, the plan isn't targeted specifically to the well-being of young boys.?" Bush
sink leads to reduced supplies for other students, and new rules and regulations that restrict the rights of other students. ISS referrals are stained on your permanent record, and hopefully your parents won't be too happy with you either. In the end though, has anything that I've said to you made you that afraid of ISS? Does it strike fear into your soul and make you sweat bullets? No? Well, I guess it wouldn't, ISS doesn't seem that bad.
Another bullet hole in an already fatally wounded system: ISS doesn't solve problems because its message isn't strong enough. "If you act up and do or say things that are inappropriate then you have to be quiet and you can't talk to your friends for six hours or more" doesn't seem all that threatening, nor does it get across the value of education. By wasting away in ISS, you are not only gaining six extra hours of cram time, but you are losing six hours that could be spent learning. If negatively affecting your future by taking away your education and forcing extra work on teachers that they are not required to do is LPSDO's way of punishing you, then they are doing their job and doing it rather well.
continued, " The fact is, all young children-boys or girls-and all adolescents do need a lot of supt " por
Heading this initiative will be the first lady's first official policy role since her husband has been in office. Mrs. Bush, a former librarian, made her first public stop in Philadelphia, where she visited a Boys and Girls c1ub, emphasizing that positive development in early years is critical. I'm sure, however, that the initiative, as with anything that the Bush Administration has done, has (rightly) received criticism.
The question has been raised .,h y_.soJI1e on _ whether or not $150 million, or any amount of money for that matter, would be enough to deter kids from joining a gang. "Many of the young men that tuck guns in their waistbands and shoot up their neighborhoods feel that no one cares whether tll.ey live or die," says Earl Ofari Hutchinson an activist for equal rights at Blackamericatoday.com. When you have been swallowed by life on the streets, that is your life now, and there is no getting out. Seldom does any amount of money change that, especially an insulting sum such as $150 million.
If anyone is really serious about combating gang activity, the first place to start would be getting
drugs off of the streets. Drugs are still ruining lives and reducing our youth into mindless globs of grape jelly. Drug use and trafficking leads to increase in illegal funds, making guns more accessible to youth as well as drawing attention to themselves from rival pushers or gang members.
The task of pushing against gangs will obviously not be easy, as a rough estimate by the Justice Department states that 750,000 individuals are gang members. Also, with her husband's proposed Social Security reform, the war in Iraq, training soldiers in Afghanistan and reconstructing foreign policy, one
By Chrisl:latch
Is there such a thing as a lucky seven? The Lincoln High Links would like to th i nk so. Seven members of the Lincoln High wrestling team came out of the District A2 champion ships with state in their futures and glory in their hearts.
Sophomore Jordan Wh i t e wa s._ t hf lone individual champion for the Links, pinning Danny Briggs from Lincoln North S tar in 3: 5 5 to take the 103-pound weight class champion-ship. White
The following Links qualified for the Prep. Gomba - Obari was pinned by state wrestling meet: Junior Nate Tesch Jake Muirhead of Millard South in the qualified after taking fourth in the 112- 119-pound division. In the 125-pound pound weight division, James Gomba- weight class Brian Logan lost to Eric Obari also took fourth in the 119-pound Flores from Lincoln East 4-1. weight class, Josh Scheerer took second Josh Scheerer lost in a heartbreaker place in the 152-pound to Eric Stevens from Bellevue East 5-4. weight class, Eric Horn Eric Horn won his first match of the day, took third place in pinning his opponent in the 171-pound the 171-pound weight class. Nathan Franssen also wrestled class, and Nate Frans- well in his first match of the day, desen pinned his oppo- feating Michal Kiepke of Norfolk 7-3 I.Jl~ Lor-=f ou.r.th pl. a.ce., T.h.e ,_w inners w re st 1e d a g a i .n OJl bringing the Links up Thursday in the quarterfinals. White to seven men heading struggled to get untracked in his second to state. match, losing 6-4 to Christopher Hall of
The lucky Scottsbluff Franssen came up literally just shy of advancing, losing in a real
battle to Bradley Dodge of Fremont 2-1 in overtime Horn continued his stellar run through the State tournament by upsetting Josh Magill from Millard South, pinning him in the overtime period.
At the end of the meet, Horn stood out as Lincoln High's best performer, taking home a fourth place medal in the 171-pound weight class. The Links, as a team, performed pretty well, beating nine other teams on their way to scoring 28 points. The Links certainly wrestled well and will return two underclassman state qualifiers who look to lead the team back to the promised land again next year. In the mean time, don't forget the warriors on the mats who helped lead this year's team to a fantastic season
ove: Joshua Scheerer ries to pin his opponent at the tate Wrestling Tournament.
Photo By Luke Fransen had made five finals matches at various wrestling _ meets throughout the year, but was, until districts,
Next up was Tesch in the 112-pound division. Tesch lost the match to George Faulconbridge from Omaha Creighton
seven faced some serious challenges as they began their day at the State Tourney. A very large crowd was on hand to witness the eight mat circus with constant action. White was the first to wrestle, and he won in a hardfought match against Clayden Mckim from Omaha Burke, 3-1 unable to escape with a victory. Senior Brian Logan also made the finals but lost in a heartbreaker to Josh Koessel from Millard North 2 - 1.
By GarretDurst
The Lincoln High Links basketball team is not going to state for the first time in five years. The Links had some key losses that should have been easy victories, such as North Star.
The easiest way that the Links were looking to head to State was by winning a tough district tournament that included a top team such as Omaha Central. In the second round of districts, the Links beat Bellevue East 55-46. Senior Yusuf Vinson got hot at the right time and led the Links with 20 points. Seniors Andrew Klein and Garrett Jones combined for 20 points and senior Bobby Weaver added eight points in the victory.
The next night the Links faced bitter rival Omaha Central. The Links knew they needed a win to secure their slot in the dance. The Links came out hot and jumped to a 27-25 halftime lead on a desperation three-pointer by Jones as time expired. The Links had the momentum heading into the second half, but Central stole the show as soon as the third quarter began. CeQtral's Benjamin Kline, no relation to Andrew, opened the half by hitting three, after three, after three.
east roll North Star, but East didn't help the cause by getting blown out by Creighton Prep. The Knights of Southeast did the most damage to our chances by losing to Omaha Northwest. In the end, the Links are not heading to state. It was a great season of ups and downs.
Omaha Bryan.
Bellevue West returns all five starters from last year's championship team. The team also has a Creighton recruit, Josh Doetzler, who could be the best player in the state. Omaha Central is filled with talent every year but seems to be the choke artist come = ~ v,~he11.,.tlr~~ nks~ eed~ 1,ark"';C"~B-h-irr~
L-&a"---r-n- - -• to his freshman, Josh Riser. Riser entered the time. Look second half by hitting two consecutive three- out for pointers. Riser cut the eighteen point lead to 11 k guard B .J ten entering the fourth quarter. Central was too
quick and Central's B.J. Valentine shot 10 for to do most 10 from the line in the fourth quarter. The Links due to the fact we will lose all five starters. lost 76-62 and were hoping to earn a wild card This year's State Tournament might be full of in the tournament. - the most talent it has ever seen. The teams to watch
The Links got some help by having North- are Bellevue West, Omaha Central, Northeast, and
By GarretDurst Baseball
The Lincoln High baseball team is stacked with returners and plenty of experience. After being one win away from reaching state last year, the Links know it is now or never. The Links return seven starters, seniors Jake Brokaw, Derec Schmidgall, Alan Diest, Jason Warnke, Max Hubka, Eric Hoffman, and Chris Meskimen. Diest will not be in action this season due to an elbow injury. The Links will miss Diest on the mound and will need some young arms to step up and throw strikes. There is no question that this year it is either state of bust for the Links.
"Everyone is really excited about the upcoming season due to the fact that we have a lot of talent coming back," Brokaw said. "Ending the season like we did on a tough note left everyone disappointed, but this year we hope to come out a more dominant team with more senior leadership." Juniors Ethan Grell and Rudy Martinez should see some quality time in the infield. Grell came on strong in mid-season last year as he played well. "We have a ton of experience coming back, which hopefully means we will have a solid year," Warnke said. "Our _expectations are high and we are all working hard to make our goal of making state."
B oys' Track The Lincoln
will need some athletes to step up and replace the four senior captains the team lost. The only returning captain is senior Chris Hatch, and the Links will look toward senior star Athlete Ricky Massa to run well. Look for Hatch to compete in the 800 meter run in which he qualified for state last season. Hatch will also run the 1600-meter run. "I have put in nearly 600 miles of running this winter in hopes that I can drop my mile time down," Hatch said. "Our team took a pretty big hit with graduations last year, but we have some very strong talent still here." Hatch has set some goals for this season, including one which he has had since he was a freshman "I really only have two goals this season, the school record in the mile and a medal at State Track."
Massa is blazing quick and the best sprinter on the team. Watch for Massa to run in the 100- and 200-meter sprints. "The expectations are a lot higher this year as opposed to last year," Massa said. "I'm real excited to see what the 4x100 team evolves into, not to mention the whole team."
Senior Tom Foye should dominate the triple jump for the Links. Foy e is the defending conference champion in the triple jump. Darren Reinhart will contribute to the team in the throws. The Links have some talent on the track and hopefully it can carry them to State.
Boys' Golf
of the scoring. Play a half-court game with these guys and don't force a track meet. The Links have seen this squad many times and Uhing basically owns Central
The Lincoln High boys' golf team has one returning player from last season's varsity team, senior Nate Munford. The Links have some young talent around him, including junior Jon Harris and sophomore Eric Carlson. "We have a young team but we still look to qualify as a team for State," Harris said. "I feel we have a good chance to have success this season considering I'm looking to turn to the PGA Tour after my junior year." It sounds as if Harris is running his mouth as inuch as Freddie Mitchell. Hopefully he doesn't play like the People's Champ and actually plays well this season.
The boys' soccer team finished with an 11-6 record last season and went to the State Tournament. If this team plans on going back to State, seniors Ben Katt and Ben Beranek will need big seasons. "This team we have this season should play good defense," Beranek said. "[Ben] Katt will be a reason this team will win games " Senior David Frack will add his defense to the team as they look to play well.
The girls tennis tea m is looking for some respect across the city this season. The team has two bright stars returning, seniors Zoya Dronova and Kristin Hilde. Coach Ward is countin g on production from his two seniors this season. "We
The Northeast Rockets might have the best inside-out game in the tournament. The Rockets have strong guards in Bridger, Johnson, and Melvin. The team looks for Panicevic in the post. The Links probably could have beat these guys at State, but we will never know.
Omaha Bryan is a two-man show with Culliver and McGruder. These two guards combined for 34 points in their loss to North Star in districts. Bryan's biggest win of the season came against Central late in the season.
Lincoln High has been spoiled over the years in basketball. It seems as if it is a priority rather than a privilege around here to go to the State Tournament. We will miss the seniors who brought us great memories. Vinson showed everyone over the last two seasons why he was one of the best players in the state. Vinson was a player who could control the game on both ends of the floor. Senior Preston Petersen played three years of Va.Fsityball and was a dominant force on the inside Jones and Klein carried the Links for most of the season by making big shot after big shot. Lewis started in the place of Petersen who s1:1ffe,Fei=a=8ea8<:la-~H€l •i11s-i11j,a y#' \¥is..pi ~@C½-'-tip,,=1;;; the slack and showed how deep the Links post game really was. Lewis could have started on any other team in the state but stayed at Lincoln High to help the team have the best inside game Uhing has ever had . Thanks for the memories seniors, and thanks to Coach Uhing for having his team ready to play Next season should be no exception.
plan to set goals early in the season and work on improving and supporting each team member throughout the season." Ward said. The Links will have a lot of new members on the team and hopefully will see some production from these athletes. Sophomore Erica Anderson should also see some action on the varsity squad. The Links will host an eight-team invitational on April 16' h • Look out for the girls' tennis team as they try to serve their opponents.
The Lincoln High girls' soccer team finished with a disappointing 7-8 record last season. The Links lost eight seniors from last year's roster and will need some holes to be filled quickly. Sophomore Miranda Ksionzek and senior Mindy Shortridge look to carry the Links to the promised land. Senior Megan Ksionzek and junior Maggie Wells will also have a key role in the lineup. Good luck to the girls' soccer team.
The girls track team is going to take a major hit this season due to the fact that most of the athletes from last year did not come out this season. Two athletes to watch are seniors Jessica Maske and Thea Smith. These ladies will be strong in the shot-put and will need to carry this team. Young athletes will try and fill the holes the no-shows left this season.
LHS student speaks candidly about life-page 3
Crossword Puzzle - page 6
U2 to grace Nebraska-page 7
Winter sports reports released-page 10
Jade Esteban Estrada -page 5
ByNhu-YNgo
Lincoln High senior Perla Sanchez understands the importance of an education Her family emigrated from Mexico when she was nearly three, in search the elusive American Dream. What she has realized is education provides the foundation upon such an ideal can flourish. She has watched her older siblings attend college and graduate and now is poised to enter a post-secondary institution herself upon graduation. "I have always been told the education is the most important thing," Sanchez said. Recently, a bill currently being debated in the Nebraska Unicameral has sparked her interest, even though she and her family are legal residents. It deals with a residency condition for undocumented immigrants and students in this nation, according to Lincoln Senator DiAnna Schimek (D). "It sets residency requirements for university and colleges in Nebraska," Schimek said.
The post-secondary education of undocumented immigrants in America has been the focus of the Nebraska State Legislature for some time now. Introduced by Senator Schimek, Legislative Bill 239 aims at allowing children of illegal immigrants easier access to a college education. This is the third time a bill of this nature has been proposed. "I said this year when I introduced it, I was going to introduce it until it passes," Schimek
Continued on Page 2
1ll Above: Christian Lewis ( 12) donates his time and blood in Johnson Gym on April 11th at the annual Blood Drive
sponsored by Student Council and Campus Life. Eighty-seven donors gave blood throughout the day.
By '5herryWang
Lincoln's primary election was held on April 5. Out of the 144,088 registered voters, the number of ballots cast was 27, 838.
According to Deena Winter in her Lincoln Journal Star article of March 4, "The three seats are now held by Ken Svoboda, Terry Werner and Glenn Friendt, but Friend! is not running again." It seems that the two who are running for re-election, Svoboda and Werner , are doing pretty well. Svoboda, a Republican whose top issue is economic vitality, got the most votes with 15.94 percent of the voters supporting. Terry Werner came in next with 13.78 percent or, 10, 554 voters voting for him. The Democrat is an
Continued on Page 3
By i\llisaFuemalida
Would you give an hour of your time to save someone's life? A pint of blood could mean life or death in some situations. Without blood transfusions, 4.5 million Americans would die each year, according to The Blood Center of New Jersey. In the United States alone, 35,000 pints of blood are used each day. Well, here is your chance to save a life. Lincoln High School's Student Council and Campus Life came together to hold a Blood Drive on April 11thfrom 9:00 a.m. to 3 :00 p.m. in Johnson Gym. Student Council and Campus Life encouraged students and staff to donate
and give the gift of life. Student Council members and Campus Life representatives went around the school asking students and teachers if they wanted to sign up to donate blood.
According to Blood Centers of the Pacific, 15 percent of non-donors say the reason they don't give blood is because they are "too busy." If a loved one of yours needed your blood type in order to stay alive, would you still be too busy? Just one pint of blood can help three to four people. Every two seconds someone needs blood, according to America's Blood Centers. Sophomore and StuCo member Jessica Thompson said, "People usually don't know that if they donate one time they can
save a premature baby's life! It is a good thing to do for someone who needs it."
You must be 17 or older in order to donate blood. You must be in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds. If it is your first time donating blood to the Community Blood Bank, you will need to bring printed proof of your Social Security Number.
This process takes about an hour to complete because before the actual donation takes place they must take tests to see the amount of hemoglobin or the volume of red blood cells in the donor's blood. They will take examinations about your physical health and your health history. The actual donation itself takes about 10 minutes.
As I walked into Johnson Gym I saw
seniors signing up to donate, I also noticed that there was a TV on that was showing Tarzan the movie. I noticed senior Lydia Bums lying down on a chair squeezing a red stress ball shaped as a heart while they drew blood from her arm. So, I thought that was the perfect opportunity to ask her why she chose to give blood. When I asked her she said, "Because I care about other people." While I asked history teacher Jerrell Green the same question he said, "I always give blood. I think that it's the right thing to do for somebody who needs it, and I have some extra to give."
For questions or concerns, or forl more information, you can contact James Perry in Room 109.
noted. "I am very determined about it."
The bill seeks to provide in-state, residential tuition for students whose parents have illegally entered the United States. Currently, these students pay the out-of-state tuition price for a college education or do not attend an institution of higher learning at all. Some are unsure of how to attend college without legal status or a social security number. LB 239 wants to ensure consistency in the college application process for undocumented students who have intentions of extending their academic careers.
Eligibility guidelines are clearly stated within the bill. "It says that if you have lived in Nebraska for at least three years, you have graduated from high school in Nebraska, and you intend to apply for citizenship or legal status that you would be able to go to school at the in-state tuition rate rather than the outof-state tuition," Schimek said.
Many students fear legal consequences for revealing their immigration status. This bill is not out to get these students in trouble, Schimek says, as long as all requirements have been met and an affidavit promising to retain such requirements is signed.
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents recently supported LB 239 with a vote of 6-2 in favor at a March meeting. Drew Miller of Papillion and Jim McClurg of Lincoln abstained from the voting after voicing concern about LB 239 possibly undermining immigration law. Their abstentions both tallied as no votes. Regents lobbyist Ron Withem can now lend official support for the bill on behalf of the University. In previous years, the Regents have strayed away from supporting similar bills due to firm opposition within the body.
In the United States Senate, a similar bill called the federal DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Minors) Act was proposed by Senator Orin Hatch (R) of Utah. Although the Senate has never voted on it, Hatch might reintroduce the bill, which allows the children of illegal immigrants to gain legal status if they graduate, attend at least two years of college paying in-state tuition, and have no run-ins with the law.
Eight other states have passed laws mirroring LB 239, including Kansas, whose
legislation has been attacked by a national anti-illegal immigration group. According to Schimek, the state has recently responded and is poised to win the legal battle. Schimek herself receives e-mails from anti-illegal immigrant groups such as FAIR.
In response to this opposition lie proponents. Nebraska newspapers the Omaha World Herald, the Kearney Daily Hub, and the Grand Island Independent have all been receptive, though none have officially supported LB 239. United States Senator Chuck Hagel (R) ofNebras ka has also lent support to the measure. Eighteen organizations actively back the provision, including the Lincoln Action Plan, the Mexican American Commission, Centro Hispano, and the Hispanic Center.
The Hispanic Center recently did some guerrilla warfare-esque lobbying at the State Capitol. Center volunteer Ivonne Torres was present at the event. "We went around to Senators and asked for their support," she said. Many offered what they were looking for. Both Senator Shrock and Chambers voiced cooperation. "Senator Chambers was busy, but he said he supported the bill. 'Who wouldn't? Those who don't should be smacked on the back of the head,"' Torres recalled the notoriously confrontational Omaha senator saying.
Opponents claim LB 239 violates immigration laws and endangers national security. Are we su2porting illegal immigration? Schimek disagrees. She sees it in a practical and purely educational light. "Twenty years from now, the workforce will shrink and the baby boomers will retire," she said. "We will need skilled and highly educated workers. It is really for our self-interest and it makes sense. The more money people make, the more they pay taxes; a strong economy depends upon strong wages." Schimek went on to highlight the importance of education "I don't see how it could [undermine immigration law] The courts said a long time ago that we need to educate children of illegal immigrants-K-12." This is simply an extension.
By rejecting this bill, according to Senator Ray Aguilar, we are encouraging our youth to add to the brain drain of Nebrai'ika
April 8 - April 24 - To Kill a Mockingbird, Lincoln Community Playhouse
April 15 - The Jazz Factory, Rococo Theater
April 15 - Head-On and Born into Brothels, Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center
Movies opening April 15 - The Amityville Horror, House CJ/D, Valiant, The Year of the Yao, Tell Them Who You Are, Torremolinos 73
April 21 - Aaron Carter, Rococo Theater
April 22 - Earth Day
Movies opening April 22 - The Game of Their Lives, The Interpreter, Kings Ransom, A Lot Like Love, Madison, Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room
April 22 - April 24 - Chicago, Lied Center for Performing Arts
April 23 - Passover
April 25 - Honda Civic Tour featuring Maroon
5 with special guest The Thrills, Pershing Auditorium
April 25 - LHS Freshman Concert, Symphonic Band and Orchestra performance, Johnson Gym
April 26 - Continuing Education Night for the parents of juniors, LHS Cafeteria
and travel to Kansas for an education
The bill has been heard by the Education Committee but has not been prioritized. The chances it will advance out of the committee and be debated are uncertain, but Senator DiAnna Schimek remains hopeful. Eight senators sit on the committee, and the bill has received four votes for advancement; five votes are necessary.
Sanchez hopes the measure makes its way out of the Senat e and begins positively impacting the lives of undocumented stu-
April 27 - Scraps Arts Music, Lie d Center for Performing Arts
April 28 - Afterburner, Lied Center for Performing Arts
April 28 - Second City Touring Company,Rococo Theater
April 28 - April 30 - LHS Theatre presents A Midsummer Nights Dream, LHS Auditorium
dents who currently cannot continue into college after high school. "I feel that it is sad that the land where people go to have their dreams come true is denying so many of an education," she said. "I have relatives who are undocumented and they are not any different from you or me. They just come here to work because they can't come to get an education. It is ironic because I have been told that education is the most important thing I should value. I find it unfortunate." • 0 1 a s
Movies opening April 29 - Duma, The Jlitchhiker s Guide to the Galaxy, xXx: State of the Union, Death ofa Dynasty
April 29 - Arbor Day
April 29 - The Sea Inside,
• '
advocate for helping families and students by bring in good jobs to Lincoln.
Six of the 20 running for the council member at large seat will proceed to the May 3 general election. The other four candidates are Robin Eschliman, Dan Marvin, Mark A. Koller, and Shawn Traudt. Voters were allowed to decide on 3 candidates. Republican Robin Eschliman received 13.21 percent of the votes, whose main concern is to preserve jobs. Dan Marvin, a Democrat with the intention to provide better jobs in Lincoln, raked in 12.9 percent of the votes. Approximately eight percent of the voters selected Republican Mark A Koller as one of their choices. His top issue is to attract and retain jobs. Lastly, Shawn Traudt, a Republican who aimed for "streamlining the process of planning and platting," according to the Lincoln Journal Star, received roughly seven percent of the total votes.
According to JoAnne Young in her March 4 article in the Lincoln Journal Star, "Volunteer school board members govern the policies of Lincoln Public Schools and establish its yearly budget. They meet the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, the first a night meeting and the second a morning meeting. They also meet in several committees of three members each, including finance, long-range planning and boundaries, legislative, transportation and technology committees."
People also voted for the Lincoln Board of Education seats in four districts. In Districts One and Seven, there is only one candidate for each district, both running for re-election. Democrat Kathy Danek is contending for the First District. Advocating for the finding of a resolution on how to finance education for every children in Nebraska and meet all accountability requirements, and also being the sole candidate running in her district, she received 97% of the votes The remaining three percent were not satisfied with Danek; they had written a different name to show their disapproval. Don Mayhew of District Seven ended up getting 95 percent
of the votes, while the other five percent jotted down their ideal candidate on their ballot
Two, Keith A. Prettyman and Norman L. Dority, both Republicans, had filed to compete in the Fifth District. Prettyman claims that he will be responsible for prioritizing the district's spending and facility needs, and replacing teachers who will retire in the next few years Dority states that unaffordable transportation is not needed for sports and other activities. He firmly believes that kids should have the capability "to read and write and with civil skills" upon graduating. He would also be in charge of reducing the district and school administration.
The Third District had the most candidates. The three who ran for the seat were Barbara Baier, Tony Merritt, and James Frohman. 'Democrat Barbara Baier, who plans to combat overcrowding in schools with new facilities and promote multicultural education within the community, took hold of 55 percent of the votes. 27 percent of the voters supported Tony Merritt, a Democrat who claims that she would provide the required leadership on the school board to make wise decisions. James Frohman, a nonpartisan, acquired 17 percent of the votes , who said that he would handle the issue of school overcrowding and the issue of the potential bond for new schools and the remodeling of existing schools.
The top two "vote-getters" for the airport authority seat were incumbents Phyllis Chambers and Wayne Fisher, with 37 and 26 percent of the votes, respectively. The remaining two new challengers are Chris Hove and Justin Larsen. Rood Cayton states in his Lincoln Journal Star article that the four Republicans issues are "passenger demand for increased commercial service, finding additional Air Park tenants, and development of authority-owned land." Board members, who are not paid, hold monthly meetings to discuss and set policies regarding Lincoln Airport and the Air Park Industrial Park.
ByA.lina&lyukh
Full Name. Rosa Maria Beltran Orozco
Grade. 11 (17 years old)
Place of Birth. Mexico
How did you get to Lincoln? Lived in California near San Diego for 4 years and then we moved here last summer. We came here because my dad thought it would be a good opportunity for us to study. It's our fifth year in USA.
Life in California. In California I lived in a ranch, it was an orange trees ranch. And it was far for me so I had to walk through the orange trees to get to the bus. And it was dangerous.
Family. I have 8 brothers a nd 3 sisters. I am the girl-baby. It's kind of nice. When we get together it's just a mess. Because they already have kids, I have 19 nephews and they're run ning everywhere, yelling The oldest he is 37. It's like having a lot of parents. (Laughs) Actually we used to all live separately, and that's the first time we're all together. Even though some of them still live separately.
Describe yourself in 3 words. Responsible, trustful, respectful.
Alone vs. Crowd of people? Probably alone but it depends on the situation on the people, too (laughs).
What's your favorite class at LHS? Writ-
ing I like to write, because that's the only way I can express myself to the full.
What's your favorite place at LHS? Library, because that's where I hang out with my friends.
What's your favorite food in the cafeteria? (Laughs) That's a tough one, because I don't eat there I only ate once I didn't like it (laughs) I liked the jelly, though (laughs again).
What do you do during lunch? I used to go out for lunch with my ftiends in the first semester, but now I spend most of the time in the library. We do homework sometimes, but usually we just talk.
What do you do in you free time? Watch TV and spend time wiJh my family, listen to music. What type of music? Anything, I listen to
any types. they can't.
What would you change about yourself, if you could? Get more trustful in myself, my selfconfidence
Change about LHS? I don't think there's anything that I would want to change. I like it the way it is.
About Lincoln? Nothing really
About USA?
There's many things that I would want to be changed. Like to give more opportunities for Latino students who want to go to college but
What are the ch . aracter traits that you admire in people most? That they listen,
respect, care.
Least? Discrimination, deceit.
What is the first thing you notice about people? Eyes and smile.
Do you judge by first impression? No but sometimes I do but I still need to first get to know them to judge thern
What is one thing you could do forever? Travel around the world.
Have you been places? No, and that's why (laughs).
If you could go anywhere, where would it be? Italy. I think it's a very interesting place. I find it interesting: their language , and culture, and everything.
Did you try to learn Italian? Yeah, I tried, but I don't have time.
What languages do you speak? Spanish and English.
What do you like doing least? I don't really like to talk in front of public.
What are you scared of? I'm scared of failure. When I'm not able to do what I want to do ...
What is you dream? To go to college and possibly get a degree.
What do you want to study in college?
Well, I was very interested in math, but now when I'm in Algebra II it's not that exciting any more (laughs) or Spanish Spanish teacher
• /' April 15, 2005
By Marcuslfall
To you, what makes science so intriguing?
'Cause it explains every thing that goes on around you. All of the questions that you want know, science explains.
Do you think that • we use science to overexplain things?
(Pause) At times I think that as long as it's based upon fact, but I think that a lot of times, people will start putting their emotions or ideas into things and then try to use science to back it up. That's when it's not appropriate.
Based on where
(Laughs) Well
I was going to graduate college and live in Alaska for two or three years because I wanted to experience the 6 weeks of darkness and 6 weeks of light during the day and to learn more about glaciers and all of the wildlife stuff, but then I got more settled into Lincoln. You know, it's one of those things that, 'someday, if my dream came true' I'd want to live in Alaska, just to experience all of the things we don't have here in Lincoln.
Yeah, why miss all of the great things we have in Lincoln.
(Laughs) Well, the seasons.
Okay, Goldfish, the cracker, or Phish the band?
(Laughs) Goldfish crackers, Rainbow please.
Why do you think that teachers in South Building don't get much exposure?
I think that most of it is because we don't have any offices, we don't have lockers, I think that if you come down to take a few courses in science or math, then there is no reason to hang out. If you 're not signed up for a math or science class or an FCS class, then you really don't come down this way And there is really good and bad about that, it's quieter, so it's a lot easier to teach classes because it's quieter in the hallways during and between classes, it just matches my personality of being a bat in a cave. (Laughs).
Do you think that south will eventually secede from the union?
Yeah, but it would nice to go back and visit the union
What would you say is the most important emotion?
(Pauses) Well, (Continues to Pause) I would say
happiness and happiness ties into love because if you surround yourself with positive and happy people, then everything around you can work through. So if things that are bad, or things that are maybe not as desirable in life happen, as long as you have positive attitude, and that deals with where you are in life
and what you 're doing you can make it through everything. So I believe that it is happiness slash love
All right, I'll give you two.
Good, thanks. See I didn't know If they were same or separate, because love makes you happy. So they're kinda combined
Yeah, sure. This could go on for but I'm going to move on.
(Laughs)
Photo By Cathy Danner
If the united states were a man in his early 20's would you date him? Why or why not?
(Laughs) Well I can't date anybody, I'm married.
Oh, well ... okay. All right, what if yo .ur weren't married and in your early 20's? Then what?
If I was in my early 20's and (Both together) not married (Alone) would I date somebody in their early 20s?
No, just the Uuited States, if he were a man in his early 20's.
(Pauses) Date the United States of America ifhe was a man in his early 20's? I guess I don't get the question Marcus, you 're gonna have to explain it to me, see I'm blonde.
(Both Laugh)
If all of the traits and attributes were a man and the man was acting like the United States of America, would you go out with him.
(Sighs heavily) Well Absolutely, absolutely. It's the land of opportunity right? So therefore it means that I should be able to mold it for whatever I want. Uh yes.
Is there anything that you want to say to students going on to college. •
(Longest pause of the session.) Don't take no for an answer, stay determined. Even if you get there and it's harder than you expected work through it, keep going, use your planners.
Great
(Laughs) Planners will come in handy for all of tests exams and assignments that are due. See we are actually trying to teach you something here. Use vour olanners.
By Marcuslfall
It's been so long since I've read a book that has kept me interested, a book that makes me want to read it multiple times. And after reading Beyond the Wind By Rob N. Hood, it's now apparent that I'll have to keep looking. This is an atrocious excuse for a book, and it pains me to say this, because for months I was looking forward to having my hands on it.
action-filled plot. I say somewhat because the action isn't very exciting, and the way the author introduces the characters, plot and background information is rather dull and unimaginative. I guess the big problem I have is that neither the book, nor the author proposes anything different or brings anything new to the table. Just another stale pseudo-teen novel for the bargain bin or landfill.
This book falls into the dangerous category Rob Hood is a freelance writer from right here in Lincoln, Nebraska, and this is his first of"edutainment." This is a problem because this published book. Southern Tier Editions was very book, especially in the later chapters, is more tight lipped about the book's content and plot. All education and lecturing than it is entertainment. that was being released was that the book takes This has been done before, by great books such place in Lincoln and Omaha. I had first heard as Lord of the Flies, The Chaos Engine and My about the book through an English teacher who Ishmael However, the difference is that these had recommended it to me. Since no information books do it very subtly and make you think about was available, I had no idea what the book was society and where it is going. This book slaps about. Yet I had faith in my teacher, who had rec- you in the face with slanted info, makes you ommended The Chaos Engine, so I though, "I'll feel guilty for being uninformed, and makes you give it a try." Well, I was in for quite a shock. sleepy. Chris's friend, Jen, acts as the teacher, Beyond the Wind follows Christopher Tal- constantly chiming in with info about AIDS, bot, a fourteen year old gay student a !,ffe,linner homosexuality a~ relig i_on. Her dialogue is c it y high scliool in Lincoln, Nebraska (Lincoln also exceptionally forced and most of the time High?), who travels to Omaha to find his run- doesn't fit into the current conversation at all away boyfriend, Kyle. Upon arriving in Omaha, Chris is constantly talking to himself, a la he discovers that Kyle has been hanging around The Wonder Years, and even then, it's cliche and a known street walker, Hatch. Along the way, worn out. The characters themselves are actuwe meet up with crooked senators, tons of soul ally developed somewhat, but I don't feel like searching and pages of HIV/AIDS info. In all I really know Chris or Kyle, something that is honesty, that's the gist of the entire book, give or necessary in fiction writing The other thing is take a few events. the physical aspect of the book. The cover art is
Now, I feel that there is something that I poor, not that I could do any better, but it's not must clear up. I'm not saying this book is bad be- appealing to me as a reader. There are a lot of cause of the subject. I'm saying it's bad because pages, but the font is probably typed in 18 point it's a terrible book. The first offense this book times and the chapters are broken up like an old commits is the static dialogue. It seems so un- Goosebumps book. natural and forced, that it makes reading the book
Beyond the Wind received lukewarm reseem like a chore. Take this gem from the very views from most, and some went as far as to first page of the book; Kyle is considering killing recommend it. However, I cannot do the same; himself and leads Chris into an abandoned mis- actually, I recommend that you throw this book sile silo. "Don't go in there! Most of them don't in the trash can. I give this book a 2.5 out of 10. have floors! Nothing but air beneath your feet!" In fairness, I don't think this book is intended First, Mr. Hood and the exclamation point need for older readers, but still, younger readers will some time apart. Second, I might be nitpicking, be confused and even appalled by the book's but imagining that statement coming from a 14 explicit description of sexual activities When I year old is rather difficult for me Furthermore, it first held this book in my hands, a friend warned is never really explained how they gained access me, "Any book that has, 'A Novel' on the cover to a missile silo. isn't gonna' be good." To my friend, I'm sorry
One odd thing about the book is the way it I didn't believe you, and I'm going to listen to drops you directly into the middle of a somewhat you from now on.
By Alina-SClyukh
,.,,.,l!l11te,if;fiuilm,•ts;,,.e;w:err,,,1ffi¾CIU••Use a con do m every s1ngle )·_.,.:i~r11MtW!t!tJtmimt::: rnm::. wmJt1I:t1@1 1t:1di::J1tt11:~?~'.=f 1t\i Jtr??/f+t;ir\,:::=::::::::n:!!11::n::,:=e::::::.::.·· ·· ·•·. t :~,1 t ·-·.-·.k t·. · b.· · t:-h·· · ·- "'"., ,.,,, ,,, "l~Et!MOJO .,vtlllWllitsex you res I a ns or o -,';:;::.:::r··---==::J j J]i@[~tf}[ttJHH\ ttt ilifihr :t1JWW¥f t#l <tf&t~W*\t\ri\#&tfmtb}?}!?}~?\:/{?t::::?'::: :··- - - - •• ,•. , ,,,. .,,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.•·•#%,,,"' ,.w,,,;~l'ill!rgfmomJ;Miihtvll'ii;iw ..!Sililus,, J o ut of every 5 Americans 1s ;;,:;, \ :!;IfIfiiiiill1lll~l!lilli1Ih ',:;ii,;, ; ~jfIJ~lliifillillil\lllllllllWli 'ill lit~l,,rCJ ble.STD· 'An Y ~e nital , ,,,,,,,.,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,""''' , ,,,,,.,,,,,,., ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.,,,,t1::.ontf:ct11:;,f,4!I,lcnD,)llc11r,ci,naca n put you ,at ns k Make 1,
7 Blood donations organized at LHSBlood - 10 One of Jade Esteban Estrada's CDs 11 Sharill Luedtke advises to use these when you are in college
March 22 during the StuCo month • Day 14 Illegal drugs taken by sport players and athletes to gain muscle or pertor1n outstandingly
17 One of the most important golf meets at the end of the year: Capitol City
18 Show at the L.ied Center April 22-24
19 I~ast year's !.,inks girls soccer team goalkeeper
20 Jessica Lunsford ' s k.idnapper
21 lJ2's lead singer
1 Nonpartisan C ity Ct,uncil cai1didate for the Third District
2 A1Jril 13 - Natit,nal Day of
3 The first song on The Academy Is CD
4 The place at Lincoln H.igh, where the f'ilm Festival will be held
5 Bill about the undocumented students proposed by the Senate
6 City where Pope John Paul II was born
8 LHS boys track team athlete, Darren
9 North Platte Soccer Team
13 Area in I,incoln, \~'here most offices and businesses are located
15 Main ch aracter in Rob N Hood's "Beyond the Wind"
16 6 111inutesbetween classes
15, 2005
ByIzzyl\OCh
You better get your tickets to the last available show soon, or they might run out. U2, almost universally known, is on tour right now, and will be touring throughout the year. With a wide range of tour dates, U2 is making the necessary stop in Omaha, on December 15th.
Tickets for this tour, dubbed the Vertigo Tour, are already on sale, for the cheap, cheap starting price of $49.50. And that's only for a general admission ticket. If you want the good seats, you'll be paying about $160. Not too bad for the best live show around, right?
The tour will span over the rest of this year, with shows being played all over the country, from California, to New York, to little ol' Nebraska. After playing in 13 cities in the US, U2 manages to take a break from American fans for a little while in June, to stay in Europe for a few months, and a few shows. Looking at their web site, you see that all but one show (December 14 th in St. Louis, the second leg of the American part of the tour) are sold out. Out of 102 total shows, it's the only show that's not sold out. If you have your heart set on seeing U2, you better get on finding that ticket to that last show.
Headlining the tour, U2 has many
other sidekick shows that you may catch playing with them. These bands include t h e Kings 0 f Leon, Keane, Franz Ferdinand, Interp O 1 , a n d the hot n e w band T h e Ki 11ers.
U2, a rock band ··· t h a t h a s been around
U2 has managed to become very well known. Most people will remember their hit "Beautiful Day" from a few years ago, or maybe "The Hands that Built America " ' used in
ironically, Bono had inducted into the hall of fame in 1999).
In August of 2004, U2 released their single for which their tour is named, "Vertigo", and in November of the same year, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb was released. How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb was U2's fourteenth record released since 1982, more than twenty years a go.
So, let's talk more about Bono. Irish-born Bono is very environmentally conscious, and dedicated to his music, and making the world a better place. Bono is the songwriter, lead singer, and sometimes even a guitarist of U2. Just a while ago, Bono came to UNL, for a free speech - to which tickets were gone in hours . One of Bono's many accomplishments has been the cofounding of Debt, Aids, Trade, Africa (www.data.org).
songs, you've probably heard of some of U2's more popular CD's. Boy was one of U2's earliest CD's, and The Joshua Tree seems to be one of the more favored CD's. Not too long ago, U2 was even inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Bruce Springsteen (who,
the movie Gangs of New York, or even "Pride (in the name of love)", or "I still haven't found what I'm looking for." If you haven't heard any of these specific years and years, recently recorded their latest and newest CD, How to Dismantl(( an Atomic Bomb. With having been around for such a long time, and having Bono and his loud voice in saving the environment as their lead singer, and so many CD's,
It has been claimed by many that U2 is quite literally the best live show you will ever see. Demand for the band seems to prove that, with the tour spanning from March to December, with 102 shows being played over a span of months - with multiple gigs in the same city. So, if you've got the time, love the music, and you've got the money, a U2 concert '1-voulddefinitely be a great way to spend a cold wint er evening relaxing, hanging with friends, and just listening to good music.
'· ByAlina-selyukh
Maybe there aren't going to be as many lights, as many fancy dresses and costumes, or as many world famous movie stars. Maybe no one will be watching the ceremony on TV, no one will come from another side of the globe to see everything with their own eyes, and no one will be blocked by square-looking body guards from trying to get an autograph Maybe but who knows!
On May 4 Lincoln High Auditorium wiJl turn into a house of creativity with its own talented actors, actre sses, directors and tech crew. Sponsored by English teacher Chris Maly, Social Studies and Psychology teacher James Perry and Student Council, the Annual LHS Film Festival will shake the walls.
"There are a lot of students at school who are interested in filmmaking and acting," last year's participant senior Larissa Pace said. "It's a really cool way for them to present their ideas to school And it's just a lot of fun."
With the only restriction in time - a movie should not be longer than seven minutes - and school-appropriate contents, the festival gives Lincoln High students an opportunity to find their talents and show their creativity in writing scripts, acting, directing and filmmaking in general.
"Even though it's a festival with rules, it's still an art form," Maly said. "It's just seven minutes, but what people do with those seven minutes is what makes festival fun."
There were around eight submissions last year, according to Maly. This year there are even more expected, because this is only second year that the LHS Film Festival is held and more and more people start finding out about this unique opportunity that Lincoln High gives its students.
"It's one thing to do the art," Maly said, "but then for people to see it and react to it, is a completely
different experience. Movies are not more creativity. I was just in awe." to be just watched in the living room, Last year's Festival was hosted they should be shown in a public ~ by Chris Maly himself; however, place." this year, the audience will see more
And this is what the festival gives student involvement, he said. Senior its participants: a chance to show Larissa Pace is now the main canditheir work to the public, see work date for being th~ MC of the show. of friends, have lots of fun and get To participate, you should hurry prizes for that. to fill the submission sheet that can
"We give awards for filmmaking be picked up from sponsors and turn techniques like script writing, acting, in your ready-made movie either to directing etc.," Maly said. "But that's James Perry (room 109) or Chris Maly not really the purpose. It's not about (room 227) before May 1. Even if you the money, it'.s not about the awards, have no idea how all those technical it's about seeing student's work, what things work, or how to use editing they love to do " programs, or you don't have the neeLincoln High 's audio and visual essary equipment, or anything of the technician Mike Reinmiller took part kind, you can still participate! Rein last year's and wants to be a part of inmiller, Maly and Perry are always this year's Festival. You ,1would think there to help you! that with all the equipment, time and And if you think you're no good experience he has, he wo ld have just for filmmaking or acting, but you outshined all the student ). but... still want to be a part of this creativ-
"I was no better then students!" ity flood, don't miss it! Especially II he said. "In fact, 90 percent of what because it's FREE! they did, was thousand times better Lincoln High Auditorium, May 4, then mine, because they have a lot 7-10 p.m. See you there!
By Marrusliall
I'm not Catholic, but on April 1st, it didn't really matter; I was glued to cable news like so many around the planet. I had so many other things I could have done, so many petty things. I could have cashed my paycheck and gone to the mall, I could have spent all night playing Mortal Kombat as I had done the previous night after work, but I couldn't.
I heard the news that Pope John Paul II was dying, and for some strange reason, I was captivated. All day I switched between the news networks, wondering who would break the story first, who would get the glory. But that's not what it was about, it 11 was about the loss of a great man. But that
perhaps an early version of the events of Hotel Rwanda. John Paul looked out for the little guy, and that got him to the top. Perhaps that's why he was so loved, because no matter his politics, no matter his beliefs and stance on dire and world events, he didn't let it cloud him so much that he ignored his main reason for living, world peace and unity.
That Saturday was tough, I had been working outside and had just stepped inside, when it was announced that there was "Breaking News," and like all watching, I knew what it was about. I heard the news, and I was pretty bummed, because like so many, I wasn't ready to say "good-bye," My sadness turned to admiration quickly as I heard all of the things pope done. great that had My admiration turned to Friday, was - ~jg; t surprise as it a ever ~!ft I learned weird day. ,,y how many of I couldn't -~--;: -4±"'1'"'r these accomexplain why plishments I cared so fu'5i §@ "''' weren't relimuch, espe- gion related. cially con- In residering how cent weeks, captivated I themediahas was by the let me down, Schiavo fias- becoming co. I'm really nothing more lying, I know than "VH2". why I cared, ags were owere a Constant upbecause Pope Pope's death spread. dates about John Paul Photo by Cathy Danner the Michael ll was more...._ _______________________ __, Jackson trial.
tha11.,a Pope,
Really? Is a he was l! great man. The first Pope to set man that deems it~ propriate to share a beg
fuu r in a7iJ:osque, Fie "formally apolog -ized with pre-pubescent boys in a ranch where for The Cru,ades and He was the most pornography and liquor flow like popcorn. traveled Holy Father, setting foot in over News? No! It's sick and it's no where close 100 countriet, touching millions of lives to news, but I will tell you what it is, it's a everywhere he ~,ent. He is a great example ratings gold mine. of a advocate in civil rights, being the first The more people that tune into the garnon-Italian Pope in almost four and a half bage, the more people companies will reach centuries. with their ads. Pepsi would like nothing
Further example of his civil rights activ- more than to screen an ad with 25 million ism, when Warsaw was ta1i:en by the Nazis people watching. It's sickening. However, during the Holocaust, Joh" Paul II was there was an alternative story. arrested for housing and protecting Jews, Terri Schiavo, died. Really, do you
was not w_or.thy*of the time t!:1.iitw.as..s pe -n t Qn her, when the story wasn't even really about her. It could have been anyone in that Florida hospice, you, me, or your mother it would have probably gotten the same coverage. Don't get me wrong, it was a shame to see her die, and I didn't want to hear that she starved to death, which is more an insult than anything considering that anorexia got her there in the first place. Don't think I was the first person to point that out, the sick minds behind, "The number one cable news network" though that one up. Anyway, she ~.x.-eep-t-ive-R~.rpe,a~.
The media has really let me down at this point, as CBS quickly switched over to their Final Four coverage and some "25 of the worlds best coaches," thing, or some garbage like that. But I got over it, because no matter what, old habits die hard.
Because whether Michael Jackson showed up late to court, or Randy Moss hiccuped during a meeting, all four networks will be there, cameras rolling and a grand event will go overshadowed by the monster that modern American pop culture.
By-SherryWang
Minimum wage has been a hot topic for some time, and now it strikes up an intense conversation among stlldents.
As of now, as most people may know, the minimum wage in Nebraska is $5.15. For some people working full-time, this doesn't generate a sufficient amount of income to live comfortably. Furthermore, srudents who have part-time jobs that pay them the minimum aren't satisfied. Some would rather focus on their studies than work, since the wages they earn don't make up for their study time they are missing out on. The minimum wage increase from $4.25 to $4.75 on Oct. 1, 1996 has been beneficial to about 29,000 Nebraska workers. They, along with about 48,000 others, advantaged from another raisefrom$4.75to$5.15-onSept.1, 1997. Yes,itdidirnprove the lives of many Nebraskans, but not enough, as it rums out. Also, if the most recent raises were advantageous for the people, then another reasonable raise Wouldn't hurt. It is evident that the current minimum wage isn't enough because it has not changed with inflation and the rising cost of living, keeping many workers in poverty. The minimum wage today is at its lowest level, being only 33% of the average hourly earnings. Also, over the last three years, corporate profits in the U.S have risen by 57.5%, while private wage and salary income has actllally declined by 1.7% over the same period.
According to ABC News of Mar 5, the Senate is currently planning a vote for an attempt to raise minimum wage for the first time in 8 years. There is a controversy with this between the Democrats and the Republicans, though.
Senator Rick Santorum, a Republican, has a plan that incorporates tax and regulatory breaks for small businesses. His idea is to increase the minimum wage by $1.10 over 18 months, in two stages of $0.55. His rival is the Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy, whose proposal would lift the wage to $7.25 in three increments over a period of 26 months. Kennedy claims that his plan would help 7 .3 million people, while Santorum's plan would only help 1.8 million. He also declared that during the same eight-year period, Congress members raised their own salaries seven times. Jim Abrams claims in his Mar. 5 article that "the minimum wage amendments will need 60 votes to survive."
House Majority Leader Tom Delay asserts that "the House had no plans to vote this year on a minimum wage increase, which business groups claim would drive up
I lookfmward1Dspringeveryyear,especiallyairera long winterof brutalcold and:frozenhaii: Wakingup is easierduring this seasonbecause the change in climatefrom the bed to the bedroomdoor is not fifty degrees. The birds sing,the flowers bloom, andhonnones are a-raging. And what betterplace to spend a springday than insideschool?
The noted sarcasmWouldnot be so harshif the heaters were off in this school Duringthe week of April4th springhit Lincolnwith suddenintensity.Colorwas actuallypresentairer fivetreacherousmonthsof drabgray.Temperaturesreachedthe eighties.Peoplewere happy fron1all the sun basking.A friend of mine even excitedlyshowed--0ffhersunburn.
InsideLincolnHigh,a schoolrichin traditionyetplagned with ridiculousheatingand coolingproblems,spring was not present Instead,this old structureclung to winter. The heaters blastedUIS andsucceededin makingeveryoneuncornfurtable. Teachersopenedwindows,studentsdrank more of the High,0, and tax dollars were seen flying outside screaming "We're free!"
Few questionedthe problem,assumingthatit was simply howLincoh1Highfunctions.It isthisapatheticnaturewhichhas overcomeUIS It is not senioritis;it is a sad expectationof poor heating.Thingsmustchange,andwe mnstexpectmore,suchas heatingch1ringthe righttime of the yeru: When it was winter,it was cold Studentswould wear coats,andthenbe told to takethem off. Strippedof a protective coating,these studentsbravedthe elements.A highlyforoidden space heater could be seen in an unknownadministrator'soffice.
With spring, we expect a rebirth. The heat, however,
costs and force small businesses to lay off workers. _ An increase in minimum wages would mean that workers would be paid more, and some businesses will not be able to afford this, which would lead to some workers losing their jobs. Those who oppose raising the minimum wage assert that the market, and not the government, should set the minimum wage. The claim that minimum wages are not well targeted, since it is most beneficial to teenagers and families that already have relatively high income levels.
Employers are often against an increase in the minimum wage, claiming that it will lead them to have no other choice than to lay off workers. However, this has been refuted in the past. While employers may experience higher costs after a wage rate hike, evidence suggests that these increased costs may be offset by other advantages, like less absences to work, high worker morale, and lower employee turnover, which leads to lower recruiting and training costs and higher employee productivity, according to an article by Stanley Holmes and Wendy Zellner in the Apr. 12, 2004 issue of Business Week.
The argument that the minimum wage has been poorly targeted due to the benefits not going to the working families who need it the most is simply not true, since most minimum wage employees are adults from lower income families, whose wages are a major source of their families' earnings. An increase in minimum wage primarily generates an income gain for the bottom of the income scale. For instance, 35% of the gains caused by the 1996-1997 increase went to the poorest 20% of working households, and 58% of the benefit extended to the poorest 40% of working households. Also, minimum wage increases in the past have also raised the wages of minorities.
The minimum wage is a direct and proven way to improve the standard of living for the working poor and to prevent market forces from offering wages to an unacceptably low level. Many support an increase in the minimum wage, as shown in the October 2001 survey by Gallup, CNN, and USA Today, exemplifying that 81% of the respondents favored an increase in wages. Congress should act now to provide a major increase to the minimum wage. This would certainly benefit teens who sacrifice their time to srudy in order to work and save up some money for a good purpose. Additionally, Congress should also index the minimum wage so that the wages of poor working families automatically keep up with inflation and aren't subject to long periods of inaction that push more people into poverty.
remains, and it seems it is much more efficientin wanning our bodiesthanit was duringwinter.Is thisthe excessheatthatwas trappedin the ventsduringDecember?
The answer lies in a very old and complicatedsyslml. According to Scott Wieskarnp, Director of Facilities and Maintenanceof LincolnPublicSchools,tllming offthe heatin a buildingthesizeofLllS wouldbe hoth lengthyand costly."This is a lengthyprocess,and cannot be reversed on a daily basis, thereforemaking the apptO[Jil3tedecisionbecomessomewhat of a guessinggame,"Wieskampsaid "In past years,we have convcrtedschoolsto coolingin the spring,andoi:Ilya week later havehad snow,and coldnighttimetemperaturesin the 30's, and similartothisyear,wehavehaddaysinthe80'spriortotheApril 15 date,and still maintainthe heatingsystem." Changing:from heatingto coolingat UIS takestime, a calculatedplan.and lots ofluck
LincolnHigh has an older mechanicalheatingandcooling system,andis setto convertfium heat to air conditioningon April 15. The wait is long, but it is unnecessaiy.Studentsand staffshouldnot be furcedto wait I run not blaniingCMF; they have worlredhard to ensurethe facilitiesat all the schoolsare in properconditionandhave been doing a greatjob. The rootof the problemrests in unwillingnessof taxpayersto passa hond issuethatwouldprovidemore money fur schools. If this hond measure were passed, LHS could receive the indoor upgrade of which it is in dire need Then, separaterooms can heatand cool simultaneouslyto fit fue environment. Students could comfortablyattendclass,staffWouldnot be as crazyairera day of dealingwithfreshmen,and therewouldbehannony. It would takeseveralmilliondollars,W.teskampsaid But isn't themoney cun-entlyescapingthroughthe opened windowsas we speak?
ByChrislfatch .
Numbers have been taking a steady nose dive for the Links girls soccer program in recent years, but in 2005, the numbers finally crashed Talent is still rich on this tiny Lincoln High girls soccer team, with 8 girls who have been on varsity for multiple years. Lead by four-year starter Amy Lathrop, the team returns many other key players from last year's team that went 7 and 8. The Links lost a phenomenal goalkeeper in Allisa Holland last year, and some other staples of the varsity team are now gone. Last year's freshman phenom Miranda Ksionzekis hurt and could be out for the entire season. This could be a very big blow to the team offensively, as Ksionzek was a real weapon for the squad.
Senior Anna Magdanz is also nursing a knee . inJUry.
The Links will have to be on top of their
By Chrislfatch
The Lincoln High boys soccer team is looking for a return trip to state, and much of it hinges on its returning players, none so much, it would seem, as senior Ben Katt, who has been on varsity since his sophomore year. The Links return 8 letterwinners from last year's varsity squad , along with three starte rs: seniors Ben Katt, David Frack, and Ben Be- , ranek. These players, along with some anxious
April 15, 2005
game for much of the season, as the Heartland Athletic Conference, as well as virtually the entire city of Lincoln, is loaded with talent. They face off against many quality opponents, with three conference teams starting the year ranked in the top 10, including number one returning state champions Lincoln East. The Links have the potential to hang with anyone but will need some of the new faces on the team to step up
"Since we only have one team there are quite a few underclassmen on the team and there are more people than usual on the (varsity) team," said senior Becky Lodes "We are not sacrificing quality for quantity. Freshman Mandy Scheerer is a new player to watch, but pretty much all the other starters are returners from last year."
In the first game of the year, the Links faced off agai11stthe Silverhawks of Lincoln Southwest High School The Links came out with an open-
over in-city rival Lincoln Northeast 2-1 The men looked to keep the momentum rolling as they beat the North Platte Bulldogs. Despite an incredibly long bus ride, the Links were able to pull out a win 2 - 1.
The squad continued their success with a 4-3 win over Bellevue East in double overtime. Katt had a stellar game, scoring three goals to lead all newcomers, will look to surprise many in the state with a fantastic sea-
en1or Hrlan Logan klcKS the ball up eld against Lincoln Northeast at eacrest Field, on March 22. The Links
Links scorers. Unfortunately the Grand Island Islanders (much props on the team mascot, GI) snapped the Links' three game winning streak with a heartbreaking 43 win. Despite senior Thien Kieu scoring within 25 seconds of the start of the game, the Links just weren't able to hold on. Senior Ben Katt continued his stellar play up front for the Links, as did Karie and Beranek.
The Links won again with a scrappy victory over the Columbus Discoverers on April son. on 2-1.
L a s t Photo by Renee Krenk year's team ,______________________ .., was 11-6 and a state qualifier, but they lost many key players, including All - State player Mitchell Memming, now a solid contributor to Nebraska Wesleyan's soccer team, and starting goalie Luke Fixter, who also now plays for Wesleyan. The Links also lost Jared Waddell, a solid defender and team captain. The Links do have a lot of experience returning to help them make their way back to state.
The Links faced off against a solid Lincoln Southwest team on March 17 out at the Abbot Sports Complex to start off the season. Unfortunately, the team was hit hard and often by the Silverhawks and lost 5 - 1 The Links were unable to generate much offensive pressure , getting outshot 27-10. The lone goal for the High was scored by senior Ademir Karie.
"Our first game we struggled and didn't play as a team," said senior goalkeeper Alex Cerny "Now we are very unified and play well together. Even if we get down a goal or two we can come back and win."
The Links rebounded with a strong win
5th. The team was able to come away with a 2-1 victory as Katt scored his 7th goal of the season Karie and Beranek also have two goals apiece for the year.
"We are looking to win districts again and make it to state for the second year in a row. We've been working on mental focus and playing the first 15 minutes of the game really strongly. We also try to talk a lot which helps us play better as a team," said Cerny. A tall order indeed, but this team has the talent and the will to pull it off.
The Links showed they can compete with anyone in the state, as they battled highly ranked Lincoln Southeast to a draw through the first two overtimes in front of a raucous crowd at Seacrest Field. The Links were unable to pull out the win as they went down in a shootout 3-2. A tough loss, no doubt but the team should use this experience to gain confidence for later games.
The Links are currently sitting in the g th position for a wildcard berth, but look to improve on their record and land some high quality wins over tough opponents.
ing season loss 2 - 1. The goal for the Links was scored by junior Hannah Ledford. "The first game was the day after Link-Up, so we didn't have much time to prepare as a team, but many girls have been working out on their own or playing club ball to get ready," said Lodes. A tough way to start the season, no doubt, but the key for the Links would be how they rebounded from this tough loss.
The Links, however, were only able to generate three shots on goal against the Rockets of Lincoln Northeast in a 1-0 loss on March 23. The final tally had LHS being outshot 253, almost an impossible number to deal with. The back breaker came in the 71 st minute of the game , and it was all that Northeast needed to hang on. The Links desperately need to remedy their anemic offensive numbers if they are to have success.
After tough back to back shut out losses, 0-5 to North Platte and 0- 7 to Omaha Duchesne Academy, the Links finally found that muchneeded offensive punch, having been shut out in three straight games, with a 5-2 win over Grand Island
The Links again struggled offensively in losing to pre-season number seven Columbus Discoverers 0- 7. The team is in desperate need of a legitimate scoring threat up front as they have been shut out completely in all but two games.
The Links were unable to do what it took to win over a talented Lincoln Southeast team, but went down fighting
With potentially 15 games to prove llhemselves as legit contenders, the Lincoln High girls are out to show that the old cliche holds true: quality not quantity will be what carries this team into a good latter portion of the year
By GarretDurst
For the sixth straight season the Nebraska Cornhuskers basketball team is not dancing come March. If Head coach Barry Collier is not under some heat, then I don't know who is. I think Collier has had enough time to try to figure out how to win eighteen games a season.
For some Husker fans, it has been a long wait around Lincoln. The last time the Huskers went to the NCAA Tournament was in 1998 against Arkansas. The Huskers came in as a tenth seed and got beaten by the Razorbacks. That was basically the last run for former Nebraska Head Coach Danny Nee. Nee is currently coaching at Duquesne University At least Nee actually took us to the tournament. I guess Athletic Director Steve Pederson has confidence in Collier to change the program back around and to try and make the Huskers a contender in the Big 12.
This season the Husker's record is 14-13 heading into the Big 12 Tournament. If the Huskers don't win the tournament, there is no shot the Huskers will get an invite into the NCAA Tournament. The Huskers finished the season with a 7-9 conference record, including their biggest win against a top team in the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Collier always plays well against a ranked team to the end, since joining Nebraska. Last season the Huskers stunned the Kansas Jayhawks. Of course, all of these victories have come at the Devaney Center. When was the last time the Huskers went on the road
By GarretDurst
The Lincoln High track team is looking for a big season from their seniors, led by Chris Hatch, Ricky Massa, and Darren Reinhardt.
These three athlete~
will have to perform well in order for the team to have success this season. For the girls the athletes to watch are the pole vaulters and shot putters. Miranda and Nicole Hruska are the Links top pole vaulters, and Jessica Maske and Thea Smith are the team's best shot putters. Head coach Bob White will need some young athletes to go along with these established veterans.
The Lincoln High track team started things off on March 18 th with a meet at Nebraska Wesleyan. The male athletes who attended this competition were Chris Hatch, Sam Christensen and Darren Reinhardt. The girls' side brought six competitors: Miranda and Nicole Hruska, Kailey Ward, Michelle Putnam, Jessica Maske, and Thea Smith. Reinhardt placed third in the shot-
and actually beat a quality team? And no, Baylor doesn't count.
The Huskers have relied on senior and former Southeast Knight Jake Muhleisen for the past four season. Muhleisen has not seemed to live up to the expectations since coming out of high-school. Muhleisen has taken the Huskers to the NIT Tournament and that is basically it. Thanks Muhleisen for all of the great memories and your superb eight points per game average. Who knows, maybe you will become the next lottery pick?
On a positive note, the Huskers have had great success this season from freshman Joe McCray. McCray has been a star for the Huskers this season averaging 15.3 points per game. McCray was a big time recruit for the Huskers coming out of Florida. He should break some Husker records if he stays four years at the program. The next best scorer on the team is junior Jason Dourisseau. Dourisseau is averaging 9.4 points per game this season. The Huskers back cou1t should be stacked next season when these two players return. Freshman Alexs Marie out of Sydney, Australia, could become the next Mikki Moore if he works hard this off season. It looks as if Collier has one more season left.
In the first round of the Big 12 Tournament the Huskers faced the Missouri Tigers in Kansas City. The Huskers had a shot at the end to send it into overtime but couldn't connect as the Huskers lost 70-67. Good luck to the team next year as Barry Collier trys to keep his job for another year.
put with a distance of 48.6 inches. Hatch finished second in the 800- meter with a time of 2:04.07. "I got second but me and the other guy had the same time," said Hatch. "I'm not real excited with
my time but since it's early in the year I hopefully will progress and get to where I need to be." The meet consiste d of 8 girls team and eight boys teams from around the state.
On Thursday, March 31 st the Links went to the Devaney Invite at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Both the varsity and junior varsity athletes got a chance to show their talent. Senior Christian Lewis finished second in the 200 meter dash. Hatch finished second in both the two mile and mile with times of 9:46 and 4:28. The 4x4 team also claimed second place. The team consists of Hatch, Massa, Lewis, and freshmen Cody Fultz. " The team did pretty well considering we were tired from the previous events.'' Hatch said. The Links' next meet will be April 9 th at Grand Island. We look forward to seeing these athletes progress and succeed throughout the season.
By GarretDurst
The Lincoln High baseball team has high Daugherty got the save. In the second game the Links expectations this season -that includes a run at the inched out a 6-5 victory. Senior Kevin Reis went2 for State tournament. The team has plenty of hitting to 2 for the Links in a key win. Daugherty got the win go along with their great defense. With the injury and helped the Links win a crucial double header. to senior pitcher Alan Diest, the Links will count on The Links have also had some key lossed that seniors Jake Brokaw and rnm:mmiimrmmiimrmrmmiimr=========,.,,,,,,,,. easily could have been Eric Hoffman to come victories. The Links through on the mound. opened the season
The Links have with a loss at a less had some big wins early talented Beatrice team. in the season. The Links Rhl The Links also had a beat Pius X, who was in split with Norfolk. the pre season top ten, AIBii But in every game by a score of 7-5. Senior this season except one Derec Schmidgall led the Links have had the team by going 3 for the lead heading into 3 from the plate. Sopho- the last inning. This more Dustin Daugherty tifuitifui;;;i/@!%\1 &;.-• team is not going to gotthewinfortheLinks. get blown out of the The Links also had a water by anyone this double header against a season with as much rankedSouthwest squad piiioif~ ~• iWiiiiiiiiiliiiliJ~~?ii senior leadership as A ril 4 th S Eri 1nco n 1g s r1c o man roun thi te h onp emor c tb samas. Hoffmanwasakeycon- rs ase in? victory against t~e Onthe6thofApril, tributor in the sweep of outhwest Stlverhawks on April 4th. theLinkshostedOmathe Silverhawks. Hoff-
man ended up 4 for 4
Brokaw was at the dish. The Linkswon by a score of 6-4 in the not only the star pitcher in the game but was also a first contest. Hoffinan got the win on the mound and star at the dish. Brokaw ended up hitting 3 for 4 in the Links 9-0 victory. The Links are currently 6-5.
,~ove: Vice Pre's11:fenr ofWire Line Services at Alltel Brad Hedrick surprised Patsy Koch-Johns, Oral Comm teacher , with the Alltel Outstanding Educator award while at school Thursday April 7.
Visit
http ://lhs.lps,org/advocate
By IzzyKoch
"I have a dream." A simple, and yet powerful quote, that most modem Americans are familiar with, is a part of Martin Luther King Jr. 's most powerful, and most rememb-erc:d41s-peec-h. Th"lrty~seven ye-aTS ago, on April 4'", 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. was shot, and killed. King was a great figure in the Civil Rights Movement.
Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised in Georgia, and inherent segregation. He went to a segregated grade school, high school, and then later, a segregated college. Already a leader in the anti-segregation forces, he soon became part of the National Association for the Advancement of Black People (NAACP), and from then on, was a voice heard nationally. Next, he became president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference- another group focused towards moving the civil rights movement forward. At the ripe age of 35, King was the youngest to ever win the Nobel Peace Prize. He, of course, handed the money over to the ongoing Civil Rights Movement. King endured being arrested, thrown in jail, beaten, house bombings for what he believed in. On top of the Nobel Peace Prize, he was also named the 1963 'Man of the Year' by Time magazine.
Continued on Page 3
Lincoln High shows support for Make A Wish-page 3
A teacher's perspective on the Day Of Silence - Page 7
Don't Panic! Hitchhikers Guide hits big screen-page 9
MLB shoots up, Congress shoots back-page 11
the LHS performance of the Shakespeare classic, A Midsummer Night's Dream.
By-SherryWang
This year's CSI Joynite Lincoln 2005 will hail everyone's attention. Taking place on May 19 and 20 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., it will include standard groups (such as jazz choir), vocalists, acts, bands, dances and much more. It will always be a mystery as to what one will see at J oynite every year. Admission will be $5. Auditions took place on May 2 for acts. For MCs, tryouts were on May 3. English teacher John Heineman was one of the judicators, as was Chris Maly, also an English teacher. When asked about an estimation of how many acts would consist this year's Joynite, Heineman replied, "There are normally anywhere between 15-25 acts."
Continued on Page 5
By Maraisllall
Rounding out a spectacular Theatre Season, The Lincoln High Theatre Departn1ent presents their rendition of the Shakespeare classic, A Midsu1nmer Night's Dream. Al) of your favorite theatre actors, including those leading to the state victory return for their last hoorah as this year's season closed out. Theatre veteran senior Jessica Wallen Thompson's(l 2) last role as a Link was Nick Bottom, the exceptionally overconfident actor who is blissfully unaware of his inability to act. Don Ellis(l 2) returns to the stage as Egeus, a protective father who offers his daughter up for marriage and Jordan White(ll) as Oberon, The •
King of The Fairies.
The story behind A Midsummer Night's Dream is a rather deep and complex one. To find the true meaning of the play, you'll have to look deep within the characters and pay close attention, as this is nowhere near close to a traditional love story. This whimsy, comedic masterpiece is a love story, hidden inside a comedy.
A Midsummer Night's Dream's romantic element comes from the imbalance in the relationships that unfold before the audience. Hermia (Meredith Ernst) is in love with Lysander (Will Hutchinson), who loves her right back. However, Helena (Natalie Zikmund) is in love with Demetrious ( CJ O'Hara) 2 who is also in love with
Hermia. This poses a bit of a problem, two men love the same woman, leading to conflict, chaos and comedic gold.
Fantasy is also a large element of the play, which leads to most of the comedy portions of the play Most notably is a scene in which the mischievous Nick Bottom is transformed into the rear end of a donkey. Dreaming and dream theory are also major plot points, used as plot junctions and explanations as to the odd happenings that take place between the characters.
The theatre department reached a small hiccup when senior Molly Pearson who plays Titania, The Queen of The Fairies, recently became ill. Thankfully, sophomore Maya Naff \Vas able to step in
for Pearson. Recently however, her role as Titania was short lived, as Pearson was able to return after making a speedy recovery.
Junior Bailey Foss who plays Hermia's Mother .in the performance was glad to have had the chance to work \Vith Naff. "Maya did great while Molly was sick. It was a lot of fun to have been able to work with her." You might remember Nafffro.m a previous Lincoln High performance in which she brilliantly portrayed an abused adoptee in The Orphan Train. naff returned to her former role, Conweb, a Fairy who works under Titania.
(Continued on Page 8)
ByNhu•YNgo
~ew Pope Chosen
• place will win a Play Station, while third place received a goody basket of games Jousting and obstacle courses will be placed around.
Seventy-eight-year-old Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected by a conclave of fellow cardinals to assume the role of spiritual and political head of the Roman Catholic Church on April 19 Choosing the name of Pope Benedict XVI, Ratzinger was officially appointed as Pope on April 24 at an inaugural mass. The new Pope was a longtime confidant and spiritual advisor to the late Pope John Paul II. Ratzinger is known for his conservative views and was dubbed by critics as the Church's "rottweiler." Pope Benedict XVI is a native German who once was a member of Hitler's army.
Nachos, wings, pizza, subs, and, for the last hour and a half, breakfast will be served. The senior grand prize is a laptop computer raffled away at the end of the night. Winner must be present to claim the prize. Prom this year is on May 21 at the UNL Union Ballroom.
Post Prom immediately follows at Lincoln High School.
Deadly Strain of Marburg Causes Deaths
An Ebola-like virus has been sweeping Angola, killing over 273 people to date. Marburg is a very rare condition, characterized by a hem-
orrhagic fever. It can be transmitted through
victims. The WHO , however, asserts the situation is beginning to stabilize and "beginning now to come under control."
iPod Cause of Crimes
A recent spike in crime in New York City has been blamed on Apple's trendy gadget, the iPod. Fifty iPods, according to the NYPD, have been stolen this year Last year, no such crimes were committed. As a result of the thefts, there has been a 20% increase in criminal activity. Victims of thefts are easy targets when they wear the white, original iPod headphones. Crime prevention advocates suggest opting for less noticeable headgear for listen-
May 6, 2005
ing pleasure. iPods can go from $100 - $500 on the streets of New York.
NASA Delays Shuttle Launch NASA has decided to pu.sh back the launch date of the shuttle Discovery The original target date had been May 22, but the actual event will most likely occur sometime between July 13 and 31. Extreme precaution and safety measures have been taken as images of the Columbia Shuttle disintegration two years ago, killing all seven astronauts aboard, remain fresh in everyone's mii1ds. Discovery is set to be the first spacecraft mission since the disaster and subsequent grounding of the shuttle orogram. •
by.SherryWang
common bodily fl11idssuch as sweat. Victims , ofMarburg generally die as a result of internal Every year, Lincoln Highs Student Coun-
to give in." However, this is very understandable. Uhing explained, "It's not something I would bleeding within a few days of contracting the cil raises money strain. The virus recently devastated the Do- that goes to the minican Republic of Congo, a nearby nation Make-A-Wish of Angola, and is now taking its toll on other Foundation, areas. Current World Health Organization whose purpose l\J <;ts.§P- ~ill g, 1, he;:,e
the wishes of children with life-threatening
"We've always tried to come up with new ideas to raise more money," Senior Student Council The head of RussUhing is the prize Rep Allison in this year's Make-A-Wish fund• Schinstocksaid. raiser. However, this
Photo By Chris Hatch
year's fundraising for Make-A-Wish is a bit different than the past years.
A brilliant idea surfaced in Schinstock's mind: to have a competition between all third period classes, and the class that raised the most money gets to come up with a design, which will be drawn on Coordinator/Business teacher Russ Uhing's head and left on there for one whole day.
Student Council sponsor James Perry said that the fundraising started on Monday, April 18, and that third period classes were asked to tum in their money on Friday, April 29.
Schinstock admitted that "the idea came from the guy who auctioned off his head on eBay for advertising." First, Audiovisual Technician Mike Reinmiller was suggested. However, Schinstock believed that since Uhing could be seen all around the school, while Reinmiller, who would like to declare that "bald is beautiful," mainly hung out at the Media Center, Uhing would be a better candidate since he would tum more heads.
Schinstock said, "It took a month to get him
normally do, but I gu ess I appreciate the work that Studen· Council does."
When the question of why he finally decided to participate s rai s , he &s t a ted, "I; very supportive of what they do and I also think that make a wish is a great organization, and they've done great things, so I figured that the Ieast I can do to help support that is to borrow my head " There are a couple agreements - the design shall not be done in permanent marker/ ink, and it must be appropriate, meaning that Uhing, the Administration, and Student Council will approve the design Uhing added, "I'm not really worried about the design they put on and everything like that, and I hope that it's something that's funny and catches people's attention.''
ByIzzyl(och
On April 4 th , the Civil Rights Movement lost a great leader, when King was shot standing in his hotel balcony in Memphis, Tennessee. While his death was significant, his was not the only death ( and life) that proved important to the civil rights movement.
Lynchings of African Americans in the South in the '50s were commonplace. In Mississippi alone, in one year, 500 African Americans were lynched. One death that was very significant to the civil rights movement was that of the young Emmett Till.
Till, a Chicago native, was invited down to visit his great uncle, Moses Wright, in Money, Mississippi- the heart of the Bible-loving deep South in 1955. His mother, Mamie Till, was reluctant to let him go down to the South, because she feared that he didn't understand bow bad the segregation was down th .ere. After some begging, she finally let him go. Emmett Till was fourteen years old, without a care in the world. Once he was down in Money, he and his cousins decided to go into the one street town to buy some gen, eral refreshments. In the store, Mrs. Bryant, a white woman, was working. On his \Vay out, Emmett Till allegedly whistled at her. The southern African American boys there with him rushed him out of town, for fear of his life. Four days passed before the woman's husband, Mr. Bryant, and his half brother came down to take care of business.
In the middle of the night, the two men kidnapped Emmett Till, beat him, shot him, tied a seventy-five pound gin fan around his neck with barbed wire, and dumped him in the river. When his body was found, he was mutilated beyond recognition. Three weeks later, the two men were taken to court. Tried by an all white male jury, and a white judge, the two men were acquitted of Emmett Till's murder.
Emmett Till's death gave fire to the civil right's movement. Mamie Till, regretted her son's death, and couldn't believe that someone could do this to someone else - but she knew that this was the opportunity to fight for her people's rights. And fight she did, for forty-seven years, until her death in 2003. After Emmett Till's death, many others took the cue. They knew that there \Vas no better ·time than now. Rosa Parks for example said that the brutal murder of the young Emmett Till was what gave her the bravery to not give up her seat, only three months after his death.
Today, rights of African American's are significantly greater than they were just twenty years ago. The civil rights movement moved equality along better than the Civil War ever could. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. played a pivotal part in this, but there were also those lesser-known figures, such as Emmett Till, who sparked the movement. America is a great place to live, but it can always be made greater by those who fight for what they believe in.
By,\Jina"5elyukh
December, every writer or poet from Lincoln High had a chance to subscribe their art to the LHS own "Scribe" - literary magazine of student writings.
Seven LHS students: seniors Sarah Knight (Editor in Chief), Margaret Fairchild, Angela Garbacz and Nhu-Y Ngo,ju11ior Lynette Staswick, sophomores Tuesday Bassen and Kate Eno - with the help of Deborah McGinn, English and Creative Writing Teacher, put their close eye o .n each piece and chose the best of the best to be printed and be read by others. They are on their last stage of editing right now, according to McGinn. After that the copy will be printed at LHS Media Center - the birthplace of the magazine.
"We go through every submission," sophomore Scribe editor Kate E ,no said. "All the names are covered and we read every piece and we talk about every piece and vote on it, if we think it should be in the magazine or not. Depends on writing talent if it keeps our interests etc."
There were more than 200 students who turned in submissions for the Scribe, McGinn said. And good part of it will be published. It took eight months to read through all submissions, come up with the cover page design and put together all writings the way they would go on pages.
"I think Scribe 2005 will be wonderful," McGinn said. "There will be more variety this year, not just all poetry. It's als o got some humor in it this year. And we have a pretty wide range of authors."
The history of "Scribe" leads back to 1930 when the very first issue was printed. Every issue that has come out since is kept carefully in Ms. McGinn's classroom. This way every single writing, every single piece of art is not forgotten.
"Scribe has been around for a long time and it's really good to have this kind of traditions," Eno said.
The cost of the issue is $5 and it can be purchased from Deborah McGinn (Room 223) and treasure office.
ByNhu-YNgo
How tall are you? 5' 10"
Size shirt? 15 ½, 32, 33
You are given a chance to meet George W. Bush. You can only say one sentence to him. What do you say? (long and very dramatic pause) Can it be a question?
Yeah, I guess it could it be a question. (continuation of pause) God, I could say so many things.
You can't think of one? No, it ' s just that I need to be tempered. I don't know. Could I give-trust me I have a lot of things to say. (pause) OK, when is your spending spree going to end?
What's your favorite class to teach and why? CI, because I really want to encourage young people to choose to participate and vote.
Is a tomato a fruit or vegetable?
Fruit
Why? Because the Italians said it was. Best pizza in town?
Mine ... my grandmother's.
Favorite newspaper?
The New York Times
Why are you a Democrat? (pause) Because I want all of America to be great, not just a small segment of it.
If you could switch rooms with a teacher at LHS, who would it be? Strand
ter) how to read. Doesn't she know how to read already?
She's thre e - no. What decade has defined you?
The '80s sclf@llWhat high school did you , ., graduate from? Pius X
Did you like it there? No comment
Watch TV much?
PBS No, I don't, but the m little that I watch, I watch a lot of PBS
Favorite dance move?
AM Air drums (laughs) !1111Nicknames? No need ""t If you were a world famous rapper, what would your stage name be?
J.P. Caruso and senior Whitney Bergholz discuss Citizenship Issues
Photo by Cathy Danner
J. Pizzle, courtesy of my 11th grade U.S. History class from last year. What's with the plaid? Preppy, no it's colorful. Why? It's huge.
Whose room would you avoid?
Holbert's Plans for the summer?
Read, read, read, and teach Joey (my <laugh-
Colorful? It can be.
What's in your CD player right now?
By IzzyKoch
"Wake up think fast, three weeks have passed," croons lead singer William Tell of the new-to-the-sca\ene band , The Academy Is in the second song of their CD, "Seasons."
The Academy Is , a pop-punk band from Chicago, Illinois released their debut album on February 81h• The band was signed onto a 1 esser-lcnown ' lafiel-;-Fuelea"B j Raman records, with whom they just released their CD, dubbed "Almost Here."
The band put it right in their song "Black Mamba", when they say "when they review the debut , what if the critics hate you, don't worry you might just catch somebody off their feet, well they can love it or leave it, or rip it apart." And that's exactly what The Academy is will do for you- catch you off your feet.
The CD consists of ten songs, not one of them bad. The CD starts out quietly, with Tell (lead singer) singing acapella, asking " attention, attention, may I have your attention to the front of the room." The songs topics range from one end of the spectrum to the other- from attention, to love, to death, not wanting to see anyone ever again, and what old school mates are doing ("now he's cooking entrees for the pretty pretty French girls").Tell's smooth voice, is easy to relax to, or to sing along with the catchy tunes At points, Tell's voice cracks, showing that the band has room for growth.
While the CD doesn't have one song on it that just makes you hate it, it does have one that can easily fall for. While' Attention' draws you into the CD, the next songs run together so smoothly, that you know that they placed them perfectly Number four , "The Phrase that Pays," is one of my personal favorites of the pop punk band. This song, more so than others, touches
The Killers
Really? Yeah. Actually , it's in my truck. I was just thinking because that's what's in there
Did you keep your New Year's resolutions?
(pauses) I'm trying to think of which ones I had Some about' half
Have a personal theme song to pump you up each day? New Year's Day by U2
Still think Howard Dean will make a good president?
A better one than we currently have. What right do you value the most as an American citizen? Speech
If someone makes fun of you, how do you respond?
Honestly, it depends on the context. Maybe I'll fire · back or turn around and walk away.
What would make you fire back?
If it's a kid who's making fun of me in good fun, I'll fire back because it's part of the game
Eggs? Overeasy
Bacon or Sausage? One of each White or wheat? I say rye. Is Tupac still alive? An emphatic No!
you deep down. "The Phrase that Pays" talks about taking chances, and planning something big. The song sta1ts out with what seems to be an interview between a doctor and a patient" ' is it serious, I'm afraid it is, am I gonna die, well son, death is gonna catch up to all one day, but yours is coming quicker than ours."
With the release of a debut CD just behind .th@11~"-.= 'l; Fl€-i~~ sacJ@1:113/ I-s .•• , i s R@~v=-\V0F~iag=en a video for their song "Classifieds", and have tour dates planned nationally As a beginning band, they have done very well, already having toured with bigger bands such as Something Corporate, Stray light Run and Hidden in Plain Vi~w Not only have they played alongside these pop punk vets, but they are also currently touring with Fall Out Boy, Midtown, and Gym Class Heroes. On top of this, they will also be playing dates at Warped Tour 2005
The Academy Is on top of putting out a good first CD, put on a great live show. I had the pleasure of seeing The Academy Is play a show with Stray light Run, Hidden in Plain View, and the headlining Something Corporate : The guitarist wanders around onstage, playing the whole time. Tell, dances around the stage, clad in tight pants and a tight shirt, with his classic "emo" hair-in-your-face haircut Really, Something Corporate couldn't have a greater opening act. Even though they are just getting started, with the youngest of member of the band just making it to seventeen, The Academy Is knows what good music is. If you're open to new kinds of music, or like pop punk, The Academy Is is definitely worth it to check out (you can do so for free at wvvw.purevc>lume.c(Jm/ theacaderr1yis). Who knows, even thougl1 they haven't really received radio play, or MTV play yet, The Academy Is may just be the next big thing.
ByA.Jina&lyukh
Name: Eukeria Okwumuo
Grade: 12 (17 years old)
Tell me about yourself.
My Dad came to Linc oln in 1977 to go to college. He went to University of Nebraska. He and my mom met there on campus. I have two little brothers and a big sister. She is in Chicago. And one of my brothers is a sophomore at LHS and another one goes to Pound Middle School - that's where my dad works. Where did your parents come from?
My mom came from Mississippi and my 'dad is from Nigeria. I don't really know much about my African background ... It's kind of a weird combination at my house: my dad, who's
rru Ill WWWA"ITI-c·a"';"'""anu winy mom, who's from the South. It's fun!
Would you ever want to go to the places where your parents are from?
Well, I have gone to Mississippi a couple of times,
Southeast, but finally I came here and I couldn't be any happier!
If you could spend one day doing one thing, what would it be?
Wow probably making other people happy, fulfilling other people's wishes. I'm the kind of person that it makes me happy to see other people happy. I would probably try to make everyone's dream come true, make everyone happy to the point where they can't stop smiling! (laughs) If you knew this would be the last day of your life, where would you spend it?
By SherryWang
Heineman claimed that this year's theme, CSI Joynite Lincoln 2005, came along due to English teacher Patsy Koch-Johns. "I was inspired by Patsy Koch-Johns, who thought this would be a wonderful theme. We always try to pick something that is kind of popular, and right now, probably, with all the different CSis, everyone will know it."
They are always striving to choose a theme that is familiar with everyone, making every
effort to have the best possible Joynite every year. According to Koch-Johns, "It is the longest running talent show in the state of Nebraska."
Don't miss this kind of entertainment. It has a vast variety of performance s, "all rolled up into one, beautiful ball," as Maly puts it. "Joynite is the most fun-filled two hours at Lincoln High. It is the quintessential, all inclusive, amazing Lincoln High tradition that other schools have tried to copy but can't. It is what makes Lincoln High unique."
ukeria Okwumuo prepares to deliver a pass during a game at Seacrest Field.
Probably with my friends and family. I would get everyone together and say "Guys, I'm going to die! Seriously!" (laughs) I would have everybody together ·a11cl=s-h:area~ ood'1-imt~ I would be sad and I would be like "yeah, this was fun" (laughs) no, I would really probably spend that time with my family and friends. What would Photo by Brooke Boehle
Probably get more self-conscious, get more confidence in myself.
AboutLHS?
To have freshmen and sophomores go out to lunch, too, because most of my friends are sophomores and freshmen. And also some of the rules that they changed last year. Some of them were good, but with some of them I don't really agree, to be honest.
when I was younger. And ,_______________ _. you change about yourself, if you could? Africa... I would really want to go there, to Nigeria, some day. My dad still has a huge family there. But I only met my uncle once, when I was 8 And then I hear some of the stories my dad tells me I think it would be so great! It would be such a change! I think it makes you a better person to know about your family's '1istoric background. What do you like to do?
I enjoy reading, writing, sports: soccer and basketball. I also love to eat! (laughs) How did you get interested in soccer? My father wanted me to play since kindergarten like my brothers did, but I didn't think that I'd like it at all. But when I w~s in third grade, he finally convinced me to try it and I loved it! I used to be the only girl in boys teams and that made it even more fun! (laughs) My dad even got my mom interested in it! Pretty much everybody in my family loves this game I never thought that I would ever become the captain of the team at Lincoln High, but now I am and I try to be a good role model for other girls on the team. I can't even explain what it feels like when your team wins! It's like you can touch the sky!
How do you feel about Lincoln High?
I love its diversity; I love that you can be who you are. You can be of any religion, of any race, you can express yourself, your ideas, your opinion, and people respect you. Lincoln High, I feel like it's a place where you can almost get along with anybody. You can be truly yourself, without being judged or anything ... I was very close to going to
About Lincoln?
It needs to get bigger! It needs more attracYi · t'~$ tions, more entertainment! Yeah, it's fun here compared to some other places, I'm glad I • don't live in Kearney, but still! (laughs) Just it needs more stuff to do, more parKs, more k;t • PLl things at the mall. · About USA?
Get rid of George Bush and make the oil prices go down!
If you were an animal, which one would you be?
An animal? Wow I would be a fish! Because I don't know how to swim, but I really want to know how but I'm scared of the water. So I think I would be a fish or a whale, or some kind of an animal to be able to swim.
What is your favorite book?
I don't really have a favorite book, but I have a favorite author that wrote a whole series of books. Her name is Lurlene McDaniel. Sh e writes about teenagers who have a disease, like leukemia or some kind of cancer it is more like real-life situations It's really good.
Molly Shields
sophomore, Lincoln "Being in college athletics and ex:perielfingthl,eaderf!p role has helped me prepc1remyselffor my
and
By~l:JaD
The Death of Pope John Paul II ,rought about a collect1on of .faith and umanity that has rarely been.exhibited y the human race. John -Paul II was e only pope that most knew, and his .eath was a blow to Catholicism as a hole.
Foll()wing years of tradition and beyingllneient procedures, formeranlittal~JosephRatzingerwas e{ected the 26.S~·pope,··Althoughthe conlave of cardinals faile!i to match the xc1tementas :well a.sbeingmtable to 1ro~ct a sense: of :µ11e¢rtaintyas the draft.the ftllddenannouncement am~on ~1 igih, Pope Benedict XVI. toQk·t.11e . lead as Qod's
began teaching theology at Bonn. Fast l forward to 1981 Wherehe was appointed by Pope John Pau1u to leX<lth~ Vati_ can Congregati&n for the Doctrine of 1 the ·Faith. 24 years later he becomes the 256th pope. ·. From "Nazi soldier~to 1 leader of Catholic €hurch, perhaps the ultimate rags to riches ,story.
Pope Benedict XVl's papacy will almost certainly not last as long . as his pre~eS$()1, as he is 78 years of age. ~au~e of·rusadvanced.,ag.e.:to some 1t may seem like1ie·s ·<>nlY,,.'',keepini the seat wann.:.•~ for . a p~ t,hat will liVe- longer. His likely short tetin as pope doe$il'tgive him •t.\le~hanceto bond·withhis followers ·fik~·Jobn Paul II did. •·.
BQnedict <t<>eshav~ ,sotne ·husre _ ' ..· ..·..· •. shbes {Qtill, huti~ ' s;g~ing to ~awhile
For those ' (){you who ~tt par~ &foiefollowers ·W~tlt up iollirlm~as ici})lite.ill:''PQPew,,ich '05,'' here ls · • ~fillr~nni ftoi;ytite,previQUs brid history of .P()peB~edict XVI.·.los;.J>einapsthougll,.the. love tlmtwas 'opeBenedict·w-asbornJoseph Ratz~···•exrubited ' for iobn,.Paul willspillover, nger on April 16ik,1921 in Trauristein;·and Benedict·•will be adoredsimply e1111any.'At age 14 in 1939, he __ was becausehehastl'ie,title,''Pope." afted as a flitler Youth~however was , A similar -~se -is ta~ place, hi ater release because of his intention to America, sonic ~el :~e :sbQ11lq.l.lav-ew .tudy for priesthood; respect our ·I~. just be~use m the Two ~ears later, be was pgain title attached tohis :name afted, this time asa Nazi anti-aircraft Benedk!tliasnotllingtoprovehow• pnit helper: . ~e was made a soldier il1:..ever, he didn't g¢tto3>etbepope,Justby age of 1'8, (luring the fin1.\l""months . sheer luck and cllan<;e. He must have ,f 'the war. He never.fireda bullet at ·done something right to get him where ,can soldiers. In 1945 he became ·he is now.even though he said h.imse - .d~serter and fled the.nulrtary to return ·.thathe didn't want to be=there :o his hOtlletoWf\, In 1951, he was ordained a priest, ould later receive a doctorate of the~"' •logy from the University of Munich. tting his doctorate tq, good use. he
· In this short tiJne, more than likely, nothing dramatic will change, and Benedict XVI will pass the mitre to someone else, only to be forgotten in the>Shadows.
ByIzzyKoch
Death seems to be everywhere around us. Terry Schiavo, the Pope oh, that's all? With all of the media coverage that those two alone have gotten, you'd never know it. Sure, other important, and famous people have died in the past few months, but their deaths have not been half as exploited as that of Terry Schiavo and the Pope. Mitch Hedburg died last month. Johnnie Cochran recently passed away (March 30 th 2005). Johnny Carson just died too (January 24 th , 2005) Yasser Arafat died not too long ago (November 1st, 2004). These people's deaths, each important in their own business or industry were widely ignored, compared to the Schiavo case, and the Pope.
Flipping on the radio for some news from NPR, the only thing that you would hear about was Terry Schiavo. Terry Schiavo this, Terry Schiavo that. Her parents were made the victims; loving, caring parents who just wanted the ir,;.daugbte ,r hack-. Did you know though, that a few years back, when Schiavo's husband won a lawsuit of a considerable amount of money, the first thing that those same lovi11g and caring parents asked him was "so, how much do we get out of this?" If the media is set on exploiting recent deaths, they could cover the whole story, not just one side.
After a few weeks of hearing only about Schiavo, the Pope's condition worsened. NPR had a blast, almost exclusively talking about Terry Schiavo and Pope John Paul II. Different televisions would flash images and a brief synopsis of what had happened to either one that day (The Pope moved his head! Schiavo blinked!). Newspapers wrote about both, almost daily.
Finally, Schiavo died. Schiavo was a landmark case, the case that would set the precedent for future cases of keeping a feeding tube in, or not. Finally though, the exploitation of Terry Schiavo was to end. Now, you don't hear anything about her. Has anything happened to her husband? Her parents? The second Schiavo died, what the media had actually been waiting for, they needed to find some other story to exploit,
and what better than the frail Pope.
The media followed the Pope with stories of all of his surgeries, any time that he had one. A cold? That was life threatening, and deserved a story. When his health situation worsened, the media pounced. Soon enough, he died too. Now, there was no one left to exploit.
This is not to say that the media exploits all deaths. Depending on how interesting the circumstances circling your death were, you would get more media coverage. The more the media can juice the story, the more they'll milk it until it is dry. Deaths that weren't interesting enough to grab a large enough audience to increase the ratings were virtually ignored. Looking through a list of deaths of famous people from 2000 on up, on www.bom-today.com , there are very few names that I recognize, and the ones that I do on this rather lengthy list, I don't remember ever hearing of their deaths. For example, Faye Wray died on August 8'h • 2004. Marlon Brandon died on July first, 2004. Even as r~c-en""'t1·""y- as!!!!!!~ Ai""p nf 6 ' ~ 2005, th ~ ve e ~ famous deaths, that the media virtually ignored. For example, Prince Rainier III of Monaco died on April 6th • All of these people died less than a year ago. Did you know that they were dead? Even the anniversary of the death of the famed Martin Luther King Jr. (April 4 th ) was pretty much entirely ignored, the media choosing to talk some more about the Pope, rather than recognize the death of the great civil rights leader.
Terry Schiavo and Pope John Paul II aren't the only people who's deaths have been exploited by the media. Another case that most everyone would be familiar with, is that of Princess Di. Even though I was younger, I remember hearing about her death, and a lot. I even watched part of her funeral- televised, of course. Of course, I wouldn't call all deaths that receive lots of attention from the media exploited. In some cases, that attention is needed. The case of Emmett Till, a fourteen-year-old boy who was lynched in 1955, was one that the media did good to cover. Spreading the gruesomeness surrounding his death, the media help spread the word of how unjust, exactly how racist the South was at the time.
ByGregKeller
This was the 3,ctyear that I participated in the National Day of Silence as a teacher during the school day, and although every year I learn something valuable, this year seemed particularly .insightful. It clicked for me in many ways that it hadn't before.
The Day of Silence is an exercise/ demonstration in which participants go through an entire day without speaking in order to draw attention to the fact that people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or trans gender (GLBT) are, in many ways, silenced in their day to day lives. They are not comfortable or do not feel safe expressing many of their thoughts and feelings openly, as straight people do easily and without fear or afterthought.
In the school environment where students (and sometimes staff) draw attention to every difference, GLBT students have their anxiety multiplied exponentially, because sexual orientation connects to many other aspect of typical teenage life in some way.
Analogy exercises like these are great learning tools, .=. I .ike ,..tb e R i:.o._ w n E¥,es/B -!y e Eyes exercise which gives White participants a bitter taste of what racism looks and feels like, the Day of Silence allows participants to experience, even if only for a short time, a little bit of what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes
The difference is that at the end of the day, for straight participants, the simulation ends. For GLBT people, it's never over. Every moment of every day in every environment, they need to be hyper aware of how they act, what they do, and even what they say. A slip of the tongue could mean anything from verbal teasing to harassment or even physical violence
I slipped only twice during the day. When I did, students were quick to point out that I had talked. For a moment I felt genuinely embarrassed as if they were going to tell someone and that I would be ridiculed. Keep in mind that I realized completely that it was only a simulation in which I was voluntarily participating. There would be no real consequences for talk1ng
Nonetheless, I felt panic. And then I couldn't defend myself without speaking even more, so I walked away. Then I imagined feeling that way ever day. In every classroom. All year long Throughout my entire time in school. Constantly on guard.
Some students took advantage of my silence by saying things they knew I couldn't respond to, or purposely trying to get me to slip up , just =as so.r,R<¾-stu@@-Et-sta.i~@t Gb BT s-~ude-nts during the day.
Seeing others in the halls with signs around their necks explaining their participation in the exercise is always interesting. As we saw each other's signs we looked each other in the eye and gave one another a supportive smile as if to say, "I know what you're going through. You're not alone " We were instantly connected in an act of solidarity. That kind of support is what clubs like GLBTSA are all about. They are lifelines in the stormy sea of the school experience, and they make a real difference.
The most important lesson this exercise
OUtaught me is the importance of the straight ally. As a silent person, I needed others to speak for me. I couldn't explain myself completely, and as a result there were many miscommunications and misunderstandings. These weren't earth shattering events, but they illustrated the basic problem. By not speaking, some people probably thought I was ignoring them. There were a couple instances where staff members said hello to me and I wasn't able to respond. I wasn't able to say thank you when someone helped me out. I couldn't say "you 're welcome" when someone thanked me. At one poin~ I accidentally picked up my phone when it rang. When I realized that I couldn't speak to the person, I just hung up. When they called back a student ans-w-ered-arrdto-crk: a 11ressag e • ying awkwar d ly to explain why I couldn't come to the phone. In the everyday world, GLBT people often need to rely on straight friends and family members to speak or act on their behalf.
I also found myself becoming more and more detached as the simulation went on. Because I knew I couldn't respond, I found myself avoiding situations where I might feel like speaking. I withdrew socially and academically. If I had been a student, I would have hidden in the back of my class and tried to be invisible just to avoid having to stress out about the possibility of slipping up and being discovered. I wouldn't want attention, because
- wa$ a terril:>teJhing, bowever it could have been prevented. ObVioU$ly if the students had ne.verbeen·_targeted ·in the first place, but if the students bad found a better way to deal, whether it be 1ignoring, walk~ ing away or even submitting to the hate and darkness in their hearts and becoming bullies themselves. The latter is probably not the best way to handle the situation,, however Ibelieve that if used correctly, ignorance towards the situation can be the best now, apd in the long rtm.
- lparti~ipated in · The Day Of Silence this yearas ·well; -and -I ·agree totally with tlie rea~niu.g ·beqjnd it and the goal that it hopes to achieve, l also believe that that .goaJis attainable. People do not·need to be treated as they are now, especially in the gay imd lesbian ·cointntinity, Things -·are -getting better, but not ·by much'. -1 would love to see acceptance across the board, and n0t just fot thosewbo have the money.1 will -continue to fight foracceptance -and unity until there inone final breath in mybody.and o.nebeat in my heart.
Teasing can cross a bolllldafy. here is a fine liJte that can be crossed, and people have often ·trudged over ·the line and stomped on it'. I hear things in the halls that are wildly
attention is potentially dangerous when you feel you have to hide who you are. I engaged less. I looked people in the eye less. I laughed less.
But another odd thing happened that I didn't expect. Others were more silent as well. My students talked less during my classes. Not just to me, but to each other as well. And when they did talk to me, often they whispered. They became self conscious about their own voices. The lesson? When some people are silenced, it affects us all, whether we notice it consciously or not.
True attitude change in terms of prejudice and discrimination can only come about on a personal level. Jokes that demean a group of people stop being funny when someone you love or care about is a member of the group being demeaned. It stops being about nameless, faceless people and becomes a personal attack against a friend or loved one.
And it can't become personal until you make a connection with someone in a group outside of your own, whether it's someone with L..& 1 rr =- · •,,,,.. .. ._
a-orrreren t race-;-a a 1rrerenl "l"eI1g1ous bel1et, or a different sexual orientation. Someone once said, "In the ability to connect with one person lies the possibility to feel compassion for all people "
Ironically, on this day, allies spoke for GLBT students by being silent, and we spoke volumes. Were you listening? Think of the voices you don't hear every day, because they are too afraid to speak. School should be a place without fear.
Pay attention to their silence. Help them to find their voices, or help change the school/ world so that they feel safe enough to speak themselves. woraat tne end of ev.ery~ntence is ,not on offensive, it's,.sitt1ply ri<.ticulous, but tha should gowithout saying.
As "J stated before however, you wil alway$ be t~~d. for whatever 'reils0H'0 another. Be it your big feet, small eyes o undeniable blackness, you are a target. in turn, theaggressor is a target himself. l adolescents, the doqynance hierarchy ha!ll no top, every Qne is mark«!. Which is wh sometimes, "shaking it off'' is a be~r solu tioo than confronting , it. Barkness bas uncanny ability to ~ploit chaos, aud will so every chance it gets. Lite is too short hold a grudge, and trust me. holding a gni(jgel - ·~ will make:you .iuiserat>le. Being the victim o allowing your owe dei;~to devour you w· control yourlife makingit nearlyitnposs' to wake up the next -lllQming.
All tbfougll your life, you w,ill .be en tiqued, and if you don.'.t realize this now, it's time you.did. FroJn the time you exit womb to the time that you're ly~g jn , y, casket your appearance and actions will under tm,. However. it is your choice as wllether or not :Yellwill address this and what way.
Perhaps all of :your ,e,xperience wit sadness and misery will _ lead y~ to be
ByMarcusliall
After a five year hiatus, the British duo of Vince Clarke and Andy Bell, Erasure, is back with their latest release, Nightbird. If you've never heard of Erasure, don't feel bad. Erasure is best remembered as a final breath of 80 's synth pop. Erasure in the 80's and nineties was music that you could work out to.
Fluffy synth beats plagued their album and lead singer Andy Bell's soft vocals about love loss added to the late 80's feel. With time,
to be played in a nightclub, or in a car radio as in an already fatally wounded album. A cringe a pop song. Yet somehow, the synth backdrop inducing chorus baseline and poorly written melody make for the worst song on the album. Clarke is off pitch and his vocals don't match the tone of the song at all. "Sweet Surrender" is next and is another early 90's throwback. At this point in the album, the same baseline, same Marc Broussard like vocals, are starting to get very old, very quickly.
"I Bet You're Mad at Me" is, perhaps, the most interesting song on the album. This song is credited as the only slow ballad on the album, and the only song that I remotely enjoyed. I liked the title of the song, and the lyrics aren't too bad either; however, in the background is the same synth-pop beat that is heard through all eleven tracks. Clarke's vocals remind me of Cher in the "Tu1n Back Time" video. No matter what, it seems as though Erasure will never abandon the synthesizer.
If you are old enough to remember The Vengaboys,and for whatever reason purchased May 6, 2005
I drcirLa:lbuw,
is the case here. There is the same baseline, same vocal tone and song subject. All eleven of their songs contain the word "love." All of their songs deal with keeping love, losing it or forbidden love, which adds to the staleness of the album. I will say one thing positive, though: the duo are brilliant song writers; however, performing their own work is their Achilles' heel.
If you've listened to Erasure before, you're probably a fan, or you were channel surfing. It's hard to review a pop disc when you don't like pop music.
In my opinion, this music is horrible, but I know some enjoy techno. If you fall into that category,there is some value here but the songs about love won't make you want to jump up and dance.
If you don't like synth, then this is another album you can shove aside. An interesting side note, as of the printing of this article, Nightbird is the 16th most popular album in the USA, bad Moby cover band.
Nightbird opens upl I with "No Doubt," the._______________________
slow voiced, simply arranged song dealing with forbidden love and differing opinions. The song subject is nothing new and the lyrics leave much to be desired. Bell's arrangement doesn't help matters any, rivaling the complexity of the score from the original F-Zero. However, listen to this song enough and you will find yourself tapping your feet to this melodic ballad
The first single that saw airplay was the high bass, slow paced, "Breath." "Breath" is a song about having love, losing it and wanting it back again. This is neither a new idea nor is it presented in a new way, again showing that album is much of same. The music itself can't seem to decide whether or not it wants
( Continued from page 1)
Taking on Shakespeare is always a challenge; however, with the red hot season that Lincoln High theater has been having, It wastn't that big of a hurdle. "I think that it will be a big success, we've been working really hard, the production and costumes are awesome."junior Brittany Bedell said.
The play ran on April 28th, 29th and 30th and, of course, the theater department delivered once again. The running theme of the year seemed to have been plays with casts of numerous ammounts of people. This play was no excetption, with cast and crew of over I 00, several people lent their hand in this play's success.
I felt as though some of the magic was lost in translation however. I'm not faulting the actors, but the overall play seemed overshadowed by the Rude Mechanicals, who stole the show. The Rude Mechanicals, for anyone that saw the teaser performance, were the acting troupe that you witnessed. The "play-in-a-play," aspect is where the play get most of it's comedy, and
and simple lyrics landed "Breath" on the UK pop charts, peaking at number 4.
After two slow paced love songs and "Breath" we are slapped in the face with a pseudo 80's throwback, "I'll Be There," which is also very similar to songs in their album, Cowboy.
With no backdrop vocals and a thumping base line, "I'll Be There" is best enjoyed in a club or on VHl 's Motormouth. Two more love songs and we are brought to baseline mixed with Clarke's vocals, which don't change to the tone of the music equate to a floor clearing hodgepodge of techno and vocals that make Clarke sound as though he's whining.
"I Broke It All in Two" is the bullet hole
of their songs sounded exactly the same, as
that was what was highlighted. Each member of The Mechanicals brought their own flair to the table, which is how the play was meant to be performed. That's not to say that the other actors didn't do a fantastic job, which they very much did. However,I felt that the overall tone of the play was tilted more towards comedythan romance/drama. I'm aware that the overall tone of play is meant to be a comedy, however, the romanic turmoil between the main characters can't be ignored.
The performanceas a wholewas impressive to say the least. Set and Gostumeproduction, as Bedell said, was very high. I know that much work and organization goes into making a permormance, and my hat is off to all of them. With excellent casting, (C.J. O'Hara as Demetrious and Meredeth Ernst as Hermia were outstanding), high production quality and great theater actors, the theater department goes out with a bang, and only sets the bar higher, which they will more than likely shatter, come next season.
ByA.llisaFuenzalida
Thespian initiation is less than a month away! On May 24th Lincoln High's amazing theatre talent is getting the recognition they deserve. Thespian Initiation will take place at Lincoln High at 7:00 p.m. This year about 40 Lincoln High students will be initiated into the International Thespian Society.
So just exactly what is a thespian? Well, in order for you to understand what a thespian is, you must first know the history of it. The name "thespian" comes from the ancient Greek city of Thespiae which was named after the Greek poet Thespis. Thespis is known by some as the worlds first actor.
When I asked Director John Hieneman .J about becoming a thespian he said, "It's a way to get recognition. It's a great way to be connected with your school, other schools, and people around the world."
The process of being initiated consists of reciting a short monologue, being sworn in, signing the chapter list, and the best part, the banquet!
So you may ask what is required for you to become a thespian? Well, first of all you must love theatre. Actually I don't know if that is a requirement. What I do know is you must have good participation in theatre and a good attitude. No one wants a sour apple. You must complete required hours of theatre work. You need to take part in 3-4 produc- ' tions or have theatre class experience.
When you become intitiated you become part of the International Thespian , Society. Within this group you can become nationally recognized and participate in thespian conventions. In ITS you can also recieve scholarships to many different schools around the nation for fine arts.
For more information, contact any of _ the instructors in the drama room, 227.
ByKentMasloskie
Based on Douglas Adams's best selling series by the same name, directed by Garth Jennings and funded by Touchstone pictures, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy stars Martin Freeman, as Arthur Dent, and Mos Def as Ford Prefect.
O_tb
ex-hippy president of the galaxy Zaphod Beeblebrox played by Sam Rockwell, Trillian McMillan, played by Zooey Deschanel, his girlfriend who has degrees in both astrophysics and math, and Marvin the paranoid android, voiced by Alan Rickman.
Imagine waking up from a night of drinking to learn that something ridiculously improbable is about to happen. Not only that, but - there's nothing you can do to stop it. Now imagine that due to that happening, you find yourself and a group of your friends flying across the galaxy at breakneck speeds to escape from bureaucratic aliens. That's the plight of one Arthur Dent.
This is the smartest movie I have seen this year. I never had Mos Def pegged for
:iuch
dead on. This movie opened with one of the funniest title segments I have ever seen. The cast of THHGTTG is absolutely brilliant, especially Alan Rickman who gave the character of Marvin a pathetic quality that's absolutely hilarious.
Th ee sp @,&ial• s ff e e=t-s • \V~e-re r a titac1=n g, although I expected earth to go out with a bit more "bang." The scenes that switch from real shots to computer generated representations were interwoven so well, that for a split second I wondered how expensive it would be to mount a camera on a crane and pull it out into space. If you go to see this movie, be absolutely sure to read at least the first book in the trilogy before you do, or it will be slightly more difficult to understand. The books are quite wacky in themselves so the cast and crew of this film certainly had their work cut out for them. In my opinion they came as close to doing those books justice as is humanly possible After all , according to the movie, we're only the third most intelligent life form
ByA.lina'5elyukh
ByChris1-Iatcl1
It's time to tee off.Watch out for the slice, try to fix the hook, break out the wedge, the bottom line is that. , FORE. This year's go! team is ready t, go and they loo
returner, senio Nate Munfor Mannix, Links are goin to be hittin the links, all around the stat
InForget Enunem, the Lincoln High boys team has the real M&M (Munford and Mannix) and they repeatedly stepped up big time for the Links. The Links teed off in the first tourney of the year at their very · own Lincoln High ,_ Invite, They fought off driving rain and a ough wind but sti II ung on to perfonn ery admirably ith Mannix and unford pacing · he Links as the top wo finishers for the Munford .;s hoping to place in he top ten in most f the tournaments their drive (no ,,t.,i,1/ffithis year and is ,.'ij!Jl!!:ii':!ii; pun intended) · ~'f//#1/!!).ookjngforward to to the state go! - ·•:'ffeg.1nakingit to state "'"ifffp;ifi. championships. ff!!f!i!!/Ji; 'f!f!;'i;f/f!!};Only time will tell if Forget the ol ·- his year's team will guys in goof ave what it takes to knickers, this hock some peop le in is a new age o and around Lincoln. golfers. Thes But as Munford said, guys are out to 'Just watch for any out-drive you, LHS guys because -c-t-]Jult you ~ny ~ them could and "then ' leave lll'el!R"'tnrorrgtniral'!Y the course ,vith your girlfriend.
Last year's ream was a solid bunch of fellows who needed no introductions, with several state participants and a good record during duals and tournaments.
This year's squad lacks real varsity experience but is ready to make up for it with their raw talent and abilities. "We are hoping to be pretty good this year. We should get stronger as the season progresses." Said Munford. "I really think that ,ve can make state as a ream, and I would really like to see our team place in a couple of tournaments."
The team started to build momentum for tbe important rneets towards the end of the year such as the Capitol City Invite, District competition, and, of course, the state golf tournament, early on in the year. This year's district competition will take place in Col u1nbus and the Links will have to face off against some solid golfers from Columbus, Norfolk, Lincoln North Star, 01naha Creighton Prep, Omaha South, Papillion-Lavista, and Scottsbluff.
given point and have a great tournament."
So far, the team has been handling the long days of competition very well, With the M & M connection leading the team through tournament after tournament, the team improves virtually every week.
Munford tied for third in the Lincoln High Pius X invitational on April 25. Munford lead the Links again in the Li_ncoln Public Schools tournament, with a fantastic 6th place finish. "I shot a personal best of 72 at the LPS tourney " Munford said, "but I'm going to have to practice hard and stay focused to do well at the end of the season."
With no set varsity squad other than M and M, fresh faces are always a possibility and you never know - who might be the next Link to step it up. The Links' next stop was at the Capital City Invite, the biggest tournament in the State, with over 20 teams teeing off. Mannix lead the Links, shooting his low round for the year, with a 79 and was follo,ved up by Munford at 84. Unfortuantely with all the talent brought in, neither Link was able to place in the top 15
ByChris1-Iatch
13-1. Sounds like it should be the odds in Vegas on a horserace, not the score of a soccer game right? Well the Lincoln High Links girls soccer team slammed Fremont with an astonishing 13-1 victory on the 19th of April.
I was going to d a bit of a breakdown o who all scored agains Fre!_Ilontfor this article but the better questio in this instance is: wh didn't score againstFre mont? Once again, th Links proved that whe they get going, they ca score in bunches ( see 5-2 win over Gran Island). Ho,vever, thi is not to say that th Links have achieve scoring machine status.
This win wa __ • clutch for the Links, as Kimberly
was 3-8 heading into a must-win situation with the incredibly talented cross town rival, Lincoln East. The Links desperately needed this game to try to gain some confidence heading into the Westside tournament and then district competition. Unfortunately, the Spartans were just too much for the Links. The Spartans ere relentless ·n their attack n the offensive nd, outshooting HS 30-4. This <>ame dropped he team to a 3-9 record. The :tough season kept n being difficult for the Links as msi:,1#1,11 hey also were hut out twice at he Omaha Westide Invitational oumament. The inks lost to Cour-lumbus Scotus they looked to extending a game at Seacrest. and the tournament host Omaha a two game winning
Photo By Emily Werener streak that started on Westside. April 14th with an impressive 2-1 win over a solid Norfolk team. Unfortunately, the Links were unable to pull out a win against the North Star Navigators losing 1-0 in a close one.
The team slipped up again against the Bearcats
The Links have district competiton in their sites, \Vithhopes of pulling some serious upsets. Facing the Links are 2 of the top ten ranked teams in the state. Only time will tell if these talented young ladies can salvage what has turned out to be a very tough seaof Kearney losing 1,0, Overall the Links soccer team son.
By GarretDurst
The Lincoln High Links B aseball team is trying to live up to the hype that surrounded this team at the beginning of the season , This team set a goal of reaching the State tournament, but with losses to a couple of teams who are in the basement of the city, the Links will need to start swinging the bats like they are capable of domg.
The Links currently have a 10-15 record and lost their ranking of "contenders". That happened due to the fact that the Links lost to Grand Island, North Star and · Northeast.
On Apr i 1 17 th the Links had a double header against
the team 12-7. The Links matched Elkhorn in hits with eleven, but co mmitted four errors.
The second game the Links faced the Northeast Rockets. Brokaw threw a gem as he only allowed three runs The offense was not there in the second game as the Links had just five hits. The Links lost a close one 3-2. Brokaw also went 2 for 3 from the dish.
The next night the Links faced inner-city rival North Star. The Gator's bats were swinging as they managed 17 hits off the Links pitching. The Links lost the first contest but had another chance in the second game. Senior Eric Hoffman got the win for the Links and senior Derec Schmidgall went 3 for 4. The Links jumped out - early w11fi coln East
pulled ~"/;;$/}~~;,~~.·
three runs in the
April 30th, the out the f/J; _ __ . II Links had two ten run nO y am erg f gets ready o. I a as ba games, includrule onin a game against the Southwest Stlverhawks. The ing their first one the Spar-Links swept the double header. against Marystans. The
By Candace
ville, Kansas. Links took the game 10-0 in five innings. The Links Senior Jake Brokaw pitched for the Links and brought the lumber to the park that day as they had a complete game and only gave up two hits. scored 19 runs in a victory, Klein got the win for Brokaw also went 2 for 3 from the plate. the Links. But all the talk was about the offense.In the sec and game the Spartans got revenge Hubka hit a <linger for the Links and went 3 for on the Links and dished out the ten run rule in six 4 with five runs batted in. Hoffman added two innings. The Links lost 16 -5 and split the double doubles in the Links victory. header with the Spartans. The next game the Links battled Columbus. On April 27th, the Links played two games. The Links got down 5-0 in the first two innings but In the first game the Links squared off against rallied back in the bottom of the seventh to score 5 Elkhorn. Elkhorn got five runs in the first inning runs and win 9-8. The Links kn ocked out for hits off senior Chris Meskimen. The Links were led with two outs before senior Jason Warnke hit the by senior's Max Hubka andAndrew Klein Hubka go ahead two run double. Junior Rudy Martinez ended up with three hits and Klein also had three picked up the victory for the Links, These two hits and one of those was a home run. Senior wins for the Links were big for their confidence Robby Hamberg added a double but the offense heading into district play. for the Links was not enough as Elkhorn defeated
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BySherryWang
With only two returning letter winners Kristin Hilde (12) and Zoya Dronova (12), so far, the season has been going pretty good for girls' tennis This year, there are 11 players in total out of the 30 some who had tried out who compete on varsity. The highlight of this season would be when Linco]n High hosted a toiµnament on the 16th of April, which consisted of eight teams. Last year, LHS finished in 1st • At this year's Lincoln High Invite, the team finished 4'h by a difference of only a couple of matches Lincoln High had 30 points, and 2 teams had 38. Lets hope that luck follows these players. The No 2 doubles players Vanessa Ventry (10) and Erica Anderson (10) got 3"' place medals. There were several entries that finished 4'". Zoya Dronova (12) finished 4'h and won No. l singles. Also, Kristin Hilde (12) and Mai Do (10),
we have some of the best teams in the state, so we have a lot of new players and very tough competition, but I think almost everybody on the team has got some winning matches so far."
The girls are working themselves pretty hard to come out of the season with some satisfactory results, "[practicing] virtually everyday" and having "two to three meets for the next four weeks," according to Coach Ward. He believes that Grand Island and Southwest would be their greatest challengers within the conference Grand Island won l" place in Kearney.
Since the players will continue to make progress, there is a lot to look forward to. Coach Ward was anticipating the Papillion tournament on April 30 because teams that they don't usually play against will face Lincoln High. Phuong Tran (11) says, "I look forward to challenging myself each day. I don't have to win at every game. As long as I have fun and No. 1 doubles, finished 4'". With three out of Lincoln High's f o u r entries
By
ByChrisijatch
the state in the mile, 8th in the two mile, and 8th in
The Lincoln High boys and girls track teams the 800. Many other Links are capable of achieving are now most of the way through their season and state chart recognition if they can put it all together on have had some great performances and are hoping a given day. for more to come. At the LPS championship meet, The girls have been lead by standout pole vaulter the boys team took A. n;-,,• Miranda Hruska 4th place and the who has wracked girls took 5th. EfmwE m@PJ up some serious Senior Darren %%lil frequent flyer Reinhardt has estab- Mtlillt@ @@Q!l! M!Zfl@Tu !l!f@.i@ mmm miles. Freshman lished himself as a @Tu- @@ @@lliii!®iM iMlD Kayla Meskimen force to be reckoned 0011 11$•\0!i%1!Mli@illiilli has proven herself with in the shot put, •••• oot/J WWi @!@ lliiilliiilliii tllt®& ct!®llli to be a stellar 400 winning the LPS [f@iifillilli mm®® ~:: meter runner and Championship. nm Mlli& ½%:@ sophomore Bran-
The sprint mmm ¾KW. dis Hurt has been core for coach John a bright spot for Gerber is young, '''"'' the girls distance and loaded with team. Many other a lot of potential, girls from this small but inexperienced. team have managed The boys 4xl00 to fare well also. relay team of fresh- "We were only 16 man Codie Fultz, points( on the boys sophomore Jerrell side) out of second Lord, and seniors place at city and I Christian Lewis and was really pleased Ricky Massa took with the way second at the LPS things went." Said meet and continue head boys trac k to improve with ev- • coach Bob White. ery run. Lewis an Darren Reinhardt ( 12) throws the shot put "We have some seniorTomFoyhaveat the Harold Scott Invite on April 21st. eople on the state also been making a Photo B Chris Hatch rack charts and have impact early in the progressed well as a triple jump, with both men medaling at the Fremont team." Look for the Links to use this momentum as Invite and going 2-3 at the LPS Championships. On they head to Districts and then State. The Heartland the distance side, senior Ray Mikkelson had been Athletic Conference Meet will be held at Scott Track having a break-out year for himself before being on May 5 and will see all the Lincoln schools and sidelined with an injury. Sophomore Luke Franssen Fremont and Grand Island compete. Watch for some has been jumping very well in the pole vault, clearing Links, both boys and girls, to have a good meet and 11' 9 and medaling at most all of the meets so far this then tear up their district at Grand Island on the! l th of season. So far the boys have a runner ranked 3rd in May.
'
Erica Anderson ( 10) gets ready to return a 1serveat a tournament. it's all good." The conference meet will be on the 14th of May, while the state tournament will b e on the 19'h and 20 th • It would w1nn1ng matches at the Kearney tournament, they're going off to a great start. As Coach Steve Ward stated, "In our conference,
What has happened to America's pastime? We now have major league baseball players that are taking an illegal drug called steroids. One of the key players that has been accused of using steroids is the former home run king Mark McG,vire. But what can baseball do now? Commisioner Bud Selig has issued a new steroid testing policy that looks like a kindergarten rule. All of these records that are being shattered over the past ten years of baseball have turned the game into the steroid era.
In early December, New York Yankees slugger Jason Giambi admitted to a federal grand jury that he had injected human growth hormones starting the season of 2000. That meant that Gian1hi had taken steroids during the time he was in Oakland and won the 2000 American League's Most Valuable Player award. In his testimony, Giambi described how he injected the human growth hormones into his stomach and buttocks Giambi also admitted that he had taken the undetectable steroid such as the cream. Giambi obtained the drugs from Greg Anderson, a trainer for San Francisco Giants star outfielder Barry Bonds. Anderson and Bonds have been training together for the past four years. Anderson and Bonds worked out together at a gym near Balco, a performance enhancing supplement store.
On December 4'h,Bonds testified io a grand jury that he used a clear substance and a cream that Anderson had given to him. According to Bonds, Anderson told him the substances were nutritional supplement flaxseed oil and a pain relieving balm for arthritis. Bonds made it clear that he had no idea that the drugs Anderson was dealing him were steroids. New York Yankee's outfielder Gary Shefield told reporters that he seen Anderson give Bonds supplements before and admitted that he ,vas using the same thing Bonds was receiving. Bonds has a career total of 694 home runs and is third on the all time home run list. It's reasonable that Bonds would have passed Hank
be interesting to see how the six players that will get the opportunity to compete in state will perform.
Aaron this season on the all time lisJ of home runs. Bonds is currently sitting out the season due to knee injury. Aaron has 755 home runs, none of which are tainted.
Former major league all-star Jose Canseco recently published his tell all book, Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant 'Raids, Smash Hits And How Baseball Got Big. In his book, Canseco names the players who he knows of that have taken steroids, one of them is McGwire. Canseco said that when he, McGwire, and Giambi were teammates in Oakland they would shoot steroids together in a bathroom stall at Oakland Coliseum.
On M1}rch17'', Canseco, McGwire, Sart1JJ1ySosa, Rafael Palmeiro , and Curt Schilling attended the congressional hearing in Washington D C. One player who was missing from the puzzle was Bonds. Bonds was not invited due to the fact that baseball is not out to ruin one players career At the hearing, Bonds' mistress for almost ten years testified that she has seen Bonds injecting steroids. She claimed Bonds started using the drug in 2000, the start of his record breaking career. The one player everyone was trying to get answers out of was McGwire. No matter how hard the congressmen tried, McGwire wouldn't say he had taken steroids. When McGwire was asked if using steroids was cheating he said that that is not for him to determine. "I'm not here to talk about the past," said McGwire. "I'm here to be posilive about the subject."
Ken Caminiti died at the age of 41 on November 3'', 2004. Caminiti admitted using steroids during the time he ,von the 1996 Nation League's Most -Valuable Player. Caminiti died of a heart attack that was caused by an overdose of drugs. On April 3'<l,the league made it's first drug bust since the new policy was put into effect. Tampa Bay Devil Ray's player Alex Sanchez was suspended 10 days for violating the drug policy. Sanchez has a career total of four home runs First time offenders receive a 10 day suspension.
Above: The fairies dance off the stage at the end of the school perfon11ance of MidsummerNight5Dream. Above
Right JessicaWallen-Thompson ( 12) ib~ic~Sotta1t1-pclfonr~he~eath -= scene in the play for the royals in, AMidsummerNight5Dream.
Right Nick Keeler ( 12) as Francis Flute falls to the floor in fear of the lion played
Left: · Kaylee Ward (12) takes a practice jump before the pole vault competition starts.
Below left: Joanne Bland, founder of the Voting Rights Museum, spoke at the civil rights assembly about her life growing up Selma Alabama during segregation. Bland participated in the Bloody Sunday march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965.
Below: Eukeria Okwumuo ( 12) and Melinda Shortridge ( 12) go for the soccer ball as an East student kicks the ball down the field.
by Jeremylinnean (10). The man in the moon was played by EllaWiles (10).
By i\.llisaFuenzalida
Prom may be one of the last times you and your fellow peers get together. The end of the school year is near and what better way to spend the time with your closest friends? Prom has always been an important event to high school students and especially the senior class.
This year was an off- year considering Lincoln High's prom was held at UNL Union. But does location really matter?
Personaly I think that The Union was a great location for Lincoln High considering the tum out. Having it at The Union really topped this years theme escpecially by having the staircase to walk up. At least we had post prom at Lincoln High 's headquarters, a.k.a. Johnson Gym.
It was quite an experience watching everyone dressed up in their formal wear grooving to the country tunes spun by this years DJ Jill Hitz. Thanks to DECA for all of the beautiful decorations. Many people enjoyed the little tin of mints they all recieved, maybe it was so they didnt offend their prom date?
Due to a tie for Prom royalty there were 7 finalists running for king. Chris Hatch, Ricky Massa, Preston Peterson, Jordan King, Garrett Jones, Derec Schmidgall, and Andrew Klein.
Continued on Page 3
ByMarcuslfall
2005 is shaping up to be a very promising year for the entertainment industry, the summer movie list is taking shape, and the video game industry is also bringing the heat with it's own blockbuster release list However the new consoles are just around the comer. The PSP and DS have released earlier than expected and a new Game Boy is set for release. However, 2005 is not taking this lying down. Little known and veteran publishers are going to make sure that you won't be playing outside that much this summer. So start saving up your paychecks, think up some good excuses to call in sick and be ready to explain why your homework won't be done come next
Continued on Page 6
LHS Prom at UNL Union-page 3
Paul McCartney to come to Nebraska-page 7
Some finals poetry-page 9
Spring sports recap-page 10
Johnathon Hennara l 12J ana the rest or the Joy died many aspects of LHS, such as the cheerleaders.
By SherryWang
CSI Joynite Lincoln 2005, put on by some brilliant and the most talented students, took place on May 19 and 20, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. What Ayana DeNovellis (10) had said about her Joynite experience might as well sum up how Joynite was like: "It was fantastically funny, outrageous, ethically diverse, and heroic in some aspects. I was inspired."
The mystery of how this year's experience of watching Joynite would've been solved if one had gone to one of the shows. For those who hadn't felt the thrill of Joynite, revive the laughs, the astonishments, and the cheers that you came across while you sat anticipating the next exciting act to occur
on the stage. For those who unfortunately hadn't gone to see Joynite on either of the days, feel the energy of the experience, and you might be compelled by your own curiosity to attend Joynite next year if you have a chance to.
Varsity Jazz Band made an appearance by being the first act of Joynite. Playing "Sister Sadie," they did a wonderful job. The soloists were amazing, and Band Director Terry Rush made a commotion in the audience by strutting across the stage in an Hawaiian shirt. The Freshman - Sophomore Choir sang "My Guy" along with some creative choreography. Student Council had a skit, and this year, DECA has decided to drop the spandex pants. DECA had a full skit on Thursday. On Friday, though, there was a bit of a problem. Neva Winkle (11)
' stated, "In defense of DECA, we had to go decorate for prom because they wouldn't allow us to decorate until tonight (Friday, May 20"')." However, Johnathon Hubbard (12) cleverly filled up the time slot. The Cheerleaders did an amazing job, and IIG simply stomped the life out of the stage.
Varsity Women's Choir sang "This One's for the Girls" by Martina McBride, and Concert Choir sang "Dancing Queen." Jazz Choir was also a part of Joynite with "English 101." On Friday, Concert Choir members made the audience a part of their concert by bringing up their friends on stage. The African Dancers added a cultural aspect to Joynite as did Las Razas Unidas and the Kurdish Dancers. The Pomalinks put a lot of effort into Joynite. They did a fantastic job on stage in their cute outfits.
The Mummers had a skit about people auditioning and portrayed the judges' frustration. Phuong Tran ( 11) thought, "Mummers could've used a bit more practice."
Morgan Ballard (9) and Jessica Farber (9), who sang "Hero" by Mariah Carey and "Son of a Preacher Man" respectively, were both shooting stars who have the voice for stardom. Next, ballerinas Brittnee Benjamin (12) and Amanda Brown (10) gracefully danced to the song "I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan. Karis Parker (9) then brilliantly played the Prelude in C# minor on the piano. The Flight of the Bumblebee was indeed interesting, with Sean Jones (12) playing the xylophone while Ryan Beach (11) and Matt Boring (10) set the xylophone "in flight," moving Continued on Pa!!,e 5
8YNhu-YNgo
Lincoln High seniors Rudy Resch and Ke nt Shirer recently competed in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona. Winners of the Greater Nebraska Science and Engineering Fair in Nebraska City on April 2"d, Resch and Shirer were chosen to represent Nebraska in the international science competition. The event took place from
day during the week-Jong fair, and enjoyed themselves the rest of the time. "We partied," Shirer admitted eagerly. They met students from throughout the world and even danced with Brazilians.
The duo placed fourth in the Team Physics category with their project. The area had twenty competing entries. "There were over 1100 projects from 44 countries," Rynearson said. "A fantastic effort by both Kent and Rudy." In the big picture, the team rank in the top 27% of all the projects
For future endeavors, Rynearson is raising funds. He is asking for donations.
May 8th to the 151h_ ent5hirer(12)andRudyResch(12)recent"y"" ''''"'''''illl ' "I will be riding my
" T h e Efficiency of Photomul-
placed 4th place in the Team Physics competi- bike across Nebraska ion at the Intel International Science and Engi- to raise money foF the neering Fair. Jim Rynearson (center) is their Science Club," he said.
tiplier Tube Cosmic Ray Detectors" physics teacher.
was the title of their presentation. It is the result of over a year of research with the University of Nebraska's CROP program and an Independent Study Science Research class offered by LHS Physics teacher Jim Rynearson, who also traveled with the boys to Phoenix.
The experience was worthwhile, according to both. "It was a Jot of fun," Resch said. "Meeting all the awesome people that were actually interested in science was the best part."
Resch and Shirer presented for one
"We spent $170 to have Photo by Nhu-Y Ngo their project printed and
$180 to have it shipped to Phoenix, so anything you can do to help out would be great."
Resch plans to go into engineering next year at Harvey Mudd College in California, as Shirer will attend Northwestern University in Illinois to study physics.
SmaUBaby Still Alive e
Trey Keifer is still alive after being born in an emergency C-section and weighing under 14 ounces. Born nearly seven weeks ago, Keifer has been recuperating in Lincoln and wiII most likely have to stay in the hospital for four more months. Jessica, his mother, has a history of high blood pressure, and her condition was complicated by pregnancy. After suffering heart failure, the decision to remove the baby by cesarean section was made to save the mother's life. Trey was given a 5% chance of life. He has beaten the odds and has doubled in weight.
House Reviewing Ban on Women in Combat
The House Armed Services Committee is mulling over
• •
ews, 1n r1e
whether to ban women from combat. A measure proposed Terry Werner recently received a mocking e-mail in his by House Republicans wants to restrict women from ser- inbox after his unsuccessful City Council reelection bid. vicing as drivers, medics, and logistic specialists. They contend that women are unnecessarily close to combatzones and are in danger of their lives. This proposal has been met with strong opposition by the United StatesArmy, whose recruiting rates have fallen. Based on current estimates, the Army will miss its annual recruitment target by 18% If the bill passes, 22 ,000 females would be pulled from duty. Current law bans women from the front-lines.
Iraq is a peculiar situation as it is officially dubbed an "insurgency" lacking a front line. Nine-thousand women are serving in Iraq, while 35 have died.
GOP Chair Adds Insult
Ten days after the General election, Lancaster Country Republican Chairman Jim Haga sent Werner a taunting note. According to the Journal Star on May 18'", it read "Let this be a wakeup call to you. The voters of Lincoln wisely rejected your socialist agenda. If needed, we could have addressed your driving record (having a private eye follow you was a joy), and more. Had you been a good Democrat and not a socialist, you might have been reelected." Haga says he now regrets fhe e-mail, which was reportedly sent in "anger " He also denied having a private investigator follow Werner. Werner, as well as many of his supporters, expressed disappointment and outrage.
·~/lost stuc!ents at Nebr aska ·•• Wesleyan graduatE;in four ·
"Being
ro.lehas helped
By 1\.llisaFuenzalida
The finalists for queen were Ashley Durst, Jessica WallenThompson, Ashley Fuhrer, Ana Martinez, Tiffany Tushar, and Brooke Gillies. The Princes · were Andrew Hawley, Rudy Martinez, Ethan Grell, James Oliva, Jordan White, and Nate Franssen. For Princesses Melissa Morton, Amanda Pettit, Hannah Skiff, Kendra Wolfe, Kaydee Smith, and Kristin Rasmussen
The first runners up for :;.(
I'm going to start off by saying that Post Prom was hot! By that I mean temperature wise. Good thing they brought out the giant fans. I seemed to forget how hot it was when my attention was drawn to watching students beat each other up by playing Gladiator. There were a lot of fun and interesting games and a ton of food. I think by far the coolest things O:.fi~ .. • P os t '.:Prom was the tropical This years prom Prince and theme with the giant Princess were Rudy Martinez volcano in Johnson and Kaydee Smith. The runners ~~!iJjjjjjjfjj=~rii!!ii!ii.~ Gym hallway. It up for Prom King and Queen took me a while to were Chris Hatch and Ashley figure out what the Fuhrer. This years Lincoln High big brown thing was 2005 Prom King and Queen were L... __:__________ in the middle of the Jordan King and Ashley Durst. hallway but I looked Huh King takes King around and figured out that it was a volcano.
By IzzyI\OCh
Withtheeverinoreasinggas pricesacrossthecountry, the popularityof hybrid cars is going through the roof. Too expensivefor high schoolstudentsto afford,maybea parent here or there will deemit necessaryto do theirpart in helpingto save the environment(or at least,not make it any worse).
Hybrid vehicles combine two or more sources of power.The definitionof the word hybrid,is somethingof• mixedoriginor composition.Youmightrecognizethetenn hybridfrom a scienceclass,whenyou talkedabouthybrid plants.With hybridcars in the news a lot recently,it's hard to missthem.Carsaren'tthe onlymethodsof transportation that we have that are hybrid(mo-pedsare an exampleof a hybrid),they're just in the news the most.
Hybridcars are a crossbetweenan electriccar,and a gasolinepoweredcar The gas part of the enginecombines with the electric part- the batteries-to work together to powerthe car.There are two different ways that you can combinethe gasolinepoweredengine to the electricmotor- through a parallel hybrid, or a series hybrid. With the parallel hybrid, the gas engine is the main source of power, while in a series hybrid, the main source of energy is the electric engine.
The goal with hybrid cars is two fold: to improve mileage, and to reduce tail pipe emissions With a Honda Insight, you can get 61 miles per gallon in the city, 68 on the highway With the Toyota Ptius, one of the most popular hybrid cars, you get 60 miles a gallon in city, and 51 on the highway.Pretty good, comparedto my '83 Dodge Aries approximate 13 miles a gallon-on highway, or in city
Not only does this reduce the huge amounts of money spent on gas, but it also helps reduce the pollution.Imag-
ine, if even half of the greater Los Angeles area owned hybrid cars. There wouldn't be half as much pollutiongenerated smog Laws are set out by the government, to how much emission is allowed out of tail pipes- Honda Civic hybrids, and Toyota Prius' are considered to be Partial Zero Emission Vehiclesin California. With a rating for every car, California has been battling pollution for years- it is estimated that pollution has been reduced by about 90% since the '70s (y,/\VW.h,;,cbridcars.s;om) California is the leader in hybrid owners- approximately 25,000 can be found in California. The states following the closest only have about 5,000 registered hybrids. While hybrid cars are good for the environment, they aren't for everyone. With how expensive they are, not everyone will be able to afford one The Toyota Prius price tag starts at $20,510 Hybrids also won't be the easiest to get. With all the hype around them, and how often they are featured in the news, you may get put on a bit of a waiting list before demand reaches equilibrium with supply.
For now,hybridsonly come in smallercars (with the exception of two)- Prius, Insight, Accord, Civic, and the two bigger SUV's. By 2007, it is expected that 12 more hybrid cars will be available, ranging from compact cars, to mini vans, to trucks. While hybrids are a great idea, since they benefit the environment, and reduce the amount of money that consumers spend on gas, they're not completely ready to go yet. It will still be a few years before bigger cars are ready to go on the market (such as mini vans and trucks) It might also be a while before the supply goes up to demand, and are affordable to most. If you have the money,a hybrid is a great idea- if you don't mind waiting the year and a half long wait..
By ,\lina<Selyukh
Name: Allison Frenzel
Grade: 12 (17 years old)
Tell me about yourself.
Em I What do you want to know? Just whatever you ~vant to say. Oh, gosh Well I'm very involved in theater and music. And I've been doing it since I was eight. And that's what I'm doing next year when I go to school I ' m pretty outgoing, pretty loud, pretty unique I don't know what you'd like to know
That's all right. How about this: describe yourself in three words. (pause) Motivated Happy and (pause) spirited? So you said, you 're involved in theater and singing. What do you do? Well, I've been in a musical all three years at Lincoln High and got a lead part all three times. I've been doing shows around town since I was eight. My first show was at Pinewood Bowl, the outdoor theater at Pioneers Park.
I did some stuff at the Community Playhouse and Haymarket Theater, some at the Lied Center.
I've just kind of been all over, doing musicals mostly some plays, mostly musicals. I played Annie iu "Annie" and Dorotq y..j n ~ Wizard 0 £ _Oz" Choir-wise I've been in All-State for two years 1n a row.
What are you doing now? Right now I'm in the national thespian cast of the musical "Ragtime" which is rehearsing in Las Vegas. I went there for a week in March, then next week, then all of June. It performs in Vegas and then at International Thespian Festival here in Lincoln in June. I'm really excited about that. There were like 300 people who auditioned from all over the country and only 36 ofus were chosen. So, that's pretty cool. I'm doing that right now. "Ragtime" is a musical about the tum of the century and it follows three different groups of ethnicities: African-Americans, white and immigrants and it tells about their stories and how they all come together
Is it really international? It's actually national. Would have been international, but they didn't get anybody to audition from anywhere internationally. But it's national there're two ofus from Nebraska: my good friend from Southwest is also in there. So we are having a blast going to Vegas. There are people from Maine, Dallas, Georgia, California - all over. What did you feel when you found that you actually got in? I was really excited, because first of all it is so cool to be surrounded by people that are so talented. It has just been really a privilege and I've been so humbled to be a part of it. I'm in the ensemble. I was also humbled because I made it to the last callback for the lead role of the mother, and it was down to me and three other girls. Another girl got it, and I got the ensemble, but I felt so lucky to just be that far. It was really surreal
How did you get into singing? My mom told me that I sang in the shower when I was little (laughs) and I walked around the house humming, singing whatever song popped into my head. So, she saw an ad in the paper for the auditions to sing in the Pinewood Bowl - I was eight at that time - and she said "Maybe you should go and do it." We went to the library and found a song for me to do, and we went to the auditions, and I was very nervous, because the director made me sing only first four measures of the song, which is not that much at all, and said "Okay, that's all I need." I was like "What??? I know the whole song, I can sing the whole thing!" I thought that was it, I thought I was done But then they called me and told me that I got in. I was the youngest. What you going to do when you graduate?
Next year I'm going to the Webster University, I'll be majoring in musical theater.
If you wouldn't be singing and in drama, what would you be doing?
Well, I decided that if I don't make it into schools for musical theater - it's very competitive - I would major in English and be an English teacher.
What is your dream?
My goals have changed a lot over the years, I became more of a realis f "B iif l still n ope and dre a m that some day I would make it big But I just want to be able to l ive comfortably, to support my family and myself, doing something that I love. What would you change about yourself, if you could? The fact that I have really bad allergies (laughs) And it's a very big hindrance when it comes to singing
About Lincoln High? More funding for the arts.
I know it's a pretty typical answer after all I've said, but I think it's really unfortunate that the funding keeps getting cut more and more from band, and vocal music programs, and theater, and drama Academics are important but everybody has something besides math and science that keeps them going. It may be sports, but for a lot of people it's the fine arts.
Anything about Lincoln? That I would change?
Yes. No! I really like Lincoln! I loved growing up here. I think it's a great place to raise kids, because it's in the middle between a small town and a big city.
About United States? Well (ironically) I'm not too fond of our current president, so I would change that I think it's sad that there are so many people in this world that are still so close-minded about so many things. Our society has evolved so much over the years and there are new people and new ideas that are afloat. I think there are just people who are unwilling to accept change, and I thing change is great, change is what keeps the world going around, makes the life interesting.
What would you do if you had $1,000,000 out of blue? I wou1d never work a day in my life, I would invest all of it well, I would invest enough that it would grow overtime. I would
marry my boyfriend and go traveling around the world, have kids and settle down. Just live my life.
What could you die for? (dramatically) Cheesecake! (laughs) I would never tum around a good piece of cheesecake, and all my friends know it.
What are you scared of? I think the same things everybody is scared of Death, and war, and, you know, poverty, hunger I'm afraid of heights, it really scares me.
You as a singer, what music do you listen to?
Show tunes (laughs) I listen to the NPR, so I listen to classical music, and I really love piano music. But I also like Coldplay, it's my favorite
May 27, 2005
band, and I like Ben Folds Five.
Do you believe in fortune telling? Yes and no. I don't know if I believe in fortune-tellers, but you know Jones soda, and there are sayings under the cap. I don't drink those often, but every time I do, whatever saying there is, it's always applicable to the situation.
If you could go back in time, what period would you go to? (pause) Wow I don't know I think it would be great to go to the '50s. I think the women in the '50s were really cool, and they were cute, too. I'd love to go back to that period and be a pin-up girl With my fair skin and red hair, I kind of look like those back then, which doesn't really fit in now It would be neat
ByNhu•YNgo
What high school did you go to? Minden High School in Minden, Nebraska. It's out in the middle of the stare about 150 miles west of here. When did you graduate? 1966 was my high school graduation, and our mascot was the whippets Minden Whippets.
What's a whippet? It's a small racing dog. It's kind of a greyhound type tiring. A very skinny, small dog and it's supposed to be the fastest dog in the world It's a racing dog.
How long have you had your car? I've had the Mustang for about 21 years, I think. I got it in 1984
What year is it? 1966. It ' s the year I graduated; that's why it's kind of special. In fact, I have a name for my car. You do? What is it? Whippet
How did your licorice tradition at games begin? I've done that for a long time. I did it at the other school I was at. It kind of started a little bit at Nebraska football games. I call it touchdown licorice. Whenever Nebraska would score touchdowns, I would pass around the Twizzlers And I started doing it at high school games. I started going to-you know, it just kind of got to be a tradition I did it with the school I was at before. Th€. band-we took a band trip one time and I passed out licorice on the bus. So, I've been doing that for a long time.
What's the most stressfW part of being a principal?
Probably time management, not having enough time to do all the things I'd like to do as well as I'd like to do them. It's frustrating when I would like to do more or be at more meetings or be involved in something. There are several things that conflict at the same time.
Did you used to teach? Yes, I was a math teacher originally. In fact, I student-taught at Lincoln High In 1969, I was a student teacher here in math and then I taught math at a small school in Lexington , Nebraska for three years I was the only math teacher in a small school, so I taught all the math
Do you have an affiliation to any political party?
Um (laughs) Sort of-I'm registered with a party. It's a different party than what I used to be registered with; I've switched over the years.
Why? Probably because I don't feel like that identifies who I am. It's just a matter who I feel like I'd like to be able to vote for in the Primaries.
Will you tell us the party? (laughs) Right now, I'm a registered Democrat.
What's in your CD player right now? In my CD player right now?
Or just what you 're listening to. That's a good question. 1 don't listen to a lot of music. ABBA, I have aMy dad likes ABBA. (laughs) I saw the musical, so
I like that. (Dr. Wortman looked in his CD player later and found "Hourglass'. ' by James Taylor ) Weezer is my favorite band and they just came out recently. Is that right?
Do you have a favorite band or musical artist? Well, I usually listen to radio stations that kind of have golden oldies on them, and so some of the music from the sixties, when I was high school, are some of the tirings I like. I like the Beatles-that kind of thing. The Beach Boys. Do you read much? Yeah, I read a lot of things tied to "H0w To " kinds of things-
how to do things, whether it deals with school or, in some cases, how to cook. I kind of enjoying doing things 0n the g1ill or the crackpot-that kind of thing. I also enjoy reading some novels. I've done some stuff with a couple of book clubs.
What's your favorite color?
Red
What's your favorite part of the school year?
I think probably, maybe the month of September.
Everybody is always positive and hopeful. Everybody has visions of what they want to accomplish for the year. It's always kind of a fresh start for some people. Staff-wise : usually there are some new teachers. And there are people teaching some new courses. There are new students, new fresluuen in the building. There are some students who had things happen the year before, but now they're starting off on a positive note. Parents, usually at parent conferences in the enc) of September, are enthusiastic about their kids. We have an open-house Son1e of the first events, whether it is the first time tne band performs at half-time, the first time the cheerleaders perform, the first athletic events-those are all fun. It's the beginning of the enthusiasm that's with that.
How long have you been the principal at LHS? Ten years at Lincoln High.
What did you get your doctorate in? Educational Administration
By E..milieCorbin
personally like to deliver the packages.
On Saturday May 7th at 5 a m. three LHS
On March 21, 2005 sixteen year old Jeff students (Emilie Corbin, Brittany Canby and Weise shoot and killed his grandfather and his Golden Long) and four LP S staff members ingrandfather's girlfriend before leaving his home for eluding LHS English teacher Mary Dickinson and school and opening fire once inside the Red Lake Associate Principal Annie Scott, set out on a 13 • • • ~tm~r::mmmtf'''t=:=:::=t=1?c=:'?::=:=:=:=:::::::=::::::::;:::;:,,,i:::;::;rtn#j:':::~:::::,:::::::%::::::::w1::::;:::~,,n:=:=:=:':=:=::c'? • Senior High School 1n Red b,,.~,,:••••cs:"••·•·•·•·•·"••·•"'"'"'''''•••·•·•·•·•·'·•,w""•,,,.,,.,.,,ttf"••·"•:•:•rn'"'·"·1·, , "i?t·:hour drive to the Leech Lake and '.it1mw1ii•~Wit":ll ''t;;:lii ; ; ,,tJl;I 1 :·.l\:il ! · · Lak~, Minnesota Jeff took 1i I ,. I:• • ,. \. r; ll1f;t, ,,;;:ff':.;,d!lhi:i&,I! Red Lake Indian Reservations to the life of 12 students before ,~~wmnivl'.t:~~~#ii)1t~~:;~tiltfo~~1!j:11½BLl!iii~t;:;:~:mrnm taking his own. His actions • greatly impacted the life of I deliver the donations. those Ii v ing in the Red Lake """''"··""'·"'"''·•••w•::,,,:,.,.,....,m,.••:sm: ~,,.,..,.,._...,,"'""'
This group from Lincoln, Nebraska \Vas able to experience first hand the spiritual beauty of not only the people but the land of the Leech Lake and R ed Lake Indian Reservation.
Lincoln High's Native American Caucus, with the support of the Lincoln High Student Council, raised Indian Reservations They were able to partake in an annual Pow Wow and also items and put together care be in the presence of the sacred packages to send to the A wall at Red Lake High School in waters of Red Lake. Theirexpepeople living on the res- Minnesota expresses the thanks riences will never be forgotten ervation. After donations of the students and community for and have greatly impacted their came in, to their surprise, there were far more items then ever expected. Native the support they've received from lives across the country after a school Th th kf 1 t ey are very an u o shooting left 12 students dead. h h d
, American Caucus members decided they would
Do you have any nicknames? Dr. Dub? Dr Dub sometimes. Dr. Mike. Actually, from college days, people called me Whippet, in reference to my high school mascot. I had t-shirts and sweatshirts that I wore during college that were from my school. Any funny stories from your time here? Yeah, there are. See if I can think of anything that jumps out at me (pause) I can't think of a particular thing. There are tin1es when I run into students outside of school, and it's always interesting. Sometimes they' re surprised to see me at a grocery store buying groceries not in a suit and tie. Or on a Saturday morning when I haven t shaved yet and I have my running shoes on artd jogging. Orwhenl'm at a movie theater buying popcorn with my wife and family. We're all in a different role that way. Tire student is checking me out. Has it ever beeu where you haven't said hi to them, but they're staring at you? Yeah. I think they know who I am, but I'm not sure. It's the same for parents, too I'll be at a garage sale, walking along on a Saturday morning and all of sudden I realize somebody's looking at me. "Aren't you the principal at Lincoln High?" they ask. And I say, ~'Yeah, I am " Biggest success? I think maybe the biggest success is not messing too much with the tradition and excellence of Lincoln High. Lincoln High has a long, long tradition of being an outstanding And I think for me to be here for ten years and a:llo\v that to continue you know, there's always kind of a fear or a feeling of responsibility related to "What if I do something to mess this up." I think we have been able to keep it going. We have good kids, good families What's your vision for Lincoln High's future? I guess it would be that we were more <ible to help more students be successful. I think we can do-students have an amazing amount of opportunities here
t ose w o supporte t e1r trip and made it possible.
at Lincoln High, but all students don 't take advantage of all of them. Sometimes We need to change a little bit to help all students be successful.
Who did you vote for iu the City Council elections? (laughs) I think that's kind of personal.
But you did vote, right? Yes, I voted.
What are your plans for the summer? Actually, I'm going to go to Hawaii. I have a daughter who's going to run a marathon June 19'\,. My wife and I feel like we should go and cheer her on. This will be her third marathon in a year.
Will Lincoln High experience any new changes within the next year or two? Well, I hope so. Any physical changes? The district is doing some things right now and looking at bond issues In fact, we're going to have some people tour Lincoln High here in a couple of days, as far as this committee. · I hope that -and this wouldn't be a quick fix or anytime soon-but I hope that our auditorium can be updated and neat seats, new sound system, light system, curtains, handicap accessible-just a lot of things. Is there a time frame for that? It's part of a bond issue. If that co,mes in a part of it may be some fundraising alums would do We're probably talking about several years.
Do you have an inspirational quote that you live by? I have a couple of quotes. One of them I have on the wall: "The nature of the relationships among the adults who inhabit a school has more to do with the school's quality and character and with the accomplishments of its pupils than any other factor'' by Roland Barth (1984). He's an educator. That's one. I have another one-"Ifyou know why, you will figure out how." It's by W.E. Demming. Those are a couple of them that I I do have a poem: In men whom men condemn as ill/I find so much of goodness still,/In men whom men pronounce divine/I find so much .of sin and blot,/I do not dare to draw a line/Between the two, where God has not. Anyhow, those are three. When's your birthday? February 20th
What the average day of a principal like? Schedule wise? Usually I'm here around 7, meeting with people, attending meetings, and in and out of classrooms and hallways. Everyday is different and unique; sometimes I'm here in the building the whole day. Sometimes I go off-campus to meetmgs other places for part of the day. Usually I'm here until 4:30 or 5:00. And then probably two, three, four nights a week, I have something else happening at 7 o'clock or so- some music event or athletic event or meeting to attend-parent conferences or something like that. When do you usually leave Lincoln High? Nine, but usually I am at home for a few hours before then to eat and then I come back at seven for something. •
By Marcusliall
school year. This year, possibly the last in this generation of consoles, is promising to change the Way that humans perceive video games.
• SSX4 (Working Title): Xbox/GameCubelPS2/ PSP/NintendoDS
Perhaps one of the most beloved snowboarding franchises ever, The Snowboard Supe=ss returns with it's fourth edition, promising more speed, more air and bigger tricks than one could imagine. This time around, there is one mountain that you can tear up, but ~nmamus way st o do "it.w 'I his may souno like SSXJ,' however, this time there is less break in the action and the mountain's sheer size will be better represented in the ominous ambiance that it projects Imagin speeding down the mountain as a giant wall of snow and ice follows you in persuit This time, the mountain is alive , and it's coming for you.
SSXhas never really been about true to life physics, and this game is , no exception. The old physics engine has been thrown out, and replaced with the Burnout 3: Takedown engine. Motion blur and other screen tricks have been added to make sure that your run down the mountain will rival that of a drive down Big Surf Shores in Burnout 2: Point of Impact.
New to the SSX tour this year will be skiers Yes, this time the skiers get their chance to show their stuff on the mountain, complete with their own set of skier unique uber tricks. Character customization is also a more important aspect this year A player can either create his or her rider from scratch, or choose from one of the shredders from previous editions.
As you launch into the air, looking down to the majestic snow covered evergreens below, the only thing that you will find will be the lonely call of a bird, admiring the monster trick that you have just pulled off.
Imagine being able to pull over 200 iiber tricks,yeah, this game is going to be big
Developed by veteran EA Canada and Published by EA BIG, SSX4 is set for release in early fall.
• Marvel Nemesis: Rise a/The lmpeifects: Xbox! GameCube/PS21PSP
Afewyears ago, a game was announced as "Marvel vs. EA," and the crowd went nuts. 'Marvel VS' games have always been a big hit and have developed a huge fan base. However, a last minute change was made, and out of the ashes arose The Impeifects, a new characters ,;~b y...bolh.EA..andMaael. Heading_the~ec;ts. will be Johnny Ohm, a mysterious new force who seems to have the power to manipulate electricity,however, as usual, EA and Marvel are being very tight lipped about this new character.
What we can be sure of though, is the appearance of several familiar faces in the marvel universe. Wolverine, The Thing, Iron man, Elektra, Cyclops, Spiderman and other X-men will join the frey against the Imperfects. The game will not be strictly fighting however, rather set up as more of a platforming adventure that will be sure to show off a superhero's true feats. This doesn't mean that fighting will not be a huge part of the game. Imagine Spiderman, gracefully web slinging in downtown New York, violently weaving between buildings in pursuit of a villain,only to meet him for one final showdown at the top of a sky scraper.
To introduce the new characters, Marvel is releasing a six part mini-series of comics This prequel to the game will get players familiar with the Imperfects, Johnny Ohm, and a dangerous new villain, Niles Can Roekel, a mad alien scientist who's goal is to create a super powered army of deadly warriors. Developed by Nihlistic Software (creators of Starcraft) and Published by EA, look for Marvel Nemesis: Rise a/The lmpeifects this fall.
• Shmww The Hedgehog: Xbox/GameCube/PS2
Second only to Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog is perhaps the most recognizable character in video game history, however he seems to be unable to find Qisfooting in this console generation. The three next-gen Sonic titles have been failures in comparison to his previous glory. However, Sonic Team hopes to change things this year with their latestrelease in the franchise, Shmww The Hedgehog.
You may remember Shadow from SonicAdventure 2 (Battle on the GameCube ), as the mysterious government engineered "super weapon". His background cppmprJ farretcheo,"and1t was, out he' was likoooy"J aiis' for his 'devil may care' attitude. Well, he's back, and badder than ever.
Armed with a handgun, and other yet to be announced weapons, Shadow hopes to take this franchise into adarkerrealm. Hopefully they will steer away from the endless 'autopilot' sequences of past entries and the kid themed nature of the dialog and settings that were tilted more towards the younger market
The Sonic franchise seems to have been reworked from the ground up. This time, you can honestly choose to be good or evil. Do you save the child dangling from a cliff, or do you watch her plummet, standing back and basking in his demise? lbis time, it's your choice. This time around, Shadow is clay, and he ' s yours to mold to your liking. Of course, any Sonic game is incomplete without speed, and there will be lots of it. Shadow's jet boots will propel you to dizzying speeds, more than likely pushing the graphics chip to it's limit.
Shadow is the main player,but with some help from Sonic and co., this is shaping up to be perhaps the best entry in the Sonic series to date. Yes, even better than Sonic 2 and Sonic and Knuckles on the genesis. Look for Shadow the Hedgehog, developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega to hit shelves in late fall or early winter.
Honorable Mentions:
• Samurai Western: PS2
Developer Spike/ Acquire is trying something completely new this time Imagine playing as a ruthless samurai warrior,trapped in the American Old West. This is truly different and promises to bring something new to the table A player can go it alone or team up with a friend to battle a gang of outlaws bent on ruling the West. Imaginebeing ableto deflect bulletswith your sword like a Jooi=ari€1.=g@=i.r.itc:1 11J1~.c=lil~0a!1P.s-f.ill€0.=rage.,,Jike:W'<5lvecit~ie~as,-== you tear though the villains. This Wliqueventure into the adventure genre is being published by Atlus, who hopes to have the game on shelves on June 251n
• ._.,.,._., ..., Ki/l,,r s:,,..,~n:GameCube/PS2(Later Date)
Thelastofthemuchhyped''CapcomFive,"(Wewtifal Joe, ResidentEvil 4, PN03, Dead Phoenix,Killer Seven) developer Grasshopper brings the heat with their next big title, Killer Seven. You play as Jack Smith, a very famous and very dangerous contract killer who is bound to a wheel chair. What makes Smith unique, is that he has seven very distinct personalities, (The Killer Seven). Each has their own weapon and their own abilities such as picking locks or bomb detection. As you face off against the Heaven Smile, part of a terrorist organization who are precariously teetering on the edge of madness, players themselves will be lead on perhaps the most unique and strange ride that they have ever been on. Publisher Capcom hopes to have this game on store shelves by late summer.
• Madden NFL 2006: Xbox/GameCubelPS2/PC Why Bother
By A.llisaFuemalida
If you are a footb all fanatic then you Have Beatle fever? Do you have par- know that Pa~l McCartney rocked the footents that are die-hard Beatles fans? Are you ball ~eld dunng _the Super Bowl XXXIX yourself one? I know I halftime show this year. Okay, so it wasn't am. That is why I was quite as exciting as last willing to pay $185 for years Super Bowl. No just one ticket to see shocking wardrobe Paul McCartney, one malfunctions this year. of the fabulous four Well, let me , live in concert right tell you, it was a hard here in Nebraska. days night trying to
So, if you dare achieve acquiring just ask the question, "Who one ticket to this exis Paul McCartney?" traordinary event. GoWell, prepare yourself ing from ticket booth to for a disturbed look. ticket booth, calling up Some people know ticket venues, and g oing Paul McCartney as one online. It was a chaotic of the world's most mess. It's amazing what influential rock artists. people will do to just Starting his fame with have one single ticket John Lennon, George in their possession. Harrison, and Ringo Tickets for the Starr in the legendary show were sold out in b..and..JJJe Be_atle.s~ga."'-e.. au . C a !1~½ - ,-,Q~ <:lS~i'l~ O. ",. .e2_4 minutes. That is an him the ability to go on llowing,willcometoNebraska. umaha • Quest " Center further with his music Photo courtesy of Showbizz.net record. Some ticket career after their tragic venues still had tickets ending. after those 14 minutes.
This year Paul McCartney will be tour- Of cou~se , after being sold out the other ing around the United States making a total venues Jacked-up the prices. The prices for of28 stops to rock the stage. Starting off, he the nosebleed section have risen to as much will be performing in Miami on September as_ sec~nd row seating. Finding tickets at 1~ th then the anticipation rises during the this p~1nt could be a tremendous struggle. middle of his tour. Why? Because that is Like many concerts there will always when he locates himself right here in Ne- ~e scalpers outside trying to sell their braska at the Omaha Quest Center. This tickets for outrageous prices. So if you're will be the first time any of the foursome looking to get a ticket this far into the ball has ever preformed on Nebraska soil. Oc- game, prepare yourself to be spending a tober 30 th will mark history as Nebraska's pret~y penny Because Paul McCar.tney is first ever Paul McCartney concert. not Just a man he is the man.
By A.Jina'5elyukh
• r1 • 1na it • 1S ar to ..ome owa a s
By Marcusliall
If you were to search the obituaries from early 2000 to 2001, you may have noticed the passing of a dear friend: originality in script writing. As of late, book, superhero and remake licenses are being scooped up in a frenzy by the four main movie production companies, Paramount, Miramax, Dream Works and Universal. An original script and talented writer used to be worth millions in Hollywood. Now, however they are worth less than the paper the script is being writte n on.
The culprit, sadly, is capitalism and our thirst for blockbuster films. This began when Titanic struck big at the box office, earning nearly 2 billion dollars. This enormous amount of money not only ensured that hundreds of people never had to work again, but it influenced companies to step back and rethink their ways of making multi-million dollar profits. The next break came in 2001, when The Lord of The Rings, The Fellowship of The Ring was released by New Line Cinema, banking $871,368,364 according to Wikipedia.
With nearly 20 of the top 25 top gross-
ing films based off of books, film companies are less likely to take the plunge and pledge their money towards a project that may or may not break even Although, perhaps it's because new movies are releasing every week and the river of originality has finally run dry. Wait, that's silly, it's because of money.
Taking the time to create a script costs money. However, slap a brand name in front of it, and you have a blockbuster title on your hands. This is the theory of brand recognition, knowing what you're going to get without being too surprised. Take this plot line for example. A man and a woman are separated, she is captured by an evil dictator who is holding her for mass ransom. The protagonist travels great distances to save her, encountering numerous perils along the way. Pretty vague huh? Slap Star Wars in the title, and you have the next hit on your hands ..
In 1988, The Writer's Guild of America declared a strike, demanding more money up front at signing, and bigger profit cuts. This hit movie directors and producers hardest, meaning that they have to settle for the $600 bottle of wine, instead of the
$1,000 bottle, and they just might have to settle for only a 25 room mansion. Sarcasm aside, those who were really hurt were the new screenwriters and fresh faces in the writing loop. Old book licenses were again scooped up and original scripts were rejected.
This happened again in 2001, however the strike was only a threat, which continues today. Book and comic book licenses are being bought left and right. Production and writing quality has fallen to that of the Rydell High A.V club. Sequels are being produced constantly and remakes are becoming the norm.
Superhero movies have been around for years. However, when X-men succeeded at the Box Office, several licenses were scooped up. This explains the endless slew of sub-par superhero films such as the poorly acted Daredevil, the horrendously presented Hulk and the simply awful Punisher.
Superhero movies are here to stay though; Spiderman and its sequel were huge financial successes leading to further purchases. Licenses that were purchased include Green Arrow, Green Lantern, Fan-
tastic Four, Superman (again), GI Joe Vs. The Transformers, and Wonder Woman to name a few. For producers, the work is done when it comes to script writing, all one must do is reread some old comics and throw any combination of lines together. Books and video games are not immune either. However, in recent times, movies from books have been few and far between. There will always b e the go-to authors for film ideas though. Names like Tom Clancy, John Grisham and Nicolas Sparks should ring a bell. With video games now being more openly perceived as an art, they too are be -ing swallowed by Hollywood. Blockbuster gaming franchises such as, Grand Theft Auto, Metal Gear, Devil May Cry and Spy Hunter are set for production. Finding an original movie set for release will be hard. Perhaps the most genuinely unique film released in recent memory was Star Wars III. Even the much hyped, Mr. And 1\4.rs Smith is a remake of an old Sylvester Stallone film, the Assassins. We don't seem to mind however, we still shell out 8 dollars to see a remake of the Amityville Horror, or The Replacements, which. wasn't that old in the first place.
May 27, 2005
s
ByNhu-\'Ngo
It's obligatory for Editor-in-Chiefs of the Advocate to write farewells. Josh Schwartzlander's was witty, making note that each English teacher will find symbolism in everything and if you accept this fact, your A is secured. Jacob Miller's was slightly offensive in that it sarcastically encouraged bad behavior.
I fumbled around with some ideas about what I would write. What could I say? I don't find myself as an authoritative body worthy of dishing out advice to the masses, and I pictured myself failing horribly at being funny. Instead, I have chosen to write about something important to me which affects everyone.
For those of you who have seen my name and are puzzled each time as to how it is pronounced, you'll have your questions answered. And for those who have lived through life called something that you aren't, be comforted by the fact that you are
., not alone.
I have been called many things in my life. They range from Nahooey to Naguyin. Resigning to the complications of my name, I had stopped correcting mispronunciations. Instead, I grimaced and carried on. Recent massacres of what my grandpa named me have renewed the mild rage I have inside. With each Nee go, I am further incensed. The madness needs to end.
The problem may just be me. I actually have two true pronunciations of my name which I respond to. They are No-e and Newey. I have always been called Noe, and it serves as a familiar nickname. It is a product of my kindergarten class' inability to say New. The word No rolled down the lollipop stained tongues much easier, and I accepted the alteration mainly because I simply had no time in between coloring and learning my ABC's to say "Excuse me, that's wrong." I played the
Con sen,_a n_y_e M~d ~ i _ a R P-hl ~~AQ.
ByMarcusliall
A large victory in civil rights was achieved earlier this month. On Friday the 13 th it was announced that the gay marriage ban, passed by voters in Nebraska during the November elections last year, is unconstitutional. District Judge, Joseph Batallion struck down the ruling igniting controversy around the board. Even though the state still does not acknowledge gay married couples at being married, the ruling comes as a huge victory for gay rights. Thoug h strangely, the story received little coverage, the most being _ a single article in the local paper. Selective media coverage has plagued the media ever since corporate takeovers were allowed. The media was created to inform the people of events that affected
their lives, and this would certainly qualify. However, if an owner, (say, Rupe.rt Murdoch, owner of Fox News, for example) does not want to cover a certain story, or use a certain angle to manipulate the facts and transform the story in other ways, he or she can order a station or paper to do as he pleases.
Since corporations control the news networks, money plays a huge role in coverage. More people watch if more people are interested in the story. It's as simple as that. When you are watching CNN or MSNBC, you are being marketed to. Fox News's target audience is the hard working, Republican, American Patriot, and that is who they market to. At any given time, all of the colors of the American Flag are on screen at the same time. The stories that they cover and give the most air time to also appeal to
timid Asian girl role to a tee. Newey makes the most sense when you look at my name. Phonetically sound, the pronunciation is taking time to get used to since I have replied to No-e for almost fourteen years now.
I suppose there is a third pronljnciation - the Vietnamese one. But those not fluent in the language have difficultly forming the first syllable, and in order to avoid hearing awkward attempts of others saying it, I deny its existence at times. It is reserved for my family and Vietnamese peers.
Called any of these three options, I am content. Falsely labeled anything else, my left eye begins to twitch with annoyance. And mispronunciations not only affect me, they plague my classmates also. Becky Loads, Tamin Nugent, Jessica Mask-the list continues.
Many times, te.achers who have butchered our names do not stop to learn the true pronunciations. A nice "how do you say
that?" would be nice. Oftentimes, they attempt the name first, carry-on in the midst of snickers, and the cycle continues. What's worse, other teachers do not even bother learning the name. I am rather positive one teacher did not even know my name the entire year I was in her classroom. That's why I was never called upon during discussion. Saved me the pain of deciphering Emerson. Then again, the answer to each question was al ways "Intuition."
It is disturbing that many do not even try to say names correctly. It is not difficult to ask "How do you say your name?'' before butchering it. It would avoid unnecessary embarrassment.
I suppose this all boils down to the cliche of being open-minded. It is not too much to ask. Of course, I wonder if my story will register with anyone. Will my legacy simply be marked with the question, "Who's Neego?"
Who the heck is Neego?
that audience. A story that ignites a fire into a viewer, one that will keep them hooked to the station through the commercials will get more air time than say, a victory for civil rights that a target vie\ver isn't interested in. The dollar now more than ever has a chokehold on American News.
As far as the ruling goes, it is a huge step up in the fight for equality. The question here is not one of religion or of personal beliefs, but one of fairness and happiness. How does the bonding of two people that genuinely love each other who just happen to be both female or both male infringe on your life? Does it bother you that much that two people of the same sex can't be as happy as you? Would you change your single track mind if you saw divorce rates for heterosexual couples verses homosexual
The fact that Jon and Jeff or Cindy and Helen can't get married is not a victory for the preservation of the American way of life. It is a victory for intollerance, in that people are being oppressed. Happiness is one thing that completes life, as well as love. If two people love each other and promise to be faithful and treat the other the way any human should be treated, what is the problem? Religious or not, there is not one genuine excuse as to why two people shouldn't be happy together, unless of course oppression is the way that you get your sick pleasure. Think of that the next time you see two people, too scared to talk to each other in the hallway because of your oppressiveness. Do they not too deserve their little sliver of bliss, their brief time in the sun?
ByChrislfatch
Twas the week of the finals
And all through the school
Not a student was listening
The teacher looked like a fool.
The grade sheet was hung by the-chalkboard up there
In hopes that the students might actually care.
The students were sleeping, all snug at their desks
Dreaming of freedom, none dreamt of tests.
My face on the desk and my homework in my lap
I had just settled down for a 6 th period nap.
When out in the hallway there arose such a clatter
I dashed to the door to see what was the matter
Then he called to his staff and shouted their n~mP'-
everyone's favorite end of the year activity. Nope; not wild parties and getting buck wild on the Prom dance floor, although those are always good too. I'm talking about finals. You know why they call them finals? Because by the time you take them, you're done. I don't mean done as in, ready to take them; I mean you can't think anymore.
Most of our brains have been in the slow process of shutting down since about January 23, and the only thing that will be final, is the nail being driven into our academic coffin.
I view finals as a cheap shot, a kick while we're down, a below the belt swing, or a Mike Tyson nibble on the ear. I understand that we're supposed to have a way to gauge how much we've learned throughout the year, but what is up with the timing?
Shouldn't the last couple days of our • high school careers be spent enjoying the
t t· , h d h ? I stead of grea 1mes we ve a ere n • and off
Amigos. Instead of a final in CI, let's have
flew a like a freshly studying Spanish, let's take a field trip to ______ launched
I threw open the door like a convict on a Dr. Wortman , Mrs. Robinson drag race, the loose And leaned out ~Y.head like a '' On Uhonache½_on Rohinson, on llhing MJ.'..sll...obinso.n~was r.i3ht-h(}hi.ndpeeti» ~ inrrer take ~ait.
curious goose don't stop. out in her hummer, But in the end finals will be finals. I And there in the pre-lunch period light On Keller, on White, on Stark and on ' Something so grand I checked my sight Scott.
When what to my wondering eyes should show up
But the wonderful man we call Dr. Dub. I thought to myself this must be Wortman
Rolling in his Mustang like a first rate sportsman.
ByM.arrusI-fall
For city council democratic incumbent Terry Werner, victory seemed all but assured. Werner has fought so much for this city that has given him so little. This quest for victory reached a nine mile high speed bump when the Lancaster Republican Party released two attack ads against Werner, one of which featured council member Glenn Friendt claiming(falsely) that Werner "doesn't support the pledge of allegiance".
The ad in question exagerated the message, "Terry Werner does not support the pledge of allegiance," accompanied by several small children waving American flags to the camera. The way in which they waved the flags was almost menacingly, almost as though they were taunting Mr. Werner. The fact the Werner does not support the pledge is not only 100% not true, it had absolutely nothing to do with any o.f the points that have been mentioned in any bodies campaign. Werner would have to settle for fifth place in the city wide election which took place on May 3 rd • The democratic party as a whole spe nt only $5,000 campaigning
I've decided no finals for students this year they've got no tests to take, they're all in the clear.
He jumped in his 'Stang and gave a shrill whistle for Werner, this pales in comparison to the $100,000 spent by republicans. That is a difference of $95,000, a lot of money spent to run one man into the ground. However, the sad truth is that it worked.
To be a politician, you have to be a salesman. To get elected, you must be able to sell your ideas, values and agenda to the public, whether they want it or not. Your job is to make the public believe that you will be the best choice, that you are most deserving of their "X," come election day. Many attain this goal by any means necessary, one which is attack advertising.
Now that attack ads have proven their worth, the GOP will more than likely use them in the future. Unfortunately, democrats might now be forced to result to the same dirty tricks if they have any hope of regaining any ground a council that has a four to three republican advantage. Nebraska has always been a "red" state, however, Lincoln has shown in the past to be the most liberal part of the state, however, when the ball is in the court of the party that has the money, it is hard to steal that momentum back.
11Happy no-finals to all and to all a good summer 11
I know; the poem was a bit much, but wouldn't that be the way for the year to be ended? The school year is now drawing to a close, which means that it's time for
know that we have to, in some way show how much we've learned, but man it sucks. Instead of going out on top, we end up trying to feign like we actually care enough about our grades to have studied.
On that sour note, good luck on all the tests kids. I'll be out in the parking lot wating for the above-mentioned drag race.
To Lincoln voters, I ask this, would you have succumbed to the blinding shadow cast by the ads against Werner if you truly knew all of the things that he's done? Werner has fought for and brought lower taxes, improved living standards in several areas of the city. He's fought for the libraries, the schools, seniors and public safety. Yet still, even after all the dust has settled, Werner's main concern lies with the city that he loves. "'I am concerned for the future of Lincoln. If they can attack me in this manner they will do it again and again against someone else that they disagree with. How does this serve Lincoln?" Werner said in a letter to the Lincoln Journal Star, published on May l8 1h Mudslinging has and probably will be a part of politics for years. However, it doesn't need to be. If Joe Schmo, A Democrat, stands up and says, "You know what, I do not like the way that that the working man is being treated, nor do I agree with the way that the rights o f people with an alternative lifestyle are being handled and I am going to change it by running for City Council," George McRepublican shouldn't retaliate by
stating in an attack ad, "Joe Schmo doesn't tip 15% and has outstanding fines at the Library, can \Ve really trust him with our children?."
Government and politics are supposed · to benefit the people and the success of the nation, not a tug of war for struggle and a race to see who can spend the most money. However, with corporate media and selective reporting, the lens that is placed over our news and information is a tad fuzzy. People, stand up for what you think is right and don't be blinded by spin and the propaganda that is forced down your throats. Analize what has been said and filter out the trash. There is truth in reporting, and it is your job as a voter to find it, analyze it, and step back and think, "What could this man or woman do for this city that will propel it into prosperity and will improve my general way of life?"
That is what politics are about, not about spending money or trash talking. Sadly though, somewhere between the 527s and the invention of television, that message has been lost, replaced with, "Whoever is better looking," or "The lesser of two evils."
Another season here, another season gone as Spring fades to Summer. There were some great performances this season and, unfortunately, some serious letdowns along the way. Many individuals performed exceptionally well, while their teams struggled, but such is the life of an athlete Uust ask anyone who has played for the Clippers EVER!!!) In an effort to grade the spring sports teams I used the following criteria: The team's overall record/ranking, how they performed at critical junctures of the season, and any exceptional individual performances
Girls Soccer
Hmmmm let's see if I can do this without getting into any trouble Well the Links girls soccer program definitely took a huge hit in the numbers game this year. They had only one team which meant that anyone who could s p e 11 soccer, or even the first three letters, was a J O Ck for the varsity team.
T h e g i r I s were on I y able to muster a 3-12 record.
T h e Links were shut out more than an ugly guy on prom night, scoring in only 4 of their 15 games : On the positive side, many of the younger, less experienced girls will now have a year's varsity soccer experience and there was a lot of youngsters on this years' team. The effort was there much of the time, but just not the results and in nothing could be more frustrating The team looks to rebound strongly next year, but desperately needs more girls to try out and participate. Whether or not you can bend it like Beckham, get out there and help out our squad.
Grade: D
Boys Soccer
The boys team started out fairly strong as they jumped out of the gate with a 5-3 record through their first 8 games. It was after a narrowly lost, heartbreaking overtime to a solid Lincoln Southeast team that the Links began to fall apart. After the obligatory win over Lincoln Northstar, everybody's favorite cellar dweller, the team proceeded to lose 7 games in-a row. This streak painfully ground to a halt as the season ended but undoubtedly left a sour taste in many LHS soccer players' mouths. Several individual players for the team had good years. Seniors Ademir Karie, Ben Katt and Ben Beranek all had solid years. Karie and Katt and Beranek were each a legitimate scoring threat at times during the season Katt and Beranek were named to the all conference team.
Grade: C-
Baseball
The best word I can think of to describe the Links baseball team would be inconsistent. The team at times lived up to the high expectations that it carried into this year, and at times suffered debilitating losses in the bottom innings of games. 9 of the teams' 18 losses were by I run. The team could keep it close but just couldn't seem to pull out the clutch wins they needed at the end of a tough game. The team beat a good Pius X team and swept a very talented Lincoln Southwest team early in the year. The same team, however, late in the year gave up 21 runs in the first -game of a double header against Lincoln
Northstar. Again, showing some resiliency, the Links wu11-tht: tco11cl-ga:rne'(:)f-4he-clo ilbl eheacler-ra-ga:h·1st =tJ;e
ByGarretDurst
same Northstar team 7-6. The Links will graduate a lot The Linco ln Hi g h Girl ' s S o ccer team can't ofupper-classmen who have been staples of the varsity seem to find the net as of late. The Links were squad here at the High for a couple years now and only outscored 15tirne will tell if the talented youngsters waiting in the O in their last ranks can fulfill their potential for Lincoln High. five games to Grade: C+ close out the
Track
Both the Lincoln High track teams started out slow and developed into respectable squads with a few bright spots that made for an alright season. The team numbers, as is the case with virtually all sports this year at Lincoln High (quite a disturbing trend), were down but the teams competed as best they could. The boys were able to finish fourth at the city meet, a decent finish compared with how the previous meets had gone, but it was a far cry from the past two years in which
season The Links needed to score a goal if they planned on punching their ticket to the next round.
can compete with the best teams in the state."
o share the memories over the season at the eason ending banquet on May 12th in the 1cafeteria.
Links did lose I
TheITriK s d id - fiave some E1g w1ns - t fii s y e ar , including a 13-1 win against Fremont, a 5-2 win against Grand Island, and a surprising 2-1 victory agains1 Norfolk. Wells scored both i n that contest, including the game winner with forty seconds left. Next season looks strong the team brought home dominating wins for the city championship. The girls were able to finish in 5th place, and continued to steadily improve as the season progressed. The boys sent only 6 competitors to the Slate track meet, and the girls sent 6 as well. Watch for the emerging talent in the sprint corps. and the distance teams to lead the Links in the years to come..
Grade: C-
Boys Golf
Boys golf ended what had been a good season on a tough note The Links were unable to qualify
a single golfer to the state tournament but rode the shoulders of a senior veteran and a freshman standout virtually all season long. The present and the future, Nate Munford and Tyler Mannix, respectively, were the number one and two golfers all year for the Links. The team's total at districts was a 395 putting them in 6th out of 8 teams. Munford was positioned well to make the cut to state, but just couldn't quite put it together down the stretch. The district was tough, and no doubt the Links learned much from their season.
Grade: C
Girls Tennis
The girls tennis team had a season much like the rest of the Lincoln High School athletic squads. Many ups and downs, culminating in a win in the first round of the State tennis tournament's number two doubles for the sophomore duo of Vanessa Ventry and Erica Anderson. However, their points were the only ones scored for LHS at the meet. Unfortunately, they were the only Links to get past the first round. Look for big things from these two in the future.
Grade: C
This spring was an incredibly tough one for all the Lincoln High sports fans. No team finished impressively and girls tennis mustered the only state points for any team, with two. Several individuals performed exceptionally well, but many of these athletes will be graduating next year If the number of participants in sports continue to nose-dive, then look for our report cards to earn us some serious detention time.
A 3-12 record for the Links shows what kind of e g1r1·svarsity soccer team gatners aroun for the Links as they return al least seven lette1 winners. These athletes include Dougherty, Wells, sophomores Miranda Ksionzek and season it has been for this team. The
to four teams who are comfortably above five hundred, including Lincoln East. The girls only lost 2-0 to the Spartans. Heading into districts, the Links faced off against a 13-4 Bellevue West squad. Once again the Links were shut, making it the fifth time in a row, by a score of 4-0. It was a disappointing end to a season of ups and downs.
One of the bright spots for this club has been the play of junior Meggie Wells. Wells led the team in scoring with seven goals and six assists. Junior goalkeeper Adriane Dougherty finished the season with one goal and two assists "Even though our record didn't show it, our team was tough," Dougherty said. "This was probably my favorite season so far because the team knew how to work together and it's not so much the goals that win the game, it's the tackles, winning 50/ 50 balls, and showing you
Admira Karie, and juniors Hannah Ledford and Kristin Rasmussen. Rumor has it that the Links have an outstanding recruiting class coming in for 2006. A select team called the Capital Soccer Association is going to play for the Links next season. The Links need some recruits instead of East High, the school that always seems to sign the blue chips. "Hopefully we'll get a good roster for summer league and iJ things go well, we can make some noise come nex1 spring," Dougherty said.
1lf
By ChrisI-latch
In the wake of a fairly strong performance at the LPS Championship meet, the Lincoln High Links were looking to shake up things at the Heartland Athletic Conference meet. Led on the men's' side lead by a 1-3 finish in the triple jump from seniors Christian Lewis and Tom Foy, respectively, the LHS men's team was able to take 6 th place in the team scoring. Senior Darren Reinhardt took fourth place behind a throw of 49 feet. Reinhardt had a put sail out as far as 53' but, unfortunately the of-ficial -s-raled that he SL:Tatch -ed o n _ the- throw : The Links had a runner take third in the Mile and also saw strong performances in the sprints on the male side.
Seniors Miranda and Nicole Hruska lead the girls team to a decent finish. The twins both scored in the Pole Vault, with Miranda taking 3rd and Nicole nabbing a 5 th place finish. Sophomore Brandis Hurt also had a strong showing, taking home a third place medal in the 3200 meter run and finishing only 8 seconds out of first place.
The district A-4 track meet was held at Grand Island Senior High school on May 11th. On the 11th, however, torrential rain and lighting pushed the meet back. The terrible weather began shortly after the 200 meter prelims and continued long into the night. The athletes were forced to relocate off the track and into the school, with many athletes sleeping in the bleachers at the basketball courts and on the floor of
the hallway, while they awaited news as to the fate of the meet. As time drug on, the weather, far from clearing up as the team had hoped, continued to worsen. Finally, after nearly 3 hours of waiting, the meet was rescheduled to May 12th. On the first day the Links had Senior thrower Darren Reinhardt make .state in the Shot Put and Senior Chris Hatch qualified for the state in the two mile run, taking fourth overall.
The next day the meet ran without delay, despite Grand Island Public Schools being canceled due to flooding. The first LHS run-1-~r¥ 0.f-+th-e--cl-a y·•tu 1"J1a'ke• s tate -'-W~~ s ntnan · standout sprinter Kayla Meskimen as she hung on down the stretch in the 200 meter dash to take home fourth place and a state qualification. Hatch again qualified for the state meet in taking second in the mile run. Both the girls and boys 4x100 meter relay teams ran incredibly well and both made state. The boys finished fourth as did the girls. Senior Miranda Hruska qualified for her first state appearance by vaulting her way to a great finish.
The next meet for those that qualified will be may 20th and 21st at the NSAA State Track and Field Championships held at Omaha Burke high school. The Links had phenomenal performances all year long on both the girls and boys sides and look to surprise some people at their final meet of the year. Watch out for the Links as they finish the year on a strong note and look to bring spend some time on the medals stand getting their hardware.
