Scepter March 2017 by PLHS Scepter

THE

SCEPTER

MARCH 2017 A

P U B L I C A T I O N

ISSUE 5 VOLUME 54 O F

P A P I L L I O N

WWW.PLPULSE.COM L A V I S T A

HIGH SCHOOL

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES

4&5 6 7 8&9 10

A Friendship Far From Foreign

OPINION

17 18

Modesty ’s the Best Policy Cashing In For a Career

Adolescent Archetypes

ENTERTAINMENT

A Boy and His Plane

Two Eras of Toons

Path to Papio Marching On

NEWS

11 12&13 14 15 16

ACT Now

Peer Politics Out With the Old, In With the New Back to You Playing with Prestige Senior Julianne Plourde is doused with hairspray by her fellow cast members. The musical “Hairspray” runs March 23-26. COVER PHOTO: MEGAN FRIEL COVER DESIGN: CAMRYN BOWERS

19 20 21 22&23 24

Rebooting the System Kids These Days Nicest Kids in Town Binocular Vision: A Closer Look at the Zoo

SPORTS

25 26&27 28&29 30&31

Bracket Breakdown Swinging for the Fences What’s the Rap About Trap? Motherly Love

The Scepter is a school-sponsored publication of Papillion-La Vista High School, 402 E. Centennial Rd. Papillion, NE 68046. The Scepter’s office is located in room 307. The Scepter is printed by aPrintis. The Scepter is a member of the Nebraska High School Press Association. The Scepter is a school-sponsored publication and therefore recognizes its responsibility to stay within the boundaries that the school administration sets. The Scepter will therefore inform its readers using a high standard of morals and ethics. The Scepter encourages readers to respond in the form of letters to the editor, which can be sent to room 307. The Scepter’s editorial staff reserves the right to edit the letters for grammatical errors and to remove any profanity. The editors also reserve the right to exclude letters that are false in their statements or accusations. The Scepter will not accept advertisements that promote activities illegal to minors. Advertising rates are available upon request.

2016-17 PLHS JOURNALISM STAFF

EDITORS

SCEPTER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NICOLE LUDDEN

PLPULSE.COM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CJ CURRY

FEATURES CLAIRE NEIL & KAYLEE PENRY

NEWS&OPINION HANNAH IM ELLIOTT WOLBACH & FAITH WORKMAN

SPORTS

NATE GENDLER & DYLAN NICHOLSON

ENTERTAINMENT KASSIDY BROWN & MEGAN KRABBENHOFT

COPY

RAINA DODGE

COVERAGE

BRITTANY KELLNER

DESIGN

CAMRYN BOWERS PEYTON COSE JULIA HARKER

PHOTOGRAPHY TREVOR LEWIS BRENA GROEPER

EMMA HIGBY LAUREN LAFOND EMILY LINGELBACH HANNA OLSON DELANI WATKINS ALEXA BUSBY ALYSSA FORAL MEGAN FRIEL IZZY HAAVE MOLLEE SWIFT JOANNA WALTON KAYLEN MALTAIS BRENDON BOATWRIGHT HANNAH CAHILL HUNTER POMBRIO JOSEY RYAN DEVIN VETTER

LAUREN DOMINELLO CHLOE GRIMM TREVOR KALAL KENNEDY SAUTTER CAITLYN THOMAS

EDITORIAL Observers of Change Over the course of our school careers we have seen milk cartons turn to bags, a change in power in our government and curriculum changes right here at our school. Just this year, registration changed and juniors are taking the ACT instead of the NeSA. It is easy to look back and think “if this would have changed…,” but this never fixes anything. According to a “New York Times” article written by Brian Morton, Gandhi never said “be the change you wish to see in the world.” What he really said was: “If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him…. We

need not wait to see what others do.” Think of what Gandhi said like this: for each action or change we make, the world in some manner must change as well. Some of these changes are small, such as a different haircut or new shoes. Others affect a much larger scale of people, such as changes to laws. At times the idea of change can be scary. How many seniors are afraid of what happens after graduation? There are also the grumbles about the ACT/NeSA change. Seniors wish they had the opportunity to take a free ACT during the school day their junior year instead of the annoying and

seemingly pointless NeSA. However, grumbling has never fixed anything. Grumbling hasn’t brought back the old cafeteria food or the non-diet pop. In the end, standing up to a bully may not change the world, but that doesn’t excuse not doing it. Imagine if we stopped brushing our teeth because it wouldn’t change the world. It would be utter chaos for all the dentists out there. In the end, we don’t get to decide what changes and what doesn’t. Despite this, there is at least one thing we can change alone: ourselves. It is notable that Gandhi also said: “As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world… as in being able to remake ourselves.”

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A Friendship Far From Foreign It is your first day in a strange new country where you know no one. There is no one to hang out with or to compare class schedules with before the school year starts. Not one familiar face found for comfort. Along with strange faces surrounding you, there are strange noises. That noise is the constant babbling of a second language that you’re not used to hearing 24 hours a day. For seniors Oskar Wiedemann and Lorenzo Lancellotti, that language was English, and they had just arrived in America. Starting a new school in a new country would be intimidating and nerve wracking for anyone. The first day of school can be even more scary than the first day of freshman year. “The scariest thing was lunch,” Wiedemann said. “I didn’t know where to sit. But then I ended up sitting with someone from my class period before.” America can be hard to get used to, especially starting in high school. There are not high school football or basketball games for Wiedemann or Lancellotti in their hometowns. Both shared their amazement for the Friday

night games and roaring student sections when attending the first game. With the halls buzzing with over a thousand students, both boys found friends easily and quickly despite being so different from their peers. “At soccer, people offered me rides because I didn’t have a car here,” Lancellotti said. “That helped me make friends.” Both boys happen to be from different countries, Wiedemann from Denmark and Lancelloti from Italy, but they share a common first friend found at PLHS: junior Billy Broderick. “Billy was my first friend,” Wiedemann said. “We had drama class together. I’m thankful for what he did when he asked me to go to the first football game of the year.” Lancellotti and Wiedemann enjoy doing typical teenager activities on the weekends with their friends here. From appetizers at Applebee’s, practicing soccer on the turf to playing video games, they have gotten comfortable in America with their new friends. Both boys are playing soccer this year on the high school team and have met many new people that way.

Passport

Senior foreign exchange students Oskar Wiedemann and Lorenzo Lancellotti share their experiences with their new friends here in America. BY LAUREN LAFOND PAGE DESIGN BY DELANI WATKINS

Something new for some foreigners is the freedom of a car for all of their new friends. It is something Wiedemann said they don’t have at 16 in Denmark. “You guys have cars and can get picked up and drive,” Wiedemann said. “We used public transportation and walking.” The late night drives to get Happs, however, won’t last forever. The weekend home games and hanging out in someone’s basement will eventually come to an end in May. Lancellotti and Wiedemann plan to “stay in touch” with American friends once they go back home at the end of the school year. “It’s hard when we live across the ocean,” Wiedemann said. “Flights are expensive, but I will do what I can to stay in touch.” On May 14, they will walk across the stage at graduation with their fellow classmates and will go back to their hometowns with friendships from another country. No matter the distance, Nebraska will always have a special place in their hearts.

Alexa Leuckhardt America is different because:

“Schedule-wise, you have the same classes every day, where in Germany you have two a day.”

Country: Germany

I miss home because:

“I miss my friends a lot and I miss the people that have known me my whole life.”

FEATURES NEWS

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

3/1/17

2/5/17

8/26/16

2/25/17 Passport

1/1/17 Brian Wu

America is different because: “[The biggest difference between here and school in Taiwan] is that we don’t have class periods. It’s like elementary school.”

Country: Taiwan

I miss home because: “I miss the transportation back home. It was very convenient.You don’t have to drive anywhere.”

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

Adolescent Archetypes Most students can be separated into one of two categories: introverts and extroverts. BY CAITLYN THOMAS PAGE DESIGN BY PEYTON COSE

Some students excitedly participate in class, share their thoughts and answers and have confidence and a loud voice while giving presentations and speeches. All the while, others keep their heads low, dread being called on and stumble over their words when they are told to speak louder during class discussions. Most students can be separated into one of these two categories: the ones who are fine with being more social and more confident are described as extroverts, while introverts are the ones who stick to their small group of friends and keep more to themselves in class. “An extrovert is somebody that feels comfortable around others and wants to be around people and friends more,” sophomore Josh Brink said. Although for others, constantly being around people and engaging in the average school small talk can be exhausting: they prefer to keep to nonsocial activities and small groups. “My personality is shy, but I open up to people once they get to know me,” sophomore Ha Le said. “I would rather

read books at home than be the life of the party.” These personalities play a major role in how students act in a class room setting. They determine whether a student volunteers and gives a speech with confidence, or tries to blend into the background and shakes with nerves while in front of their peers. “I don’t mind giving speeches because I don’t get nervous and I can easily memorize what I want to say,” Brink said. For some however, having the undivided attention of a class can be a harrowing experience. “In the time before I give a speech I get really nervous,” Le said. “I just don’t like everybody staring at me.” One of the most common misconceptions about these personalities is that introverts are just shy or extroverts are just outgoing. “An introvert is someone who is energized by time alone and extroverts by time with others,” Le said. “But that does not mean introverts don’t hang out with friends and extroverts are never nervous with others.” Most students tend to be extroverted or introverted. It makes them who they are, and more than likely than not, they are not going to change anytime soon.

FEATURES NEWS

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

s i h d n a y o B

Some people may find a sense of freedom and passion through riding horses, hunting, or working on cars. Senior Bryce Moran, however, flies to get away from anything that may cause worry on the ground. He is a Cadet Second Lieutenant in the Omaha Composite Squadron cadet program for the Civil Air Patrol.

BY TREVOR LEWIS PAGE DESIGN BY PEYTON COSE

e n a Pl

Can you explain Civil Air Patrol and the Omaha Composite Squadron?

What planes do you fly?

“The OCS is a CAP squadron. CAP is the official auxiliary for the United States Air Force. The cadet program helps cadets become better people and better leaders. CAP will also do search and rescue and aerospace engineering.”

“I fly the Cessna 172 SP fuel injected airplane that is a high wing single engine aircraft that is easy to fly. I will also fly a Piper Arrow (PA-28R), which is a low wing plane that is considered complex because of the landing gear. While flying in the Piper, I get to learn different aspects of cockpit management.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF OMAHA COMPOSITE SQUADRON Cadet Moran gets a rundown of the instruments in the cockpit.

What do you want to do in the future?

How will this help you in the future?

What does flying mean to you?

How can other people learn?

“I want to major in aerospace engineering and minor in math and Russian. I plan on developing hypersonic single stage to orbit aircraft.”

“Civil Air Patrol provides basic education, which helped get me interested in aerospace engineering and flight training gave me a deeper understanding and showed me the basic principles in action.”

“Flying is a fun activity that works as a great stress reliever and a distraction from the different tasks and issues I have to work out on the ground. It also represents a new kind of freedom for me.”

“Join Civil Air Patrol, contact or show up to a meeting and visit the website at omahacap. org.”

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

All students have different means of going to school. Some students walk, have their parents take them to school or drive themselves. Sophomore Olivia Slaby drives her 1986 Dodge Ram to school everyday. “I think my truck is cute,” Slaby said. “It takes me about 15 minutes to get to school everyday.” While Slaby drives her truck to

How do you get to school?

“

As you look one way in the parking lot, there is the posh, thousand dollar cars that nobody understands how a high school kid can afford. Then there is the complete opposite: old, rusting trucks, as well as cars that have been in multiple accidents. The high school parking lot is a prime spot to see all the different types of vehicles, as well as the different types of people.

Freshman Saviana Stuart

My dad takes me.

FEATURES NEWS

OPINION

BY EMMA HIGBY PAGE DESIGN BY MOLLEE SWIFT

school, junior Jaden Collins drives his 2005 Scion tC. He also likes the unique style of his vehicle. “I just really like how it looks,” Collins said. Even though Slaby’s truck is from 1986, she does not experience any major problems with it. The only sacrifice she makes is driving around an antique car is the price she puts in gas.

“

ENTERTAINMENT

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Path to Papio pio

The way people arrive to school varies from student to student.

Sophomore Joleaha O’Doherty

Even though my sister graduated at semester, she drives me everyday.

SPORTS

PHOTOS: OLIVIA SLABY

Slaby poses with her truck. She just purchased the truck and has been taking photos with it.

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My friend drives me to school.

MARCH 2017

“

Sophomore Jayden Emery

school everyday, so she does not have to worry about gas. Kennick has been walking all throughout high school. “I live really close to the school,” Kennick said. “And it saves gas. It only takes me about three minutes to get to school.” In the winter, however, Kennick still does not drive. She keeps walking even if there is snow on the ground. “I still walk usually in the

Junior Jaxon Thompson

My mom drives me to school.

winter,” Kennick said. “But if it’s really bad, then I’ll have my parents or a friend pick me up.” Whether we walk or drive to school, we end up going to the same destination. Looking through the parking lot now, we can see all the different means of transportation, as well as the different personalities.

“

“The only thing is gas,” Slaby said. “I get about eight miles per gallon, but I will probably be driving this car for the rest of school.” Since Collins has a newer car, he does not have to worry about gas as much. “I have to pay for my own gas, which is about $25 to fill up from empty,” Collins said. Senior Mandy Kennick walks to

Senior Zevon Ewing

I drive myself to school everyday.

THE SCEPTER

Marching

ROTC students prepare themselves for the next step in their lives. BY Emily Lingelbach PAGE DESIGN BY JULIA HARKER

Students prepare for uniform check.

Students line up in front of their commander for a weekly uniform inspection.

PHOTOS: TREVOR LEWIS

military drills, Thursdays are uniform inspections and Fridays are the workouts,” junior Nick Conger said. The program can be rigorous, but all the hard work has already started to pay off for these students, as they have

Many students in the program feel prepared for a military career after completing high school. “The program has taught me how to work as a team, get things done efficiently and how to be a leader,” Fanning said. These students know the importance of serving their country ROTC has taught me and are proud to take on the role of an American soldier. that I can do anything “It’s important to serve my country because of the opportunities I I want if I work hard won’t get anywhere else and to be able enough to fight for something I believe in,” senior Braeden Thornhill said. Braeden Thornhill The ROTC program continues to help students’ dreams of being part of had some amazing opportunities. the U.S. military a reality. The lessons “I have traveled to Florida and they have learned there will continue Georgia for drill championships and on with them throughout their lifetime. have gotten to talk to multiple active duty service members,” Conger said.

“

Many students have no idea what they see themselves doing as a career and might not have a straightforward plan until after high school. However, for one group of kids, there is a clear path for their future, one that they have been preparing for most of their high school years. The ROTC program has given many students the chance to take control of their future and has sparked an interest to serve their country. “I have always wanted to join the military, so once I heard about ROTC, I knew I would join,” senior Larry Fanning said. The day-to-day schedule for an ROTC student is very different from the average school day. “Mondays and Tuesdays are curriculum days, Wednesdays we learn/teach marching and basic

FEATURES NEWS

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

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The ACT will be administered to all juniors April 19, in place of the Nebraska State Assessment (NeSA). BY HANNAH IM

We are ready to begin testing. Do not begin work until you are told to do so. During this time you are to work only on Test One. You have 45 minutes to work on this test. Open your test booklet to Test One, read the directions carefully and begin. On April 19, all juniors will take the ACT in place of the Nebraska State Assessment (NeSA). The NeSA provided the state a look into student performance, which reflected how the school was doing. This year, the ACT will replace the NeSA with the same effect. “The ACT is a tool used by colleges to gain admittance and earn potential scholarships,” assistant principal Mr. Jeff Govier said. Whether life after high school A

online. “Our advisement classes have been used to offer an online class called ACT 101. This class offers students test prep strategies, videos and practice samples.” Govier said. “PLCS has also purchased an online interactive ACT Test Prep Tool via Naviance.” No matter the level of confidence, practice is key. “Don’t wait to do practice tests and don’t study the night before,” Delos Reyes said. Through practice and preparation, test takers will be able to confidently fill in the last answer as the instructor announces “time,” and finally close the test booklet.

involves a two year college, a four year college, or the military, the ACT will provide exposure to rigorous testing situations. “There was a need to offer an assessment that benefited our students,” Govier said. Teachers also had to change the way they prepared juniors for the change of tests. “Time constraints add another level of difficulty,” English teacher Ms. Karleen Gebhardt said. Senior Gabby Delos Reyes, who took the ACT a total of four times, agrees: “The test itself is straightforward, it’s the time constraints that are hard to meet.” In addition to the ACT prep days, resources are always available D

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

MONARCHS FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE Drives for refugees and the homeless.

beliefs to help others. Monarchs For Social Justice Protection of minorities. has been formed in response to the election, and the club’s main goal is “to make Outlet to promote sure every kid feels equal equality. and safe [at school].” Started in February, the club has declared itself to support socially liberal ideals, but opens its doors to anyone regardless of political affiliation. After the election, two clubs “I wanted there to be a have been created to spread club where any kid can feel political awareness. safe and protected in a time BY MEGAN FRIEL where that feeling might be lost,” sophomore founder PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY Paige Benak said. An asset to the club’s In a cross-fire where bullets success is its sponsor, are replaced by words, the tensions French teacher Ms. Dianne run high among common people Halligan. Halligan has helped turned into soldiers. It starts when a immensely to make the club a wandering voice’s words get picked reality. up by an enemy’s ear, and a peaceful “I talked to Ms. Halligan comment gets mutilated into a threat. because I heard that she could In a climate heated with political help me accomplish my goal. radiation, what could have been taken She has been an incredible help as a typical conversation on politics and I couldn’t have created this club is now turned poisonous with the without her assistance,” Benak said. election months behind the nation. Members discuss controversial Riots have ravaged the country, issues during meetings. Members and no side is to blame. Some are looking forward to participating proclaim that those who lost must get in environmental marches and over their opinions and embrace the supporting minorities such as refugees new president. Others declare that and immigrants. Donald Trump is not their president, “Hopefully our club will do a and never will be. The politics have lot of service projects and drives for taken to the halls of PLHS, and unlike refugees, the homeless shelters and the politicians seen on television, many other organizations who are in Monarchs are resisting the same ugly need at this time,” Benak said. political battle by enacting their own The rest of the 2016-2017 school

e e p

year will be spent getting the club on its feet, whereas more actions and will begin next year and activity will increase both in and out of school. “I see the club doing successful drives and making sure every kid feels

NEWS FEATURES

OPINION

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equal,” Benak said. Modern ideals may be the token of the youth of America, but that does not always hold true. Tradition is still valued among teenagers, and another club new to second semester has been created as an outlet for those

who believe in commonly rightideas, but we also promote everyone wing beliefs. The Republican Club, being entitled to their own opinions,” formed shortly after winter break by Wynn said. junior Zach Wynn, has been focused A fierce battle may be what the on becoming an environment where media portrays- humans gravitate political education is promoted. towards the intensity of conflict. “I wanted to create an The true story behind this modern environment where people with war is much simpler. Instead similar ideas could talk and learn of the halls acting as political about politics,” Wynn said. battlegrounds, teenagers are standing Many schools across the up and recognizing their opposites, Midwest have a form of a embracing them as brothers. Republican Club, and although With the help of two clubs, the club at PLHS is not part PLHS is paving the roads towards of any national organization, a future of political peace. Tanks members are hoping to and weapons are left behind, and are integrate themselves into traded for civil disputes; tension is one. inevitable when politics get brought “We are looking to up. We will never see a day when join the Young Republicans there is complete agreement between and go to conferences as parties, but peace is attainable and soon as we are affiliated,” the soldiers of this verbal war are Wynn said. learning how to fight for their beliefs Volunteer projects are as equals. being discussed along with learning about politics. “We’re working with the Veterans THE REPUBLICAN Association to see if we can get some CLUB volunteer work done Veteran volunteer projects. like serving food and just talking to and meeting veterans,” Wynn said. A stigma has Political education. surrounded the Republican party as being unaccepting. Preservation of Republican However, the club wants to prove that “not Party. all Republicans are bad people.” “We believe in Republican

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

Out with the Old In with the New BY Elliott Wolbach PAGE DESIGN BY PEYTON COSE

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Why have blogs at all?

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I think the blogs are important because students miss school for several reasons and they need the ability to get caught up.

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Mr. Romie Brown

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Communication is key between teacher, parents and students. Students should know what they’re doing in class.

I use them to find worksheets and AP test practices for Calculus. Also, I look to see what homework is due in English. Senior Eli Thompson

NEWS FEATURES

Ms. Carly Sire

OPINION

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With the ever-advancing age of technology, the school blogs get a massive upgrade for next year.

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This year has been a rough one for the school blogs. However, changes are coming in the form of a new system that will roll out next year. The current blog system has been plagued with technical problems and criticized for being seemingly too hard to use. When the blog sites are down, both teachers and students get stressed out. “60 percent of the time, they load every time,” senior Eli Thompson said. The blogs can be down for days at a time, leading some students to avoid checking them at all. According to English teacher Ms. Carly Sire, this is frustrating for teachers when students do not get their homework done and blame it on the blog. The new blog system, called Canvas, will fix most of the problems that students experienced this year. “Canvas is hosted externally from outside the district,” assistant principal Mr. John Hubert said. “If it breaks down, it will be fixed, because it has a designated team looking after it.” Canvas is a learning management system used by universities like UNO, but we are the first high school in the district to move to this system. Teacher Mr. Romie Brown is currently using the Canvas system for his classes. “Right now there have not been any issues with it,” Brown said. “It looks better and is nicer to use.” The new blogs be will easier to use for both students and teachers. The change will also bring the opportunity to use online resources in new ways. The Canvas system will be more interactive than the blog system currently being used, and it will have the capability to have forums, flipped classrooms and online assignments. The biggest change comes in the way students can access the blogs. “The new blogs have an app that students can download and have access to the blogs on their phones at all times,” Hubert said. “And Canvas meshes with Office 360.” With these changes the blogs will be more than just a place to see what assignment a student missed. Next year it will be a great learning tool for students and more than a website that is down half the time.

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

Back ToYou Monarch Nation News makes a return after its hiatus. BY RAINA DODGE

Lighting. Interviews. Graphics. Blood, sweat and tears. Determination. A lot goes into making a news program. It takes a team with diverse skills and weeks of hard work. It takes a team like Monarch Broadcasting Productions. The Monarch Broadcasting team’s hard work came to fruition when Monarch Nation News (MNN) made a return on March 10. This multi-segment news program airs on select Fridays. Senior Kate Hulon, a two-year member of Monarch Broadcasting, works on various projects, from creating graphics and editing concert footage to anchoring MNN. Her passion for broadcast work began in an unusual way. “First of all, I really love [our sponsor] and I wanted to be in another one of her classes,” Hulon said.“I tried it out the first year, fell in love with it and stuck with it.” Broadcasting classes are quite diverse. Alongside Media Studies I and II, the prep classes, there is Media Production I, where staff works on announcements and MNN and Media Production II, where producers work on live streams and various side projects. Additionally, there is the Media Academy, a four-year program focused on media production skills. A significant amount of Media Production I’s efforts are spent creating MNN. But despite efforts to the contrary, production values slipped and segments were coming in incomplete. Seven-year sponsor Mrs. Becky Hoch saw that it was time to

“put an end to tacit acceptance of that kind of performance.” “We’re talking about ten kids producing a show every two weeks,” Hoch said. “I think they needed a break. I wanted an opportunity for them to sit back and reflect.” The loss of Monarch Nation News did not go unnoticed. Alongside a surprising amount of outcry from viewers, crew members were disappointed by the loss of their project. “[The break from MNN] was kind of sad,” Hulon said. “We got to be really creative. Anchoring is my favorite thing; we get to have a lot of fun and make puns.” But now that MNN has made a comeback, students are back to working on the projects they love. As Monarch Broadcasting continues to grow, it us up to its members to keep its momentum going. “The vision for the future isn’t created by me,” Hoch said. “This program has always been guided by the interests of the students, and if their goals and dreams are reasonable and achievable, I’ll do all I can to help them see them through.”

The

Anatomy

of a

Production Cycle It takes two to three weeks to produce an episode of Monarch Nation News, but what sort of work happens in that time?

Segment Choices Before any work can be done, crew members have to decide what will be covered.

Filming and Editing Crew members have two or three days to conduct interviews and combine film clips into a full segment.

Producer Work

The episode’s producer then takes two or three days to check segments for errors and create a full episode.

Anchor Segments Anchors Kate Hulon and Davis Showell take a day to film segments connecting parts of the episode.

Senior Zach Bailey and junior Mark Boyce take video for a segment. Several clips like this are edited together to make a continuous program. PHOTO: Aidan Cho

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Soft melodies, then booming crescendos fill the vast room. Cymbals bang and flutes flutter, resounding off the walls. Bent over their music sheets are musicians of all ages playing with each other. On Feb. 28, the PLHS band had the privilege of perfecting their music and learning more about their passion with the prestigious Omaha Symphony. The two bands sat with each other in the Holland Performing Arts Center, the premier performing arts hall in town. “My first thought was ‘Wow! We’re actually in a concert hall,’” flute player Jackie Jensen said. “It’s like a fancy stage, but with no curtain.” According to omahaperformingarts.org, the Holland’s acoustic engineering makes it one of the best centers in the country. Oboe player Christine Robino noted that the building is “very acoustically beautiful” and that “chords will just ring out in the halls.” PHOTO: HEATHER SLUGA

Students Isaac Franklin, Jace Pierce and Chandler Wacker (from left to right) improve their playing with the help of local professionals. The band practiced a variety of songs with the Omaha Symphony, which they will perform at their next concert on Apr. 11.

With

Prestige

Band students exercise their skills at the Holland Performing Arts Center with the top musicians in Omaha. BY JOANNA WALTON PAGE DESIGN BY JULIA HARKER

The Omaha Symphony was placed among the band students, with people divided by their instrumental section. This way, the high school musicians could play with and learn from the professionals one-on-one. “I liked talking to the professional flute player next to me,” Jensen said. “It was nice to hear her tips and tricks.” Playing with the Symphony aided students in many ways to better their performance as students and aspiring musicians. “The symphony musicians adjusted my instrument, so that helped me play with more ease,” Robino said. For the aspiring musicians in the band, attending the field trip opened their eyes to how they want to continue with their craft. Robino said that she would potentially like to do something like the symphony musicians one day, and continue her music education in college. Talking with the Symphony

players about their diverse backgrounds showed the students what one can do with a career in performing. The flute player next to Jensen had another job, and was also a student getting her masters degree. Jensen noted that this made her realize one can be a performer and something else. Not only did they discover more about music and learn from experts in the field, they built connections with new individuals. “My favorite part was probably playing with musicians who are passionate about what they do and are good at what they do and connecting with people through common interests,” Robino said. Back from this once-in-a-lifetime experience, band students can now put into practice what they learned about music, careers, and making connections with those around them, even if all they have in common is an instrument.

NEWS FEATURES

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

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With spring and summer around the corner, students are hasty to break out their shorts and tank tops, but they should beware the dreaded dress code that will rear its ugly head. OPINION BY KAYLEN MALTAIS

Modesty’s the Best Policy Shoulders, rips and shorts- oh my! As teenagers, we have a natural distaste for many things such as authority, society and crocs. However, no matter one’s degree of angst or apathy, there seems to be a common hatred shared among high school students for one thing, and one thing only: dress code. Dress code is a portion of our school’s code of conduct set in place by the school district and school administrators and although it is plenty tempting to mock and disregard these rules, we are required to adhere to them no matter how ludicrous they may seem. However, that does not mean we cannot shed light on the ridiculousness sprinkled throughout these policies, but before one can pass judgement, one must first understand where such reasoning descended from. Throughout history, society has been the key perpetrator in forging the standards for people’s conduct, our school district included, hence “code of conduct.” Although men have been affected by this twisted societal pastime, women have had the misfortune of being especially controlled when it comes to etiquette and dress. For example, what started out as sinful ankle displays blossomed into promiscuous leg sightings, and finally has upgraded to tantalizing shoulders that hinder the human brain’s ability to focus. It’s like fashion Pokémon, except when it evolves, you are gifted with shame instead of cool upgrades.

Now, as a female illustrating this argument, it can seem one-sided, but fear not, because my male counterparts also recognize the nonsense plaguing our school’s dress code, especially concerning the infamous bare shoulder. “It’s not a distraction,” sophomore AJ Dumont said. “I think it’s sexist because it’s not the same for girls as it is for guys.” On the other hand, boys are likewise affected by our school’s dress code. Need I remind us all of the sagging epidemic that swept our very halls and still, to this day, threatens the belt industry? However, I have seen enough “bro-tanks” worn proudly throughout our school to suggest that maybe our policies are a tad more severe for the female students. Ultimately, societies and schools alike need rules such as the dress code to uphold order and allow individuals to thrive in a safe and non-disturbing environment, but can we at least acknowledge that in the quest to appease harmony and order, we have the tendency to go overboard with our restrictions. We need to realize that rules only go so far, and that sometimes the problem doesn’t lie within the situation or the article of clothing, but in a person’s character and integrity. There will always be distraction in the world and that is something no dress code could ever diminish.

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Cashing In For A CAREER $

As high school comes to an end for some, and has only begun for others, most high schoolers have this one thing in common: thinking about life after high school. At times it seems like the world is crashing down on us as we contemplate the numerous colleges we could go to, the ACT scores needed to feel like we are above average, and most of all, a career path. While most of us agree that doing something you love opposed to something that pays a pretty penny is important, it is often hard not to get wrapped up in the filthy-rich mentality our society has. Consumerism above all. When thinking about a career path it is important to stress the

emphasis on “career,” or something you will be doing for a significant portion of your life. If that is neurosurgery for you, then no one is stopping you! But if you have hated science for most of your life and hear that chemical engineers bring in the dough, it might be better to stick to what you know. There is nothing that says you can’t become a lawyer or a computer engineer because it pays well, as long as it is a serious area of interest. When you spend 20 years of your life doing something you hate, it is hard to believe that any amount of money would be worth it, no matter how cliché it sounds. There are plenty of career paths out in the world to explore. But, when

going on that search, it is crucial to focus on your passion and interest opposed to pay. As the saying goes, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” So when faced with the reality of adulthood and choosing a career that best suits you, remember what you love to do and what you wouldn’t mind doing for the remainder of your life. Focus on the things that you know you could not only excel in, but actually enjoy doing. Stay true to yourself and don’t focus on the money. When you are passionate about something, the money will just be another benefit of a fulfilling job that you get to do.

Are you good at chemistry?

Like working with children?

Teacher! Become a therapist! (There are hundreds of fields of therapy!)

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OPINION BY FAITH WORKMAN

Are you good at helping your friends through hard times?

The search to find a career is hard when money tends to get in the way.

Helpful tips in finding a career that suits you...

Become a chemist! Finance and accounting is a high demand job!

Do you like math? OPINION

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Reb

ting the

System Some reboots provide a new take on the classics and provide a story that everyone can enjoy, while others seem to fall short. There are quite a few obstacles that come with making these movies, and depending on how they are executed, they can make or break the film. Those

The tale as old as time has come back again, and this time, it is not a remaster of the original film. Similar to last year’s hit “The Jungle Book”, “Beauty and the Beast” has been rebooted with an all star cast, amazing visuals, digital effects and a stellar soundtrack to match. The film follows the tale of a young prince (Dan Stevens) who is cursed to live out his days in the form of a beast. The curse

Famous studios produce new takes on old stories. BY TREVOR KALAL

PAGE DESIGN BY DELANI WATKINS

challenges are many, and it is hard to predict when and where they will pop up. How the filmmakers react is the crucial factor. “Logan” and “Beauty and the Beast” are two reboots that may have proven that they are worthy of their predecessors.

can be broken, but only by true love. His one chance comes in the form of Belle (Emma Watson), who takes her ill father’s place as the Beast’s prisoner. Through the help of the enchanted staff, Belle must learn to love and appreciate her captor. Meanwhile in the village, Gaston (Luke Evans) has his own plans for Belle and the Beast.

One of the most recognized superhero actors of all time is Hugh Jackman in his role as Wolverine. He is iconic as the actor who has played Wolverine in every film within the “X-Men series”. For his final appearance filmmakers are pulling out all of the stops. The plot draws inspiration from one of grittiest story lines in comic books, “Old Man Logan.” Based upon a reading of the original story, the character is taken in some interesting and different directions that have not been portrayed thus far. This is certainly going to be an enjoyable film

to see not only because of the different direction, but because how much it varies from previous films in the series. The premise of the film follows a much older Logan than in previous films. His healing factor is slowing down, meaning he would take longer than normal to recover from his wounds. He cares for an ailing Professor Charles Xavier (Sir Patrick Stewart) along the Mexican border, as he tries to hide from the world. His seemingly small world is thrown into chaos when a young mutant arrives, who is pursued by evil forces.

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T W O E R A S O F T O O N S

The only thing getting us through that long elementary school day were the cartoons that we loved, playing on the TV when we arrived home; the cartoons that shaped a generation. Now, there is a new after school lineup of cartoons for the younger generation. However, are they really as good as other people think? The cartoons people were raised on consisted of “Hey Arnold,” “Kim Possible,” and “Scooby-Doo.” Every week, children would gather around their TVs to see what hijinks their

favorite characters would get into next. “I watched Kim Possible, Jimmy Neutron, and shows on Cartoon Network like Ed, Edd ‘n’ Eddy,” senior Claudia Book said. Behind all of the silliness and bright colors, there were actual lessons and morals. Plus, the cause for our enjoyment was brought by the pure comedy of the show. “Cartoons today aren’t really funny,” Book said. “They don’t really compare because cartoons back then were actually funny and enjoyable to watch.” Not only does comedy play an important factor, but the fact that

The continuous battle of new vs old cartoons persists. BY KASSIDY BROWN PAGE DESIGN BY CAMRYN BOWERS

most of the school has grown up on these timeless shows does as well. However, the cartoons again seem to be raking in an audience. “I don’t really like the cartoons now either, but I’m not the one watching them,” senior Makenzie Cartwright said. “They target the kids now instead of people our age.” The kind of humor used in modern cartoons is dry, because that is the kind of humor that appeals to today’s youth. They do not know what our childhoods were like simply because they are too young. “We think the humor is terrible ,but the kids watching think it’s hilarious,” Cartwright said. Not all cartoons ended while we were still kids. A few shows like “The Fairly Oddparents” and “Arthur” are still running successfully. “A few of my favorites are still on and though I won’t sit down to watch them, I’m happy that younger kids get to see what shows I grew up watching,” Cartwright said. Most students would agree that the shows they watched as kids are better than the ones today. It brings them back to a simpler time, when all they had to worry about was what show to watch at 4 p.m. “Cartoons back then were great,” Book said. “They were my childhood and that’s what I grew up with.” The battle of then vs now seems to be never ending regardless of the subject. Some will say then was better, and some will disagree. The huge debate will most likely progress in years to come.

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As time goes by, trends in toys come and go, and children find new ways to spend their time. BY KENNEDY SAUTTER

Ahhhh, the early 2000s. It was a quite simpler time, when as children, we romped about, and technology was starting its ascent into being widely available. It is safe to say that these were the golden years of childhood and here at PLHS, both upperclassmen and some underclassmen have grown up during these years. So what do teens hold most fondly about these years? The memories or sentimental items that they can say shaped their memories long past? Between video games, American Girl dolls and Legos, it can be hard to pin down. But one PLHS girl sheds light on what helped her through the trials of childhood. “I would say the best toy for me was my Barbies and My Little Ponies,” junior Ayanna Keegan said. “I started to play with them when I was three; those dolls are a big part of my childhood.” Barbies, My Little Ponies and 1.) ‘Hollaback Girl’

Gwen Stefani “This song brings me back because my family and I listened to it all the time in the car.”

Daniel Osburn

Polly Pockets were some toys that were quite popular among younger girls in the early 2000s. Most boys stuck to GI Joes and superheroes; it can be said that action figures and dolls were quite popular among children. This explains why some students found them and used them. While some girls played with dolls and played dress up, the boys preferred the outside and action figurines. Some such as superhero figurines, bikes, and sports equipment were quite popular. And with the advent of video games becoming more available, technology also began to dominate children’s birthday lists. “I mainly played with them because there was a lack of children in the area that I lived in,” Keegan said. “I also played with them because I loved the amount of options for dresses there were.” Times sure have changed though, nowadays children would

2.)

Polly Pockets

“I had tiny houses for them and would bring them everywhere; I loved the outfits.” Jessa Dixson

3.)

rather own a new game console or a swanky new iPhone. Back in those days kids would have enjoyed a new bike or an mp3 player. Technology and toys have changed so much that children today will have access to virtual reality, which was once thought to be science fiction. What children had back then was an imagination and a tree house. “The main difference between my childhood and the newer generations is technology,” Keegan said. “They will grow up with virtual reality and robots, when I grew up with much simpler things.” Rest assured the children of tomorrow will most likely be saying the same things about the generations preceding them, and so will their daughters and sons. So on and so forth, and so the fads of our generation will follow and repeat themselves.

Nintendo 64

4.) Sega Dreamcast

Riley Beacom

Brandon Barratta

“I played it every day and had some great games like 'BanjoKazooie.'”

“I played games like ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘Sonic;’ it was my favorite system.”

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NICEST KIDS IN TOWN

PHOTO: CAITLYN THOMAS & KAYLEN MALTAIS Seniors Julianne Plourde, Sean Ryan, Hope McCartney, Ambi AnuhNdumu and junior Alyssa Foral prep for their starring roles in “Hairspray.”

“Hairspray” takes center stage this week at PLHS. BY CHLOE GRIMM

PAGE DESIGN BY CAMRYN BOWERS

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“Good morning, Baltimore!” With authentic ‘60s costumes strewn across the drama room, hairspray spewing around them and zealous feet tapping away to the beat, the drama department bustles around to transform our humble auditorium stage into the lively streets of Baltimore. Welcome to the decade where spirits were high and integration was low. Our fine arts department has hastily worked to illustrate the strife between races, body types and other differences that were deeply entrenched during this time. For this spring’s musical production, our fellow thespians are strapping on their dancing shoes and gearing up for the musical spectacular “Hairspray”. Tonight and tomorrow at 7 p.m. and this Sunday at 2 p.m., the musical will be brought to life for everyone in Papillion. Tickets are on sale at SHOWTX4U.com: $10 for adults, $5 for students and $4 for children. It will be no surprise that this musical will showcase everyone’s talents and make this one of the best productions yet, but it’s not just the actors and actresses doing all of the work. “There are around 100 people involved with ‘Hairspray’,” drama

teacher Mrs. Molly Grasso said. “63 people in the cast, about twelve in the orchestra and around ten people on run crew.” The cast is also excited for everyone to see it in action considering its relevance, as “Hairspray Live” premiered in early December of 2016, right around the time that auditions were being held and when rehearsal started before winter break. Since then, rehearsal has been every day after school until 5:30, sometimes even 6. But the arduous work will pay off as it will attract a diverse audience who can relate to the social problems that occur. “I think it is important because there are problems that have gotten better over the years but haven’t been fully solved,” senior Ambi Anuh-Ndumu, the actress playing Motormouth Maybelle, said. “It’s really good to bring them to light to show that unless we change something, it is still going to be a problem.” As the musical takes place during the era of segregation and the Civil Rights movement, the significance of it is to emphasize that the only way to make change is to unite as a society and to break racial barriers. “It’s super powerful because it has to deal with bridging the gap

between blacks and whites,” senior Sean Ryan, actor playing Link Larkin, said. “I think it’s got a very strong message.” However, the message behind the classic musical isn’t the only reason to see “Hairspray.” There are many aspects to this production that set it apart from previous school plays and musicals that will surely attract the audience. “I think we’re more prepared for this than other shows in the past since memorization is coming along way quicker and the chorus has really improved,” Anuh-Ndumu said. Practice makes perfect, but some people are just born with a certain flair that will top off the musical and make it even more sensational. “All of the leads this year have amazing talent and I think everyone watching will be drawn in and everything will be relatable,” Ryan said. “Hairspray” is going to be a big hit as people have already been buying their tickets for friends and family to enjoy the show. You can’t stop the beat of the music in this one as it will have your world spinnin’ round and round, making it a story you’ll never forget.

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BINOCULAR VISION A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ZOO The Henry Doorly Zoo is the perfect place to go to during the warmer weather, and now there is more for guests to see. BY HANNA OLSON PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

Overnight Camp Outs

Sleeping at the zoo? Hearing the sounds of animals while lying in a tent? Now that is an adventure. People do not need to travel to experience what it is like to be in the wild. Guests can make reservations to sleep overnight at the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, either in the aquarium, desert dome or even the jungle. The zoo also has a new campsite near the lion enclosure in the African Grasslands. “I’m trying to save up money so I can spend the night and see the lions at night,” junior Holly Snider said. Experiencing the wildlife at nighttime can be exciting, especially because some animals become more active at night. The zoo is now offering many new additions that offer experiences like no other.

African Grasslands

Everybody has wanted to travel to a foreign country before, and now everyone can get a feeling of what it is like! The African Grasslands exhibit opened to the pubic in the summer of 2016. This exhibit gives the guests a view of what African animals are like and how they interact with each other. The Grasslands have a variety of animals. Such as giraffes, elephants, zebras, white rhinos, lions and several other species. “The white rhinos are my favorite at the zoo,” junior Ashley Blakely said. “It’s fascinating to see them in their element in the open grass exhibit.” This exhibit is here not only to show off the beautiful animals, but also to show a little more of Africa to people who would not normally be able to experience it. Walking along the path through the exhibit, guests see all kinds of African culture. Being able to see the different species interact in peace is an amazing sight to see.

Alaskan Adventures Walking around the zoo on a hot summer day, young children get tired and sweaty quickly. Parents want to sit down and relax from all the walking. Kids and parents both get that needed down time while playing on the new splash pad to cool off. Alaskan Adventures is a splash pad near the north entrance of the zoo, created in May of 2016. It’s based off of different aquatic animals that live in colder temperatures. Near the Alaskan Adventures is a carousel, a petting zoo where guests can pet and feed goats, and a stingray beach where guests can interact with the stingrays. This splash pad offers the perfect interactive way to cool off on a sizzling summer day.

PHOTOS: HANNA OLSON

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]

B r a ck e t Breakdown

Disgust, sorrow, glee, triumph. These are just a few of the emotions felt by people throughout America after a big upset in the NCAA Basketball Tournament, otherwise known as March Madness. March Madness is an annual college tournament that hosts 68 teams nationwide. Those 68 teams attempt to win six games to be crowned national champions. Students are involved with the tournament in a variety of ways, including attending games in Omaha, creating brackets and simply watching the games. "I like to watch all of the games," junior Tom Loseke said. "I want to make sure my bracket does well." Others just like the intense nature of the tournament. "March Madness is special to me because of all of the buzzer beaters and upsets," junior Billy Broderick said. "Those are by far the best part of the tournament." Many students find ways to

watch the tournament even when their schedule might conflict with the timing of the games, including Broderick. "I watch the games during the school day," Broderick said. While others might contemplate stats, Broderick reflects on the future while watching the games. "I like to think of how many of the players I am watching are going pro," Broderick said. Every year, millions tune in to watch one of the most exciting tournaments in the world. These include the students who watch the games both in school or at home. The tournament is a way for fans and players alike to bond over the great sport of basketball. As the flocks of people watch the tournament this year, many emotions will fly. March Madness has a way of bringing out the basketball fan in all of us.

How would you describe March Madness with one word? MARCH 2017

“INSANITY” -JUNIOR DAVIS SHOWELL “INVIGORATING” -JUNIOR BILLY BRODERICK

Students prepare to fill out their brackets for the NCAA Basketball Tournament. BY DEVIN VETTER

BY THE

Numbers:

Average number of upsets in the NCAA Basketball Tournament per year from 1985-2011.

The lowest seed to win the NCAA Basketball Tournament ever: Villanova in 1985.

Number of times all four number one seeds have made the Final Four. (Kansas, North Carolina, UCLA, and Memphis in 2008)

Number of times a 16 seed has defeated a 1 seed in the first round of the tournament.

FUN FACT: You are more likely to be elected president of the United States than to pick a perfect NCAA Tournament Bracket.

1 GONZAGA 4 DUKE 3 FLORIDA

? ?

2 UCLA

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SWINGING FOR

THE FENCES Large numbers of freshmen boys tried out for baseball this season, meaning many had to be cut. BY IZZY HAAVE PAGE DESIGN BY CAMRYN BOWERS & DELANI WATKINS

23% 26

of all playe

rs trying out

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Grass stains, dirt-glazed cleats, tan lines and sunflower seeds. The haunting ding of the ball hitting the bat and biased umps. It is that time of year again: baseball season. For many, baseball season is the best time of the year, creating for much anticipation during the high school season. However, with the abundance of freshman boys trying out this year, some were not able to live out this favorite pastime at the high school level. Every year, there are people who have to be cut from the high school’s baseball program; however, this year was different. For coaches like Mr. Nate McCabe, the process of letting players go, this year in particular, was an extremely tough decision. “This year, we had about thirty boys trying out for varsity, and close to one-hundred boys trying out for lower level teams,” McCabe said. “We will have to end up cutting thirty to thirty-five boys.” With so many cuts being made

during this year’s cycle of tryouts, it is understandable why there was an added pressure on those trying out. For freshman Garret Anglim, this pressure was nothing. “It does not really put any pressure on me that so many kids are trying out,” Anglim said. “I just do me and do my best.” Though the pressure was nonexistent for some of those trying out, there was a great deal of pressure felt on the coaching staff’s end of the cutting process. “The days we make cuts are the worst days of the year for us coaches,” McCabe said. “We have to keep teams manageable to coach and we have to make sure boys get playing time, but at the same time no one likes to be the one to tell someone they’re not good enough.” From an outside point of view, it would make sense to simply add another team to suit the players who are trying out. However, from the view of athletic administrator Mr. Jason Ryan, it is simply not

possible. “It doesn’t make sense for us to have a fourth baseball team,” Ryan said. “The only school in our conference that has four teams is Creighton Prep, and that is only because it is an all boys school, so they would have no one else to play.” Though many kids were cut from the high school’s baseball program, it is a good representation of how the sport is becoming more popular. “I think it is good that a lot of people are trying out and staying active, and it gives our team a better chance of being the best of our abilities,” Anglim said. From the dugout or from the bleachers, everyone will come out to support these teams. Some did not make the cut, but next year may be a different story. Like Anglim said, “I just trust myself and use my confidence as a baseball player to look past mistakes that I make, and focus more on the success,” which is all someone can do. No harm, no foul.

s was

team 4 d a h io p e Pa

the last tim

YEARS AGO

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

What’s the Rap about Trap?

As students are preparing for the upcoming trap season, one question is left unanswered: what exactly is trap? BY BRENDON BOATWRIGHT

A single target, five angles, five posts and an oscillating machine are all incorporated in this shotgunshooting sport that is comparable to pheasant hunting. The objective is to hit the clay disc, called a clay pigeon, in one shot. The shot can hit the disc anywhere and break off a piece, which is considered a hit. In the simplest terms, trap is a shooting sport where the objective is to shoot the clay discs flying away from the shooter. From practices in the fall to competitions in the spring, trap is an engaging sport that allows for a variety of students to come and learn new skills or show off the firearm skills they have previously learned. Shooting an ending average of 88.8/100, senior Mandy Kennick is a returning member from the team last year and has been shooting for five years. She has a plethora of goals and aspirations for this upcoming season. “I’ve gotten third the past two years in the women’s division,” Kennick said. “This year I’m hoping to improve my personal average and get first place at state.” Another senior, Austin Lampman, has been shooting since freshman year. He is coming into this

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season “shooting better than [he has] in the past” and is “hoping to make his way up to the top squads by state.” It is no secret that shooting small flying discs should be difficult; however, Rick Jones, the head coach of the trap team, says there is more to it than that. “The hardest part about being a trap coach is getting the kids to believe in themselves,” Jones said. “What helps is that they become more patient with time.” David Miller, president of the trap team, also believes that the hardest part is more of a mental problem. He believes that the hardest part is “controlling frustration” and believes that the best way to

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counteract this is by “coming up with a list of things to help.” Although trap may seem extremely difficult, students are still encouraged to try it. As a senior looking back, Kennick is glad that she made the choice to join trap. “I think that everyone should try it at least once,”Kennick said. “I didn’t think I was going to like it at first because it can be boring to watch, but it’s definitely turned into my passion.” For students who are on the fence of trying out, there are a multitude of possible options to try. There is a fall shoot for new shooters that want to come out and try, even if they consider it a dangerous sport. “Just come try it and see if you

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Types of guns used • Browning 725 Citori PHOTO: TREVOR LEWIS

• SKB 90 TSS

Senior Mandy Kennick looks on towards the field and prepares to shoot. Once she yells pull, it is just her and the flying clay disc.

• Remington 870

PHOTO: TREVOR LEWIS Senior Austin Lampman stands, gun cocked and ready to fire. With extreme concentration he mentally prepares to hit the target.

“

• Mossberg 500

I use a Browning BT-99 because I am used to the gun and have been shooting with it since freshman year.

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

“

like it,” Jones said. “There has not been a single accident and nobody has ever gotten hurt in my 14 years as a coach.” Miller, with 20 years of experience, even considers it “fun” and “social.” They are always open to new people and students can sign up anytime at open houses. Trap, like many other sports, can be fun and thrilling, an experience not many people get to have. All it takes is time and patience, and the skill will come with it. “It takes an afternoon to be proficient, but it takes a lifetime to be a master,” Miller said.

• Browning BT-99

Austin Lampman

Motherly L ve The girls tennis team has a unique situation with both coaches having a daughter on the team.

BY JOSEY RYAN

PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

For many athletes, playing the sport they love is their getaway, their happy place. It is a way for them to have fun, relieve stress or get away from their parents and family. While this is true for most athletes, two athletes at PLHS are actually coached by their parents. Junior Tessa Hurst and freshman Olivia Boudreau are two members of the girls tennis team. These names may seem familiar: Tessa and Olivia’s mothers are the coaches of the team. Hurst has been on the varsity tennis team for two years and has had many successes. Freshman year

1 Love

she was a state champion for #2 doubles and as a team they were state champions as well. As a sophomore she placed second at state for #2 doubles and second as a team. This has all been accomplished under the coaching of her mom. “My mom is probably harder on me most of the time. She expects a lot from me, but both [coach Lori Boudreau and my mom], push me to be my best,” Tessa said. With one of her coaches being her mom, Tessa might have an advantage over some of her competition.

“My mom really knows what my best is, so she is harder on me so that I can work my hardest and achieve greater things,” Tessa said. While some may think being coached by a parent would be the worst thing ever, others have a different viewpoint. Coach Mariana Hurst teaches gym at La Vista Junior High and is also a tennis coach for PLHS, where she coaches her daughter. “I love coaching Tessa, and I really mean that,” coach Hurst said. While Tessa is going into her third year of being coached by her

(of tennis) a score of zero; nothing

Loven

a feeling of deep affection as for a parent or child

s i n Ten

t a e Thr SPORTS

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PHOTO: OLIVIA BOUDREAU Coach Lori Boudreau and Olivia Boudreau enjoy a picture after practice. Coach Boudreau began coaching Olivia as a freshman this tennis season.

PHOTO: TESSA HURST Coach Mariana Hurst and Tessa Hurst pose for a picture after the Metro tournament. Coach Hurst has coached Tessa for two years and just began her third year. They have had much success together.

mom, Olivia is just learning the ropes of having a parent as a coach. “We’re going to be spending a lot of time together, so that’s a good thing. Hopefully she doesn’t have to get on my case a lot,” Olivia said. Olivia has spent a lot of time on the tennis courts with her mom who teaches english and is also a coach of the girls tennis team. “Both Olivia’s dad and I played in college and Olivia has just grown up around it, so [tennis] is something she chose to do,” coach Boudreau said. Olivia has been playing tennis since she was four and has

gained skill in the sport through the encouragement of her parents. “Coaching Olivia will be fun because I will get to see all of her growth over the next four years,” coach Boudreau said. Olivia and Tessa both took on the sport as a child, but little did they know they would end up playing for their moms. With the help of their teammates and all of their coaches, they will be able to get through the season talking to their moms on and off the court.

The Papillion-La Vista girls tennis team has become a rich program that has had much success in the state tournament. After placing second at the state tournament in 2014, the Monarchs went on to be state champions the next year. They looked to repeat that in 2016, but fell short losing by half a point. “[Losing by half a point] kind of sucked but we knew we had done something great as a team,” senior Morgan Eby said. Although losing by the small margin was not the ideal situation, the girls tennis team has used it as motivation. “Our team goal is to keep the morale high all throughout the season with positive attitudes and win state,” senior Pi Moore said. With their determination and hard work the girls tennis team can reach their goals and keep up the rich tradition.

THE SCEPTER MARCH 2017

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