2017 October Scepter by PLHS Scepter

SCEPTER THE

Friends From Afar PG. 4&5

The Academic Focus PG. 15-19

A New Game Plan PG. 30

OCTOBER 2017

WWW.PLPULSE.COM A PUBLICATION OF PAPILLION-LA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

ISSUE 1 VOLUME 55

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES

4&5 Friends from Afar Papio Takes on American 6&7 Idol 8 Greetings from Orlando 9 Bringing Drumline to Life 10 A Change of Pace NEWS

11 Joining The Family 12 We Are All in This Together 13 Caught Our Eye 14 Southern Disaster 15 16 17 18 19

Academic Focus

A Summer of Sun, Fun and Homework? Jumping Ahead ProACTive Burnt Out

The Monarch offensive line lifts up their “King of the Trenches” sledge hammer before the PLSHS versus PLHS football game. The Monarchs won 49-42 in a back and forth contest. COVER PHOTO: DELANI WATKINS COVER DESIGN: ALEXA BUSBY, MOLLEE SWIFT AND ELIZABETH EIDEM

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OPINION

The Fall of Facebook

ENTERTAINMENT Take 2 Thrill Seekers Very Superstitious Rock-tober

SPORTS

21 22 23 24

25 A Fresh Start for 26&27 Softball Brand New 28&29 Monarchs A New Game Plan 30 Monarch Muscle 31

Serving Up a Good Year

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.

EDITORS

STAFF

The Scepter

Hannah Im Editor-in-Chief Alexa Busby & Mollee Swift Design Delani Watkins Copy Megan Friel Coverage ChloĂŠ Grimm Entertainment Lauren Dominello Features Alyssa Foral News Faith Workman Opinion Josey Ryan & Devin Vetter Sports Emma Higby Photography Caitlyn Thomas Advertising

PLPulse.com

Editor-in-Chief Asst. Editor-in-Chief Design Convergence Webmaster Media Editor

Kennedy Sautter Kaylen Maltais Julia Harker Trevor Lewis Aidan Cho Izzy Haave

Lissa Lafond

Lily Allpress Sarah Altman

Alex Manning

Emma Betts

Ashley Mason Jill Mathison

Billy Broderick

Lucas Neill

Kaylin Ciatti Megan Davey

David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell

Elizabeth Eidem

Avery Wagoner

Phil Gradoville Tatum Jorgensen

Annie Waldman Joanna Walton Kenzie Ward

Dakota Kelley Cassie Kessler

Jacob Williams

Samantha Simmerman

EDITORIAL: In Times of Weakness As the season of chilly football games, scary Halloween movies, and all things pumpkin spice flavored deepens, the school year does as well. Back are the days of staying after school to finish projects and staying up late to finish homework. We suddenly find ourselves overwhelmed with balancing school life, social time and often, work schedules. During times like these we look to family and friends to keep us sane and for support. In the past two months, and still today, families are looking for that same support as a result of multiple deadly hurricanes hitting the southern United States and

Puerto Rico. Thousands of homes were lost and a few even lost their lives. This extensively impacted those within the neighborhoods, but affected relatives out of state as well. Relief effort from around the country began immediately. People came together to collect items to send to displaced families, hoping to relieve some of the burden of losing nearly everything they owned. Even at our own school, many students and staff knew of family and friends that were affected. Clubs and groups, such as the senior committee and the Green Team, came together from across the school to collect donations to

send to those in need. It is obvious to see the strength of coming together, and relying on each other, in times of weakness such as these. However, it is just as important to support each other, ask how someone is doing, conveying compassion in the smallest of ways everyday. So, as we share stories of the past summer, and we look ahead at the change to come there will be times of strength and weakness, but as we dive all in into another school year, through supporting each other, we will able to overcome any obstacles that come our way.

OCTOBER 2017

Frifrom ends Afar BY ELIZABETH EIDEM PAGE DESIGN BY MOLLEE SWIFT

Foreign exchange students tell stories of their first few months in America.

Four students come from places around the globe each year to experience something completely foreign. This year, Amalie Pedersen, Chiara Tedesco, Raven Huber and Ingvild Larsen have been welcomed and will continue to become integrated into the student body at PLHS.

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Coming from Scandinavian countries, seniors Larsen and Pedersen were very happy to reach the states to have an American high school experience. Pedersen hails from Copenhagen, Denmark, and has found her place within the busy, crowded halls. “The first couple of days were really hard,” Pedersen said. “I had to be open to figuring things out, but now it has become a new normal.” This “new normal” was also felt by Larsen, all thanks to the unexpectedly welcoming spirit of strangers.

“If I walked down the street in Norway, I wouldn’t say ‘hi’ to people as much as I would here,” Larsen said. The American welcome both girls have experienced is only one of the many differences they notice daily. Larsen has been impressed with Monarch students’ involvement with school-sponsored activities. Larsen’s home in Gjøvik, Norway, does not have as much active involvement. “Everyone seems to be involved in school sports,” Larsen said. “I think that is really cool.” Pedersen has successfully gotten used to switching classrooms, unlike

FEATURES

From: Milan, Italy

From: Basel, Switzerland

Distance from home: 4,881 miles

Favorite thing from home: I live in a big city, so any place or store is really close to me!

Chiara Tedesco

Distance from home: 4,731 miles

Raven Huber

Favorite thing from home: Snowboarding and Ice Hockey.

PHOTOS: ELIZABETH EIDEM, MOLLEE SWIFT & DELANI WATKINS

From: Gjøvik, Norway

From: Copenhagen, Denmark

Distance from home: 4,284 miles

Favorite thing from home: Karl Johans gate, the main street in Oslo, Norway.

Ingvild Larsen

in Denmark, where students stay in one room while teachers rotate between classes. “The whole school system is totally different here,” Pedersen said. “That made the first few days very stressful.” Larsen and Pedersen’s desire to visit the United States encouraged them to begin their research into the foreign exchange student program. Mrs. Tammy Johnson coordinates foreign exchange student enrollment. “It is fun to watch them grow here,” Johnson said. All foreign exchange students

Distance from home: 4,551 miles

Amalie Pedersen

Favorite thing from home: The Espresso House, a coffee shop.

are enrolled as seniors to receive an honorary diploma with their American classmates in May. Host families and exchange locations are assigned to the students by the company to which they choose to apply. Both Larsen and Pedersen are adjusting to life within a busier home. “It is really different from my home in Norway, but it’s fun in the house,” Larsen said. Activities with their busy host families have immersed Larsen and Pedersen into Nebraskan culture. Larsen attended a Nebraska football

game and was amazed at the number of fans. “There were more people there than people that would usually attend a national Norwegian soccer game,” Larsen said. From crowded halls to language barriers, foreign exchange students have had to adjust to extreme differences. These adjustments have been made easier for seniors Larsen and Pedersen because of the warm Monarch welcome.

OCTOBER 2017

Papio Takes On BY LISSA LAFOND

American Idol

PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

Two students leave their comfort zone of singing in front of local crowds and audition for American Idol.

As you walk onto the stage, the welcoming applause rumbles the floor and causes your stomach to somersault. Blinding lights shine down and you see the thousands of faces staring back, all eyes on you. Singing on a stage in front of a huge crowd is a dream of many, including sophomore Kaylee Ostdiek and junior Jace Noble. They pursued this dream by auditioning for “American Idol” when the auditions came to Omaha on Aug. 29. For the audition, Ostdiek sang

“Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera and Noble sang “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith. The audition was open to people ages 15-28 around the U.S. and held in several cities including Omaha. “I heard rumors that the show was coming back, so I went online to find out and noticed auditions were coming to Omaha, so I signed up,” Ostdiek said. Obtaining an audition may have been easy, but combatting the nerves that come along with this

PHOTO: HEATHER SLUGA Junior Jace Noble performs at Monarchs On Stage in Nov. 2016.

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big opportunity was their biggest challenge. “Driving up and seeing the line of people made my stomach drop, and that’s when I felt most nervous,” Ostdiek said. “But once I got in line and warmed up with the singers around me, I calmed down and was really just living in the moment.” This is the 16th season of “American Idol”, and Ostdiek finally got the chance to audition for the show she grew up watching. “Auditioning has always been

FEATURES

PHOTO: KAYLEE OSTDIEK Kaylee Ostdiek poses for a picture in front of the “American Idol” bus. She smiled while fighting through her nerves.

a dream of mine and when the show was cancelled I thought I’d never get the chance, but when it came back on ABC, I knew it was something I needed to experience,” Ostdiek said. Noble, on the other hand, auditioned not necessarily for his love of the show, but more for his love of singing and wanting to further his career. “I think what inspired me to audition was I’ve always just sang all the time and I want to pursue a career because it’s something that’s really

interesting to me,” Noble said. Auditioning for a famous show might seem intimidating, but being super serious about singing or even wanting a career was not a requirement. “I think a career in singing would be amazing, but normally it’s not a job that can take care of a family forever unless you make it really big, so I just sing as a hobby for now,” Ostdiek said. Ostdiek and Noble saw how the show works off camera and how

people actually get picked to be on the show. “I loved getting to see and be a part of the behind the scenes of auditions,” Ostdiek said. “I also got to meet a lot of people that came to audition from out of town.” Despite neither Ostdiek or Noble making it onto the show, they both gained a great experience and memories that will last a lifetime. “It was eye opening and I learned a lot [about] myself and the show,” Ostdiek said.

“My favorite part was getting to see and take pictures in front of the real Idol tour bus.”

“My favorite part was seeing all the different singers.”

-Kaylee Ostdiek

-Jace Noble

OCTOBER 2017

. . . m o r f s Greeting

Orlando

BY TATUM JORGENSEN

PAGE DESIGN BY JULIA HARKER

Four students traveled to Orlando, Florida, to compete in HOSA nationals. The smell of freshly baked Mickey Mouse cookies overwhelmed children as they strolled down the streets of Magic Kingdom, one of the Disney World Parks. Just a few blocks over, thousands of students from across America gathered to learn prepared than they were at State.” and compete in healthcare-related Though, this trip came with a events. cost. The students were unable to In June, seniors Karissa Segan, raise money to cover the travel fees to Eshu Senthil, Lauren Dominello and Florida due to a close deadline at the Julia Harker traveled to Orlando, time of planning. Luckily, principal Florida, to compete at HOSA Mr. Jerry Kalina provided each student Nationals. $250 in funds to get to Nationals and HOSA, Health Occupation the students paid the rest. Student Association, is a club meant “We did this very, very close for anyone wanting to have a career in to the deadline, so we had no time to the medical field. fund-raise,” Senthil said. “We had to “It is a good opportunity to plan each pay $450 of the total $700 cost.” ahead for your career, build your Unfortunately, they did not place resume and try new things while still in high school,” Senthil said. “Anyone at Nationals this year, but they plan on attending again next year in hopes of is welcome to join anytime during the bringing home a national title. school year.” Three out of the four students PHOTOS: LAUREN DOMINELLO competed at the state HOSA ABOVE: Harker, Segan, competition and placed first in creative Dominello and Senthil smile problem solving, the same category on the bus on their way to the that they competed in at Nationals. airport. They were prepared for “The sheer size of the convention their long flight home. was mind blowing,” Senthil said. RIGHT: Segan, Dominello, Senthil “Everyone was definitely more and Harker pose in front of their dedicated to the competition and hotel, the All Star Sports Resort.

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They got ready to compete by posing for the camera.

“I would definitely do it again,” Segan said. “I am planning on going again this year.” Although they did not place, they came home with more than they had expected. “We learned so much about how people from other states run their chapters, and as an officer, it gave me ideas to implement in our own chapter,” Senthil said. “I am glad we got to go because we now know how to handle Nationals this year.” Even though they were not headed to Disney World, these students still made memories that they will never forget.

FEATURES

bringing DRUMLINE to life

BY MEGAN FRIEL AND LAUREN DOMINELLO Download the Aurasma app to watch a video through the eyes of drumline.

WANT TO EXPERIENCE MORE DRUMLINE? HERE’S HOW: 1. Download the AURASMA app (it’s free). 2. Make an account in a few short steps (no spam). 3. On the following page, click on the search bar at the top and type in

plhsjournalism

4. Once searched, follow the account. 5. Press the circular purple button at the bottom center of the home screen. 6. Hover over the image above and a video will appear.

SEARCH FOR A HIDDEN AURASMA SOMEWHERE IN THE SCEPTER TO WIN A PRIZE! PHOTO: LAUREN DOMINELLO

Drumline practices their music for the 2017 show, Stained Glass. They practice six hours a week to prepare for performances.

OCTOBER 2017

BY MEGAN DAVEY PAGE DESIGN BY KAYLIN CIATTI

Officer Andy Mahan takes on the role of being the PLHS School Resource Officer.

Officer Andy Mahan sits in his PLHS golf cart. He traded in his police car for the golf cart when he became the new School Resource Officer.

PHOTO: EMMA HIGBY

Imagine being in charge of roughly 1,600 teenagers’ safety and well-being for seven consecutive hours, five days out of the week. The idea alone would spark a panic attack in many people, but to one, it seems like an exciting career shift. Officer Andy Mahan has worked as a police officer for nine years, and even has experience with the South Metro SWAT team. Now, he works as the School Resource Officer at PLHS. “When something happens, and it goes beyond the school policy and becomes a crime or crime-related, that’s where I step in,” Mahan said. The job change was not a random assignment or required duty. The position was chosen by Officer

Mahan, and with enthusiasm. “I was very excited,” Mahan said. “I saw myself being a resource officer someday, and the chance came a little earlier than I expected, but I still went for it.” It can be difficult to transfer from working on the streets to working in a high school, but Officer Mahan has made a smooth transition into the job. “The city of Papillion, in general, has been very supportive of law enforcement,” Mahan said. “With that being said, I didn’t ever expect much different from the high schoolers.” Ms. Jill Brdicko, the campus security officer, is already impressed with how Officer Mahan is working in the position.

“He’s enforcing our laws and rules very well at the school,” Brdicko said. “He’s catching things at the lower level so that they don’t escalate.” Officer Mahan is also making sure that students know that they can trust him and rely on him. “Most of the time my door is open, and I don’t mind kids coming in to talk or ask questions,” Mahan said. “As far as it goes for students, I’m your cop.” Being a School Resource Officer can be a tough job to adjust to, but Officer Mahan is diving head-first into his new role with success.

Andy Mahan POLICE

OFFICER

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From: Bellevue, NE Attended: Bellevue West High School Favorite Food: Seafood Favorite Football Team: Huskers Favorite TV Show: Blue Bloods or Big Brother Favorite Disney Movie: Frozen Pets At Home: 1 Golden Retriever and 2 Mini Schnauzers

NEWS & OPINION BY JOANNA WALTON PAGE DESIGN BY MOLLEE SWIFT

Get to know three of the many new teachers that are joining Papillion-La Vista this year. Everyone knows how frightening it is to be a freshman in the strange new world of high school. The halls are suffocating, the homework is towering, and those who have been there longer are intimidating. What you may not know is that new teachers go through the same messy situation – they are the freshmen of the school staff. It is important to welcome these newcomers, and as they learn more about us, learn a little about them. “You don’t realize how many jobs you must juggle as a teacher,” history teacher Ms. Abigail Hunke said. It can be difficult to adapt to new responsibilities like grading, meetings and emails when in the job for the first time. However, some new teachers are used to the hassle. Mr. Ryan Carlson, a science teacher, has returned to teaching after a few years holding other jobs because he likes “being able to make relationships with students, [and] hopefully influence them later on.” Though some teachers are new to the staff, they are no strangers to PLHS. Pottery teacher Ms. Jessica Levin grew up in Papillion and went to school here. “What I love about my job is being back home and being able to instill creativity in my students,” Levin said. The teachers’ first impressions of PLHS were of the family-like atmosphere in the attitudes of students and their fellow teachers. Hunke compares it to the familiar, small-town feel of her home town. Transitioning to a new job is challenging, but they will have the support of the Papio family to guide them and welcome them in.

Joining the Family Ms. Levin High School: PLHS

Favorite Food: Sushi Favorite Show: Fixer Upper From: Papillion, Nebraska (New York up until age 2) Favorite quote: “Be yourself–everyone else is already taken.” -Oscar Wilde

Ms. Hunke High School: Bennington High School Favorite Food: Ice cream Favorite Show: Big Bang Theory From: Bennington, Nebraska Favorite quote: “Far and away the best prize life has

to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” -Teddy Roosevelt

Mr. Carlson High School: Kearney High School Favorite Food: Pizza Favorite Show: Big Bang Theory From: Kearney, Nebraska Favorite quote: “Vae Victis!” (Woe to the conquered!) OCTOBER 2017

Caugh

WE ARE

ALL IN THIS TOGETHER BY ASHLEY MASON PAGE DESIGN BY KAYLIN CIATTI

A new school year means a new slogan from Mr. Kalina.

“We’re all in this together.” The famous line from High School Musical is exactly what principal Mr. Jerry Kalina wants to encourage. Get After It, Find a Way and Game On. For the past seven years, Kalina has been coming up with catchy slogans to motivate students. “Over the summer I thought about short and catchy slogans that are fun,” Kalina said. “I think they’re fun and the kids like them.” Kalina usually comes up with the idea on his own, but sometimes he will get input from staff members. However, “Game On” was themed from a slogan used by the department store Khol’s. “For the freshmen, I think having a slogan helps them start off the year right,” sophomore Samantha Kurutz said. The slogans are for students, teachers and other staff members to use and spread onto others. Each

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slogan is hung up in every classroom and encourages students to perform the best of their ability. “I was skeptical at first, but then I started seeing sports teams and other teachers using it and I liked it,” English teacher Meghan Vilter said. “It set the bar high as a teacher.” Motivation is hard to find after a two month break from school. “I really want to motivate young people,” Kalina said. “Anything I can do to accomplish that, I’m all in.” When walking into school, the goal is to make sure students give their all and apply themselves. “Putting yourself out there and having the motivation to do your best is succeeding,” Kalina said. From the field to the classroom, the slogan “All In” applies to everyone. Working together is the key to success, along with having the motivation to get homework done and papers turned in on time.

NEWS & OPINION

ght Our Eye 2

3 1)PHOTO: SCHYLER CRUSE PLHS student section throws up baby powder to start off the Monarch-Titan game.

2)PHOTO: DELANI WATKINS Seniors uphold the long standing tradition of painting up at the Monarch-Titan football game.

3)PHOTO: REBECCA FONYONGA Senior Jake Ashby shaves sophomore Logan Andersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head to carry on the varsity football tradition.

4)PHOTO: ASHLEY MASON

Monarch infielders converse before a new inning starts at the PLHS-Westside softball game.

5)PHOTO: HANNAH MCQUISTAN Senior Jaden Collins is lifted into the air as part of the fall pep rally.

6)PHOTO: HANNAH MCQUISTAN Senior Ally Richardson chips toward the green during the Metro Tournament.

7)PHOTO: SCHYLER CRUSE Senior Jessica Halski performs in the halftime show at the Monarch-Titan football game.

8)PHOTO: REBECCA FONYONGA

The Killer Kamos celebrate a win at the annual DECA Dodgeball tournament.

OCTOBER 2017

Southern Disaster

BY DAVID O’CONNELL

PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

PLHS students and staff recall their emotions as friends and family are caught in two of the most destructive hurricanes in Unites States history.

Cascading drops of water that saturate your floors slowly slink together to form murky puddles of water on kitchen tiles. Pools of dark, muddy and contaminated water ruin the memories hung up on your walls. Your house is now immersed in a seaway, forcing you to escape on a boat right through your front door. This was the reality for English teacher Ms. Karleen Gebhardt’s family. Hurricane Harvey and Irma swept across the southern continental United States turning streets into rivers and cities to chaos, but it also brought out helping hands and friendships between people. Gebhardt has a nephew in Houston, who encountered Harvey’s fury while also raising his eleven-day old baby. Harvey flooded his home, forcing his new family to be rescued by boat at his own front door. “Many people were reluctant to leave as they did not think it would

PHOTO: MR. MITCH ALBERS Photo taken outside the apartment of Mr. Albers’ sister. Hurricane Irma swept across Florida on Sept. 10 and 11.

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be that bad,” Gebhardt said. “I wish my nephew would have evacuated sooner.” As the new family arrived at a shelter, they quickly realized that there was a limited amount of food and a mass of panicking people. Gebhardt’s nephew described it as “chaos.” “It was a scary and overwhelming experience for them,” Gebhardt said. The young family ran into a couple of college-aged kids at the shelter who had reserved a hotel room. However, they were leaving town and were not going to use the hotel, so they kindly offered to give the room to Gebhardt’s nephew and family. “It was definite relief for them because they had a newborn baby,” Gebhardt said. “So many people were in the shelter, and they did not want their baby to get sick.” A week after Harvey, attention centered towards category five hurricane Irma as it tore through the Caribbean and Florida. Many students at PLHS knew loved ones in Florida, including sophomore Kourtney Pierce who has a

friend living in Irma’s path. “I was extremely worried about her,” Pierce said. “They weren’t going to leave until it was bad enough.” Mr. Albers has a sister who was in the path of Irma in Miami. As the hurricane approached, “she started freaking out, and she went through all of her options,” Albers said. “She looked at flights, but they were $700 to $800.” Albers’ sister got in touch with a friend who had a house in Leesburg, about 270 miles from Miami. “It took about 10 and a half hours for her to drive to Leesburg because of traffic,” Albers said. The average driving time from Leesburg to Miami is four hours. According to CNBC news, the estimated total in damage for both hurricanes is between $150 and $200 billion dollars. In the end, both Harvey and Irma flooded thousands and took power from millions. “So unfortunate,” Gebhardt said. “Makes my heart go out to those dealing with the disaster.”

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The ACADEMIC focus Enr ol li n g stu d into the ent exp e rience

From juniors preparing for the ACT to completing summer homework, we walk the halls of the student life, discovering all the pros and cons of high school to determine if they are truly beneficial. Pgs. 15-19 OCTOBER 2017

A SUMMER OF SUN, FUN AND...

HOMEWORK?

BY CASSIE KESSLER

PAGE DESIGN BY MOLLEE SWIFT

AP English students are forced to find a way to sneak summer reading into their time off. School is out for summer. Time for relaxation, pool days and some assigned reading with questions to go along with it. Sound like the ideal summer? For many juniors and seniors, this absurd idea was a reality. Advanced Placement English classes, such as AP Language and Composition or AP Literature, have a book to read and take notes on over the summer. This helped students get back into the swing of things and is also highly recommended by the AP college boards. Many students would think assigned work over the summer is a nightmare. However, it can be greatly beneficial. English teacher Ms. Carly Sire assigns summer homework for the numerous advantages it poses. “We have something to work with,” Sire said. “We can start talking about writing essays and writing timed writes at the beginning of the year without waiting four weeks to read the book.” Although a teacher may want to require an assignment over the summer, they have to talk to the

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principal first. The head principal, Mr. Jerry Kalina, has allowed summer homework to be assigned to AP classes for over 15 years. “[The teachers] bring forward their plan and I approve it,” Kalina said. With this process, it would be understandable to think the workloads could get out of hand. However, according to Kalina, that is not the case.

“Some summer homework is beneficial, but overboard is crazy,” Kalina said. “Summer is about fun and relaxing with your family.” If summer is for relaxing, then why do teachers assign summer homework in the first place? “When students come to class and we go to start our first paper, they do not have to read the book, learn the teachers’ style, learn the AP style, and do all of that in first two weeks of school,” Sire said. Summer homework can greatly help students at the start of the year by reducing their workload; they have even started to accept the assignments

and realized the benefits of them. Junior Saray Bedoya believes summer homework, while maybe not the most enjoyable, is something that can be very useful. “The summer homework allowed us to jump right into the curriculum and was a good starting point,” Bedoya said. For many students, procrastination is what eventually makes the work unbearable as they struggle to finish it two nights before it is due. Senior Andrew Popelka agrees that homework over the summer is beneficial. “It gets me back in the mood for school, and it keeps me up with my homework,” Popelka said. Not only does it help you stay in the mind-set of education, but it can also feel profitable during what is usually a lazy time of year. “The fact that I was doing something productive made me feel good about myself,” Bedoya said. The teachers and administration try their hardest not to weigh kids down with too much homework over their break. “We have to have a good balance between summer and homework. Kids need to be kids,” Kalina said.

Jumping Ahead

THE

HOMEWORK BREAKDOWN

BY ALYSSA FORAL

PAGE DESIGN BY MOLLEE SWIFT

The latest addition to the academies is giving students the opportunity to get a head start on college.

Thousands upon thousands of dollars later, college graduates finally receive their degree and also receive a 30-year-long shackle of student loan debt. From general education classes to specialized classes, the money piles up, but now high school seniors have an opportunity to get ahead of the college credit curve. The Metro Jump-start program is a new academy that allows seniors to spend half days at Metropolitan Community College and take college classes, for not only high school, but college credit. “We will graduate with six credits from the program,” senior Shyann Mundhenke said. Jump-start gives students better financial opportunities that they were not offered before. “I did Jump-start to get ahead in life and get out of school faster,” Mundhenke said. Time is money in college. More specifically, the longer you’re there, the more money you spend. Students in the Jump-start program were drawn to it for its time saving

aspect. “It is an easy and cheap way to get a semester of college out of the way,” senior Maddy Hiatt said. Taking college level classes has college level perks. “It is laid back and the teachers treat you like adults,” Hiatt said Even though the students are treated as adults, they don’t feel overwhelmed by an advanced workload. “The professors still realize that we’re only in high school, which is nice,” Hiatt said. With an opportunity to get ahead in life at your fingertips, the students in the Jump-start program think it is best to take advantage of that chance. “It’s a good opportunity to get ahead in the real world while still having the backup of high school,” Mundhenke said. Costs of college stack up and students everywhere are wishing they could have all of the help they can get. The Metro Jump-start program gives students that boost to the real world that they may need.

Hours of homework each night for high school students.

56%

Of students list homework as number one stress factor.

90MIN

The magic number recommended for homework each night. http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/21/ health/homework-stress/

OCTOBER 2017

p ro AC T i v e BY DELANI WATKINS PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

After a switch last year for juniors from state standardized testing, NeSA, to a more nationally recognized exam, the ACT, more emphasis is placed on practice and preparation in and outside of the classroom. Bubble sheets, number two pencils and approved calculators, oh my! Standardized testing is a part of high school for every student, whether their future includes college, the military or trade school. The ACT test, or American College Testing, is especially useful to students in gaining financial aid to attend college. Last year, the administrative team had something new on their plate, something big: the ACT. Recently a state-wide decision was made to administer the ACT to the junior class in place of NeSA testing – the previous standardized testing. Assistant principal Mr. Jeff Govier believes that this change will benefit each and every student. “Having the ACT in place of NeSA testing does nothing but benefit our students,” Govier said. “NeSA was originally put in place to make sure our students were learning

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the standards, and our results were compared to other schools to make us accountable, and the ACT will be no different.” With the pressure to excel against other Nebraska schools, staff has placed an emphasis on taking the ACT at least three times. Preparation is also strongly encouraged. Many students, such as junior Jared Saggau, have gotten an early start in order to see more improvement in scores. “I took [the ACT] twice as a sophomore, once at the end of second semester and the other in June,” Saggau said. “I am also taking it in October and April, with the rest of the juniors.” Posters found in every hallway and classroom read “ACT X3,” as administrators and staff believe that taking the test multiple times is the key to success. “I took the ACT so many times and did practice problems that I timed myself on,” senior Ally Glaser said. As time continues, the ACT will be stressed more to students in the classroom as well as outside of school. Students are encouraged to take prep classes such as John Baylor ACT Prep or purchase booklets and practice exams to prepare. “Last year, the administration team was trying to fly the plane as it was being built, because there were so many things about proctoring the test

in our school that we had to meet,” Govier said. “This year, we are getting all the information to students that we can in their advisements and through online resources and Naviance.” Having taken the ACT with only two years of high school education, Saggau’s goal was to reach a starting point. “I wanted to see where I was at and what it was like,” Saggau said. “Natural ability will take you so far, so your biggest tool is strategy, because the biggest constraint is time.” To reach a goal of a certain score is a large commitment for many students. Practice is what makes perfect. “One question a day during your free time will make you more prepared than you thought,” Glaser said. “Also, set aside time on weekends to take practice tests, which can be found online, in the guidance office or in an ACT prep book.” Overall, the switch from NeSA to the ACT was intended to benefit students in their academic futures. “The long-term vision for this change is to offer our students any opportunity to take this test, and having the students take it in this building and have at least one score, free of charge, greatly increases the availability for some kids,” Govier said. “It is our job as a school to provide as many opportunities for success as we can.”

BY FAITH WORKMAN PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

In a world as fast paced and busy as ours, where do students and teachers draw the line of the amount of work we acquire? As high schoolers, most of us know the busy lifestyle of the school year. Juggling extra-curricular activities, homework, studying, and some of us even working jobs while trying to find free time for a social life, all seems downright impossible at times. With this in mind the question that eats away at students when it comes to school work load is: when is it too much? Is it helping or diminishing the learning capabilities of students to have three hours of homework each night? Is it really preparing us for college, or is it burning students out before they even get to graduate? Whether you are taking seven AP, honors, or regular classes, it feels as if everyone is stressed about homework at one point or another. Depending on the student, it is hard to tell when the work load of high school homework is too much because

urnt Out people often make up their mind about students before evaluating the whole situation. The struggle to maintain the overflowing homework is often put into one category for our so harshly judged generation. “Laziness.” A lot has changed in the ways of the homework world since our parents walked the hallways as high schoolers. Some will argue that we need to “suck it up” and that this generation is full of unwilling children when it comes to work, but to put all students into one slot seems a bit harsh when most of us know how hard it is to juggle everything we are involved in. Homework is necessary to our development and learning process, but sometimes there is a line to be drawn. It seems it has become a combusting phenomenon in our society when it comes to overflowing homework and our curriculum as a whole. With that being said, there is one thing that is much more important and PHOTOS: EMMA HIGBY

dire to our success, and something that most of our parents and teachers are still trying to understand as the times are changing. Your mental health! The question then comes to the individual. Do you feel burnt out only a few weeks into this school year? Do you agree that the work load is preparing us for college? What is the proper amount of homework that should be assigned for students? You may think that you have no say in the matter, but all change starts with just one person. So, speak up when it is too much to handle. Whether home life is holding you back, or other classes seem to be priority to others, communicate! Your teachers will be understanding if you are mature and honest in confronting the situation of feeling overwhelmed by homework.

1: Dakota Schneider 2: Cameron Niroomand-Rad 3: Ms. Borcyk’s class 4: Grace Christian 5: Jackson McCann 6: Geronimo Sanchez, Mason Zapp & Carlos Steffensmeier 7: Fletcher Reiser, Jayden Kreis & Ethan Foix 8: Courtney Coleman 9: Carter Meister & Jayme Neece 10: Courtney Nuss & Kendall Childers

OCTOBER 2017

The Fall of facebook BY ALEX MANNING PAGE DESIGN BY DAKOTA KELLEY

With all of the new social media platforms, how is Facebook still clinging to life? The apocalypse has come upon us. The world is in a nuclear winter, and only small traces of life remain. As you walk through the lonely abyss that was once Earth, you come across a small bright object. You lean down to pick it up, and realize that it’s a smartphone scrolling through its active Facebook feed. Why hasn’t Facebook died yet? With the amount of diverse social media sites, there are bound to be some that come and go. Even though dozens of new platforms have been created over the years, Facebook has managed to cling to life. I believe the reason for Facebook’s longevity is that it is the easiest way for friends and family to keep in touch. Facebook used to be dominated by younger people talking with friends, but older generations eventually started to invade the site.

POLITICAL CARTOON: KENNEDY SAUTTER

A 2017 study conducted by Facebook Chief Product Officer Chris Cox compared the monthly users of multiple social media websites, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The study showed that young adults ranging from ages 16 to 24 have an average of about seven social media accounts each. This means there is a higher chance of each person in that age group owning a Facebook account because they have so DAILY USAGE OF SOCIAL MEDIA SITES many accounts. % of users who use each service As the age groups progress, there >30% are fewer and fewer accounts attached to each person. For 20% example, people that are age 55 to 64 have an average of 10% about three social media accounts. It is more likely for them Facebook YouTube Instagram Whatsapp to have Facebook because it’s been SOURCE: OURSOCIALTIMES.COM around longer and they’re more familiar with it than most other sites.

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The study also demonstrates how popular Facebook is, currently holding over two billion users, which is more than any other site. Today, Facebook’s main purpose is to continue to be the simplest way everyone can connect with friends and family. Although there are always new social media websites being created, Facebook has proved itself and stood the test of time. The reason Facebook has not faded away is because it continues to provide the most effective way to stay connected. It is possible that Facebook will die off once there is a comparable site that can keep people in touch as efficiently as they do now. If there is never a platform that can become the successor of Facebook’s throne, the site will be drowned out by all the new generation media platforms. Facebook might not live through a nuclear war, but it will most likely be prominent until the current generations who use it today aren’t around any longer.

ENTERTAINMENT

BY KENZIE WARD PAGE DESIGN BY DELANI WATKINS

TAKE 2 Finishing a new season feels like it takes a day or two for some, but waiting for the second season to come out can feel like years. Students have been anticipating their favorite TV shows to come back with season two. Sophomores Kara Newman and Emily Halski have been ready for “Stranger Things” and “Riverdale” to return with their second season. “I’ve been way too excited for ‘Riverdale’ to come back and to see how the characters will change,” Halski said. “While waiting for those, though, I’ve been catching up on other shows to pass by time.” Halski and Newman have both

been catching up on what season two is all about. New trailers have the ability to leave a cliff hanger for the audience. “The trailers I’ve seen have made me more excited because after watching season one of ‘Stranger Things’, the trailer was a huge plot twist,” Newman said. Shows are, most of the time, aired on TV, but this isn’t the ideal way to catch up on shows for those who want to binge watch. “I would rather wait a week to watch a new episode,” Halski said. “This way it gives me something to look forward to and each episode can have a cliff hanger.”

Second seasons of shows have everyone on the edge of their seat.

Some say that the first season of a show is more enjoyable than the following seasons. However, Newman disagrees, if they have good ideas in the upcoming episodes, the audience can still enjoy the show. “I think if they have a good director and good actors for the show, then all the seasons will be just as thrilling as the first season,” Newman said. Halski and Newman remain anticipating the next season of their favorite shows. Season two of “Stranger Things” will be released on Netflix on Oct. 27 while “Riverdale” was released on channel CW on Wednesday, Oct. 11.

Which

NEW SEASON is Monarch Nation most excited for?

Stranger Things Riverdale Fuller House 23%

46% 31%

Poll information taken from 142 votes on Twitter.

OCTOBER 2017

Thrill As you sit down in your comfortable recliner and start to indulge in the delicious buttery popcorn sitting in the center of your lap, the movie begins to play. The darkness enhances and the fear starts to kick in. Your heart is pounding so loud that you seem to hear it in the back of your head. A clown says “SURPRISE,” making you jump up in your seat, causing the popcorn to spill across the span of your body. Many horror films are getting ready to air in theaters as the Halloween season approaches, otherwise known as the most spooktacular time of the year. Sophomore Samuel Cahill finds this season to be unlike any other and enjoys all the great scary movies that come with it. “In contrast to Christmas or Easter, that seem to diminish in that special feel as time moves onward, Halloween only gets better,” Cahill said. The purpose of most horror films is to make the audience so anxious that they seem to be sitting on the edge of their seats, or even to have them sent home in fright. “I enjoy scary movies because the suspense is so exciting,” freshman Brenna Armstrong said. The thriller “It” was released in theaters Sept. 8th. “It” is a terrifying movie that has been recreated about an evil clown and the film has received a lot of buzz from the media. “My favorite scary movie is ‘It’ because the clown really got me into the Halloween spirit,” Armstrong

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BY EMMA BETTS

PAGE DESIGN BY JULIA HARKER

Seekers said. “With all the jump scares in it, I thought it was really entertaining and makes me super pumped for haunted houses.” Although new films are exhilarating, older movies can sometimes be more entertaining for the audience. “Deciding which Halloween film [is better] has proven to be a difficult task,” Cahill said. “I’ve decided on the movie ‘Hush’, a modern masterpiece from the extremely talented writer and director Mike Flanagan.” “Hush” was released last year and leaves everyone eagerly awaiting as to what will happen next. “This movie perfectly constructs an eerie atmosphere on an overly simplistic plot and allows the audience to dive deep into the characters to a point where it seems you could reach out and touch them,” Cahill said. With all of the great emotions that come while watching horror movies, there are some things that can drive the audience crazy. For example, the dramatic irony of knowing the protagonist just walked into the house

“

‘It’ was undeniably scary, creepy and funny, but it didn’t help that I don’t like clowns.

”

Taya Becker

“

‘Hush’ was so scary and it was even worse because I watched it at night.

”

Brianna Loza

Halloween season is in full swing as students begin raving over horrifying Halloween classics.

where the vicious murderer is waiting. “My least favorite thing about scary movies is when I can tell the movie’s ending right from the beginning or when the character makes a dumb choice,” Armstrong said. Armstrong had to speak for many people and wishes that these films were created to be less predictable. “I don’t like how horror movies lack originality,” Cahill said. “The over reliance on the clichés and recycling plot devices is just agitating.” Even though some horror movies can be quite irritating because of their bad production quality, that one good horror film can make up for all of those bad ones. Nothing can beat the feelings that surges through your body when you are mesmerized from that hair-raising film.

ENTERTAINMENT

Very

Superstitious BY BILLY BRODERICK

PAGE DESIGN BY DELANI WATKINS

Senior athletes share their superstitions. PHOTO: BILLY BRODERICK Tyler Robinson proudly displays his Adam Sandler movie for the week. The movies seem to be working as Robinson has 456 receiving yards and two touchdowns in his career as of Sept. 29.

Whether it’s an average person or a world-famous athlete, everybody has at least one superstition. It can be something as simple as eating a bowl of cereal before an important event, to something as strange as wearing your old college shorts in every game of your NBA career like Michael Jordan. Professional athletes seem to be notorious for superstitions, but it isn’t just the pros. Athletes at PLHS have many superstitions of their own. For example, varsity football player senior Tyler Robinson is a deep believer in superstitions. “I watch an Adam Sandler movie

before every game,” Robinson said. The wide receiver believes the powers of Adam Sandler’s acting assist him in playing to the best of his ability. “I did it before a game last year, and in my opinion, it was my best game of the season,” Robinson said. The movie isn’t the only part of his ritual: he has a specific process he has to go through. “I get something to eat, lay on the couch, then watch the movie,” Robinson said. “If I’m interrupted, I start over.” Robinson isn’t the only superstitious athlete at PLHS. Varsity volleyball player senior Kenzie Michalek, has to wear the same socks every game.

“I wear the same pair of white, little kid, Adidas socks every game,” Michalek said. Both the seniors believe the power of their superstitions help the team perform better. However, Michalek’s process is a little more in depth. “I smell the sock before I put them on,” Michalek said. “Don’t worry, I wash them.” No matter the process, a superstition is a superstition. Whether it’s believing that watching old comedy movies before big games or smelling your socks will help you perform better, what is needed to get an upper hand on the mental aspect of opponents in sports must be done. After all, your favorite coaches always said sports were 90% mental!

PHOTO: BILLY BRODERICK Senior Kenzie Michalek shows off her superstition, a youth sock she’s been wearing forever. They seem to help Michalek as she’s been playing on varsity since she was a freshman.

OCTOBER 2017

ROCK-TOBER BY ANNIE WALDMAN

PAGE DESIGN BY ALEXA BUSBY

Students get excited for the amazing concerts coming to the area like Katy Perry, The Weeknd and JAY-Z. The crowd is screaming, the music is blaring and everyone is dancing. The next day, half of the school’s vocal chords are in shreds, with more voice cracks than people can count. With a plethora of concerts coming to the area, like The Weeknd, JAY-Z, Katy Perry and many more, a lot of students are going to watch their favorite artists. The first concert coming to Nebraska is The Weeknd, who performed on September 27th at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Sophomore Abby Long is a big fan

of his and has been waiting for his concert. “On a scale of 1-10 of how excited I am, it’s a 10,” Long said. Chance the Rapper came to Omaha in May, and even though his performance was called showstopping, Long thought The Weeknd could top it. On the less mainstream side of things, some students like to go to smaller, less crowded concerts. Sophomore James Saroka is going to see Wilco, Real Estate and The Descendents. “Smaller concerts feel more

Which

CONCERT

is Monarch Nation most excited for?

48%

15%

KATY PERRY WITNESS TOUR THE WEEKND STARBOY TOUR

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JAY-Z 4:44 TOUR

37%

intimate, because it’s in a smaller venue,” Saroka said. Between small concerts and large ones, the prices vary drastically. For JAY-Z, front row tickets are $500 per person, but the same spot for Wilco is $100. If an artist that you want to see is very popular, it’s going to be harder to find tickets, and they’re going to be more expensive. Concerts, no matter the size, are a personalized experience, even though there might be thousands of people in the venue. With so many options in Omaha and Lincoln, there is an artist for anyone and everyone.

Can’t Afford to Attend Katy Perry’s Concert? Check Out Some of These Upcoming Events In the Omaha Area

Who?

The Ghost of Paul Revere Last Giant Barb Wire Dolls You Had to Be There

Where?

When? Cost?

Reverb Lounge

Oct. 18 8pm

$10

The Waiting Room

Oct. 18 9pm

Oct. 21 8pm

$10

Oct. 25 8pm

Reverb Lounge

These events and other low-cost events in the Omaha area can be found at: onepercentproductions.com

SERVING

SPORTS

BY PHIL GRADOVILLE

PAGE DESIGN BY KAYLIN CIATTI

The boys varsity tennis team at PLHS looks to take aim at a state title this fall. As the ball goes up the player takes a deep breath and strikes the ball, the opponent swings back and hits the ball back to them. The rally goes on until one person misses it. Tennis is a game of patience and staying focused. The slightest moment of distraction can lose the point. The varsity boys tennis team has had a great season so far and people are starting to wonder how far they will go. Senior Tom Loseke has been playing tennis for five years. He thinks that varsity has a good chance at state. “I think we can finish top five at state, but we need to play our best tennis because anyone can lose to anyone,” Loseke said. “It just depends on the day.” Noah Sadiq is the number two singles player. As a senior, he has been playing tennis for eight years however, he did not play competitively until high school. He also believes the team has a great chance to win state. “We’ve been doing pretty well this year. We’ve been getting first and second in most of our tournaments,” Sadiq said. Austin Zimmerer is another

A GOOD YEAR senior on the team and has been playing tennis since freshman year. During practice the team has been putting in hard work to get better. “I am working on getting my ground strokes more consistent and stronger,” Zimmerer said. For Loseke practice is more focused on mental training. “I improved mostly on playing smarter tennis. Knowing where to hit the ball and not always trying to hit it hard all the time, finding my opponent’s weaknesses and attacking them,” Loseke said. Loseke thinks the team is doing well, but can improve in a few areas. “We can definitely play better by being more consistent,” Loseke said. Sadiq has been improving his power and accuracy. “I am improving by enhancing my serving power and placement, using it as one of my main weapons,” Sadiq said. With the combination of the teams weapons this year looks promising. “I think this could be the year we win state. We have a lot of good guys,

everyone knows how much work they’ve put in to get here,” Loseke said. “Big possibilities when it comes to state.” With all the practice and matches, the team still finds time to have some fun. “Johnny Tencer and his dance moves make everyone laugh and him hitting a between the leg shot is awesome,” Zimmerer said. Sadiq’s favorite moment since he started playing tennis was on the bus on the way back from a tournament. “My favorite memory has to be when we were on our way back from a long tournament in Lincoln. When the whole team simultaneously got cramps in the van,” Sadiq said. With the team being the best PLHS has seen in a while, they know they have to start thinking about the long run. The team is very passionate about tennis and is willing to go to great lengths to win state. With improvement to be made, the team is still going to be working hard to get even better.

PHOTO: AVERY WAGONER Senior tennis player Noah Sadiq attempts to return the ball in a match against Bryan. The boys tennis team beat Bryan in the match.

OCTOBER 2017

A Fresh Start for Softball BY JILL MATHISON

PAGE DESIGN BY JOSEY RYAN

Freshman softball players had a big impact on the varsity team this year. For some schools’ softball other freshmen that contributed just programs, going to the state as much to the varsity team. These championships isn’t a regular players included Mia Jarecki, Anna occurrence. For the Monarch softball Fitzgerald, Jenna Hoelscher, Kaylee team, it’s a tradition, and the eight new Wagner, Bailee Lampman, and freshmen plan to keep it going. With half of the freshmen on varsity starting each game, this is not I am definitely an ordinary ninth grade class. Full of drive to help their team, winning state excited, [there is] a ton of is the ultimate goal. talent with the freshmen For freshmen Brooke Dumont and Jordyn Bahl, their coaches knew on varsity as well as the they were talented, but they had to earn their spot on the team. ones on JV and reserve. “I was very nervous going into It should be a great four tryouts, and my goal was to be the starting catcher, so I worked really years if they continue to hard over the winter and this past improve and get better. summer and it paid off,” Dumont said. Colleges are already looking for these freshmen as potential recruits, and Bahl has already decided where to COACH TODD PETERSON further her career. “I picked Nebraska because I Shariah Stuart. wanted to represent my home school “I’m really looking forward to and state and stay close,” Bahl said. getting closer with my teammates and While Dumont and Bahl played being friends on and off the field,” very well this year, there were six

“

”

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Dumont said. Head coach Todd Peterson has been coaching Monarch softball for 11 years and has won two state titles. He is a big reason for the rich tradition of Monarch softball. “I am definitely excited, [there is] a ton of talent with the freshmen on varsity as well as the ones on JV and reserve,” Peterson said. “It should be a great four years if they continue to improve and get better.’’ The surplus of talent that came in will affect the team for years to come. About four freshmen started regularly each game, and there is a high chance that the lineup may stay similar for the next few years. “This season we’re on a roll right now and I just want to keep that going and see how we can do,” Bahl said. Full of talent and determination, the team as a whole is hoping to take the state title this season. They have all the right qualities and skills to do so and just have to play their best when it counts the most.

SPORTS

] t ’ n Do Go Home Freshmen

[

MIA JARECKI Has 23 hits on the season

ANNA FITZGERALD Scored 20 runs

JENNA HOELSCHER Nickname is “Bubba”, Has scored 11 runs PHOTO: AVERY WAGONER Freshmen Jordyn Bahl and Brooke Dumont congratulate each other after getting an out against Millard South. The Monarchs beat the Patriots 7-2.

PHOTO: HANNAH MCQUISTAN Freshman Brooke Dumont gets ready to catch the ball against Westside. The Monarchs beat the Warriors 8-0. Dumont had 2 RBI’s.

BROOKE DUMONT 23 RBI’s

KAYLEE WAGNER Has 4 Doubles

#19

#17

BAILEE LAMPMAN ERA is .000

#21

SHARIAH STUART Sometimes plays 1st base and shortstop

#22

JORDYN BAHL 13-1 in games pitched

*Stats as of September 29th

OCTOBER 2017

Brand New Monarchs BY JOSEY RYAN Monarch Athletics will now be representing their school with Nike uniforms.

Going to a college football game can be one of the best moments of a sports fanatic’s life. They notice everything that goes into having a successful atmosphere and realize all the things that have to be working smoothly. The concession stand workers, ticket takers, vendors, refs, coaches and most importantly the athletes all have to come together to complete the experience. But what some people don’t think about is the gear that the players and coaches wear. Looking closer at their uniforms, and sideline attire, it’s noticeable that they all wear the same brand. Having a partnership with a sports brand is very common and almost indisputable at the college level. Nowadays, high schools in

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Nebraska are beginning to take interest in a partnership. This summer, the PLHS Administrators signed a partnership with Nike. While it might not seem like a big deal, this not only affects athletes and coaches, but also the sports fans. Much of the gear now sold by schools are of the Nike brand, or another brand they are partnered with. With the Athletic Administrative staff choosing Nike, there are a few things the school has to do. “Over the next few years, all of our varsity sports teams will have to be equipped with Nike uniforms,” Athletic Director Jason Ryan said. While many of the Monarch varsity teams already had Nike jerseys, a handful had to buy new jerseys or

SPORTS

will have them for the next season. Not only do they have Nike uniforms, but some of the teams have extra equipment that will be Nike. “All of the gear we order will now be Nike; our backpacks, warmups, and our coaches gear we wear during games,” girls’ basketball coach Josh Siske said. With the rules of the high school partnership not being as strict as college partnerships, the athletic teams do have a little freedom. “The athletes own gear they buy, including shoes, socks, and headbands, do not have to be from the Nike brand. Our coaches also do not always have to have Nike gear on, but if they are coaching in a state championship, we will ask them to wear Nike gear,” Ryan said. There are a number of brands

that high schools and colleges can partner with and it usually comes down to the money. “We chose to go with Nike because a lot of our teams already had Nike uniforms, and we get a discount whenever we order Nike gear,” Ryan said. While it all seems very strict and organized, if it doesn’t go as planned, in five years when the partnership is over, there is always an option to not resign the contract if the school chooses not to. Although most sports buffs don’t notice the little things, it’s the tiniest things that make a giant venue the perfect atmosphere. Whether it’s the workers, coaches, refs or the small Nike signs found on a players’ chests it all comes together to create an unforgettable moment.

PHOTO: MOLLEE SWIFT

PHOTO: ELIZABETH EIDEM

Main: Juniors Conner Barnett, Mitch Klassen, Senior Taylor Hoelscher, and Sophomore Chloe Paschal sporting their Nike

Top: Senior Cross Country Runner Jake Norris runs in the Class of the Metro Meet. Norris finished in 4th place.

PHOTO: CORTNEY JOHNSON

PHOTO: HEATHER SLUGA

Left: Sophomore Erica Broin and Senior Ally Glaser get ready for a Papio South serve. They Monarchs swept the Titans in 3 straight sets.

Bottom: Senior Jerome Barnes and Junior Malique Barnes attempt to run the ball against Lincoln Southwest. The Monarchs fell to the Silverhawks 69-34.

OCTOBER 2017

A New

Game Plan

An indomitable sense of character and discipline. A fierce will to command the competition. A unique breed of integrity, passion and hometown pride. This code of honor echoes throughout the whole of Monarch football. It is reflected in the players and the coaches, both in their actions and characters. It is because of this code that new running back coach Jay Ball will have no trouble adjusting to Monarch football. Coach Ball boasts an impressive reputation and an arsenal of past experience. He grew up around football and has been coaching for 32 years, including 11 years as the head coach for Central High school. During this tenure, he led the Eagles to the state title in 2007. “At Central, we had some really good teams,” Ball said. “All the players learned to take responsibility for their actions and for the team as a whole.” Making the transition to a new school can be hard, whether you’re a bumbling freshman or an experienced football coach, but Ball has handled it with grace. “I haven’t had to work very hard to get

30 THE SCEPTER

BY SARAH ALTMAN PAGE DESIGN BY AVERY WAGONER

Monarch football makes a new play call with addition of distinguished coach Jay Ball to roster.

accustomed to Papio,” Ball said. “I continue to take pride in teaching and coaching.” On the field, Ball’s experience can bridge the gap between the different styles of play of the Monarchs and the Eagles. “At Central, we were more of an I-formation team,” Ball said. “Here, we utilize a spread formation. We have a good option quarterback [in junior Conner Barnett] and a talented core of backs.” Off the field, Ball’s coaching style and exemplary character help him to fit right in. “Coach is tough, but he helps us to grow,” senior running back Jerome Barnes said. “He is hardworking and passionate, and he has coached NFL level players, so he can help us take our game to the next level.” Barnes, who has been a leader on the varsity team for the past two years, appreciates the dedication that

Ball shows in bettering his players. He isn’t the only one who has noticed this passion and drive. “It is an honor to coach with Jay,” head coach Randy Huebert said. “He is a well-respected coach with a wealth of experience and a true love for the game.” His general passion for football and fervor makes him a perfect fit for the Monarchs. “I love to bring enthusiasm to the game, and I like to be myself, be honest, and have fun,” Ball said. “I just want to thank Papio and Coach Huebert for bringing me on. It’s going to be a great experience.” With the addition of Coach Ball to the usual fire the players and staff bring to the field, there are great things in store for this season. “We want to make it to the playoffs and make sure every kid has a positive experience,” Huebert said. “We will work hard and put in the effort to get there.” All that is left to do now is sit back, get painted up in Maroon and Gold for each home game, and stand with the Monarchs as they charge for PHOTO: the playoffs one CORTNEY JOHNSON touchdown at a time. Coach Ball hustles intensely down the sideline during a game against Lincoln Pius X. Under Ball’s leadership, featured Monarch running back Jerome Barnes had 246 rushing yards against the Thunderbolts.

SPORTS

Monarch

BY JAKE WILLIAMS

PAGE DESIGN BY JULIA HARKER

Winter athletes prepare for the season with daily training and conditioning.

Muscle Victory: the thing that every athlete trains for, to be number one, to win fame and glory. To do this, athletes must train not only during the season, but also during the off season. They must wake up in the early mornings and stay late after school, to achieve victory. Preseason is an important time for athletes. It is when they strive to work hard and get better. Whether that is running around the track, lifting or practicing, it is important for any athlete to do this. “It gives us a pretty big advantage; we work on our skill and things we struggle on,” senior basketball player Ryan Davenport said. Preseason lifting and conditioning is also very important for athletes if they want to be ready to compete and win during their season. “It gets you used to having your body in shape, and you will be ready when the season starts,” senior wrestler AJ Salinas said. With athletes being busy with school, work, clubs, and other activities, it can be hard for them to show up to conditioning. “I would just stick with it,” Salinas said. “The kids who do place are the ones who show up and get to

business.” Coaches are also very involved in the preseason hoping to make their team the best by encouraging athletes to show up to as many preseason workouts as possible. “By all means [they] are not mandatory, but for athletes who want to be successful it is a must,” head wrestling coach Chris Curry said. To ensure the success of their team, coaches lead practices before and after school to make sure their athletes are ready for the season.

PHOTO: JAKE WILLIAMS Seniors Ryan Davenport and Peyton Priest lead the preseason huddle.

“I put it very high on my importance rating,” junior varsity soccer coach Ryan Homan said. “By the time you get into the season, you have so little time that you need the off season.” All athletes want to win and be the best. They all want the fame and glory. However, it takes work to get there, not just during the season, but yearround. The athletes at PLHS are dedicated to train for whatever their season might have in store for them.

PHOTO: JAKE WILLIAMS Junior Creighton Baughman trains for the wrestling season.

OCTOBER 2017

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