Scepter The
The voice of Monarch Nation is back Not Just Your Typical Statistic
Our first issue of the year celebrates the diversity of PLHS and how Monarchs continue to pull together.
Domination on the Diamond The Good, the Bad, the Falafel
OCTOBER 2014
ISSUE 1 VOLUME 52
A Publication of Papillion-La Vista High School
www.plpulse.com
FROM YOUR EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
Ally Frazee & Emma Quast
STAFF
With a new year comes a new staff, and a new look. Ever since the switch to a magazine, it has been our constant effort to create a publication that is clean, user friendly, and pleasing to the majority of our students. It is our goal to make each Scepter better than the one before; to always improve. We recognize as a staff that it is important to cover a wide variety of issues that pertain to our school, and hope we have done so in a way that makes you say, this is the best Scepter yet.
HAPPENINGS 3
A new year brings new teachers to PLHS
14-15
Students are not the only ones who have to a adjust to a new school year PLSD picks PC
SPOTLIGHT #TeamTatted
PLHS students’ tattoos show meaning behind the actual ink
4-7
Grow
16-17
PLHS is forced to adjust as the new computer platform conquers the school
Through academies, students are learning and maturing
8
18-19
The fix in the formula
Since 2012, it might be necessary for students thinking about broadcasting or study hall to reconsider
9
Hard to stomach This year PLHS students are affected by the new school lunch policy.
10-11
One, two, three, four, five ?
The disappearing of an independent study class leaves behind mixed emotions Addressing racism in a post Ferguson world
12-13
Racial discrimination happens everywhere, including our own area
Life Changing Experience
This past summer, Jackie Sweet was in a tragic accident where she was made to be put in a wheelchair Around the world 20-21 in 82 days Senior Jessica Sidwell traveled all around the world this summer
22-23
Spicing things up
Maria and Matilde Pinto share what it was like to live in Portugal Memories from the other 24-25 hemisphere Several students at PLHS who embrace their Indian and Nepalese heritage I am not just a 26-27 typical statistic Understanding the experience that changed the life of one student forever
ACTION 28-29
Going the distance
Courtney Pickering has increasingly gotten better throughout her running career Stickball gets sighted
30-31
Students explain how they play an uncommon sport
32-33
Injure-knees
With competitive sports comes added pressure, extra stress, and an increased risk of injuries Playoffs are upon 34-35 us College football has replaced the BCS system with a college football playoff
36-37
Same hate, just late
PLHS and other schools find their rivalry games rearranged after NSAA reduces districts from five to four Domination 38-39 on the diamond As the PLHS softball team’s impressive season comes to a close, they hope to return to the state tournament stronger than ever
A&E 40- 41
The good, the bad, and the falafel
There are many restaurants in the Omaha Metroplex, however none are as unique as Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob Nightmare on 42 Centennial Play production students present the inaugural PLHS haunted house Classic flare or new scare? The upside of classic horror as opposed to modern horror
43
Gamers beware: jumpscares! 44-45 Horror gaming is at its peak showing large amounts of approval on all kinds of platforms
46
Ask me anything
Get inside the heads of your fellow students, teachers, and administrators at PLHS
PERSPECTIVE 47
Do it! Do it! Do it! Cheer!
Monarch Nation is loud, proud and more excited than ever to cheer on all Monarch athletics
ADVISER Mr. Joe Rohacik Editors-in-Chief: Ally Frazee & Emma Quast News Editor: John Nelson Assistant News Editor: Christa Rahl Sports Editor: Hannah Edelman Assistant Sports Editor: Kelley Ryan Features Editor: Claire Horner Assistant Features Editor: Laura Kramer Entertainment Editor: Elissa Kroeger Assistant Entertainment Editor: Matthew Walters Opinion Editor: Nikki Thomas PLPulse Editor-in-Chief Sarah Book PLPulse Assistant Editors: Angela Bober & David Chavarria Webmaster: Michael Swanger Staff: Joshua Acton Melanie Amweg Brandon Arkfeld Camryn Bowers Hannah Cahill CJ Curry Emma Dargy Christina Fisher Jonathan Greenfield Brena Groeper Cameron Houser Trevor Jurjevich Brittany Kellner Lindsey Lafond Sam Laughlin Nicole Ludden Hailey McGuire Jordan Murphy Dylan Nicholson Abby Petersen Jaylen Ricks Ally Sargus Will Synowiecki Kerri Wachholtz Ethan Wolbach 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.
A NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW TEACHERS TO PLHS
New Faces At PLHS
Students are not the only ones who have to adjust to a new school year. BY CJ CURRY
Not only do students have to adjust to a new school year, teachers do as well. Many new teachers with different backgrounds and experiences have come to PLHS this year with readiness to teach students not only about school, but also about life in general. While many teachers are new to the district, some have prior experience with Papillion-La Vista Schools. English teacher Ms. Meghan Vilter has close connections to the school. “My younger brother and friends have told me great things about this school and said I should teach here,” Vilter said. Science teacher Ms. Kiersten Nelson student taught at Papillion-La Vista South High School before beginning her teaching career here. Her experience in the school district is not the only reason Nelson choose to begin her teaching career here. “I have also heard a lot of great things about this school,”
Nelson said. Social studies teacher Chris Curry moved from California to Nebraska to teach. “I moved from California to escape the hectic lifestyle of the big city,” Curry said. Now that the school year has begun, teachers are beginning to get settled and comfortable in their new realm. Nelson is enjoying this school year. “The year so far is going really well,” Nelson said. Just like anyone with a career, the new teachers at PLHS entered education for a reason. For Curry, it all began because of his family. “My dad was a teacher, and my brother teaches here and that made me want to become a teacher in general,” Curry said. For Nelson, her former health teacher inspired her to become an educator. “She had a big impact on my life and I wanted to do the same for students,” Nelson said. Although the new teachers
love their jobs, some would change professions if they were not teachers. Many people go into the teaching profession to help and inspire others, and no matter what profession Curry was in, he would do that. “If I was not a teacher, I would be a firefighter,” Curry said. Vilter’s second dream job is similar to the one she has now. “If I was not a teacher, I would be a writer,” Vilter said While many have dreams of a different type of job, others would stay exactly where they are. Nelson would not change careers for anything in the world. “Right now I wouldn’t do anything else, I’m happy where I am,” Nelson said. As the school year begins to settle new teachers are adjusting to daily life at PLHS. Although they have had different experiences, they all have one goal: to inspire the lives of students.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
3
4
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
The one thing that seemed to make the biggest difference in the staff and students’ lives is the computer change. Not only have these computers made a huge impact at PLHS because of the sheer amount, but also because they are all PC. Every teacher received a new Dell laptop purchased through Sterling computers, a third party company in Norfolk, Nebraska. “Why did we ever make this change?” junior Patrick Mahoney asked. What students and teachers need to understand is that a change was going to take place no matter what. However, the fact that it was a switch to all PCs was not guaranteed. “There were some costs that were a driving force to [picking PC over Mac], but then the fact that we were already 75% PC as a district had a large impact in that,” said Bill Pulte, continued on page 6 A&E
PERSPECTIVE
3:1
COMPUTER ratio
$978,198 toward PCs
1400 600 laptops
iPads
4CYCLE YEAR REPLACEMENT
$600K per year
3
WARRANTY
T
he Papillion-LaVista School District adopted 1,400 babies this past summer. For the past few months, the district has been dealing with their newborns’ crying, whether it’s because of dirty diapers or nap time. They have been working hard to make sure these babies grow up to fulfill their potential. Well, actually, these “babies” aren’t really babies. PLSD has taken on a new fleet of computers and is doing their best to work through the little hiccups and big “uh-oh”s, just like any good parent would. Throughout the two high schools and junior highs, every computer was replaced. Along with that, the district signed a new print contract, including switching to fewer, yet bigger printers. Also, all junior high and high school students get e-mail, which includes 50 GB of space and other fascinating features.
STUDENT to
YEAR
BY LAURA KRAMER
TOTAL
PLHS is forced to adjust as new computers provide new opportunities and challenges.
$1.2 million
PLSD PICKS PC
As the teachers adjust to their new laptops, they are also getting comfortable with their new iPads.
I
n the shadows of this big computer change, is another technology choice that was made over the summer. Along with the new Dell laptops, each teacher at PLHS received their own iPad. “Mr. Kalina was given an allotment of devices and he got to choose laptops, desktops, or iPads, but those were all part of the purchase. [He] did choose to use 112 out of his allotment for teacher iPads,” PLSD’s IT Director, Bill Pulte said. Principal Jerry Kalina’s decision to bring Mac back kept a little bit of Apple lingering in the building. “It was a way to keep people happy. You know, I was taking a Mac but I’m giving them a Mac device back,” Kalina said. It seems as if Kalina succeeded in his goal of keeping people happy. “I think that our administration has been excellent as far as listening to what the teachers want. It was very generous and very aware of him to give us the iPads and I know that they’ll continue to try to help us out with the transition,” Mrs. Katie Wittrig said. Mr. Sean McLaughlin went as far as to
say it “was actually a saving grace here.” While some teachers do everything they can with the iPad, there are also a few on the other side of that. “I think there’s some people that don’t use them very much, like I’m still learning. I have one, but I just don’t use it very much,” Mr. John Pieper said. Teachers aren’t the only ones benefitting from Kalina’s contribution of iPads, either. “We have portable iPads, that kids can use, that teachers can check out. I just thought it would be another tool to give staff to get creative in the classroom,” Kalina said. Pulte supports Kalina’s decision as well. “I think it’s a good balance. They’re getting both operating systems and it’s impossible in technology to predict where we’re gonna be in the future, so it provides staff
at PLHS with the opportunity to see both sides of the spectrum, to see both platforms, and not be handcuffed into one thing,” Pulte said. While teachers are adjusting to their new PCs, they can continue to improve their classroom in the meantime, using Kalina’s installment of iPads. No matter what device is in their hands, the PLHS administration and Central Office are always working hard towards the school’s success.
K
C
A
B T
H
G
U
O
R
B
S
C
A M
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
5
“
expectations weren’t fulfilled. “Initially, I was excited about the thought of getting new machines because mine was starting to show the signs of age,” Spanish teacher Mrs. Katie Wittrig said. “The PC has presented me with many challenges this year. Learning the new platform hasn’t been impossible, but it does take time away from instruction prep to learn the differences.” In Jan. 2013, before any decision was made, Pulte, and other Central Office workers, met with some staff and students from the district to hear their input. “We went out and we met with a group of about 30 students and 15 teachers from both high schools and both junior highs, and we kept notes on what was important to them,” Pulte said. Not only has the staff been affected by this, but the student body has as well. “It impacts them in the fact
that if I’ve got a meeting in the morning and I shut my computer down, it takes a good three or four minutes for it to load up, so there’s that wait time,” history teacher Mr. Sean McLaughlin said. Pulte says that the biggest issues do not actually include wait time, but the fact that some teachers have been accidentally downloading malware (software that is meant to harm or disable computers), through Google default on their PC. “Our goal is not to make teachers’ lives tougher. Our goal is to really help teachers as best as we can,” Pulte said. As a smartphone-based generation led by Apple, most students are comfortable with Mac products. But, there are also students like sophomore Brendon Boatwright, who has preferred PC his whole life. “One of the main things I like are the keyboards. They are
“
the district’s Director of Information Technology. Members of the school board finalized this decision, yet students and teachers from the district provoked it. “Some of the things we heard [from students and teachers] was replacing computers more often, and standardizing it on a platform,” Pulte said. The requests put in were definitely met as $978,198 was spent on standardizing 1,400 laptops. For some, these computers have been nothing but an improvement. “We’re all using the same platform so it isn’t quite as difficult to troubleshoot things, where before we were trying to go back and forth, trying to make things work together. Now we don’t have to worry about that,” algebra teacher Mr. John Pieper said. On the other hand, some were let down as their
I think they’re great because they’re a lot easier to use and they’re more user friendly.
SOPHOMORE GABBY DE LOS REYES
“
The first time I went to use one, it was frozen...I had to take the battery out and put it back in.
JUNIOR PATRICK MAHONEY
“
SOPHOMORE BRENDON BOATWRIGHT
6
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
“
“
I think more students will like the PCs instead of the Macs because the PCs are a little easier to use.
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
“
“EDUCATORS,
Technology changes everyday and as
otherwise, we’re gonna fall behind.
PRINCIPAL JERRY KALINA
PLHS, they also weren’t as used to Mac computers. Although the district was 75% PC, this school was highly populated by the Apple machines. In fact, PLHS was approximately 80% Mac. When someone is that used to a machine, they usually wouldn’t be comfortable with a change, yet some teachers approve of it. “I think [the money]’s worth it. I mean no matter what machines you buy, Mac or PC, it doesn’t make a whole lot of difference because when you have to buy that many machines for that many buildings, you don’t have much of a choice, because everybody needs a machine obviously,” Pieper said. The district’s previous machines got old, and inevitably so will these new ones. So, what’s going to happen then? “Now we’ve gotten onto a four year replacement cycle so
25% MAC
75% PC
COMPUTERS AT PLHS LAST YEAR
COMPUTERS IN THE DISTRICT LAST YEAR
higher up instead of flat like a Mac and with Mac, it seemed like it took forever to load, while the PC doesn’t seem to take so long,” Boatwright said. However, other students just don’t see the same things in PC that Boatwright does. “Every time we go to use them, something or other has an issue, and with the Macs, it seemed like there weren’t as many issues,” Mahoney said. Although the users may be struggling with issues, they aren’t the only ones. “We have a help desk system where I keep track of tickets and I go through tickets quite often. We’re a customer service industry so if we have a ticket in our name, our goal is to help teachers as best we can,” Pulte said. While the other schools may or may not be struggling with this transformation as much as
we have to stay up with it,
the idea would be, in 2018, we’d come back and replace all the secondary machines again,” Pulte said. When this replacement happens, does this school have a possibility of returning to Mac? “I think it’s too early in the process to [decide]. I think that four years from now we’ll sit down and reevaluate where we are at and now things are working,” Pulte said. Although this change may have had its issues, it has also had its fair share of positives that it has brought to this school, and the staff will continue to do its best in fulfilling these new computers’ potential. As author Colson Whitehead once said, “It is failure that guides evolution; perfection provides no incentive for improvement, and nothing is perfect.”
20% PC
80% MAC OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
7
THE FIX IN THE FORMULA Vinnie Hunter films the Monarch vs. Bellevue West volleyball game. This year, students will not receive credit for broadcasting as a class despite the hours of work.
The new changes in the formula for class rank and grade point average may force students thinking about taking study hall to reconsider. BY JOHN NELSON
PHOTO: NIKKI THOMAS
8
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
school, and class rank helps the competition,” Wu said. Students taking broadcasting are in the same boat as students taking study hall: these class periods are simply not counted for credit. Broadcasting sponsor Mrs. Becky Hoch encourages students to take classes they will enjoy and make them think. She also encourages them to pursue what may lead them forward in their life. “I think students deprive themselves of opportunities by being too focused on GPA and class rank. In the end, those are just two numbers,” Hoch said. “But it is experiences and broadening of the mind that shapes a life.” Junior Kathryn Gay will
“
“
Most students take classes that suit them most. However, the question of what will make students succeed most is a hard thing to consider when deciding what to take. Busy students taking challenging courses may consider taking classes that focus on hobbies or other career interests, as well as ones that help one through the school year. Some classes, however, like study hall and broadcasting, are not credits and, under the current class rank formula, can actually hurt a student’s standing. The formula used to figure class rank and grade point average (GPA) is calculated in a way that will hurt class rank, but not affect GPA, for those taking study hall. Junior Alex Wu takes rigorous classes to improve his GPA. He is not concerned about class rank. However, he believes students who have after school activities who need a study hall need some inspiration to keep up with other students in their grade. “It is a very competitive
It is experiences and broadening of the mind that shapes a life.
A&E
MRS. BECKY HOCH PERSPECTIVE
probably major in law, but she also is considering broadcasting. This year she is in broadcasting. Since Gay is usually busy with dance practice after school, she has taken study hall through much of high school in order to get her school work done. Gay does not think the new formula will be revised soon. Therefore, she suggests that students taking AP or honors should take classes that would most make them happy. “Students should take classes they enjoy so they don’t dread school,” Gay said. College Counselor Mrs. Ann Herbener suggests playing a “weighing game.” For those students struggling with a busy schedule and considering taking study hall, it is best to play this game to weigh what classes they want to take and what they want to do in college. “Rank is not nearly as important as following your passion,” Herbener said. “Take care of [PLHS’s] opportunities while they are free.”
Hard To Stomach Walking into the lunchroom, student’s faces are full of disappointment. There are smaller portions of food and less variety of items from last year. Smart Choice, the government name for the federal lunch regulation program, got rid of much of last year’s favorites: bagels, Otis Spunkmeyer muffins and cookies, cappuccinos and other items the students of PLHS came to adore so much, in addition to changing the portion sizes. “Most people don’t like it,” junior Dan Gepford said. “[Students] can’t eat what they want to eat.” These changes were put in effect on July 1, to allow the government to remain competitive in student health standards. To meet the new standards, lunch administrators had to modify and eradicate many lunch items that were an unchangeable constant in the previous years of the school’s lunches. “We’ve been working to meet Smart Snack standards and change as little as possible,” school district lunch administrator Sue Sucha said. “[We] also want to meet our student standards.” The new basic standards are an item must have 0 trans fat, can only consist of up 35% sugar by weight and fat, and can only amount up to 10% saturated fat. Calorie standards for a side is that it can have up to 200 calories and as an entrée it can have up to 350
calories. As for sodium, a snack/ side can have 230 grams max and entrée can have 480 grams max. What all of these painful and migraine inducing numbers mean to students is the ultimate demise of favored munchies at lunch and overall reduction of lunch proportions. Despite the best efforts of the lunch administration, many students feel as though the changes were unnecessary and the absence of items has not gone unnoticed. “No bagels this year, which is highly disappointing,” Gepford said. The bagels were removed from this year’s menu because they failed to meet the new standards of the Smart Snack lunch program. “It was too big for the standards and its [removal] couldn’t be helped,” Sucha said. Sucha stated that the cappuccino was done away along with it because it “failed to meet all the standards set up by Smart Snack.” For better or for worse, students will still find a safe haven in the cafeteria. However, as more and more changes occur, the safe haven may begin to cave in on itself. While administrators hold up the caving ceiling with all their might, the weight of the changes may become far too much to stomach for the students here at PLHS.
This year PLHS students are affected by the new school lunch policy. BY JOSHUA ACTON
PHOTOS: JOSHUA ACTON As more and more lunch items change, the hot bar remains an island of consistency.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
9
Most students know about Spanish I, II, III, and IV. It’s likely that a large amount of students have heard at least one person either complaining about their foreign language class, professing their love for it, or falling somewhere in between. Despite all the disagreement over the amount of enjoyment possible in a foreign
language class, it is noticeable that some students are ending their last year of Spanish class (Spanish IV) their junior year. There once was an independent study that existed for students interested in Spanish V, but it disappeared, leaving mixed feelings on the matter. ”Since we have so many kids coming in, there’s more
The disappearance of an independent study leaves behind mixed emotions. BY BRITTANY KELLNER
people that need it,” junior Samantha Dellinger said. Unfortunately, an independent study is not currently a viable solution due to large enrollment. “In order for an independent study the teacher needs to have time,”Spanish teacher Ms. Amy Himes said. Himes also believes that an
One, Two, Three, 10
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
independent study would not be best for a language class. “Language classes work better with interaction,” Himes said. “Independent study is not ideal for any language class.” Adding an official Spanish V class would also be rather difficult due to the loops that would have to be jumped through. “We can’t add or delete classes as a school,” assistant principal Dr. Angie O’Hanlon said. Schools are unable to change the curriculum by themselves because it is usually up to the district or state what classes are included in schools. Some students feel that by not supporting a Spanish V independent study, their chances for future success are being hurt. Dellinger believes that due to the absence of Spanish V, students will not be able to score as high as other students in college, and will be at a disadvantage. Teachers sometimes can offer alternate solutions to the problem for those dedicated to the subject. Himes encourages students interested in continuing their learning of the Spanish language to take online courses and classes outside of school. “It’s always important to find the positive and not the negative,” Himes said.
Senior C on made by nor Muhs recr eates a Diego V pic elazque classma z with h ture tes in M is s. Hime IV class s’ Spanis . (Top o h fp P h oto s : M o r g an age 10 and abo ve.) D av enp o rt
Four, Five? OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 11
Add rac ressin ism g in a Fer postg wor uson ld
As a dis new crim foc set ina us o s dep in na tion a n rac i t me artme ionwi mong al tro n d not are ts in e, ser police e. the v for ced On Aug. 9 in Ferguson, Om ice to t aha Mo., Michael Brown was shot and BY J ake
AYL E
killed by Police Officer Darren Wilson. The event sparked protests among the people who demanded justice for an event they saw as being racially motivated. Some people thought that Michael Brown was shot when surrendering. The autopsy showed Brown was shot six times, four times in the right arm and twice in the head. In Ferguson the city developed a review board to help guide the police department and make changes aimed at improving
N RI
12
CKS
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
community relations. According to The New York Times there are 53 Police officers in the Ferguson Police Department; three of them are black. The population is 69.4% black. The people may feel discriminated against when a majority of the officers are white, while the majority of the people are black. “People can relate better and listen better to others like them. The response from minorities in those situations will be different if they have cops they can relate to,� Omaha Firefighter Marcus Ricks said.
Closer to home, the Omaha area hasn’t had many public problems with racial discrimination. However, the unrest in Ferguson will ultimately force local service departments to take another look at how they address racial issues. In La Vista demographics show that there are only 3.9% of black and African-Americans compared to the 86.9% of whites in the population. “In La Vista, I don’t think we have any black officers currently; our last one was Officer Davis who is now a teacher at Papillion South,” Police Officer Jamie Brown said. The La Vista Police Department looks at every aspect of someone’s character when looking to hire. “They look for things like common sense, background history, and quick thinking. From my experience whoever has those skills will be hired,” Officer Brown said. Officer Brown works in Crime Prevention and Community Affairs, so she has a good idea of what kind of discrimination might happen. “Nothing is routine, anything can happen. We have daily tasks that seem mundane, but no two calls are the same,” Officer Brown said. Racial injustice seems to be very minor in La Vista. La Vista and Papillion seem to handle issues well, but Omaha has a unique set of problems due to a more diverse population. “I see people getting mistreated by police; the police sometimes get burnt out seeing the same thing over and over, which can cause them to crack in
Officer Giles’ police patrol vehicle sits outside PLHS. Photo: Cameron Houser
some situations,” Firefighter Ricks said. Firefighter Ricks is a paramedic and also works with Hazmat. “In Omaha there are roughly 650 firefighters and less than 30% of them are black,” Firefighter Ricks said. Policemen are called every day in Omaha, and there are all kinds of calls. They have a lot to handle. “The department has to be aware of what their officers are doing and pay attention to field complaints. Officers have to stay out of being complacent, and fight off social stigma,” Officer Brown said. “People act like there isn’t discrimination, but there is, and I think it’s a problem,” Police Detective Jon Fraley said. North Omaha is predominantly black, and discrimination can make calls much worse than they need to be on a
daily basis. “Police need to be more proactive in helping the community. They should go out into the more poor neighborhoods and should help out and see the people,” Firefighter Ricks said. North Omaha has a reputation for violence, and Detective Fraley has seen the worst of the worst. “We get desensitized to death and blood. Every day I see death, and I’m tired of having to see that all the time,” Detective Fraley said. At times being an officer can feel like a thankless job. “The average citizens don’t know what it’s like to be an officer. And people can be very quick to judge. We appreciate it when people respect us and when they understand that they don’t know what we have to handle on a daily basis,” Officer Brown said.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 13
d e tt
a T m a e #T
w ho s s oo tual t t ta ac ts’ the n de ond u t S s g bey H PL anin DEN e D U m L LE ink NICO BY
Hours of withstanding the stinging pain of a needle etching a permanent word, phrase, or picture into your skin may seem like an eternal decision to wait to make. However, as the popularity of getting a tattoo is rising, the age of the people getting them is dropping. The number of students getting tattoos is increasing considerably, and the tatted teenagers are finding their ink to be more than just something cool to show off. Students’ inspirations for their tattoos vary from an allusive phrase to a simple design to decorate themselves. “My parents said I could get a tattoo for my 16th birthday,” sophomore Brandon Steburg said. “So I felt like a Bible verse would be the best thing to do with it.” The permanent decision was not the hardest part for Steburg, the agonizing pain was. Getting a tattoo is an hours on 14
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
end process, starting with a basic outline and then repetitive shading and detailing. “It was terrible,” Steburg said. “Probably a ten on the scale.” Especially when it comes to school, the tatted student runs into obstacles. “The tattoo is on my stomach, so it’s covered, but there’s always those teachers who don’t think it’s smart,” Steburg said. However, he thinks the pros of having a tattoo that means something to him outweigh the cons of an outside person’s opinion. “I think it’s cool that I have something from the Bible tattooed permanently on my body,” Steburg said. Junior Kaylee Sippel has two tattoos so far. One of them is a flower mandala tattoo, which is a Buddhist design that means “finding yourself,” on her forearm. “Not only is it pretty, but it has its own meaning,” Sippel said. On her other forearm, Sippel has “The Balloon Girl,” a piece by the undiscovered graffiti artist Bansky. The tattoo means to simply let go. “A lot of people get it for a lost loved one, but to me it means A&E
PERSPECTIVE
letting go of everything,” Sippel said. “It can mean something different everyday.” Sippel, like other students, has found that having a permanent design on her body is worth the message it portrays. “A lot of people don’t like it. A girl once told me ‘I think it’s dumb when teenagers get tattoos,’” Sippel said. “But I also get a lot of compliments on them. It’s my body, and I’m completely happy with my tattoos.” Sophomore Cammi Johnston has had the words “stay strong” tattooed across her wrists since freshman year. “The tattoo was inspired by my family and best friends,” Johnston said. “It’s a constant reminder that you can get through any hardship. “ The inspirational quote has impacted Johnston in negative ways as well, as she was fired from a job due to a no tattoo policy. “I don’t think having a
tattoo reflects on who you are as a person, or what kind of worker you are,” Johnston said. The stereotypical adult might look down upon a teenager with tattoos, as it is often times seen as a rebellious thing to do at such a young age. “I was worried that teachers might see the tattoo and judge me at first; but as they have me throughout the year, they understand what I’m really like,” Johnston said. Despite the obstacles Johnston has run into with her tattoo, she has found that the message her ink displays, and the personal meaning it has to her, is worth all the hurdles and the permanent decision. “Everyone has hardships in life, but staying strong is a solution that will never change,” Johnston said. Junior Kaylee Sippel takes pride in her two intricate tattoos across her arms. She has started the inking process early, and is planning for many more to come.
Sophomore Brandon Steburg’s tattoo is his favorite Biblical scripture. The design may be sweet, but it was excruciating for him to get.
Junior Kaylee Sippel Number of Tattoos: Two Future Tattoos: Not sure, definitely wants more. Pain Scale of Getting a Tattoo (1-10): 4 Sophomore Cammi Johnston’s tattoos are reminding her to stay strong everyday.
Sophomore Cammi Johnston Number of Tattoos: One Future Tattoos: Matching mother and daughter tattoos Pain Scale of Getting a Tattoo (1-10): 8
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 15
G
Into who you want to be...
Leadership
College. A lifelong career. The future. Growing up. These eight words alarm, stress out, and terrify high school students, leading them to hide, alone in a room, with a textbook. However, academies allow students to grow up just a little bit faster. BY CHRISTA RAHL
The leadership branch of the academy program is split into two years. In the second year, students are able to leave class, during certain hours, to work as an intern. Senior Allen Cardenas is an intern at senior Adam Bartel’s family’s business, Edge Physical Therapy. “I enjoy getting to watch
and interact with the patients,” Cardenas said. “When they are doing something painful, I talk to them to distract them.” Cardenas is a fan of the academy and enjoys his experience. He also enjoys the fact that having this background will be a favorable attribute to his resumé for college applications. Leadership academy is also a positive class to participate
in because it teaches students concepts they cannot learn in a typical school setting. “I have learned how to interact with different types of people,” Cardenas said. Overall, Cardenas recommends juniors and sophomores take Leadership 1, so that in the second year they are able to see a glimpse of what they desire for their futures.
The special part of taking classes at the zoo is the multitude of opportunities to shadow the zookeepers. These ordeals are beneficial and educate the students about subjects they show true interest in. “I learn so much about the animals and the way we interact with them,” Rosemann said. ”I could not learn that in high school.” The academy frequently gears its curriculum to students that imagine their futures involving
animal-centered careers. “Wanting to be a marine biologist, it will help me get a head start over the other kids who are applying for the same job or university,” Rosemann said. The academy teaches skills that simply are unable to be taught at in the typical high school setting, These skills transfer to the outside world. The zoo academy fully exhibits quality educated high school students with knowledge they desired to gain.
Zoo The furthest excursion to a class belongs to the students that participate in the zoo academy. Students are able to personalize their schedule, but it is very common for these students to leave the high school during advisement to take their remaining classes at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. “We have normal classes most of the time,” junior Hailey Rosemann said. “But every other day for 90 minutes, we get to see animals.”
16
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Medical For the students who picture their futures taking place in a medical world, PLHS offers the medical academy. Students involved in this academy end their first year as a Certified Nursing Assistant, which allows the students to graduate already with credentials used to qualify for medical jobs that they are able to work during their college years. Junior Isabella Walker is a student in her first year of the academy and she is excited for the coming year. “I already enjoy it,”
Education Another academy students have the ability to apply for and participate in is Education Academy. Education Academy can differ from student to student to give everyone the most accurate view on what they think they desire for a career path. Senior Kenneth Pancake, for example, uses the academy in order to serve as a student director for the freshman band because he is looking into deciding to be a band director in
Walker said. “It is interesting and prepares me for college.” The medical academy requires a great deal of difficult schoolwork along with the classes specific to the academy. Walker’s schedule is consistent with an AP student’s at the high school. However, she is also in a CNA and Honors Anatomy class in one of the blocks. “Anatomy is like learning a new language,” Walker said. The academy treats the students as if they are the best of the best from the high school. “There is a lot of work and that is very time consuming,” Walker said. “I have to have good time management skills.” The hard work is worthwhile in the end, though. “I have always wanted to be something in the medical field,” Walker said. “ So now I am
his future. “This will give me a priceless experience in making a final career choice,” Pancake said. Pancake also sees value in teaching the younger students because he learns just as much as he teaches. “It helps me grow as a musician,” Pancake said. “I am able to spot mistakes in the freshmen, which helps me spot mistakes in my own playing.” Pancake is also thankful for the “field experience” that he receives. However the experience is not always a walk in the park.
able to explore what is there.” The academy allows the students to go up on the floors at Midlands Hospital, which allows for a quality, one-on-one learning experience that could never be mirrored in the classroom. One of the most awestriking attributes about the medical academy is that the students are able to “apply what they teach to everyday life if someone is hurt.”
Junior Andy Hanthorn poses with a skull as part of his Anatomy class. Photo: David Chavarria
“It takes dedication,” Pancake said. “I have to tell myself I will make time for this.” This causes Pancake frustration because the academy is treated as a regular, nonweighted class. This means that an A is only a 4.0. Pancake said he would advise the school district to “heavily consider” making the class at least an honors course. All in all, Pancake appreciates the academy and does not undermine its ability to “help today’s students become tomorrow’s teachers.” OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
17
This past summer, junior Jackie Sweet was in a severe car accident leaving her in a wheelchair for months. She then was put through the struggle of trying to manage having a normal life. This accident also made her understand that life isn’t something to take for granted. BY ABBY PETERSEN
LIFE
Changing
EXPERIENCE
18
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
This is the aftermath of the accident. Sweet was completely blind sided by the car hitting her right on the drivers side, when Sweet had a green light. Her car was then totaled. There was way too much damage from the accident to get her car to where it used to be. PHOTO: JACKIE SWEET
“It’s very hard because I’m in almost all AP classes, and I’m just trying to catch up,” Sweet said. At first Sweet had to go to school for half days, to try and get used to getting around the school in a wheelchair. Not every high school student can handle the pressures of trying to make themselves healthier, and to get caught up with the loads
“
“
A person behind the wheel never understands the potential dangers that come with driving, and how one accident can make a huge impact. It can change someone’s life in a blink of an eye. This past summer, junior Jackie Sweet was in a near death accident on July 21, and her life was turned upside down at that very moment when she was put into a wheelchair. No one wants to be put through the struggles of being in a wheelchair, while still trying to manage being a normal teenager. “It was really difficult going from being able to run, then being in a hospital, and rolling around the hallways in a wheelchair,” Sweet said. During the accident a driver that ran a red light randomly hit Sweet while she was in her car. From this accident she got a serious concussion, and an injury that damaged both of her legs greatly. Transitioning to something so unusual can be very stressful for someone at a younger age, and is definitely not the easiest change.
“I have been having bad headaches, and it is very hard to focus.”
Jackie Sweet
of schoolwork they get on a daily basis. Within the first month and a half, Sweet was able to walk once again, and she was able to overcome most of her struggles involving her wheelchair. “Now that I can walk again it’s still really painful on my hips,” Sweet said.
Once she was ready to walk, she took each day like tiny stepping stones to get herself in the best condition she could be in. “I realized that every day is a gift, because they said I was supposed to die in my accident,” Sweet said. What people do not understand is how lucky everyone is for the life that has been given to us, and Sweet is a person that many high school students can look up to. “I look at it with more of a positive view,” Sweet said. “I try to live each day to the fullest because things can change in a blink of an eye,” Sweet said. Everyone can benefit from what Sweet is trying to show to others, that anything can happen in life at any age of anytime. Every second is worth living, and fighting to overcome straggles to make there lives better. Sweet considers it a miracle that she is still alive after her first accident, and she still strives to get in the best condition she can be every day.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 19
Around the World
in 82 Days
Senior Jessica Sidwell traveled all around the world this summer. BY EMMA QUAST Traveling the world would be fantastic. Being able to visit beaches, oceans, cathedrals, and see tourist attractions is a dream of many. For one girl this recently became a reality. Senior Jessica Sidwell was lucky enough to do all of these things this summer. Her vacation spanned off and on the entire summer and she was able to visit Mexico, several different European countries, and she ended her summer in Hawaii. Her first vacation started a few days after school ended. She flew to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on May 24 and spent one week there with a friend and her family. “The crazy thing about Mexico was the weather,” Sidwell said. “I couldn’t believe how humid it was.” While in Mexico, Sidwell was able to enjoy herself in the Pacific Ocean. After visiting downtown Puerto Vallarta, going on a boat ride, and snorkeling in Mexico, Sidwell spent little time at home before flying to Europe for two weeks. While in Europe, she visited France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Lichtenstein. “I went to Europe with
20
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
an honor choir through UNL and performed multiple pieces of music in different cathedrals,” Sidwell said. Sidwell was overwhelmed by the sight of all the beautiful cathedrals and feels that they were the highlight of her trip. “My favorite was La Sagrada Familia,” Sidwell said. “The detail on the cathedral is incredible, and I would love to go back and see it when it is finished.” Other than singing, the group was able to do some site seeing as well. “We also went to the Eiffel Tower, swam in the Mediterranean, walked down Las Ramblas, went shopping and visited Dachau,” Sidwell said. Although all of these experiences were life-changing, but she feels the most touching experience was visiting Dachau. Dachau is one of the most wellknown concentration camps in Germany, and Sidwell claims that it was mind-blowing to be standing in a place where so many innocent people were killed. Finally, to end her summer, Sidwell spent roughly a week in Hawaii with her grandparents, uncle, and brothers. While in
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Hawaii Sidwell was able to enjoy the Pearl Harbor Monument, Dole Plantation, and swimming at Turtle Beach. “Hawaii is the most gorgeous place I’ve ever seen,” Sidwell said. “The water is so blue and clear.” However, visiting all of these different places requires adjustment. For example, in every different place she visited the people, culture and food were a little different. Other than the different architectural designs and seeing and hearing people of many different backgrounds, the one thing that Sidwell enjoyed the most was all of the different foods. “In Europe I ate so much bread,” Sidwell said. “They served it with every meal.” The food Sidwell will miss the most, however, is the different kinds of fruit. “I’d do anything to eat Hawaiian fruit again; it was so fresh.” Sidwell had an extremely eventful summer and would recommend traveling to anyone. “It’s a great experience, and I’d love to travel the world when I’m older,” Sidwell said.
PHOTOS: JESSICA SIDWELL
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 21
Up Spicing Things Maria and Matilde Pinto share what it was like to live in Portugal.
BY CLAIRE HORNER
When people envision another country, they think of how different it must be compared to their own country. They think of the weather and all the possible cultures and traditions. Two students who walk among us have experienced what it is like to live in two different worlds. Freshman Matilde Pinto and sophomore Maria Pinto moved to the United States about two and a half years ago from Portugal. “We moved here because my dad got a job working with an American company that was better than his other job,” Maria said. “He came and worked for a year, and then we decided to join him.” Both girls agree that the most difficult adjustment they faced when moving was the language. However, they did have some opportunities to learn English in their country. “We moved into one of the first schools to have English as a language and learned basic words like plane and boat,” Maria 22
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
said. “But I learned English almost fluently from watching movies and TV shows with subtitles.” It takes a lot of confidence to move to an entire new country with a different language and start speaking right away. “For the first two weeks, I was really scared to speak,” Maria said. “But I’m a pretty outgoing person, so I guess I would just talk, but I was afraid that I would use the wrong verb.” Every country is unique in some way, and Portugal is one of the countries that have what many people love. “The weather is always warm, and we don’t have any snow, other than in the high mountains,” Maria said. “Portugal is really close to the sea so we have beaches everywhere.” Another common wonder is what schools are like in another country. “It is much more difficult in Portugal,” Matilde said. “We had more activities after school that went until about five, and since we A&E
PERSPECTIVE
went to a private school, we had to pay for them.” The school they attended had a few other differences such as what many Americans have been used to for a long time. “We didn’t have lockers, like American lockers, so that was nice to see,” Maria said. “And the classes were really small so we would stay in the same classroom all day and the teachers would move around.” Another agreement between both girls was missing family back home. Fortunately, they keep in touch with family and friends almost everyday over Skype. “I also miss the malls, my friends and going to the beach,” Maria said. “And I miss having more freedom because everything was so close that I could walk everywhere.” Although Maria lived in Portugal for the majority of her life, she did not necessarily prefer the food. “I really don’t like
Meeting the Pintos The girls pose in front of an old temple, a common tourist attaction in Evora, Portugal. Photos: Pinto sisters
Maria
Matilde
What is your favorite food? Seafood -Maria
Maria, Matilde, and their dad are in Sintra, Portugal, on the balcany of the Palacio Nacional da Pena.
homemade Portuguese food,” Maria said. “I love seafood and prefer American food.” On the other side, Matilde did enjoy the cuisine. “The deserts are really good, and we eat a lot of soup,” Matilde said. An interesting sight to see in Portugal is McDonalds. “It is better developed,” Maria said. “It is all computer orders and then they come from places and here, it is weirder and different.” Traditions are a huge custom that Portugal practices. “When we sing our happy birthday song, it’s a poem with a lot of lines,” Maria said. “Once you blow out the candles, you take a candle and go under the table. Then you bite the tip of it and
Lasagna -Matilde
What is your favorite movie?
scream, but only the kids do it.” Many Portuguese traditions do not have an explanation, but it is something everyone does and has continued. Many traditions are practiced during the holidays. “Instead of Halloween because we couldn’t go door to door in an apartment, there would be a carnival,” Matilde said. “In Portugal, Halloween isn’t haunted, it’s happy.” Although they moved to America, Portuguese is still a part of them. “It’s really weird to speak with your siblings in a different language [English],” Maria said. “So me and my sister almost always speak Portuguese.” The Pinto sisters add a spice of diversity to our school.
Dumb & Dumber -Maria
Meet the Fockers -Matilde
What is your favorite season? Spring -Maria
Fall -Matilde
Where is your dream vacation? California -Maria
OCTOBER 2014
Carribean -Matilde
THE SCEPTER 23
Memories from the Other Hemisphere Several students at PLHS embrace their Indian and Nepalese heritage. BY ELISSA KROEGER People from all over the world come to the United States for many opportunities. Some of our own students have families from all around the world. Senior Pratik Kandel’s family emigrated from Nepal “to have a better life” and more education opportunities. Kandel has lived his entire life in the United States. He has visited Nepal several times, but most recently this past May. “There’s a lot of people and family,” Kandel said. “A lot of adventures.” In Omaha, Kandel and his family attend Nepalese events. “The girls wear red saris,” Kandel said. A sari is a long cloth that is wrapped around to make a dress. “They look very fancy.” Kandel practices Hinduism, which is a religion that worships many gods. He does not regularly attend temple. “Nepal people have it in their house,” Kandel said. His house and room are decorated with pictures of gods, so he can pray whenever. Another student who shares Kandel’s religion is freshman Eshu Senthil. Unlike Kandel, Senthil was born in Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India. “For most families in India you have your city of origin and you might have a special temple 24
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
there,” Senthil said. “But usually you can go to any.” In certain states of India the people are devoted to one god and will build a special temple for that specific god. “Some are on a gigantic hill and you have to climb them,” Senthil said. “You have to be very devoted because it can take a long time to get there.” In Omaha, there is only one Hindu temple. It hosts events for the surrounding Hindu community. “They host festivals and dances,” Senthil said. “And by dances I mean shows, not like a school dance.” The changes in temple habits were not the only change Senthil faced when she moved to the United States over six years ago. “I went to an English school. I learned English. I spoke English,” Senthil said. In India, Senthil learned British English because of the close ties India had to England in the past, which left a large “imprint” on Indian culture. The English she learned was different in spelling, grammar and pronunciation. “For example, color is spelled c-o-l-o-u-r not c-o-l-o-r,” Senthil said. Senthil still has full capabilities with her native language Tamil.
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Tamil is one of the 17 official languages in India. Sophomore Hannah Manoj can speak in three languages: English, Spanish and Malayalam. Manoj’s parents were born in southern India and speak Malayalam. When Manoj’s parents speak to her in Malayalam she typically responds back in English. When she visits India, she communicates with mix of English and Malayalam. “My grandparents understand English pretty well,” Manoj said. “I know enough Malayalam to communicate.” Manoj typically visits India during the Christmas season, which is summer there. “It’s really humid and hot, very tropical,” Manoj said. Manoj is a Catholic and attends a prayer group once a month with other Indian families. “It’s nice to see friends of my heritage,” Manoj said. Each Manoj, Senthil, and Kandel love their heritage they do not feel uncomfortable or embarrassed of their heritage at school. “I’m just like everybody else,” Kandel said. For Senthil, there was more of journey to that realization. “I feel like I’ve been more imprinted on by America than the Indian side of me,” Senthil said.
Senthil is with her younger sister playing with sparklers at Diwali, the festival of lights. Photo: Senthil
A man riding an elephant in Kerala, India. The elephants are dragging away the parts of the trees after they were cut down. Photo: Manoj
The outside wall of a Hindu temple in the capitol of Nepal. Photo: Kandel
Manoj, age three, playing in the sand at a river with her mother. Photo: Manoj
Another part of the Hindu temple in Manakala, Nepal Photo: Kandel Another part of the Hindu temple in Nepal. Photo: Kandel
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 25
‘I am not just a typical statistic’ Picture yourself sitting in the waiting room of an overly sanitized doctor’s office. Waiting to hear results that could change your life forever. Waiting to see what you’re going to do next. A nurse comes out and pulls you to the side and asks if you can contact your parents. What you were most afraid of has happened: you’re pregnant. These days most teenage girls are worried about having the best clothes, the cutest relationships, and how many likes they can get on Instagram. There are a few, however, that walk the halls with much larger problems, such as taking care of another human. “I had no clue that I was pregnant until I went to be put on birth control and they took a pregnancy test,” junior Viktorea Rosas said. “I was super scared, because I didn’t want to tell my parents.” Viktorea’s stepmother was at the appointment with her when she received the news. Both she and Viktorea’s father, Juan, were on the same page about the pregnancy. “I was shocked and severely disappointed in her,” Mrs. Rachael Rosas said. “I knew she would want to keep the baby and I truly believed she had ruined her 26
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
future.” Though this experience will change Viktorea’s life forever, she knew from the start that she was going to keep her baby. “I wasn’t listening to anyone,” Viktorea said. “I knew I wanted to keep her.” When Viktorea found out she was pregnant, she and her boyfriend had been together for two years already. She believes that even though many people do not believe in high school relationships, she can see their relationship lasting. Her boyfriend’s support, along with her dedication to school, is how she made the decision that she could handle taking on this responsibility. “I’ve been through a lot, so I kind of see it as just another thing that I can deal with,” Viktorea said. Teen pregnancy no doubt comes with ups and downs. Coming to school with morning sickness and the stress of staying on top of schoolwork was something Viktorea struggled with. “I feel like most people were really supportive, I mean, I know people talk. And I don’t really have any close friends here anymore, but I think everybody is pretty fair about it,” Viktorea said. A&E
PERSPECTIVE
The experience that changed the life of one student forever. BY ALLY FRAZEE
Viktorea worked up until two days before she gave birth to her daughter, Layla. Thanks to her hard work she has a good amount of money to support herself and her daughter along with help from the state. “My parents offer to help, but I don’t want it to become their problem. It’s what I did so I try asking for help as little as possible,” Viktorea said. One of the things that has changed remarkably for Rosas is the relationship with her parents. “Before, I was always getting in trouble and we never saw eye to eye on things, but now that I have my own kid,
it’s like I know how I would feel if she was acting that way. I think that has made us closer,” Viktorea said. “ I really never realized how much I would love my kid. You really don’t realize how much your parents love you.” Not only has Viktorea realized what it’s like to be a parent, but she also had to realize that having a kid means she had to grow up. “It’s not really about me anymore. It’s about her all the time,” Viktorea said. “Pretty much everything I did before was me doing dumb things that I thought were fun, but now that I have her, I’m a lot happier person.” Having a baby at home while still being a teenager has undoubtedly changed Viktorea personally, but it also has an effect on the family dynamic within the Rosas household. “I love my granddaughter but we still have young children of our own,” Rachael said. “It would have been nice to get all of our kids out of the house and in college before we became grandparents.”
Having a baby has pushed Viktorea beyond barriers that most of us can never even imagine, and even though it may not be the best thing to happen to a teenager, she is making the best out of it. “It’s been beautiful, and very emotional. It’s life changing,” Viktorea said. “Obviously I made a mistake, and it’s not the ideal situation, but I don’t want people to judge me wrong.” Though this situation was eye opening to Viktorea, there have been some downfalls. Rachael agrees that Viktorea has matured and is a great mom, but she sees the impact pregnancy has had on her stepdaughter. “She doesn’t have as many friends as she used to and she is having to grow up really quick,” Rachael said. “Now that she has a baby, she is stuck going to college here, which is unfortunate because being an honors student, she could have went anywhere she wanted.” Teen pregnancy is something that is frowned upon by many and accepted by few. If
there were anything to be learned from Viktorea’s experience, it would be to make the best out of the situation you’re in. “Because you can do it, and I am responsible for her [Layla]. I just want people to know that I’m a good mom, I am not just a typical statistic,” Viktorea said.
Layla Evelia Macias Rosas Viktorea was induced at 9 a.m. on July 15, 2014. Four hours later, she gave birth to Layla, who was a healthy six pounds, four ounces, and 19 inches. PHOTOS: VIKTOREA ROSAS OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
27
Courtney Pickering has increasingly gotten better throughout her running career. BY HANNAH CAHILL
Going the distance 28
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
The man in the orange vest raises his left hand. Toes scrunch up against the white line as anxious fingers twitch. Tiny silver prongs gleam from under everyone’s shoes, yearning to bite into the ground. Watches tick slowly as the man with the orange vest raises his other hand into the air. As the trigger of the pop gun is pulled, a Monarch races to the front of the pack, hoping that she will win. Courtney Pickering is a junior who runs on the varsity cross country team. She started cross country in seventh grade, but was indifferent about the sport. “I liked it [cross country] the first year ACTION
A&E
but the second year my friend Marissa didn’t do it, so I really wasn’t motivated,” Pickering said. “I stuck with it because my parents wanted me to.” Because of this, Pickering didn’t try her hardest; therefore, she wasn’t the fastest on the eighth grade team. “I didn’t really care. I would always run with someone on the team and it didn’t bother me, because I didn’t care,” Pickering said. But when it came time for track season, Pickering had a change of heart. Pickering claims that she did very well in track her eighth grade year, which got her really motivated.
PERSPECTIVE
She ran a 5:53 mile her eighth grade year and continued to improve in ninth and tenth grade, running a 5:40 and a 5:30 mile respectively. “At first I was surprised I improved so much because I didn’t know I could go that fast,” Pickering said. From junior high to high school, the distance required for a cross country meet increased by 1.3 miles. Pickering needed a lot of support for this transition, which was given mainly by her dad. “My dad is a big cross country guy and he does a lot of research for it,” Pickering said. “He’s very hands-on in the
cross country world.” Pickering not only received support from her dad, but encouragement and support from her friends and cross country teammates as well. “I’m proud of her because she always improves her times and she always tries her best,” sophomore Claire Neil said. With all this support, Pickering improved her times every year and her sophomore year, all her hard work
paid off. At state cross country, Pickering placed seventh. Now Pickering is aiming even higher. “I would like to get under 19 minutes in a 5k, and I would like to place top five in state,” Pickering said. Now an upperclassman, Pickering must be a leader and an example for the underclassmen, and to encourage them that it takes hard work and heart to get to the top. “I thought that [Courtney] was a really
good runner and really supportive. She’s really nice and gets people to work their hardest,” freshman Jordyn Dvorak said. “She’s a great team leader because she never tries to cheat herself.” The seniors of the cross country team are leaving knowing that there will be a leader to take over for them. “I am leaving the team in very good hands. Courtney never lets us down and is always fun but hardworking and determined all at
the same time,” senior Breanne Ponack said. With all her accomplishments from seventh grade on, Pickering is still trying to beat her times and make and break new goals. “I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I still have a long way to go,” Pickering said. PHOTOS: HANNAH CAHILL, ZARINA LEHMANN & MRS. PICKERING
Pre-race routine Dinner (Night before): Pasta dish Bread
Breakfast: Raspberries Luna Bar
Lunch: Turkey Sandwich Carrots Milk Veggie Straws OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 29
Stickball gets sighted Students explain how they play an uncommon sport. BY MATTHEW WALTERS 10 men running on the field. 10 sticks waving through the air. This isn’t baseball or tennis, this is lacrosse. Originally known as stickball, lacrosse originated from Native Americans. It used to be played on large fields with many more players than what teams use today. Like many sports, lacrosse has changed over the years. It is now played on fields similar to that of the size of soccer fields, and also has a much smaller amount of players. Lacrosse is a sport similar to that of hockey. But instead of skating on ice and hitting a puck into a goal, a team is running on a field,
constantly passing a ball to one another with lacrosse sticks and scoring it in the opposing team’s goal. What sounds like an otherwise unknown sport is actually played by several students. Seven students are on the team: seniors Cole Pauley, Danny Newton, Tanner Murphy, Logan Murcek, Grant Murcek, Dalton Wacker and junior Zach Christie. “This is my fourth year on the team,” Pauley said. “I heard about it from our goalie [Christie] when I was a freshman.” Since the team hasn’t been an official sport here, only word of mouth has reached its current players. “The Murceks and I actually joined on the spur of the moment,” Murphy said. “They told
Students practice in a small match against eachother. Photo: Matthew Walters
30
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
me there was a fall ball practice for lacrosse, which I had never played before, and I was actually there that night.” Like any sport, lacrosse has different versions of playing the game. One version is field lacrosse, which is what the team plays. In field lacrosse, there are 10 men on the field consisting of one goalie, three defense players, three midfield players, and three attacking players. “We have more than one coach,” Pauley said. “We have two head coaches who teach offensive and defensive techniques, and we have another two coaches who teach conditioning and stickskills.” Lacrosse has a state championship in May here in Nebraska, where the top eight teams in the state compete.
Cole Pauley Senior 4th year on team Defense
Tanner Murphy Senior 3rd year on team Midfielder Grant Murcek Senior 3rd year on team Midfielder
The LAX Crew
Logan Murcek Senior 3rd year on team Midfielder
Zach Christie Junior 6th year on team Goalie
Danny Newton Senior 2nd year on team Defense OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 31
Injuries?
More like...
INJUR
KNEES With competitive sports comes added pressure, extra stress and an increased risk of injury. BY KELLEY RYAN
Teen girls are eight to ten times more likely than guys to tear their ACL according to Teen Health.org. Monarch girl athletes still don’t hold back. Once players learn they are injured one of the first thoughts to strike is that there is nothing left for them to do; however, sometimes they are handed even more responsibility. “I am the leader, and I help the underclassmen more on their confidence, and when they get into their own head,” junior center fielder Sara Sempek said. When someone is demoted to the bench due to injury they will do just about anything to help their team be successful. “Now that I have an injury the most I can do is cheer and be there for the team,” junior middle blocker Olivia Flott said.
32
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
“Our team always plays well when people are cheering for them.” They also have supporters themselves. Their teammates, parents, and friends are all behind them 100%. “Everyday I’ve had people ask me how my knee is and when my surgery is and will tell me good luck,” Sempek said. Flott had surgery on her knee July 25 and Sempek had hers Sept. 11. “I was really lazy, but the worst part about it was not being able to do anything about it because I always want to be active and moving,” Flott said. Despite the injury, surgery, and rehab, the most difficult part was not being able to play. “We’ve lost two games and it’s hard because you can’t do anything about it you’ll just sit there,”
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Sempek said. Sitting sideline all the time can also cause the connection that players have with the rest of the team to weaken. “I’m not involved with the team as much as I was. I go to all the games and I really liked the connection we had,” Flott said.” We were more like a family than a team and I wish I had a bigger role than just cheering.” Playing again after six months might be intimidating because Flott doesn’t want to tweak something, but if she is “more mentally tough than physical” the injury should not get in her way. “I plan to come back even stronger,” Flott said. “After my recovery I’m going to do a lot more active things because I don’t want to take anything for granted.”
the story Sara Sempek
Sara was in the outfield with Julia Andersen at practice when a ball was hit in between them. They were both sprinting for it and Julia called it last second so Sara just stopped and her knee popped. She kept playing, but her leg would give out and she would fall.
Olivia Flott
Olivia participated in a Creighton volleyball camp. She was going up for a block alongside another player and when she came down she landed on the her teammates shoe causing her knee to twist and then pop.
Other fall sport injuries
Sara Kneifl Center Herniated L5 disc
Cameron Teel Running back and corner Torn ACL, Meniscus, and labrum in shoulder OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 33
PLAYOFFS ARE UPON US College football has replaced the BCS system with a college football playoff. BY DYLAN NICHOLSON Imagine two triple overtime games to decide who will play for the National Championship. Outcomes like this will be a possibility in college football due to the playoff system that will be implemented this year. Although the BCS provided the country with plenty of great games and memories, it was a flawed system in the eyes of most people. “I feel like we never crowned a true champion,” sophomore Tyler Tomanek said. In 2003 the BCS robbed the USC Trojans by not letting them play in the championship game, but they were number one in the AP and coaches poll. It created a split champion, which was what the BCS was meant to eliminate. The new playoff system works to fix that problem by establishing a four team playoff, which is chosen by a selection committee of 13 people. “The best part of the playoff system is that it has actual people picking the playoff and not the computers. The computers didn’t watch the game and see how good a team really was it just saw who won and lost, which is the opposite of what the committee will do,”
The College Football Playoff Championship trophy will be presented to the winner on Jan. 12 P H OTO: J O E F A RAO N I/ E S P N I M AG E S
34
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Tomanek said. The playoff system will also give us three playoff games along with six bowl games on New Years day called the “New Years Six”. The six bowl games will be the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl and the Peach Bowl. “I like the playoffs because it gives us more big games to watch and gives more teams a chance to win a championship,” sophomore Clay Madson said. Although the playoff system will fix some of the problems for the BCS, it will have some of its own growing pains as they see what will work best to crown a champion. “I don’t think that current athletic directors should be on the selection committee,” Madson said. Another frequently discussed flaw of the college football playoffs is the fact that only four teams are chosen to be included in the playoffs. “I think having four teams in the playoff isn’t the best. I think what they could do to make that better is if they expanded the playoff to 16 teams like they have in the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision),” Tomanek said. With a new college football season upon us, the country welcomes in a new postseason system. There will be good things, there will be great things, and then there will be bad things. There will be growing pains of the system, but that is what makes College Football so exciting. Let the playoffs begin.
GAMES TO WATCH Notre Dame @ Florida State Oct. 18
Texas A&M @ Auburn Nov. 8
Texas A&M @ Alabama Oct. 18
Notre Dame @ Arizona St. Nov. 8
South Carolina @ Auburn Oct. 25
Auburn @ Georgia Nov. 15
Ole Miss @ LSU Oct 25
Missouri @ Texas A&M Nov. 15
Stanford @ Oregon Nov. 1
Nebraska @ Wisconsin Nov. 15
Alabama @ LSU Nov. 8
USC @ UCLA Nov. 22
Baylor @ Oklahoma Nov. 8
Miss. State @ Ole Miss Nov. 29
The Monarchs’ Main Teams Nebraska: 29 Votes Oregon: 4 Votes Texas: 6 Votes Iowa: 7 Votes Wisconsin: 2 Votes Stanford: 9 Votes Oklahoma: 13 Votes Texas A&M: 4 Votes Florida State: 5 Votes Notre Dame: 9 Votes OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 35
Same Hate, Just Late
PLHS and other schools find their rivalry games rearranged after NSAA reduces districts from five to four. BY HANNAH EDELMAN
36
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
“
Senior football players have looked forward to this game their entire high school career.
The district changes are not a big deal for me. We need to be prepared for whatever team we play regardless of who’s on the schedule.
“
Paint chips cover the bleachers while deafening screams pierce the cold air. The atmosphere is electric. Welcome to the Monarch-Titan game. The ceremonial first game against the Papillion-La Vista South Titans has been a tradition for the previous six seasons; but the times, they are a changin’. For eight of the last 11 years, the Monarchs have kicked off the season playing the Titans. This year it was different. The NSAA reduced the districts from five to four, putting traditional first game rivalry games on hold. The Monarchs were not the only school to find their rivalry games rearranged; the Bellevue West-Bellevue East and Creighton Prep-Westside rivalry games were also moved to later in the season.
JUNIOR CAL MATHISON
“I don’t really like the district changes. I wish we still played Papio South first. It was something to look forward to and
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
help get through the hard summer practices,” senior Kevin Long said. Football players weren't the only ones who looked forward to this cross-town rivalry game. Being in the front of the student section and leading cheers was something every senior looked forward to. “Not playing Papio South first changes the mood for the rest of the season. It’s always been a tradition, so having it changed is definitely a bummer, especially for the seniors,” senior Marissa Johnson said. For others, the MonarchTitan battle, was just another game. “In all honesty, I think the Papio South game is overrated,” junior Cal Mathison said. “Yes, it’s a cross-town rivalry. Yes, I want to beat them every year, but I want
to beat everyone every year no matter who they are. I don’t care when we play them.” No matter what their stance on the Monarch-Titan game, students seemed to agree on one thing. “It’s a ton of fun sitting in the front row and being in the middle of the action. Having a student section that is loud and cheers is amazing,” senior Garrett Graveline said. The feeling of being under the Friday night lights is something only players can understand. “The best part of the season is going out on Friday nights and playing in front of Monarch Nation,” Long said.
Senior quarterback Jack Kalina passes the ball for one of his 28 completions in the game against Creighton Prep. PHOTO: HANNAH EDELMAN
2014-2015 Football District Assignments District A-1
District A-2
Lincoln High Lincoln North Star Lincoln Southwest Millard North Omaha Northwest Papillion-La Vista Papillion-La Vista South
Kearney Lincoln East Lincoln Southeast Millard West Norfolk North Platte Omaha Bryan
District A-3
District A-4
Bellevue East Bellevue West Creighton Prep Omaha Central Omaha North Omaha South South Sioux City
Columbus Fremont Grand Island Lincoln Northeast Millard South Omaha Burke Omaha Westside
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
37
Domination on the
Diamond As the PLHS softball team’s impressive season comes to a close, they hope to return to the state tournament stronger than ever before. Emma Dargy gets in position to field a ground ball.
BY TREVOR JURJEVICH
Redemption. It’s something that is hard to encounter and even more difficult to achieve. The PLHS varsity softball team has been working toward putting a check mark in both of those boxes this season. After a second-place finish at the state tournament last year, this 21-girl squad is having a season to remember this year, as they continue to rack up wins every week leading up to the state tournament. “This season is going pretty well,” senior Alicia Baca said. “We have our ups and downs, but when we work together we get it done.” The Monarchs have beat some quality competition, including a 5-4 victory over Omaha Marian, and an 8-7 victory over Millard South. They also lost to Papillion-La Vista South by a score of 6-5; which, in their opinion, was
38
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
a major upset. Week in and week out though, this group of girls got it done, one way or another. Sure, it takes the right mindset in order to do that. But it also takes players with the high-caliber talent, which the Monarchs possess. “[Our team is] very talented. We have a lot of depth throughout the dugout with a variety of skills,” senior Kylee Bainbridge said. Senior Amanda Butera also considered the softball team to be “the best team in the state” because they fight through adversity and count on each other for anything. Having talent is only part of a successful team, though. The bond between all of the players is equally as important as the skills that each of them present. “We have good team
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
Julia Andersen watches her pitch as it floats to the catcher.
chemistry,” junior Sam Dellinger said. “We’ve worked really hard this season. We have each other’s backs.” While there are things that every team does almost perfectly, it is obvious that there are always things that need improvement. With the state tournament wrapping up this weekend, the Monarch softball team also looks to improve on some aspects of their game. “We need to improve on staying consistent and playing at our level all the time,” Bainbridge said. Being consistent proves to be the factor that distinguishes the good teams from the great ones. Clearly, a team’s kryptonite isn’t always something that can be changed with the snap of a finger. “[Our] weakness is staying positive and communicating with
Jordan Kimball lines a single up the middle against Omaha Central.
each other,” Baca said. Things like these prove to be setbacks for most teams, but it’s a form of motivation for this group. Motivation also reveal’s itself through the team’s consistent strengths. “[Our] strengths are the amount of depth in each position, great pitchers, and a powerful lineup,” Baca said. These three things separate the Monarchs from all the other teams out there. It should give them an advantage when it comes time to take the field in Hastings for the state tournament. “I think if we continue to work hard enough everyday and if everyone plays their best, we have a good chance [to win the state tournament],” Baca said. A state title seems so close to the players, and all of their work they have put into softball is the
reason they believe that they should be crowned champions. “We deserve to win state because we all work so hard,” Bainbridge said. “We put so much time and effort leading up to state.” The Monarchs possess some of the top pitchers and hottest bats in the state, which is why they prove to be the team every other one strives to beat. Physical talent isn’t the only thing that defines a team, though. “We’re special because we aren’t just a team, we’re a family,” Butera said. “We all have each other’s backs on and off the field.” So, as the season winds down and teams are eliminated from title contention every day, just know that the PLHS softball team has a good chance of
being the last one standing. Last year’s second-place finish does not hold back the team this season, nor will it hold them back from putting 100% of their effort into their cause. “We came so close to winning last year and just didn’t get it done,” Butera said. “This year we have really focused on doing a little extra every practice and pushing ourselves all the time.” All the long practices, extra hacks in batting practice, and hard work will eventually pay off for the Monarchs. As the regular season and district play comes down the stretch, hopefully the PLHS softball team finds themselves in Hastings, hoisting that ever-so-precious state champion trophy.
Sam Dellinger connects with the pitch from an Omaha Central pitcher.
Photos: Hannah Edelman, Lindsey Lafond, Shane Sedlak, Cameron Houser, Hannah Cahill OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 39
The Good, The Bad and
The Falafel
PHOTO: SAM LAUGHLIN
There are many restaurants in the Omaha Metroplex; however, none are as unique as Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob. BY SAM LAUGHLIN If you are looking for a new style of cuisine, or even just a mixup on a Wednesday lunch, look no further than Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob. This snug restaurant provides a calm environment with an original selection of meals. As I entered the colorful building, the scent of fresh vegetables snuck into my nose. I felt the good vibes omitted from the very stylish walls and decorations that were littered across the room. I couldn’t help but notice the limited menu that was chalked upon the wall above the drinks. Although there wasn’t much on the menu, the prices were very reasonable with kabob and falafel sandwiches ranging from three to five dollars. I found myself ordering a falafel sandwich, a Doner kabob and an order of curry fries. This was more than enough as I discovered how filling these sandwiches were. First, I sunk into the
40
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
unknown world of falafel. Like many Americans, I was very unfamiliar with Middle-Eastern cuisine, so like anyone else, I was slightly tentative in my approach. This sandwich is a unique one that is wrapped in a footballshaped bread cup and is filled to the absolute brim with all sorts of vegetables. It was like eating a delectable salad wrapped in warm flat bread. The taste was one that couldn’t be compared to anything else. However, I could really taste the earthy and unbelievably healthy ingredients. Be sure to grab extra napkins, as it can get very messy! The sandwich was full of miniature falafel patties. I was pleasantly surprised by the rich, crunchy flavor they possessed. I would highly recommend the falafel sandwich to anyone who’s a vegetarian, looking for a healthy meal or just trying to mix it up. Next up on my set list of Middle Eastern entrees was the Doner kabob and curry fries. This sandwich was a lot like the falafel sandwich but contained lamb meat, and a lot of it, I might add. In my personal opinion, this was more appetizing because of the various flavors but both were equally as filling. The lamb
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
certainly provided great taste and tenderness. Other than that, however, there wasn’t a great difference between the two sandwiches. As far as side orders, the curry fries were certainly satisfying and I enjoyed my meal with a refreshing grape soda. I never had the chance to try any of the soups or hummus because of how full I became from the food, but if they’re anything like their other choices, I would expect them to be satisfying. Amsterdam Falafel and Kabob provides a great hipster twist on a casual lunch and certainly leaves oneself yearning for a mid afternoon nap. I was very pleased with the polite staff and the good service. I will certainly find myself in Amsterdam the next time I get the chance. If you find yourself in Dundee, be sure to check it out and sink into the ever-so satisfying galaxy that is falafel and kabob.
Final Review:
4 out of 5 stars
402-504-3223 620 N 50th St, Omaha 68132
Middle Eastern Cuisine, In Depth
Middle Eastern food such as falafel or hummus is something many people might not get the chance to experience in their life. It is described in detail here.
Falafel Sandwich Take one bite of this sizable sandwich, and you’ll be in love. Stuffed full of fresh vegetable salad, crispy handmade chickpea patties (that’s the falafel part), enveloped in two slices of warm flatbread. This vegetarian monster will have you full in no time.
BY WILL SYNOWIECKI
Curry Fries They are classic salty, crispy, frenchfries, with a twist. Each batch is given a dash of crimson curry spice, which gives quite an exquisite taste. Garlic, herb or spicy sauce can be added for the customers’ dipping pleasure.
PHOTO: WILL SYNOWIECKI
Doner Kabob Sandwich It starts with thin-sliced, juicy, tender lamb meat. Next is an assortment of fresh, diced vegetables. Finally it is all wrapped in a toasty flatbread. For only 50 cents the customer can add creamy hummus and flavorsome feta cheese.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 41
Nightmare on Centennial Play production students present the inaugural PLHS haunted house. BY ALLY SARGUS
As a typical high school student we know that money does not grow on trees. During the fall, students start to notice the absurd prices of teenage entertainment, such as local haunted houses that range from $10-$30, but hardly even frighten. This year, the Papillion-La Vista High School play production class has taken on the challenge to present the inaugural PLHS haunted house at an affordable cost. This haunted house is only $3, and the proceeds go toward the fine arts department for their trip to Chicago in March. This event will take place on Oct. 30, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. in the auditorium, and all ages are welcome. “It’s going to be creative and unique, and I think it’s a really good idea because no other school puts on a haunted house, so for our department to do it will definitely attract people,” senior Zach Benak said. Although the play production class is in charge of the entire attraction, they have enlisted help from band members and choir students. “When I proposed it to my play production class, the response was overwhelmingly excited and enthusiastic and I think it’s going to be very successful,” drama teacher Mrs. Molly Grasso said.
42
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
The school has a variety of talented students that are committed to performing for people. They spend every day on stage trying to intrigue their audiences, and as teenagers they know exactly what will scare their peers. “I’m looking forward to being a part of it because I’ve never been a part of a haunted house before,” Benak said. Play production hopes the school will come together and support the fine arts department on their hard work and determination to give their fellow Monarchs what they want to see. People should try to attend because Grasso, as well as some of her students, have behind-thescenes experience with haunted houses, such as McCormicks and Bellevue Berry Farm. The PLHS haunted house promises to terrify the community unlike any other haunted attraction Senior Maddy Russell, poses for a porcelain doll photoshoot to publicize their haunted they have seen. At a low price, house. students will be able to see these actors in action, and support the fine arts department as well.
What scares YOU?
“Cobwebs and smoke definitely creep me out.” - Junior Makenzi Zikas
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
“I am deathly afraid of clowns, especially ones that jump out at you.” - Junior Taylor Brown
“I like when they’re allowed to mess with you, and when they chase you with chainsaws.” - Sophomore Blake Hamel
Classic Flair or
New Scare?
Classic horror outscares modern horror with its realistic fears.
BY NIKKI THOMAS
October is upon us, and during this time we seem to be in the mood to scare ourselves. Horror movies are a very popular option to accomplish this. Some movies are gory, suspenseful and/or thrilling. Saying there is a variety of horror films is an understatement. But are classic or modern horror movies better? The answer is classic. Newer films are all about gore and visuals. Horror is more of a sense than a visual. Classic movies like “Rosemary’s Baby” and pretty much any Alfred Hitchcock movie are
more about feeling. They give you that feeling that something is wrong and keep the suspense going. New movies tend to just jump right into the horror, leaving no suspense or thrill. Modern horror is generally all about jump-scares, or when something abruptly pops out during a scene to create the scare. Classic horror focuses on situations that could actually happen in real life. Older movies took place in a more peaceful time; horror films opened up new horizons for people generating more fear. The possibility
of those classic plots happening in reality made them scarier. Nowadays crazy things are happening all over the world so our fears are not as simple as they were back in the classic film era. Filmmakers have to think of new fictitious plots to create a better scare. Since the subject is unrealistic it doesn’t make it as terrifying. I don’t really think I have to worry about my town being taken over by aliens like in “District 9” as opposed to worrying about a psychopathic killer like “Friday the 13th.” An alien invasion is
highly unlikely, but there is a possibility that a mentally damaged child with mommy issues can put on a hockey mask and go on a killing spree. A good majority of modern films are actually remakes of older movies such as: “The Thing,” “Nightmare on Elm Street,” and “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Although, they try to add a more modern twist on the film, which is why the classic film is usually better. If you’re in a scary mood, try a classic movie to get a good fearful feeling, instead of a cliché modern film.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 43
Gamers BEWARE:
Jumpscares! Horror gaming is at its peak, showing large amounts of approval on all kinds of platforms. BY JONATHAN GREENFIELD
44
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
Fighting for a chance to escape; constant fear and piercing silence. Sweat rolls down your forehead as your heartbeat grows faster, just waiting for the moment when something jumps out for a scare. Horror gaming has been growing more popular over the past few years, hitting high ratings on platforms including PlayStation, Xbox and PC. The horror experience expands to mobile devices; perfect for on the go scares. “Outlast,” developed for PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, takes place in a broke down asylum that has been testing on humans against their will to develop a secret plan they call Project Walrider. The main protagonist is Miles Upshur, a reporter who receives a mysterious email noting the activities of Mount Massive Asylum in which he must expose for the world to see. In “Outlast,” there is no offense. Upshur is armed only with a camera and a battery with which he can record significant moments and write down his thoughts in his journal, which the player can then access. Also, the camera does have night vision but is limited to the amount of batteries the player has found throughout the game. Entering the asylum, Upshur faces fear immediately, surrounded by the horror of the outcome of human testing shown on the patient’s physical appearances, A&E
PERSPECTIVE
attitude and aggressiveness. The protagonist must find a way out of the asylum but faces many challenges ahead of him while slowly uncovering the true purpose of Mount Massive Asylum. “Outlast” may be the epitome of new generation gaming horror, showing off true mechanics, exquisite graphics, thrilling gameplay and a jawdropping story. For all horror loving gamers, this is the game for you. “Five Nights At Freddy’s,” for smartphones, tablets and PC, is a point and click horror game that requires constant attention, making the jumpscares so much more intense. The game has five levels, which continuously get more difficult. The main character is working at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria in the night shift for five nights. He must remain isolated in a surveillance room with a limited amount of power. The power is used for shutting the only two doors in the room, watching the cameras and turning on the hallway lights past the doors. At the start of every night, the player will get a call informing him of the caution he or she must take in order to ‘survive’ each night. The animatronics are known for being active at night, moving closer to you at a faster rate as the night progresses. The ‘phone guy’ notes that they may mistake the player for an inner skeleton and
stuff him or her in one of the other animatronics. The goal is to make it until 6 a.m. when each shift ends. There are four active animatronic characters - Freddy Fazbear, Bonnie the Bunny, Chica the Chicken and Foxy the Pirate Fox. The only way to survive is to monitor the cameras, use the lights, and close the doors when the animatronics are close, all while conserving power. “Five Nights at Freddy’s” is a simple yet very terrifying game, making it impossible for the player to take their eyes off the screen. The atmosphere is creepy, the gameplay is fast paced and the secret backstory is phenomenal. There is also a hidden easter egg that is worth the work to find. “Five Night’s” might be one of horror’s scariest games yet, recommended to any kind of person who wants an adrenaline rush. Horror has invaded the gaming industry for decades. YouTube has become very popular for horror ‘Let’s Play’ videos and reaction compilations. Any self-respecting gamer should turn off their lights, plug in their headphones, and enjoy a couple scares.
3 Tips for Outlast 1) Never fight back. Hide in lockers or under beds. If that doesn’t work, run. 2) Conserve your battery. Save night vision for when it’s really needed and search around for batteries in the area. 3) Look for documents and record significant events with your camera. Documents uncover a lot of information about your enemies, the asylum, and danger zones.
8.7 10 OUTLAST (PS4) IGN Community Ratings
3 Tips for Five Nights 1) Conserve power! Leave the doors open at all times unless needed and turn on lights occasionally. Monitor the cameras every once in a while without wasting power. 2) Look for changes in the environment. If an animatronic moves, make sure you know where it went. If Foxy has left his area find him quickly; he may be the most dangerous. Also, secrets hide within every change; the animatronics aren’t the only things that seem to change. 3) Listen carefully to what the man behind the voicemail has to say. He has vital information and is your only ally throughout the game.
4.07
5
FIVE NIGHTS (PC) GameFaqs Community Ratings
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER 45
ME A
AS K
Get inside the heads of your fellow students, teachers and administrators at PLHS! BY EMMA DARGY
If you could be any super hero, who would you be and why?
- Mr. Freeze... Is that even a super hero? Anyway, it would be to agitate my wife. She doesn’t like the cold. - Mr. Dave Hubert
N Y T H I N
What is your favorite sound and why? - “Skeeerrrrt” because it’s my life motto. - Junior Elizabeth Rollin
If you could go back in time, what event would you want to witness and why? - The attack on the World Trade Center because I would try and stop the terrorists. - Freshman Nathan Grauf
If you could speak any other language than English fluently, what language would you speak and why? - Spanish because then Spanish class would be easy. - Sophomore Eli Ausenbaugh
If you could know the answer to any question in life, what would you ask? - How am I going to die? - Senior Ellie McDonnell
What song would you pick to represent your life? - “Wild Thing” by The Troggs. - Mr. Jeff Govier
If you could be any inanimate object, what would you be?
- Can I pick what I wouldn’t be? Because I wouldn’t be a stapler. - Mrs. Lucy Dorcy 46
HAPPENINGS
SPOTLIGHT
ACTION
A&E
PERSPECTIVE
G
Do It! Do It! Do It! Cheer! This year’s Monarch student section is loud, proud, and as excited as ever to cheer on all Monarch athletics.
BY ETHAN WOLBACH This year’s senior class looks to make Monarch Nation the loudest and most remembered student section of all time. With high expectations, students of PLHS look to be an influence at all sporting events. With a senior class that bleeds maroon and gold there is no lack of school spirit when it comes to the leaders of Monarch Nation, the self proclaimed name of the student section. Game in and game out there is an abundance of seniors ready to lead cheers and support Monarch athletics. Seniors Cole Childers, BJ Sparks and Jason Calderon look forward to their final year of cheering on Monarch sports. “PLHS has the best athletic tradition in the state, and I can’t wait to continue the tradition,” Childers said. Being a part of a winning boys and girls athletic program, students feel a need to show their true pride and school spirit for their teams. “I am very excited to attend as many events as possible this year. With high expectations it should be fun to cheer on our teams,” Sparks said. Many of the seniors have been attending Monarch sporting events since freshman year and are ready to lead the student section. “We all have a lot of pride in our school and want to help all teams win every game,” Calderon said. Every game day there is an excited buzz that fills the halls of
Papio students cheer on the Varsity volleyball team in their victory against Papio South. PHOTO: KYLIE LIPPINCOTT
PLHS with the excitement of that night’s game. “I get excited for every game, especially any Papio vs. Papio South game,” Calderon said.
A True Monarch Fan 1. Is always Loud! 2. Is Proud of our school! 3. Believes that Monarch Nation makes a difference.
Most Fridays are a blur for students that are amped to get to the field and cheer on the Monarchs. With a large tailgate before every game, there is plenty of hype among students attending. “Tailgating with the bros before every game is always a blast,” Childers said. There is no better feeling than being accepted. That is exactly how this year’s seniors hope to make the largest freshman class in PLHS history feel. “With how many freshmen there are, we want to make them
feel welcome in Monarch Nation so they actually feel like they make a difference and want to cheer,” Sparks said. “The more the merrier,” Childers said. “The more students we have attending games, the louder Monarch Nation can get.” Many of this year’s seniors have a strong reputation for school spirit. Underclassmen definitely have a senior class to learn from. “The seniors this year are great and fun people that really know how to run Monarch Nation the right way,” junior Johnny Zurcher said. As Monarch Nation aims to be one of the loudest student sections, senior leaders have a few words of advice to all students planning on attending games. “Be loud, be proud and cheer loud. That is all we ask of students attending games,” Calderon said. With a passionate group of seniors leading Monarch Nation, there is no doubt that school spirit will be flowing through the halls of PLHS year round. Come be a part of the tradition and cheer on all Monarch athletics as a part of Monarch Nation.
OCTOBER 2014
THE SCEPTER
47