The Dispatch, Vol. 33, Issue #1 11/03/20

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October 31 Halloween November 3 Election Day, No School November 6 End of second grading period

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Vol. 33, Issue 1 www.thedispatchonline.net James Bowie High School 4103 W. Slaughter Lane Austin TX, 78749

Pride in Publishing

First presidential debate

Students reflect on the program's political and social impact

STUDENT POLL

Cade Spencer Editor-in-Chief

POLL DATA

192 STUDENTS POLLED 10/ 9-13/ 2020; Polled via Google Forms 116 Females, 71 Males, 5 Other 77 Seniors, 46 Juniors, 36 Sophomores, 33 Freshmen

Which presidential candidate's debate performance had a more effective appeal to voters?

17.2% TRUMP

82.8% BIDEN

Lily Albini Senior

The debate didn't influence my view on the candidates. It confirmed my opinion that Trump is unfit to be president, and I felt bad for Biden because he couldn't speak without interruption.

What was the most important issue discussed at the debate?

57.3% COVID-19

4.7% Law

20.8% Race

1.0% SCOTUS

15.1% Economy

1.0% Election

Did the debate influence who you support in a significant way?

78.1% NO

21.9% YES

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Steven Horton Junior

The debate itself did not really have a huge impact on who I support for president, solely because I believe it was a huge mess. However, I am still in favor of Joe Biden.

ART BY Cade Spencer

COVID-19 to be the most pressing issue at the debate and in the upcoming election.

“This virus is affecting most aspects of life and should be the focus of the president entering office,” Albini said. “Once it is gone, or at least severely decreased, we can make more change [in other issues].”

In an effort to increase student participation in the

PHOTO COURTESY OF Lily Albini

When only given an hour and thirty minutes to appeal directly to the American people, every second counts in the presidential debates. As the Nov. 3 Election Day looms closer, each candidate is working tirelessly to cement their bases and coalitions.

On Sept. 29, the two candidates, incumbent Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden, participated in the first of two presidential debates.

“The debate made me feel disappointed in both candidates, due to the lack of professionalism on both ends, with all the interruptions and insults, instead of using the format of the debate,” senior Adam Neill said. “I believe Trump's debate performance had more of an effective appeal because he seemed to know exactly what he was saying and could back up his arguments.”

In a recent Dispatch poll, 82.8 percent of students considered Biden’s debate performance to have had a more effective appeal to voters while 17.2 percent sided with Trump.

“I believe that neither were phenomenal, but I was drawn to Biden’s approach of talking directly to the camera,” senior Lily Albini said. “It made me feel like he was talking directly to me and other voters.”

In order to increase debate efficiency, the program was divided into six topics: Supreme Court, COVID-19, economy, race and violence, law and order, and election integrity.

“While all of these topics are important, I believe the focus needs to be on COVID-19 and race,” AP U.S. History teacher Kaylin Brett said. “While the focus should be on stopping the spread of COVID-19, the next focus needs to be reforming the societal flaws that COVID-19 exposed.”

According to the Dispatch poll, 57.3 percent of student’s believe

PHOTO COURTESY OF Steven Horton

which is expected to be finished by summer 2021, will include a competition gym, practice gym, weight room, training rooms, and administrative offices.

“The new athletic facility will provide increased space with modern amenities for our outstanding athletic programs,” Theis said. “I believe there will be a lot of pride felt and expressed when the Bulldogs practice and compete in their new venue.”

As described by Page Project Architect Jason Fischer, the most innovative feature of the new athletic facility is its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. A project is designated with a LEED certification when it receives a certain amount of points for its green building strategies which are awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.

“It’s a very big deal that AISD strives for LEED certifications for their construction projects, and it shows that they care about the community and the planet,” Fischer said. “Page is thrilled to be a part of the team that will deliver a LEED certified building to James Bowie High School.”

In addition to the modernization of the athletic facility, renovations to the fine arts facilities, including the auditorium, are scheduled to be completed by summer 2022.

"I think that expanding [the auditorium's] backstage would be beneficial for the Starlight Theatre Company," senior Aidan O'Brien said. "If there is more backstage area, it would allow us to have larger sets and to be able to wait for our next cue without having to worry about getting in someone's way due to too little space."

While the closure of campus due to COVID-19 regulations has caused difficulties for students, Theis expressed that it has been beneficial for the campus construction projects.

“The construction company and contractors have been very diligent in adhering to all the safety precautions concerning COVID-19,” Theis said. “[The campus closure] has given the contractors the opportunity to get some work done and begin other projects that would have otherwise had to wait until school breaks when students are not actively on campus.”

coming UP

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Phase 2 of campus modernization underway As the initial phase of the campus modernization project funded by the 2017 Bond Program, the new parking garage, equipped with tennis courts on the fourth story, was completed over the summer.

“It was a great feeling to go to the top of the parking garage around 6:30 a.m. on Monday morning to see the tennis team practicing on the new courts,” Management Assistant to the Principal Debby Theis said.

“There was an element of excitement in the air.”

Since the garage is completed, the tennis team held their first match on the new courts on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

“The tennis courts have really benefited the team because on top of looking nice, we are able to have our own space to play and for spectators to watch away from distractions,” junior Cristina Canepa said.

“The only downside I would say is that the fences are not any higher than regular courts, so it is easy to lose balls into the parking lot.”

Once the new courts were finished, the JE Dunn construction company, alongside Page Architects, began to build the foundation of the new athletic facility on the site of the old tennis courts. The new facility,

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THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

Behind the Fence

Cade Spencer Editor-in-Chief

SAFETY FIRST Review of the effectiveness of mask types as students and staff return to school

CHARACTER VS. POLICY Investigation into the importance and impact of politicians' character versus their policies

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D

TRACKING THE SUPREME COURT Timeline of events following the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and what will happen next

election process, the first district-wide mock election will be held on Oct. 27, allowing all Bowie students to cast an unofficial vote through Naviance for their preferred candidate.

“I do not think that the debate applied specifically to young voters,” Albini said. “I am hoping that young voters are more educated and passionate about social change and the environment, focusing more on

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climate change, LGBTQ+ issues, and racism.”

Before Nov 3., the second and final debate is expected to take place on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT).

“We need a leader that is going unify us to fight this global pandemic,” Brett said. “If people are inspired, they will have hope for the future; they will be able to see optimism.”

Austin City Council approves reallocation of APD budget Carey Wooley Dispatch Reporter

All summer long, downtown Austin was filled with a roar of voices from Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests. Off of I-35, where the Austin Police Department (APD) headquarters are located, BLM protesters gathered, calling for the partial reallocation of the police budget, a movement that gained prominence across the nation after the death of George Floyd.

On Thursday, Aug.13, the Austin City Council released a new budget in which the APD lost roughly $150 million out of its previous $434 million budget. The budget change came in response to local protests, accusations of increases in brutality by Aus-

INDEX

CITYWIDE TENSION: State Trooper patrols Black Lives Matter protest in Austin. In August, the City Council voted to reallocate one-third or $150 million of the $434 million initial APD budget. PHOTO COURTESY OF Lane Elizondo

tin police against protesters, and the shooting of Mike Ramos, an unarmed African

News 1 , 2 Politics 3

Feature 4, 5 Photo Essay 6

American and Latino man.

“My initial reaction when I found out about the realEntertainment 7 In-Depth 8, 9, 16

location was very positive,” sophomore Jillian Lewis said.

“I strongly support defundSports 10, 11 Pop Culture 1 2

ing the police and relocating the money to other organizations and other systems be-

Reviews 13 Commentary 14,15

find us

@jbhs_dispatch

cause I believe the police are over funded as a whole, not just within Austin.”

In phase 1 of the budget plan, about $21 million dollars will be taken out and reallocated. The rest of the selected funds will be taken out in phases for the remainder of this year and into 2021.

“I've never personally seen such a public act of reallocating city money. It happens every year and certain services lose money while others gain money,” history teacher Alejandro Garcia said. “ However, [the budget change] was such a big newsworthy event this year because of the current social climate of the United States.” READ MORE “New

APD budget result of protesters' calls for change” pg. 2

2 NEWS

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

Ginsburg's death leads to uncertain SCOTUS future

Nation faces another Supreme Court controversy leading up to a Presidential election Arushi Sharma News Editor

“If the Supreme Court did overturn Roe v. Wade, we would most likely see conservative states pass On Friday, Sept. 18, 2020, at stricter abortion laws,” Pool said.

SEPT. 9, 2020 SEPT. 26, 2020 OCT. 22, 2020 the age of 87, Associate Justice “Liberal states would most likely Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away The United State President Donald President Donald keep the laws they already have on Senate Judiciary in her home due to complications Trump announced Trump released a list the books.”

Committee will apfrom metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Amy Coney Barrett of Supreme Court While Dick believes that nothing prove or reject Amy as his nominee for nominees, which Throughout her time serving on is changing, Martinez passionately Coney Barrett's the Supreme Court. was his fourth list of the Supreme Court of the Unitfeels that there will be a change in nomination to the nominees. ed States (SCOTUS), Ruth Bader the healthcare system.

Supreme Court.

Ginsburg was called the “Noto“Trump has already made it rious RBG” due to her continual clear that he wants to overturn fight for equality for all.

Obamacare,” Martinez said. “A Many people believe that conservative court would most Ginsburg’s death was a loss felt likely be in favor of that because of SEPT. 18, 2020 OCT. 12, 2020 NOV. 3, 2020 throughout the nation; people the guarantee to cover people with The United State Ruth Bader Ginsburg United States mourned the loss of a woman that Senate Judiciary preexisting conditions, saying that passed away in her Presidential many consider a feminist icon and Committee begins a this mandate would be unconstituhome in Washington Election Day 2020. the loss of a progressive seat on the confirmation hearDC. tional.”

Supreme Court to one segment of ing for Amy Coney Even though three Republicans, Barett.

APPROVE the population, but not to another. including President Trump, tested “I believe Ginsburg's story has positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, inspired millions of people and will Oct. 3, the Senate Judiciary ComREJECT continue to inspire millions after mittee hearings began on Monday, her death,” geography teacher Dal- ART BY Arushi Sharma and Shikha Patel Oct. 12 to consider the nomination ton Pool said. of Judge Barrett. Pool believes that Some people who are active in election is over to appoint a new can Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, Tom Clark said. this hearing won’t have a large imthe government system are con- Supreme Court Justice. Sophomore Cotton of Arkansas, Christopher With the nomination of Barrett, pact on the country as a whole. cerned about the impact of Gins- James Dick believes that the nomi- Landau, and several others. people have mixed opinions about “The impact on Bowie depends burg’s death on the country, in- nation process should not wait un“Every one of these individu- how much of an impact she will more on what our state leaders do cluding junior Paulina Clark who til after the election, just because als will ensure equal justice, equal have on the Suand less on what is concerned about the reality of Ginsburg passed away. treatment and equal rights for cit- preme Court if the Supreme America’s future.

Court does,” “I think the law makes no excep- izens of every race, color, religion she were to be “My initial reaction was tak- tions, not even for the exception- and creed,” Trump said in his an- confirmed.

Pool said. “The If Barrett is elected, en aback, and I was in disbelief at al,” Dick said. “Even if Biden wins, nouncement about his list of po“I think there Supreme Court there will be a what this could mean for me and he will not be sworn in until Janu- tential people to take Ginsburg’s is a chance that determines if the people affected,” Clark said. ary, and Trump would still have the place in the Supreme Court. conservative majority the new Sulaws are consti“I believe that Ginsburg’s death right to nominate a justice.”

Court Because the current SCOTUS preme tutional or unon the court, which has instilled fear into the minds of constitutional; Clark has a different opinion on Justices are divided between five Justice might could affect legal women and the LGBTQ+ commu- when the Supreme Court Justice conservatives and three liberals affect several a Conservative nity, as we face the risk of rulings should be elected. decisions and the after Ginsburg’s death, her replace- decisions, and Supreme Court that benefit us being overturned.” allows conser“The nomination should oc- ment is extremely important for a chance she rights of Americans for Ginsburg was elected to the cur after the election,” Clark said. both the Democratic and Republi- might not,” vative leaders to years.

SCOTUS in 1993 by former Pres- “Before the last election, the nom- can parties.

Dick said. “One pass conservaident Bill Clinton. She served for ination was postponed by Lindsey “If Democrats take back control Justice out of tive laws.”

Elena Martinez 27 years, delivering progressive Graham, as he wasn’t in favor of of the Senate and the Presidency, I nine might not On Sunday, Junior votes on several social issues such Obama’s decision. [Graham] said would not be surprised if they at- have the huge Oct. 22, the as abortion rights, same-sex mar- that he would hold the same stance tempt to change the number of jus- impact some Senate Judiciary riage,immigration,and healthcare.

Committee will if that situation tices who serve on the court,” Pool expect, or may“Ginsburg be Barrett will vote to send the should occur said. was a hero to In contrast, Stampley believes be super passionate and dedicated decision to the full Senate. While again, but now people, but her justices are currently confirmed for he is refusing that the number of liberals com- to such issues.” legacy is going to to honor his pared to conservatives will not Because a Supreme Court Justice life terms, Stampley believes that be important,” Ginsburg was a hero have as large of an impact as some is elected for their entire life and there should be a change to The promise.” history teacher Because The are implying. there are several current issues that Constitution to limit the time a to people, but her Charles Stamp“If a conservative is elected, it’s C o n s t i t u t i o n need to be decided by the Supreme justice serves. legacy is going to be ley said. “I hope “I would like to see term limits states that the not going to be the end of the world Court, junior Elena Martinez beher death is a important. “I hope her current pres- immediately, and at the same time lieves that the next Supreme Court on the Supreme Court to where we reminder of the ident nomi- for the conservatives, it’s not an in- Justice will have a huge impact on don’t have this vicious mud fight death is a reminder rights that she nates the next stant win,” Stampley said. “There important issues that our country every time [a Supreme Court Jusof the rights that she fought for, espetice] is replaced,” Stampley said.

Supreme Court is going to be no doubt a rightward currently faces. cially women’s fought for.

Although there are opposing beJustice, Dick shift to the courts over the next “If Barrett is elected, there will rights and rebelieves that couple of decades.” be a conservative majority on the liefs on when Supreme Court opentired life.”

Charles Stampley On Saturday, Sept. 26, Trump court, which could affect import- ings should be filled, the Barrett postponing the Ginsburg’s n o m i n a t i o n officially announced Judge Amy ant legal decisions and the rights confirmation hearings are ongoing.

History Teacher death, which ocuntil after the Coney Barrett as his nominee for of Americans for years to come,” In terms of what this decision and curred less than election is un- the Associate Justice of the Su- Martinez said. “Issues dealing with other future decisions mean for the seven weeks bepreme Court. Barrett worked as a gun control, health care, criminal country’s future, Martinez believes just. fore the Presi“Postponing it until after the professor of law at the University justice reform, LGBTQ+ rights, that our country needs to come todential Election, stirred up conflict election would be unconstitutional of Notre Dame for 15 years. Then, abortion rights and climate change gether and accept the changes that between the Democratic and Re- and frankly shocking that people Barrett became a clerk for both late will be in danger of being weak- occur. publican parties. The Constitution decide it's okay to just undermine Justice Antonin Scalia and Judge ened or eliminated altogether.”

“Letting go of past prejudices is states that the current President the president,” Dick said.

Laurence Silberman each for a year.

Aside from the debate of Bar- something that this country can’t of the United States must present “I know that Barrett is very re- rett’s qualifications, many fear that seem to do,” Martinez said. “In orNine days before Ginsburg’s a nominee for any openings in the death, President Donald Trump ligiously oriented and is pro-life, her political views will have im- der for us to move forward into a Supreme Court; however, in this released a list of potential people which is dangerous for our democ- pacts on issues such as abortion, future where our citizens are hapscenario, some people disagree and to take her place in the Supreme racy as it violates the right of the including the Roe v. Wade case, on py, healthy, and safe, we must not want to wait until the upcoming Court. This list included Republi- separation of church and state,” the Supreme Court. reject progressive changes.”

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New APD budget result of protesters' calls for change CONTINUED from pg. 1

According to The Texas Tribune, the reallocated funds are being moved to fund social services such as health care access and Austin Travis county Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The initial $21 million other city programs that give food access and violence prevention will also receive funding in later phases.

“The money is going to the correct places such as abortion access and mental health response,” Lewis said. “In the future, however, I would like to see the money being distributed to schools. Many high schools, including Bowie, could potentially benefit from the defunding.”

In response to this decision, many Texas elected officials, including Governor Gregg Abbot, released statements expressing their disagreement with the budget change. In fact, Congressman Roger Williams, who is running for US House District 25, made campaign ads around the reallocation.

“I was just angry about the push back because I felt that they were fear mongering just to get people to be scared, like, oh no, no more police, scary, when really, that's not what’s happening,” sophomore Marissa Morales said.

Garcia is interested to see where else the money will be spent and

PROTESTS IN AUSTIN: Protesters hold up Black Live Matter signs at a march against police brutality. The protests began after the death of George Floyd and continued throughout the summer.

PHOTO BY Lane Elizondo

what city programs will benefit from it.

“I hope that the city can use the money that has been reallocated to help with our homelessness prob-

lem, as well as investing in drug and mental health outreach programs,” Garcia said. “Helping solve the problems before they start is where I hope the city goes with the

money now available to use.”

In addition to financial reallocation, protesters and activists are pushing for more changes to the police force including: enhanced

training, the distribution of funds to appropriate agencies, the creation of more social services, and increased assistance to mental health programs. Those in opposition to the budget change are expressing concerns over losing valuable officers to police the city and decreasing access to prompt 911 services.

“I think that police shouldn't be responding to every single call, and some responses could be from mental health professionals rather than police,” Morales said. “[In addition], more deescalation training would be a change I would like to see.”

Other cities in Texas, such as Houston and San Antonio, have had similar protests that have pushed for the reallocation of police budgets. However, Austin is one of the first cities in the state to adjust the police department budget.

“I agree that police departments in cities across Texas and nationwide should be defunded,” Lewis said. “It is often up to the police to handle so many more tasks that they are not properly trained in, such as handling victims with mental health disorders, homelessness, [as well as] drug dealers. By defunding the police, various cases will be [and can] be properly handled by the correct profession.”

POLITICS 3

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

Voter's guide to the AISD trustee candidates PHOTOS COURTESY OF Facebook & TXState.edu

PHOTO COURTESY OF Facebook

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Facebook

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Facebook

District 2

District 3

District 5

District 8

In District 2, there are three candidates vying to replace the retiring board trustee Jayme Mathias. The candidates are Andy Anderson, Ofelia Maldonado Zapata, and John McKiernan-Gonzalez.

Anderson, who ran for the same seat in 2016, serves on several Austin ISD committees. Zapata is a community organizer and served as a board member for Austin Interfaith, a local non-profit that works with both religious and civic organizations. McKiernan-Gonzalez currently works as an Assistant Professor at Texas State.

McKiernan-Gonzalez became involved in Austin ISD matters when the district considered closing 12 schools. Zapata does not support school closures and supports additional training for school resource officers. Anderson gave a solution to the issue of school closures, and would look at other ways to utilize the school.

The Austin American-Statesman and the Austin Chronicle endorsed McKiernan-Gonzalez and he leads the field in fundraising.

District 2 covers parts of East and Southeast Austin. STORY BY Dylan Ebs

Kevin Foster is running unopposed for District 3 so he will automatically become the next board trustee for District 3, replacing outgoing trustee Ann Teich.

Foster is a professor at The University of Texas at Austin. In 2009, he founded Blackademics Television, a locally-televised program that shares the work of Black scholars and activists.

Foster supports an equity plan for historically unrepresented and marginalized communities. He encourages diversity in schools and supports thoughtful, current and culturally-relevant curriculum.

In 2019, Foster launched "Reframe The Game", which worked to improve equity among Austin schools. The group opposed the school board's plan to close 12 Austin ISD schools since the schools in danger of being closed were predominantly lower income.

District 3 runs from Central Austin to North Austin, including the Hyde Park and Mueller areas. The district is 85% Hispanic and 65% of the students are English language learners. STORY BY Dylan Ebs

Three candidates are running in District 5 to replace the outgoing trustee Amber Elenz.

District 5 voters will pick between Lynn Boswell, Jennifer Littlefield, or Piper Stege Nelson to serve as the next school board trustee for District 5.

Littlefield served on the Facilities and Bond Planning Advisory Committee, which was responsible for the 2017 school bond that was passed. Boswell has served as an Austin ISD volunteer as well as being the president of the Austin Council of PTAs. Nelson is the Chief Public Strategies Officer at The SAFE Alliance, an organization working to end sexual assault and abuse by providing services to survivors of abuse.

Boswell is endorsed by the Austin American-Statesman as well as the Austin Chronicle, but Nelson has raised the most money, raising nearly $50,000 as of October 8.

District 5 runs from Central Austin to South Austin. The district includes Austin High School, Small Middle School, O'Henry Middle School and seven elementary schools.

STORY BY Dylan Ebs

The at-large District 8 has four candidates vying to replace outgoing trustee Cindy Anderson. The four candidates are Noelita Lugo, Leticia Moreno Caballero, Mike Herschenfeld, and Jared Breckenridge.

The Austin American-Statesman and the Austin Chronicle endorsed different candidates. Lugo was endorsed by the Austin Chronicle, citing Lugo’s advocacy for AISD families during the school closings controversy, but the Austin-American Statesman endorsed Leticia Moreno Caballero, who leads the Austin Ed Fund.

Breckenridge, a 25-year-old fourth generation Austinite, brings the experience of being an Austin ISD substitute teacher to the race for this seat. Lugo founded Save Austin Schools, an organization founded in response to the school board's plan to close several schools. Caballero is an AISD parent and graduate and serves as the Vice Chair of the Austin Ed Fund, which helps support Austin ISD initiatives.

District 8 is an at-large district, meaning that the district encompasses all of Austin ISD. STORY BY Dylan Ebs

Opinion : The platforms behind the 2020 candidates Dylan Zellner Dispatch Reporter

The United States presidential election has never been perfect.

We have had a spectacular range of candidates whether good or bad, but the thing about our elections is they always have revolved around our country’s current issues.

Our country has dealt with terrorists, wars, economic crises, protests, etc. When the election rolls around, there is always something we all take into account when electing a president.

Now it feels like there is a never-ending abyss of issues that no one wants to dive into. This election is important now more than ever because of all the issues it seems our country is facing and because our candidates are unable to communicate.

When you look back at the 2016 presidential election there wasn’t a lot going on. The main event any of us can even remember was Trump winning the electoral college and being named President. When we look back to all of our past elections, we can’t find a lot of meaningful issues that are focused on our own government.

In affirmation to a CBS article titled 16 stories that defined 2016, some of the main events that happened weren’t a direct result of our government; there was the Syrian Civil War, Brexit, a Zika outbreak, police shootings, other shootings and droughts. Almost all the nota-

A step-by-step guide to voting

I VO

TED

1

Make sure you’re registered. You can check your registration at votetexas.gov. The deadline to register was October 5, so if you haven’t registered, it’s too late.

2

Pick a date to vote. You can vote early or you can vote on Election Day. You can vote at any polling place in Travis County. The polls will be open from 7am to 7pm on Election Day. To find the nearest polling place, visit vote.org.

3

In order to vote, you have to show a valid ID at the polling place.

This can be a driver’s license, a state ID, or a passport.

4

After you show ID at the polling place, head to the voting booth to cast your ballot.

ART BY Dylan Ebs

ble issues from that election never came from the inside of our own government.

2020 has brought out so many issues from our own government that they all have to be taken in account for who we want to run our country for the next four years. We have a pandemic that hasn’t been dealt with efficiently.

According to John Hopkins Research Center, the United States has more Covid-19 patients than India with about a 1.25 billion population difference. It seems almost as if all these issues have blown up

more than they ever have before, and they did so just in time for the election.

Our election this year seems like the place that will solve all our problems. Some believe that if we choose the right candidate, they will save America and fix those issues. The issue with that is the president we elect will only have four years, meaning they can’t solve all the problems, but still have plans for many.

According to a BBC news article titled Donald Trump policies: Where does the president stand on

key issues?, President Trump mainly speaks of financial and economic issues, but doesn’t only speak of economic issues. Trump signed the First Step Act to reform the criminal justice system. He plans on following that up with more acts to come, but he’s not the only one with a plan.

According to a BBC news article titled Joe Biden: Where does Joe Biden stand on key issues?, Joe Biden mainly focus on social issues, such as education, health and race.

He also speaks of economic issues as well where he plans on raising

the minimum wage and investing in more green energy.

Both candidates have different priorities, but still have plans for a the issues that make this year important and will affect everything that is important to our country and its citizens.

Finally, in order to vote, a registered voter can go to the physical polls and submit their ballot there.

When you go to the polls in your designated area you have to bring a photo ID; a driver's license will work. On the off chance you can’t find a photo ID you will have to sign a sworn statement that there's a reason you don’t have your photo ID, and then bring another form of identification.

The only way this election will mean something is if every American’s voice is heard and if every American discusses their opinions to find some common ground as well as come up with an idea the majority can get behind. Every American needs to actually put effort into making their voice heard as well as their opinions on important issues. Only then will the issues that our country is facing be come closer to being solved.

Questions?

Concerns? Want to share your opinion?

Contact: Email: bowie. journalism@gmail. com Room: F203

BULLDAWGS SPEAK OUT

Why is it important for young people to vote in the upcoming election?

INTERVIEWS BY Dylan Ebs PHOTOS COURTESY OF Interviewees

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It's important because new perspectives are brought to the table.

Younger people tend to be more open to new solutions and ideas that are definitely needed at the moment.

Serena Escobedo Junior

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I think that it is important for young people to vote because it affects our society and how our economy works.

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It is important to vote, not only to improve your life but to also improve the lives of others as well.

Hunter Benson Sophomore

Audrey Smith Senior

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It's important for young people to vote because we want our voices and opinions heard.

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Mark Planos Freshman

Edward Day Math Teacher

I was reading recently about voter turnout in local elections: The average age was in the late 50's. Does the youth in America really want people born during the Cold War making their laws?

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4 FEATURE

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

Political participation promotes personal pride

Students serve community as poll booth operators for the upcoming 2020 election

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exercise their right to vote, often turnout in future elections.” going to great lengths to let their Lopez had similar beliefs as Puvote count.” peri, and finds younger age groups Even with recent obstacles-such efforts to be extremely important as COVID-19 regulations and lim- within this year’s election itations on Texas mail in ballots“I feel that younger [generathat have made voting increasingly tions] are more involved in and difficult, Puperi feels that people concerned with modern day issues will take the time to vote regard- that affect their future,” Lopez less of the adjustments they have said. “They bring an outlook to Deto make. mocracy that is thinking ahead and “In Texas, you can only get a important for their generation.” mail-in ballot if you are disabled, Leyva believes that a desire to over the age of 65, in jail, or out make change in the current politof the country for the entirety of ical situation has been fostered by the voting period,” Puperi said. “I students, but it is becoming a colthink people will still show up to lective ideal embraced by all ages. the polls in their PPE and vote, but “Students are more interested we will just have to see.” in learning and participating in the Lopez has similar optimism election than in years past because on the election, and believes that the elected officials are not repreyoung people senting the being involved wishes of the in politics is progressive I would encourage making a difyouth,” Leyva students to have an ference in votsaid.

“They er turnout. likely also see inquisitive and open “I think that the ineptitude mind. Listen to both [the increase of this adsides, and form your of young peoministration ple in politics] that espouses own decision about is motivating views that do where you stand. other people not align with who are young themselves to get more and their Andrea Leyva involved in peers. By all Election Protection politics and accounts, this research the election is issues that are most important to supposed to have record-breaking them,” Lopez said. “I believe that voter turnout. The enthusiasm people knowing about these issues around the issues is not reserved will motivate them to vote.” to just students. It’s the entire Puperi believes that the drive to public and this widespread interest vote from younger generations has in education and participation in peaked this year than in previous the election process is infectious.” elections.

In general, Puperi finds any in“A lot of students are involved volvement in politics to be an imwith this election because we portant part of being a citizen, and don’t like the current president, takes pride in the upcoming hours and are worried for both the health she will work at the polls. of America as well as the health “I am just excited to be able to of our friends and family,” Puperi help out and contribute some work said. “I think if students vote, it toward the election,” Puperi will show them that we can said. “Since I can’t provide make a difference, and hopea vote, this is the next fully this will increase voter best thing.”

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1 2 3 4

Poll workers

ha Patel

The run-down on

ART BY Shik

As the early morning shift starts, she watches as hundreds upon hundreds of unknown faces enter the building. As she tries to keep up, she quickly works to organize everyone to the open machines so they all have a chance to cast their vote in a timely manner.

Although her work might have been small through the mere few hour shift, she knows that she has made an important action to assist her country’s democracy.

Senior Katie Puperi has signed up to work at the voting polls in this year’s 2020 election.

“My friend Mariah mentioned the polls while we were speaking at a Global Events Club meeting,” Puperi said. “ I really liked the idea since I am too young to vote but still want to participate in the election.”

With Election Day coming up on Nov. 3, Puperi believes that she will benefit by being part of the polling process.

“I am interested to learn how they work since I have never voted before,” Puperi said. “I wish to know more about American De-

mocracy and become a more ed- else,” Lopez said. “[It’s] important ucated voter for future elections, for us to be informed about what’s and what better way to do so than going on in our current political to get first hand experience.” landscape.”

Along with Puperi, senior Nick Student involvement in general Lopez has also registered to work is seen as a positive for politics, but at the polls. it can have some “I came downsides,acacross an arcording to ElecI am just excited to be ticle that was tion Protection able to help out and written about worker Andrea contribute some work how due to the Leyva. pandemic, that “I think it is toward the election. polling stagreat that young Since I can’t provide tions were in people feel need of workstrongly about a vote, this is the next ers, so I decidpolitical and sobest thing. ed to research cial issues, parfurther into ticularly those it,” Lopez said. involving social Katie Puperi “I am going to justice,” Leyva Senior be a first-time said.

“Howevvoter this year, er, it is very imso I am excited to see how voting portant that the [information] is works and how the polls function researched and vetted. Spreading so that people can [vote].” inaccurate information is extremeIn addition to Puperi’s passion ly dangerous as the disinformation to assist in the voting process, she can go viral very quickly and then is eager to stay involved in her po- you have an entire community that litical interests. has been misinformed.”

“Political events don’t really According to Puperi, even with have a bunch to do with my future all the positives young students plan,” Puperi said.” [However], I could gain from political experiwould like to minor in politi- ence at the polls, there are still cal science in col- some aspects to the upcoming lege since that is polls that she is worried about. something that “I am definitely a little nervous interests me.” about just doing the shift in genSimilarly to Pu- eral since I don’t know what the peri, Lopez finds process is like at all,” Puperi said. meaning through “There is training I will have to do his involvement before I can work the polls, so I in the polls that think that will be able to calm my connects to his nerves.” political pasAlthough preparing for Election sions.

Day as a poll worker may be chal“I feel that lenging, the experience is wortheven though while, according to Leyva. not every teen“I think once you have either ager can vote, been a poll worker or have done politics still election protection work or even affects them voter registration, there are so in a lot of the many benefits that flow from these same ways actions,” Leyva said. “You definitethat it does ly can see firsthand the commite v e r y o n e ment that American voters have to

”

Mia Folkers Feature Editor

Poll workers job at the polls is to set up the booths in their specific location, check in voters, assist with voting machines, and answer any voters questions.

Students who are at least 16 years of age and currently enrolled in either public, private or home school are allowed to be an election worker.

Election workers are paid hourly for the days they work, and the wage must be above minimum wage and are determined by the county a student is working from.

Students must sign up and take online training course prior to working the polls on Nov. 3.

SIGN HELD HIGH: Senior Nick Lopez poses with a Democratic sponsored sign. Because Lopez is 18, he is planning on voting in the upcoming election PHOTO BY Mia Folkers

MASKED UP: Senior Katie Puperi stands with one of Travis County’s voting signs. On Nov. 3 Katie is planning on working at the polls. PHOTO

BY Mia Folkers

FEATURE 5

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

Senior raises funds for BLM movement

How designing and distributing a yard sign sparked more awareness and conversation Miranda Cardenas Feature Editor

From nationwide protests to ongoing debates and conversations, there is something new in headlines every day. Out of these headlines come more topics, issues, and organizations that make up main events today.

Senior Vivian Howard has honed in on one important organization to advocate for and educate others on: the Black Lives Matter movement. With the creation of a unique and original yard sign, Howard has found a unique way to spread information and resources throughout the community.

“I made Black Lives Matter yard signs and sold them in my neighborhood for donations,” Howard said. “Then I donated the money to Color of Change and the Austin Justice Coalition.”

Howard’s actions have even been recognized by major news and media outlets, who were interested in her story.

“My signs were posted and shared around Facebook and reached some freelance writers, who pitched my story to Teen Vogue, which was then picked up by Scary Mommy,” Howard said.

In the beginning, there was no plan to mass distribute these yard signs. It was only when her original sign was stolen that Howard realized the need for something more.

“My mom posted a picture of it on Facebook saying we were disappointed someone took it down, and that’s when people started asking if I could get them signs to put in their yard,” Howard said.

Howard came up with an efficient way to get these signs out to people, and quickly raked in more than $2000 in donations, which was matched by a law firm in Austin.

“I used a local printer and made a digital version of the sign people could print,” Howard said. “Overall, I gave out about 70 signs.”

One recipient of these signs was senior mom Kim Tillisch.

“We wanted to support Vivian in keeping the deep-seated problem of racism in our society front and center,” Tillisch said. “As a civilization we shouldn’t accept anything other than true equality for all.”

Howard’s efforts have not gone unrecognized by those who have her signs and display them in their own yards.

“I think Vivian’s efforts have already had an impact on opening people’s eyes to the injustices swirling around them,” Tillisch said. “Her message is about empathy and compassion for others and trying to put yourself in their shoes in order to COLORFUL AND CREATIVE: Vivian Howard’s Black understand why we need to make changes.”

Lives Matter sign is neatly organized by category on Howard’s original idea came from a variety of messages how people can learn more about the movement. she saw in her social media feeds.

Howard’s activism was sparked in early summer by the “A lot of people in my neighborhood were saying some idea to create these signs. PHOTO COURTESY OF Sidney super disappointing things on our neighborhood Facebook Tishgart group,” Howard said. “So I thought it would be good to educate some people in the neighborhood with a sign that has micro-aggressions.” things you can do to help the movement.”

When talking about a subject like this movement, it’s imThe focus of the sign is to display information about and portant to be clear on the thoughts behind it. how to support the BLM movement.

“Some people think Black Lives Matter means Black Lives “It’s important because I know there are a lot of people Matter more than other lives which is not true,” Walker said. who want to help and learn, they “We want to be seen as equals in America just don’t know how, so it is a nice and we want to bring light to the system resource to have around the neighthat was designed against us.” borhood,” Howard said.

Walker also shares his own resources to Yard signs have become an evWhen I first put up the stay informed and updated with BLM. eryday sight and can be used as a “There are also different Instagram acsign I expected it to be reminder of discussions that are becounts such as ‘soyouwanttotalkabout’ a very small piece of ing talked about right now. and ‘change’ that have really good infor“I think yard signs keep issues mation about [BLM] and other injustices activism, but when it got on the forefront of people’s minds, happening all around the world,” Walker taken down it turned especially when they see the signs said. on a regular basis,” Tillisch said. “It into something so much Being an ally for this movement stems is absolutely not okay for others to off of education, and willingness to make bigger. take down other people’s yard signs a change. though, even when we don’t agree “It’s our responsibility to educate those Vivian Howard with those around us we have to rearound us and make them understand why Senior spectfully disagree. everyone deserves to be treated with reHoward’s main goal was to make spect and dignity,” Tillisch said. her neighborhood the most incluWhile learning and staying educated sive it could be. is an ongoing process, it’s important to realize the power of “I honestly was just so angry and tired of the people in words while in this conversation. my neighborhood being uneducated about racial injustices,” “I hope more of the kids in our predominantly white school Howard said. “Trying to educate anyone who walks past a will think twice before they say things, learn, and realize their sign was the goal.” privilege,” Walker said.

Students like Howard are also using their voices to advoThis display of advocacy and activism has allowed Howard cate for the movement. Senior Christian Walker agrees the to learn how much her voice matters. conversation about this situation is deserving.

“I see now that one person really can make a difference,” “Black Lives Matter is not about the organization, I be- Howard said. “When I put up the first sign I expected it to be lieve in the ideology that says Black Lives Matter, too,” Walk- a very small piece of activism, but when it got taken down it er said. “The best way to educate yourself is to ask people of turned into something so much bigger.” color that you know, about their experiences with racism and

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SIGN IN HAND: Smiling with her sign, senior Vivian Howard shows off her creative work. Howard created the sign last summer to help educate on the Black Lives Matter movement. PHOTO COURTESY OF Vivian Howard

Student brings attention to BLM through her artwork Amorah Schultze Dispatch Reporter

“Everyday, another Black mother [has] to hear her son won’t make it home for dinner, [that] In the Black girl’s eye, a “Justice her brother won’t make it to her for George Floyd” poster calls for game,” York said. “A child learning change. Her other eye is looking to daddy will never tuck her in before the sky, suspended between a out- bed again.” cry to the universe. Rising above it York uses optimism in her piece all are three words: BLACK LIVES to signify that America is finally acMATTER. knowledging the pain and suffering The Black Lives Matter move- of African Americans through the ment was the topic that senior lens of the BLM movement.

Kaylin York chose for her artwork, “The slaughter of Black Ameriwhen she was assigned a political cans has become normal, and that activist piece for AP Studio Art, needs to end here. With our genshe knew her goal was to spread eration,” York said. “So that the awareness about the movement, Black community won’t have to reactivated by George Floyd’s mur- fear walking home in the dark one der. minute and being shot the next.”

York’s experiences as a Black AP Art teacher Laura Dubois, person prompted her passion for believes York’s use the Black Lives of mixed mediums Matter Movestrengthened the ment. political statement “I was told [BLM] means getting of her piece. from a young age “I found [Kaythat I, my broth- to see the nightmares lin’s] work to be my ancestors faced both impressive er, or anyone on my dad’s side of finally being put to and emotional,” the family could Dubois said. “Kayrest. be killed because lin puts her viewof the color of er in the ‘shoes’ Kaylin York our skin,” York of a Black person. said. “I wanted to Senior AP Art student That’s important express the pain and something you that my family can’t teach.” and our ancestors Dubois wanted have faced, and to challenge her still face, to call out the injustice students to create an impactful and racism in this country.” piece while also providing a platShe wants future generations to form for the next generation of artnot be subjected to senseless vio- ists. lence based on their race.

“It provides the viewer with an “[BLM] means getting to see the opportunity to put themselves in nightmares my ancestors faced fi- ‘someone else’s shoes’ and could nally being put to rest,” York said. possibly change ones’ outlook,” “Getting justice for those who have Dubois said. “We all have different been failed by humanity because opinions and ideas, but it’s importthey were living in America while ant we learn from each other and Black.” educate ourselves.”

She hopes that other students Using art to explore political will see the greater context of Black statements allows her, as well as inequality.

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other students, to convey complex issues in easily digestible formats.

“The use of visual symbolism can help people sympathize more with the victims of these issues more than words sometimes can,” senior Savannah Nuhn said. “Visual art has a rather universal language that most people can understand.”

Nuhn, a BLM ally, created a minimalist piece in hopes of evoking striking simplicity.

“I [went for] a sort of symbolic approach, having birds represent the USA and the Black community, seeing as flight is used as a symbol of freedom,” Nuhn said. “In my piece I wanted to convey that while the modern African American community may have wings, they are often damaged and tied down by fellow Americans, and their calls for help are more often than not ignored by the higher authorities of the USA.” Nuhn’s position as a supporter and ally differentiates her message from York’s.

“African Americans are people too and should be respected as such by each and every member of society,” Nuhn said. “To me, being an ally means supporting those around you who are affected and using what privilege you have to send a message.”

York has been honing her skills since she was nine years old and wants to pursue a career in portrait-illustrations.

“Being someone who switched schools many times, art helped me express who I was and make [new] friends,” York said. “I like to make art because it brings me joy, but I can [also] tell a story with it.”

Both York and Nuhn find AP Studio Art to be a great resource for building their portfolios and enhancing their unique approach to art.

ART BY Kaylin York

“I can learn from my peers through critique and seeing how their processes differ from mine.

We have a lot of freedom to create what we want,” Nuhn said. “I see it as a time to do what I enjoy, while chatting with like minded people who also understand the process of creating this art.”

The project for the class acts as a focal point in their first-semester college portfolios. These portfolios

will continue to grow throughout the year, showcasing many different art pieces of their topic.

“Students chose to develop a [social issue] piece on something that personally impacted them,” Dubois said. “AP Studio Art is a mature class and art isn’t always just about ‘a pretty picture’. I want to challenge my students with their critical thinking skills, and reflect on current events and creativity.”

6 PHOTO ESSAY

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

Student launches online clothing boutique

MODELING THEIR CLOTHES ON THEIR WEBSITE: Displayed is the home screen of junior Katherine Crosely’s online clothing boutique that she started with her older sister and mom. The boutique is named after Crosely and her older sister’s nicknames. “We got inspired over quarantine and figured we might as well start it while we had the time,” Crosely said. PHOTO COURTESY OF ShopeEllieKat.com PACKING AN ORDER: Junior Katherine Crosely folds a skirt to send out to a customer. Crosely does all the packaging and shipping herself in her house while her sister is away at college. “Most of the process takes place at our house, the clothes are shipped here and then we take and upload the photos from here as well as all the shipping and labeling,” Crosely said.” PHOTO

BY Reagan Zuniga

Junior Katherine Crosely creates online clothing boutique “ShopeEllieKat” over quarantine with her mom and sister Reagan Zuniga Photo Essay Editor

While many spent the early months of quarantine binging Netflix or trying TikTok trends, junior Katherine Crosely took the initiative to launch an online shopping boutique run from completely inside her house, with her mom and older sister.

“I personally really like shopping online and I’m always doing it,” Crosely said.

“Ellie and I were always searching for cute affordable clothes so we decided to take a risk and start an online shopping boutique ourselves.”

The family-owned clothing business is built around offering a wide range of

clothing types from lounge wear like comfy sweats and t-shirts, to denim shorts and semi-casual tops. Crosely and her sister pick out all of the clothing they sell from various wholesale sites and try to choose products that they could see themselves wearing.

“Our sales are higher than I expected because the clothes that I didn’t necessarily personally like still sold well because of the wide age range of our customers,” Crosely said.

Junior Maya Cottom is a repeating customer for ShopeEllieKat and thinks the business is great, especially behind the scenes and with their customer service.

“The thing I like best

about the clothes is how comfortable they all are, but they’re still cute,” Cottom said. “That way you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other when dressing up. And if you live in Austin you can come pick up locally instead of paying for shipping which I love.”

Senior Devyn Morgan was one of the models for promoting the clothing brand early on in the process. She is featured on the official ‘ShopeEllieKat’ Instagram page which is where their products are promoted most.

“My experience modeling their clothes was super positive, they are very organized and have an efficient system to what they do,” Morgan said. “I think their clothes

are very unique, comfortable and they offer a wide variety of styles to cater to all buyers.”

Morgan recommends buying from them because of their quality of clothes, great deals, and knowing the person behind the whole process.

“Buying clothes from ShopeEllieKat is great because not only are you supporting a small business but you get to actually know Katherine and her family and see all the hard work they put into making sure the experience is the best it can possibly be for the customer,” Morgan said. “They also almost always have discounts such as 15% off your first order.”

RECEIVING NEW ORDERS: Junior Katherine Crosely goes through the order list. Crosely has received orders from as far away as California. “It’s really rewarding to see the whole process of owning a boutique come together by seeing all the orders come in and people liking the clothes,” Crosely said. PHOTO BY Reagan Zuniga

IN HER FAVORITE PIECES: Junior Katherine Crosely models most of their clothing for their website with her sister Ellie. “I really like modeling the clothes because a lot of the products are items I picked out because I would personally wear them,” Crosely said. PHOTO COURTESY OF Katherine Crosely

REMAINING INVENTORY ON DISPLAY: With limited items left, junior Katherine Crosely has all available products hanging. Crosely is responsible for keeping track of inventory. “The biggest challenge we face is that my business partner lives in North Carolina so it’s hard to coordinate and keep track of social media and inventory when she is not here,” Crosely said. PHOTO BY Reagan Zuniga

PERSONALLY SIGNED: Junior Katherine Crosely hand signs every thank you card that is sent out to customers. Crosely sometimes spends hours packaging but still want to make every customer feel valued. “We try our best to make the customer feel appreciated so that they’ll hopefully enjoy the product more knowing that they’re supporting a small business instead of a corporation,” Crosely said. PHOTO BY Reagan Zuniga

MODELING BEST SELLING PRODUCTS: In two of the most popular products senior Devyn Morgan models for ‘ShopeEllieKat’. Morgan has been featured on ShopeEllieKat Instagram. “Modeling for ShopeEllieKat was rewarding because it’s helping a small business,” Morgan said. PHOTO COURTESY OF Katherine Crosely

ENTERTAINMENT 7 TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

Theatre takes on virtual fall shows Abbey Repka Entertainment Editor

In past years, bright lights would hit the stage, illuminating the actors as they walked around the stage. This year, theatre has had to make major adjustments by attempting to do their fall shows virtually.

Right now, the directors will be putting on two different shows, both by William Shakespeare. Theatre director Betsy Cornwell will be producing “The Tempest” while theatre director Marco Bazan will be producing “A Midsummers Night’s Dream”. Regardless of all the challenges of trying to produce a show on Zoom, there is still a bright side to doing virtual theatre, according to senior Audrey Smith.

“Virtual shows are a good way of getting people involved in theatre, especially freshmen,” Smith said. “Although it’s very different from in-person shows, they can still get to know how the company operates.”

Instead of being able to instantly meet together and start rehearsing for shows, theatre has had to work through a number of logistical challenges to produce shows remotely because of the pandemic.

“This is a big challenge. I’m just now going through the script and figuring out what kind of shots I want for each unit in the script,” Cornwell said. “It’s definitely a new type of production for me, and it will be for the students too when we’re filming.”

Being virtual means that the show will not be able to be performed live. However, the directors have worked to figure out a safe way to perform for an audience.

“Mrs. Cornwell, our director, is planning on filming [the show] with different shots and angles as well as a green screen to project members of the ensemble on to,” sophomore Javier Lozano said.

With the show being clipped together and posted online for viewers to see, the students involved in the tech side have to work more efficiently due to the increasing duties.

“I think we do have a bigger job this year because there’s a lot more responsibilities than just showing up,” Smith

BEHIND THE SCENES: Tech editors talk about what needs to get done on Zoom. This year, tech editors will have the added responsibility of clipping together the shows. PHOTO COURTESY OF Delaney Duignan

BACK ON STAGE: Students involved in the Fall Shows work together to make the scene come alive. Although students are able to go to school for rehearsals, they must follow COVID-19 safety protocols such as wearing a mask and gloves, and also social distancing when not on stage. PHOTO COURTESY OF Javier Lozano

said. “With the editing we have to be precise and understand what’s going on in the show, so it’s a lot more on our plate.”

Dealing with extracurriculars, such as theatre, as well as virtual school can be difficult for some students, according to senior Rachel McBurnett.

“It’s nice to try and do something [for shows], and I appreciate how hard the directors are working, but honestly, it’s a bit of a strain on top of dealing with virtual learning,” McBurnett said.

While some students are staying home and using Zoom for rehearsal, others have chosen to go back to school for in person rehearsals.

“I really like seeing all my castmates; after not seeing them for over six months it is good to be with everyone,” Lozano said.

In-person rehearsals are scheduled for Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and students are required to follow all COVID-19 safety guidelines.

“Regarding safety measures we are now using the outdoor stage between the E and F hall. We are required to wear masks, gloves and social distance when we are not on stage,” Lozano said.

As well as fall shows, theatre also puts on a bunch of other shows throughout the school year.

“Not being able to stage things [for fall shows] is incred-

ibly weird, and I’m especially worried about how to do my children’s show in a few months,” McBurnett said.

Being apart while trying to create a show can be quite challenging and it becomes tougher with added technological difficulties.

“At the moment I wish that we could be together but it’s good that we’re keeping distance from each other,” Smith said. “It’s tricky trying to have everyone’s zoom to work with different WiFi and computers, so it’s difficult when people are lagging and freezing.”

Even though students are able to come somewhat together to create a show, it is still not the same experience they would have gotten previously.

“I really miss just being with other people, working together, goofing off. I really miss being at Bowie especially,” McBurnett said. “Theatre is like a home to me and being away from it hurts a lot, as cheesy as that sounds.”

According to Cornwell, there are many challenges about trying to create virtual fall shows, however the students and directors are staying hopeful and looking on the bright side.

“I miss being able to get up close with the actors and I miss not being able to create visual pictures on a wide stage,” Cornwell said. “It will certainly give everyone a new experience, but I know [the actors] will miss the reactions of a live audience.”

Silver Stars and Star Dancers dance away virtual troubles Nicole Rooney Dispatch Reporter

During the time of the pandemic, AISD decided to go online for the first four weeks of school. Because of these changes, the dance department made major adjustments.

They have been doing their dance classes online through a Zoom call.

Just like anything else, dancing in person is very different from dancing on a Zoom

call. In dance usually right now they might be practicing technique or learning a short dance, but this online environment has caused them to have to adapt.

“When we dance at home we have a little more freedom than we would in-person,” junior Parker Hawkins said. “The difference about learning new choreography is at home, we learn it in separate parts but in person, we can learn most of the dance within a week.”

MID POSE: Sophomore Savita Kulkarni gracefully dances on the sidewalk. Adjusting to remote learning has caused the Silver Stars and Star Dancers to come up with creative ways to learn their new dances. PHOTO COURTESY OF Savita Kulkarni

In person, the dancers would be prepping for upcoming games or for pep rallies but since everything is online now, there’s not much to prep or get ready for.

“For remote dancing we have Zoom calls for about an hour and a half and we have to keep our cameras on. We stretch together and then we learn new parts to our dance each class,” Hawkins said.

Although the Star Dancers are doing their whole dance class through a Zoom class, the Silver Stars are doing it very differently from the Star Dancers.

“For the past few weeks we would all log onto Zoom at 9 a.m., do a group workout and stretch, then work on our football routines either in breakout rooms with our squads or individually,” sophomore Savita Kulkarni said. “This week we have started in-person practice, so we have to be at Bowie by 7:45 to get our temperature checked with our masks on. Then we practice our football routines until 9:30 and go home to log onto Zoom for shout outs at 10:15.”

The dancers logically need lots of space in order to move around, so they can do every move full out, and avoid distractions.

Not everyone has that much space available, so members of the team have had to make many accommodations from moving furniture around their house to even dancing outside in the yard.

“I usually dance in my upstairs loft area and it has been working out OK. I don’t have enough room to do everything which makes dancing harder,” Hawkins said.

In-person class makes it easier for the team to interact, and learn choreography.

Using Zoom has made this much more difficult for the dancers.

“I like dancing in-person more because everyone is dancing on the same counts at the same time where on Zoom the music would be off and sometimes glitchy. I also like that I can see my friends in person even if we are six feet apart,” Kulkarni said.

Dancing on Zoom has its challenges.

There are many things that could be changed

or altered to make dancing remotely better.

“One thing I would change is going into breakout rooms with our squads and having our spirit leader watch us and give us any corrections they have,” Hawkins said. “In these breakout groups we can all ask questions about the dance and maybe get one-onone corrections.”

Being on a Zoom call for dance is hard not only for the dancers, but also for the directors. Directing a dance team is a lot of work.

A big factor for the directors is the reality that they cannot see the full team together, which means they can correct individual mistakes, but helping the team as a whole is nearly impossible.

“It is difficult to play music to dance to for a group over Zoom because of Internet lag time and glitches,” Silver Stars director Leanne Bilnoski said.” We would also love to see a routine come together as a team.”

Being in-person for class makes it easier to form a bond and friendships on the team, but being online makes it harder to connect with the rest of the team.

“It can be kind of awkward to think of conversation starters and the fact that we can’t interact with anyone we want to is hard,” Kulkarni said. “Meaning I can’t ask anyone questions unless I text them or I’m in a breakout room with them.”

Despite the difficulties of not being together, the team still works hard to make sure that at the end of the day they get all their stuff done, according to Hawkins.

“I enjoy getting to meet new people and becoming friends with everyone,” Hawkins said. “I love improving my dance skills and becoming a better dancer.”

Although Zoom can be challenging at times, there is a bright side to it for some of the team according to Bilnoski.

“One thing that is good about dance remotely, is that some students might feel more comfortable trying new styles and techniques in their own space at home,” Bilnoski said.

coming UP in ENTERTAINMENT Nov. 9-11 Regional Band Contest Nov. 13-14 Speech and Debate Swing Tournament

Nov. 28-Jan. 3 Austin Trail of Lights Nov. 11-Jan 6 Mozart’s Christmas Lights Show

Dec. 3 Jonas Brothers Virtual Concert Dec. 10 Band Holiday Concert

IN-DEPTH 9

8 IN-DEPTH

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

The importance of character in politics

* This art was designed based off an image taken by Olivier Douliery.

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Donald Trump

Joe Biden

The traits below were generated in a study by psychologists Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman in 2002. Peterson and Seligman found that the virtues of wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence were important in many 192 STUDENTS POLLED 10/ 9-13 /2020; Polled via Google Forms different cultures. Peterson and Seligman broke these six virtues into 24 smaller parts, called “character strengths.” The poll asked which 2020 116 Females, 71 Males, 5 Other Presidential Candidate most embodies the character strengths. To view all 24 results, visit thedispatchonline.net.

77 Seniors, 46 Juniors, 36 Sophomores, 33 Freshmen

83.7% 86.3% 84.7%

73.7% 37.9%

16.3% 13.7% 15.3%

26.3% 61.2% creativity

judgement

wisdom

love of learning

honesty

67.9%

32.1% bravery

84.2%

15.8%

fairness

73.2%

26.8%

leadership

82.6% 87.9%

17.4% 12.1%

humility

kindness

55.3%

44.7% humor

INTERVIEWS BY Faith Lawrence PHOTOS COURTESY OF Interviewees

I chose Biden for wisdom because he has experienced more than Trump and seems to be more understanding. I would say Trump is braver than Biden because he is more bold. I think Biden has more self-control than Trump because Trump has shown that he cannot really control himself.

82.6%

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Braden Kirk Freshman

I believe that leadership, fairness, and humility are the three most important traits a President should have.

In my opinion, Joe Biden has all three of these traits unlike president Donald Trump. For example, Biden wears his mask during this pandemic to help protect others.

17.4%

social intelligence

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STUDENT POLLING DATA

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Dictionary.com defines ‘cancel culture’ as “withdrawing support for public figures and companies after they have done or said something considered objectionable or offensive.” With the emergence of TikTok, a video-sharing social networking service, cancel culture has become more widespread.

“I feel like celebrities are not as important as politicians,” Caputo said. “I think that Presidential candidates should be held higher than celebrities because they are the people serving our country.”

Cancel culture involves people on the internet ‘canceling’ or withdrawing their support for popular figures when the celebrity does something a viewer perceives as morally wrong.

“An interesting thing about morals is something that is immoral to some people is not immoral to others,” Floyd said. “I think flagrant violations of both the spirit and letter of the law

By definition, political polarization is the vast and continuously growing gap between liberals and conservatives as well as Republicans and Democrats, according to the Pew Research Center.

“Nobody wants to be told, especially as adults, to broaden your horizons,” Floyd said. “When you have a firmly held political belief, you tend to surround yourself with media and social circles that reinforce that belief. A notion of an echo chamber means that you’re just hearing the same thing over and over and over.”

An article in Vice claimed that a person will never be able to change another’s mind about politics unless presented with facts. However, Floyd believes that the social media echo chamber makes it almost impossible for people to view informative and factual posts that go against their own political beliefs.

“Whatever cult-like following Trump has is based on political polarization,” Hammer said. “I would also say his following can be based on his character and personality. Trump is not your orthodox candidate, he’s pretty loud, he’s pretty boisterous. People like that he is abrasive.”

On the opposite side, people who consider themselves leftists and are former Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren supporters began an organization called “Settle for Biden.” The organization dislikes some of Biden’s policies, but supports the Democratic candidate because they believe not supporting Biden would endanger the lives of millions of Americans, as they believe Trump is a threat to the future of Americans’ lives.

“I’m receptive of bold ideas, bold ideology and bold stances and I even went to a Bernie rally,” Van Lente said. “What I do know is that a person who goes against everything that me and my ideology stands for is running for President, and that is an existential issue for me. If that means I have to settle for Joe Biden, who isn’t horrible, I will.

I’ll take what I can get.”

While people between the ages 18 to 29 favor Biden over Trump by about 20 points, according to polls by Morning Consult and YouGov, census data created by the United States Elections Project shows that only 43 percent of registered voters under the age of 30 voted in the 2016 Presidential election in comparison to 60 percent of voters over the age of 60. This data shows that young

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CANCEL CULTURE

POLARIZATION

BY

* This art was designed based off an image published on the Council on Foreign Relations website.

The first televised Presidential Debate in the United States was in 1960 between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. According to History.com, Kennedy was the apparent winner of the debate since he seemed more comfortable on camera and decided to wear makeup, unlike Nixon. Floyd believes that this first debate proved that the American population valued appearance and character in politics.

“I have found that the way a debate is structured is for entertainment rather than a presentation of policy,” Hammer said. “The [candidates] only get two minutes to answer their question, so they are kind of screwed over.”

Time Magazine claims that the first 2020 Presidential Debate will be “remembered for its antagonistic tone, and the din of the candidates talking over each other” more than any other political debate in the past.

“I think it showed, especially with Trump, how immature [the candidates] are, and how they can’t even put aside their differences for one night, have a mature debate and get their policies across,” sophomore Fionella Caputo said.

During the debate, both candidates acted unprofessional, according to senior Laine Smith.

Biden frequently told Trump to ‘shut up,’ and called Trump a ‘clown.’ Additionally, Van Lente claimed that Trump repeatedly attacked Biden, even bringing up Beau Biden’s, Biden’s son, drug addiction.

“In politics, there’s kind of the unstated rules that exist with general courtship,” Van Lente said.

“In a political situation, the politician’s personal lives don’t really matter and are pretty much off limits.”

voters typically align with Democratic values, but they statistically vote less than older voters.

“I think that settling is the best thing that we can do,” Caputo said. “Biden is better and has more progressive [policies] than Trump. Biden is the best person for our country. I think he is going to lead to less division, help climate change, and [improve] health care. I think he appeals to the people and is doing more for the people than Trump is, and I think that is what we need in office right now.”

RT

PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

should make people reevaluate their support for someone.”

Business Insider reported that 26 women have accused Trump of sexual assault and eight women have accused Biden of inappropriate behavior and touching. However, popular YouTuber Shane Dawson was ‘canceled’ due to reports of his sexual statements towards children and Willow Smith when she was 11-years-old, according to Insider.

While Dawson lost most of his fan support because of these accusations, Biden and Trump have not faced compatible repercussions despite their political careers.

“The whole cancel culture thing is so gross; it has so many double standards,” Smith said. “But I definitely think that if cancel culture should apply to anyone, it should apply to politicians because they are representing [America].”

A

look at a candidate’s character, or lack thereof. If a candidate lies, makes bigoted comments, celebrates assault, spreads conspiracy theories, etc., they can’t be decent leaders.”

Floyd also values the traits of empathy, servitude, a good sense of humor, and a historical knowledge in a Presidential candidate.

“In government, we would say that no one is above the law, but, for me, it’s more than saying that,” Floyd said. “It means that you consider yourself as a servant. Even when you are making decisions or implementing policy that doesn’t make people happy, you [should] reach out in a sense of empathy, understanding and communication in a respectful way.”

”

When early voting began on Tuesday, Oct. 13, registered voters faced a difficult decision: voting for the next President. Between the main two candidates, President Donald Trump and Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden, the choice of who to vote for can be either extremely difficult or simple. When deciding who to vote for or endorse, Director of Oxford University ’s

Centre for Corporate Reputation Rupert Younger believes that an individual should first determine if they consider character to be an important part of politics.

A research article posted on Science Direct claimed that ‘decades of research has found that voters’ electoral decisions to a significant degree are affected by character evaluations of candidates,’ however, senior Zach Hammer believes that, in a perfect society, character should not matter in the workplace, especially in political positions.

“In perfect practice, I don’t think your personality should even affect policy making,” Hammer said. “Policy is just policy, logically established rules. Inevitably, their personality bleeds into their work, in a perfect practice it shouldn’t, but it does.”

In the United States, character and politics was questioned in 1989 when the House of Representatives began the impeachment process on the current president, Bill Clinton, for his sexual activity with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, according to History.com. Clinton’s impeachment process demonstrates the American people’s difficulty with judging character and determining whether or not it matters in politics. One issue on judging character is that people may have a different definition of character and have different traits that they value.

“I think it takes both personality and policy,” history teacher Carlen Floyd said. “I want to say policy is what I’m concerned about. I have voted for people I don’t like because of their policy, but I have also voted for people because I don’t like the personality of the other candidate. If I’m honest, intellectually, I respond to the policy, but I can’t divorce myself from my emotions.”

Psychology Today reported that in 2002, psychologists Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman attempted to measure whether a person has a good character.

Peterson and Seligman found that the virtues of wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence were important in many different cultures. They broke down those six virtues and came up with 24 character strengths.

“I think we need [a President] who is morally based, behaves correctly, and understands the vital behaviors in a professional job,” Hammer said.

“I admire someone who will not cave into pressure and will stand for what they say.”

The 24 character strengths are creativity, curiosity, judgment, love of learning, perspective, bravery, perseverance, honesty, zest, love, kindness, social and emotional intelligence, teamwork, fairness, leadership, forgiveness, humility, prudence, self-regulation, appreciation of beauty, gratitude, hope, humor and spirituality.

“I personally want a President that is passionate about the issues they think have potential,” senior Nick Van Lente said. “I also like compassion; I think it’s important to respect every life that exists in our country and view us equally under the lens of public service. I think it’s important for a President to care more about the government than about themselves.”

English teacher Judd Pfeiffer believes that a President should embody the characteristics of empathy, compassion, responsibility, intelligence, and knowledge.

“A candidate’s character dictates how they implement their policies and how they represent our country, state, county, region,” Pfeiffer said.

“In my opinion, responsible voters should always

”

Faith Lawrence Editor-in-Chief

”

Eimear Harriman Junior

I chose Biden for social intelligence. I’ve had to learn a lot about social intelligence for my own self-journey, and Donald Trump literally acts like a fifth grader. He doesn’t show any of the traits of emotional intelligence. The way that Trump acts and lacks any kind of emotional maturity worries me greatly.

”

Rachel McBurnett Senior

10 SPORTS

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

ATHLETES ASSERT Predictions for Week 8 of the college football season Riley Payne Dispatch Reporter

GAME ONE (11 AM CT ON FOX) Nebraska (0-0) at #5 Ohio State (0-0) The first week of Big Ten football is here, and an important game on Saturday morning in Columbus, Ohio is kicking off the season. Heisman contender Justin Fields aims to return the Buckeyes to the playoffs once again. Nebraska has looked better under third year head coach Scott Frost.

Justin Fields has some great weapons on the outside: Garret Wilson and Chris Olave. Ohio State should have a lot of success through the air, and it will be interesting to watch the run game after the departure of J.K. Dobbins. Nebraska will give this team an early scare, but Ohio State will prevail by a good margin.

Score Prediction Ohio State: 52 Nebraska: 27 GAME OF THE WEEK (2:30 PM CT ON FOX) #17 Iowa State (3-1) at #6 Oklahoma State (3-0) A crucial game in the Big 12 title race takes place in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Saturday afternoon. The undefeated Cowboys may make the playoffs if they win out.

Oklahoma State’s Heisman finalist Chubba Hubbard and star wideout Tylan Wallace will be pivotal. Iowa State isn’t as lethal on offense, but veteran quarterback Brock Purdy can get the job done.

Oklahoma State’s secondary defense has improved too. If quarterback Spencer Sanders is at full health, this game looks great for the Cowboys.

The Cowboys will get a great game from the Cyclones, but the Cowboys offense will be too much to beat in the end.

Score Prediction Oklahoma State: 34 Iowa State: 30 GAME 3 (8:00 PM CT ESPN2) #9 Cincinnati (3-0) at #16 SMU (5-0) Saturday night two undefeated non-power five teams clash in a game more important than it appears. Since the implementation of the playoff system, no team from a non-power five has made it.

However, both Cincinnati and SMU can be contenders for the final playoff spot if they continue winning. SMU is going into this game off of a few ugly performances. The Mustangs offense is still there under veteran quarterback Shane Buchele.

On the other sideline, Desmond Ridder needs to turn things around after throwing four interceptions in three games. There should be a good amount of scoring on both sides, but the Bearcats defense has been playing stellar. This game will come down to which team can avoid turning the ball over.

Score Prediction Cincinnati: 43 SMU: 34 Questions?

Concerns?

Want to share your opinion?

Contact: Email: bowie. journalism@ gmail.com Room: F203

Junior keepers diving for Bold Naya Tillisch Sports Editor

Fans fill the stands, erupting into celebration as a player breaks through the opposition’s defense and shoots the ball into the back of the net. This is exactly what junior goalkeepers Zach Kos and Edward Alonzo witness every game now that they have signed with Austin Bold FC, Austin’s only professional soccer team.

Kos and Alonzo are both goalkeepers who began playing soccer from a young age and are currently on the varsity team.

“I started out as a defender and worked my way into splitting each game with one half as a goalkeeper and one half on the field,” Alonzo said. “By the time I joined the Lonestar Developmental Academy team when I turned 12, I decided to play goalkeeper full time, and I have been ever since.”

Club soccer provides a place for professional and collegiate teams to scout younger players, which is how Austin Bold recruited Kos and Alonzo.

“Right now the recruiting process is through the Austin Bold staff looking at the top local teams play and

from there making a decision based on so,” experienced Bold midfielder Sonny Guadarrama said. “Players can be invited to training to see if they make the cut, but it’s up to the coach to decide at the end.”

The recruiting process was similar for Alonzo, as he was asked to attend summer training with the team before he was added to the roster.

“Last summer he brought me in for a few practices with Bold to introduce me to the level, so I’d been hoping to get another invite this summer,” Alonzo said. “After working to improve my game all year, I impressed him and the head coach enough to earn a spot on the roster, and I’ve been with the team ever since.”

Kos credits his success and spot on the team to Austin Bold goalkeeper coach Ryan Thompson.

“I loved training with [Thompson],” Kos said. “He made everything so much fun, which caused me to work a lot with him and keep getting better and better. I think that being able to hold onto the ball and being good with your feet are probably the most important skills to have.”

CLEARANCE: Junior Edward Alzonzo winds up to launch the ball down the field and past the opposing team’s defender at practice. He prides himself on his athleticism and distributing skills. PHOTO COURTESY OF Edward Alonzo

With early practices, late game nights, and ever-changing schedules, finding a balance between school and playing professional soccer has been tough for both athletes.

“For practice days we get there around 8:15 a.m., and training starts at 9,” Kos said. “It either ends at 11:30 or 12,” Kos said. “It is pretty hard being able to work on school work while training with Bold because by the time I get home, I

GOAL SIDE: Junior Zach Kos dives to block a shot. He started playing soccer after his third birthday and became a goal keeper shortly after. He credits his success to his family and goalkeeper coach, Ryan Thompson. PHOTO COURTESY OF Zach Kos

have missed half my classes.

I have to email my teachers and make sure I don’t miss anything, which is pretty hard to keep up with.”

Playing professionally has also been very educational for Alonzo.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned from playing with Bold has been [that the guys on this team] make playing soccer a lifestyle,” Alonzo said. “I’ve also learned that preparing my body to succeed is vital. If you show up one day sore or tired because you didn’t stretch the day before or eat the right foods or get enough sleep, no one cares. That’s your responsibility, and no one is going to take it easy on you.”

Although it has been challenging, they are thankful for their opportunities with Bold and have loved the experience so far.

“I think this will help me get into a better college for soccer and open more doors for me after college,” Kos said. “I have loved every single second of it. It is such a different atmosphere compared to club and school soccer.”

The gratitude goes both ways, and Guadarrama is excited about them being some of the newest additions to the team.

“I knew Alonzo prior to him coming into the Bold,”

Guadarrama said. “I thought he was a good goalkeeper with great qualities for his age. Kos and I had never met until he came to the Bold.

After playing with them for a couple of months, both keepers have a great opportunity in front of them to keep improving their skill and have a chance at playing one day.”

Though they are no strangers to hard work, signing with Bold has exposed both Kos and Alonzo to the dedication and sacrifices professional players put in to be successful.

“My advice to young players trying to play for the Bold one day would be to train everyday and never lose sight of the end goal,” Guadarrama said. “Try and play with the best kids on a daily basis, and try to challenge playing against older top players.

Kos and Alonzo recognize this idea, and they both are eager to continue to improve and further their soccer careers.

“Now that I’ve signed with Bold, I’m really looking forward to my development in the environment,” Alonzo said. “The level is awesome to be around every day. I’ve already noticed improvement throughout my game.

The team has really treated me like family, and I’ve learned so much in the professional environment.”

Football teams find new ways to play with COVID Luke Smith Dispatch Reporter

Whether it’s high school, college, or professional football, COVID-19 has had an impact. As seen in sports media, games have been delayed and teams, including Bowie football, have been forced to adapt to the ever changing circumstances of the world post-COVID-19.

Varsity coach Rey Torres explains the changes the team has made in order to practice and play safely.

“Our team is very well adjusted [to the changes],” Torres said. “They don’t have a dressing room, so they wear their pads to practice. They don’t have buses to most of their games, so they drive their cars or parents take them to the games. We don’t share water facilities at practice, so they bring their own water jugs.”

Social distancing has been enforced at their practices, but they have not been practicing any less than normal since the season started.

“The practice time is pretty much the same [as last year],” junior varsity defensive end Alex Sauceda said.

“The team follows social distancing and wears masks to avoid spreading COVID-19.”

The team has also altered how they would normally meet to go over plays and discuss tactics.

“We have Zooms daily for every position, which entails what the

HAIL MARY: Junior quarterback Diego Tello searches for an open teammate to pass to in their game against Austin High. The varsity lost to Austin High 57-56. PHOTO BY Reagan Zuniga

coaches want from us and [what plays they want] to teach us,” Sauceda said. “Also, during drills, when the district allows us to be closer than [six feet], we are usually being instructed on plays then.”

The situation has also had a slight impact on the team schedule.

“Our schedule has been modified

to one out-of-district game with a regular district schedule,” varsity quarterback junior Diego Tello informs.

Though the district schedule was not changed significantly, the delayed start did push back play-offs several weeks.

“Due to the delay of school re-

opening, our season started [four weeks] later than normal,” Torres said. “Normally, playoff season starts in early November. Now the playoffs start the first week in December.

Now you should be expecting a colder and wetter playoff season in December.”

Since coaches had to come up with a new practice plan, players have had to adapt to the new standards and practice guidelines. “[At] practices we have to wear masks, and when we are not in [a drill] we have to be every five yards apart,” varsity senior cornerback Jacob Harrison said.

COVID-19 has also impacted football by limiting the amount of fans, if any, allowed in stadiums.

“The stands can get rowdy and the fans’ excitement can help the team with a positive momentum shift in the game,” Torres said. “However, I will say, without people in the stands, the players can communicate with each other more efficiently.”

Despite these new and uncharted circumstances, Sauceda has a positive outlook on the season. “[JV has] had some good scrimmages and [we] think [we] have a good team this year,” Sauceda said.

Harrison is confident in the varsity players abilities as well and has big goals for his senior season.

“We feel like [varsity] will dominate this season and feel that we will have a better season than the last one,” Harrison said.

coming UP in SPORTS N o v. 6 V a r s i t y f o o t b a l l v s . L a k e Tr a v i s @ L a k e Tr a v i s

N o v. 6 V a r s i t y v o l l e y b a l l v s . A u s t i n H i g h @ A u s t i n H S

N o v. 7 S w i m m e e t v s . D r i p p i n g S p r i n g s @ D r i p p i n g S p r i n g s

N o v. 1 7 V a r s i t y g i r l s b a s k e t b a l l v s . C e d a r Pa r k @ C e d a r Pa r k

N o v. 2 7 V a r s i t y b o y s b a s k e t b a l l v s . Tr a v i s H S @ B o w i e

N o v. 2 7 V a r s i t y f o o t b a l l v s . S a n M a r c o s H S @ B u r g e r S t a d i u m

SPORTS 11

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

Student slacklines and soars to new heights Senior Jovi Smith started slacklining as a hobby before quarantine and fell in love with the sport Corinne Piorkowski Sports Editor

Balance, core strength, patience, and concentration are all characteristics needed to participate in the sport of slacklining. For senior Jovi Smith, these qualities are second-hand nature as she walks on a tightrope over lakes, between mountain tops, and over other rigorous courses.

“Slacklining is the first instance in which my mind has been able to overcome my body,” Smith said. “If my body is feeling like it’s going to bail, my mind steps in and remains positive and strong.”

Contrary to others in the sport, Smith hasn’t been a part of slacklining for the majority of her life.

“Slacklining came into my life about six months ago through my mom’s best friend,”

DANGLING HIGH: Smith dangles attached to a harness. Smith can slackline between mountain tops or over a body of water. PHOTO COURTESY OF Jovi Smith

Smith said. “I ended up falling in love with it and now I’m here.”

Smith’s mother, Angelique Landry, has seen a complete change in her daughter, and says it’s for the better.

“Since discovering slacklining, Jovi has become connected,” Landry said. “She has always enjoyed challenges, nature, and people but now there is no longer a separation.”

The sport can be either competitive, which is called tricklining, or freestyle, and Smith mainly freestyles and loves trying new tricks on her own.

“I don’t really compete in any competitions, but there’s always accomplishments to be made,” Smith said. “For example, you can break records and do things that have never been done and I feel like that’s like going to competition in a way.”

When freestyling in the sport, most everything a player does is solo, as they rely on their own body, strength, and mind to balance on the line.

“When I’m out on a line, I’m vulnerable and people are watching,” Smith said. “Ultimately everything I do is up to me; my mind and body are in control of what happens next.”

Smith’s good friend, senior Grace Burden, also picked up slacklining along with Smith, but didn’t have the same passion for the sport and now supports from the side.

“I wasn’t really sure why she was so intrigued by it because I didn’t catch onto it like she did,” Burden said. “Now, she’s made it into a mental and physical workout and she enjoys it more than anything.”

Although slacklining is technically a solo sport, there is a community of people who practice together and find joy in the same activity.

“They are all so supportive and really want you to succeed,” Smith said. “This is the first time I’ve ever come across a community like that and it’s a huge part of why I’ve fallen for the sport.”

When Smith freestyles, people can still watch her on the lines as though it were a competition.

“My favorite part of Jovi slacklining is watching the complete freedom she gains by embracing her fears,” Landry said. “Others can’t help but notice it too, and when I look at them looking at her, it’s just awesome.”

SUITING UP: Smith hooks up to a harness before she slacklines between two mountain tops. Smith mainly freestyles when she practices and doesn’t compete in slacklining competitions. PHOTO COURTESY OF Jovi Smith

According to her friends, Smith’s newfound love of slacklining has only increased her infectiously positive personality.

“Jovi has a heart like no other and does so much to make people smile,” Burden said.

“I’m glad she’s found something that makes her as happy as she makes others.”

For Smith, slacklining allows for a physical and mental workout, and cleanse while doing something that brings her pure joy.

“To be honest, I used to work out to look a certain way, but not to feel a certain way,” Smith said. “Nowadays I just get stronger from practicing over and over again.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit America, Smith had found a safe, relaxing and time-consuming hobby to keep up with in quarantine, which helped her get through the troubling time for everyone.

“Initially, I was glad there was an outdoor, seemingly safe activity for her to do when COVID-19 started,” Landry said. “It

just goes to show that in tough times if you respect yourself and others that good things can happen.”

When dangling from a harness in between two mountain tops or balancing on a line over a lake, accidents and falling are inevitable in the sport.

“There’s lots of falling in this sport, but that also means there’s lots of getting back up,” Smith said. “I never liked exercising for the purpose of getting fit, now I just happen to be exercising while doing something really fun; it’s honestly a plus to the whole sport.”

Through the sport of slacklining, Smith has found a safe haven and a place to express herself creatively and exert physical energy in the eyes of her mother.

“I am thankful to the slackline community for always putting safety first, and for seeing Jovi as equal, an athlete, a lover of an incredibly exciting sport that has forever changed Jovi’s life,” Landry said.

Boys’ soccer team improves practices and skills with tracers Corinne Piorkowski Sports Editor

Recording top speed, calculating passes, and demonstrating running time are all characteristics of the new tracers that the boys soccer team recently purchased to wear during practice.

These tracers are able to record how many minutes a team member played and how much they ran in a given time, and they also create a map of where players are on the field in an aerial view and when they passed the ball.

The tracers were first used on Oct. 1 and the plan is for them to be used in practices and in scrim-

mages and games from now on.

“It will help me get players in the correct locations on the field and measure their output,” boys soccer coach Ryan Logan said. “It will make training easier by showing them when they are out of position and when they have good spacing.”

The boys soccer team has their first game on December 19, which allows them two months of time to get used to wearing the tracers.

“So far, I am pleased but we will get more use out of it when the season starts,” Logan said.

The tracers are worn during practice, a small strap is placed around the leg and then a chip is

TRACKING THE PLAYERS: Coach Felipe Mendoza sets up a tracking device to record the players with the tracers. This also helps the players watch film from the scrimmages to improve their skills. PHOTO BY Michael Reeves

put into the sleeve and it tracks where the players move, how fast they run, and importantly, how far they run.

“There is a Velcro sleeve that wraps around your calf,” Peterson said. “Then, you place a tracer in a little pocket inside the sleeve.”

Since the tracer is placed on the bodies of the team, the dynamic of practice for the boys has changed from before.

“I wouldn’t say the tracers make practice more difficult; it is non-existent really,” senior Brandon Peterson said. “It is a very high quality operating system that has really helped us step up to our level of play on the field.”

The teams are anticipating their first game mid-December, and many players are looking forward to it.

“Judging off how the pre-season is going I think we could have the best team since the four years I’ve been on varsity,” senior Lucas Pedrozo said.

Before this upcoming season, Bowie has statistically struggled with winning games and collaborating as a team.

“I believe some of our players have lacked the discipline and respect for each other that we need to be successful, but I think this has changed this year,” Bourgeois said. “We had some great additions to our squad in Edward Alonzi and Luke Hanna, both juniors who have helped step up our level of play tremendously.”

After games or scrimmages, the tracers can act as film for practicing in the upcoming weeks.

“The tracers began to be used so we can look at our stats as well as having more accurate filming instead of having a parent film the games,” Bourgeois said.

From a coach’s perspective, the tracers are a way to better the team’s techniques, running, and position to help win more games.

“The tracers will tell me how many minutes a player played and how much they ran during the game,” Logan said. “It will help me get players in the correct locations on the field and show me when they have good spacing.”

EYES ON THE BALL: Soccer team captain Keegan Hardy controls the ball in the team’s scrimmage with the tracer strapped onto his left leg. The team’s season doesn’t start until mid-December. PHOTO BY Michael Reeves

The boys’ soccer team structures their leadership with three team captains that work tirelessly to lead the team to hard fought victories.

“We have our leaders from previous years like myself, Keegan Hardy, and Austin Rimer, all of which can step up and be depended on when we need a spark for the squad,” Peterson said.

Overall, the tracers have made practice run more smoothly for the soccer team and allowed them to improve in technique and for the purpose of watching film from previous games.

“We would like to see our top speed and how far we traveled and our position during the game

to compare where we should be,” junior Zack Kos said. “I like how it can track the distance and the speed that you go and how the camera automatically follows the ball so nobody has to work it.”

Through the newfound use of these tracers, the soccer team is now able to track their speed, positions, and other characteristics that will allow them to perform better this season as a team.

“Overall, I would say that we have a really exciting group of boys on the soccer team this year, and I think that Bowie might just be a team to look out for in the playoffs this season,”Peterson said.

ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY Rachel Maddox and Reagan Zuniga

12 POP CULTURE THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

SEASONAL ACTIVITIES to do in AUSTIN Five fall-themed places to visit that align with COVID-19 policies Ella Waltuck Dispatch Reporter

October is finally here and for a lot of people that means pumpkin spice lattes, fall-themed photo shoots, and Halloween costumes.

Coronavirus is a big concern for everyone’s daily life, so here are some fall activities to do, where you can easily social distance and be safe.

If scary movies interest you, try out some outdoor drive in movie theaters where you can social distance and watch your favorite scary movies. Look no further than the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In, located off I-35 and is about 30 minutes from Bowie. Individual walk-in tickets are around $11, but they also have packages for driveins that include snacks and unlimited passengers. The prices range from $30 to $45.

If you’re looking for pumpkin fall-themed photo ideas, try out Evergreen Farms in Elgin Texas.

Evergreen Farms, located in Elgin Texas located on 242 Monkey Rd. They have mask rules and social distancing is required to keep everyone safe. This year they have their pumpkin hunt event. Parking and admission is free and you only pay $3 for the following activities; Pumpkin Launcher, Train Ride, Fishing Pond, Spinner, Bounce Track,and a Kids Zip Line. They are open Monday through Friday from 12 - 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 - 5 p.m..

If you’re looking for something closer, try Sweet Eats Fruit Farm on 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626. They are open Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are only for activities, you can show up and pick fruits and only pay for what you take home. Sweet Eats has many fruits and vegetables you can pick and pumpkins are $0.79/Lb. They have a corn maze and pumpkin patch.

If you’re looking for a movie theater experience but still want to be cautious about the virus, try Alamo Drafthouse.

Alamo Drafthouse requires masks and temperature checks everyone who enters the building. Everyone is socially distancing when watching the movie, and the employees follow cleaning procedures to ensure you’re safe. Alamo is showing scary movies this October, tickets start at $12.50 to book a seat. Alamo Drafthouse is located at 5701 W. Slaughter Lane Bldg. F. Another option for fallthemed photos is Zilker Botanical Garden located at 2220 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78746. The garden is open y days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For ages 3-17 admission is $3 and $6 for adults. The garden consists of rivers/ponds and many trees shading your path.

Leaves are beginning to change colors and the days are getting cooler. I recommend trying these activities with your friends this fall.

Questions?

Concerns?

Want to share your opinion?

Contact: Email: Bowie. journalism@ gmail.com Room: F203

Students speak out on social media Teenagers use all kinds of platforms to promote political activism Callie Payne Pop Culture Editor

It’s bedtime, and for high school students it is one last chance to catch up on social media.

A quick stop on TikTok yields a video on the upcoming election, while a switch to Instagram leads to a story about the Black Lives Matters movement. Students have become more aware of the world around them.

Whether it is through Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok, some teenagers have been using every possible platform for political activism.

“I post information that explains the term ‘white privilege’,” senior Katie Golson said. “I think that social media is such an ingrained part of our lives now so it makes sense to me that activism should be a part of it. People are constantly receiving information through social media whether or not they know it and I hope to spread things that are factually true.”

Along with Instagram, TikTok is a very popular platform for teenagers as well as political activism due to its short videos that are often extremely effective.

“It is important to talk about these things because if one person can see what you post, they can be inspired by it,” senior Kaia Pierce said. “I also think that since I have a little bit of a following on TikTok, it is important for me to talk about these things and to show everyone that they are not alone.”

One form of political activism that is also popular is where students repost resources or educational information regarding their topic of choice on their Instagram stories.

“For me, Instagram is a lot more personal because I know at least 75% of my followers,” Pierce said. “It does not matter the number of followers you have, if you have one or 100 it does not matter.”

Since the 2020 election is in less than a month, SHARE AND REPOST: Senior Kaia Pierce posts and reposts others’ art onto her Instagram students have been using this topic to repost and story as a way of political activism. Kaia mainly posts about gender inequality and the Black Lives Matter Movement. PHOTOS COURTESY OF Kaia Pierce’s Instagram share their beliefs to their own following.

“I mostly post bi-partisan voting information because I don’t want to be written off as just ‘far left’ which leads people to ignore what I say,” Gol- tivists on Instagram and Twitter so that I’m being ism sites and accounts.

“Social media has some downsides, but I think son said. “Even though the majority of my follow- exposed to more viewpoints each time I am scrollers are high schoolers, a lot of seniors are turning ing,” science teacher Masie Martin said. “Howev- the ability to raise awareness of important issues 18 which makes them eligible to vote. I also have er, I very rarely post on any of my social media is one of the best things about it,” Martin said. “I people over the age of 18 that follow me who can accounts anymore and have held off on making am really supportive of students using social mealso vote and I think spreading information is real- social activism posts since it’s felt ungenuine and dia for activism, and I think it’s incredibly brave. performative.”

It’s inspiring to see students come together and ly necessary because voting is so important.”

Even though students at Bowie are not afraid to actively demand a better and more just world for Hotlines, petitions, and voting information are share their beliefs, there can be some disadvantag- themselves and their peers.” just a few of the things students use to post.

Students are making sure to alert their peers “I love when people ask me questions about the es for being so open.

“People argue with you constantly or try to rile on social media to vote in the election on Tuesday, information I post,” Golson said. “I think it is so amazing to actually see a change resonate with- you up by swiping up and saying negative things,” Nov. 3 if they are able to.

“I think especially right now with these upin someone. My biggest goal is to point out the Golson said. “I also lose Instagram followers which is eye opening because you start to see where peocoming, unknown months it gives me hope to see misinformation that is currently being spread and ple fall on issues by their response. Even though others post about their beliefs and how we can hopefully help others make educated decisions.”

Political activism through social media is not this can be annoying, I remember why I do this make a more accepting society,” Pierce said. “To see people my age who I have never seen talk just for students, teachers also make sure to get which in the end makes it all worth it.”

According to Pew Research, more than half of about such significant topics makes me beyond involved in different ways.

“I have made an effort to follow more social ac- teenage social media users look at political activ- happy.”

TikTok trends take over the Halloween season Grace Harris Dispatch Reporter

TikTok, conceivably the most popular app in modern teenage culture, rapidly overflows with new trend’s that consume teen’s time and attention. What are the current raging trends students embrace?

In anticipation of the spooky Autumn season, popular TikTok creators have promoted the trendy ghost photo shoot. The photo shoot allows groups of friends to get together and take the notorious, ghost pictures. Essentially it involves wearing sheets with sunglasses on top of the sheet.

“I was inspired by a video I saw on TikTok, the one with the sunglasses,” sophomore Cara Gonzales said.

The festive videos inspire students to get together for a group activity.

“It was really fun because the pictures turned out cute, but it was difficult to take them at night because we had no idea where we were stepping,” sophomore Gwen Price said.

In addition to the ghost photo shoot, a trend brought up by the upcoming fall season, is curtain bangs.

A popular hairstyle many girls were inspired to try because of influencers on TikTok. ”Something that’s holding me back is that I’m scared they won’t look good on me and that I’ll be too lazy to style them,” sophomore Katie Simons said.

Students either go to a hair salon to get this specific hairstyle or they decide to do it themselves. Many hair stylists have been posting their client’s curtain bangs on their TikToks as well.

“I straighten my hair every day which used to look really good and gives the bangs volume, however

SPOOKY AND TRENDY: Senior Faith Lawrence sits on the grassy field as she gets her picture taken for the ghost photo shoot. The hashtag ghostphotoshoot has over 3.1 billion views on TikTok. PHOTO

BY Faith Lawrence

they’re difficult to style,” sophomore Sophie Chasen said. “I would recommend getting them as long as you’re okay with them being in your face a lot.”

Similar to curtain bangs, in the

early 2000’s the popular hairstyle was side parting your hair, resulting in side-parted bangs. This look was popular in the teenage years of the millennial generation, which many teachers grew up in.

“I definitely would have had curtain bangs if they were the trend when I was in high school,” CTE teacher Bridgette Reyes said. “Personally, I have always had bangs until the last five years when I grew them out because I didn’t like the regular maintenance of keeping them trimmed.”

Popular alternative artist, Conan Gray released his album “Kid Krow” in late March. His song “Heather” has since become the most popular song on the album after blowing up on TikTok. “Okay, I think calling someone heather is like a backhanded compliment,” sophomore Abbey Henderson said. “It’s like, yeah, you’re amazing and beautiful but I want to kill you.”

As well as being a compliment, there are multiple types of videos people make to the song on TikTok. One being, smoothly panning the focus of your eyes as if you’re watching “Heather” walk by. Overall, the sweeping trend has been controversial because of its enhancement of beauty standards.

“I think it went viral because it’s something everyone relates to. Everyone wants to be Heather,” Henderson said.

Gen Z has recently drawn an interest to the idea that it could be possible to shift to a reality of choice when they are sleeping. The most popular reality being, J.K. Rowlings, Hogwarts, the school within both the series of books and movies, Harry Potter.

“I heard about shifting on TikTok and didn’t believe it until I watched a video that explained it and now I believe and it makes more sense,” Chasen said. “I have not successfully shifted yet but I think the trend is so cool.”

REVIEWS 13

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

Mask up: review of the most effective mask types Sammie Thompson Reviews Editor

At this stage in the pandemic, the evidence is clear: face masks are effective and necessary tools in fighting against COVID-19. But with so many options for face masks available, the question arises: what type of mask is best?

There are four main categories of face coverings that are available to the general public: surgical masks, cloth masks, neck gaiters, and professional-grade respirators.

Surgical masks are disposable, loose-fitting face coverings that are often made of paper and plastics. Cloth masks are made out of fabrics, and are typically tighter-fitting than surgical masks. Neck gaiters are thin, tube-shaped coverings that go over the neck and face and are typically made of fabrics and other materials, such as polyester and spandex. Lastly, professional-grade respirators, such as N95 or KN95 masks, are highly effective medical masks that form a tight seal against the face.

Out of these four categories, my favorite type of masks to wear are cloth masks. I like wearing cloth masks because they are comfortable, reusable, and tight enough that I feel myself and the people around me are less at risk for spreading or receiving COVID-19.

Cloth masks can also be a form of expression. With the option to buy a cloth mask from a store or to make one yourself using instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the choices for mask color and design are nearly endless.

Both the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) advise the general public to use non-medical, fabric masks. This is because medical masks, such as disposable surgical masks and N95 respirators, are critical supplies for healthcare workers. The CDC recommends that these medical masks should be conserved for people in these occupations who need them the most, unless it is the only type of face covering that is available.

Additionally, not all respirator-type masks are equal. Two popular respirators, N95 and KN95 masks, differ in where they are certified. They are both said to filter out 95 percent of aerosols, however a recent report by ECRI has found that this percentage might actually be lower for KN95 masks. Despite this finding, KN95 masks are still considered to be useful in low-risk settings.

Within these four main categories, there are many other things that determine the effectiveness of face coverings, especially for cloth masks.

Because cloth masks can be homemade or bought from many different stores, their level of effectiveness varies more than medical masks and respirators, which are commonly tested by their producers.

KN95 Respirator

N95 Respirator

Surgical Mask

Homemade cloth Store-bought cloth The CDC recommends choosing or making a cloth mask that has two or more layers of breathable fabric. It is also recommended that the fabric can be washed after each usage. Another thing that can affect a mask’s effectiveness is how tight it is to the wearer’s face.

Many masks have metal nose strips in them that can conform to the mask wearer’s face, which I really like because they feel secure, but are still very comfortable and easy to maneuver.

Lastly, cloth and medical masks can have exhalation valves on them, which are oneway valves that open when the mask-wearer exhales, making it easier to breath. The CDC warns against masks with exhalation valves because while they do protect the mask-wearer, they do not provide any protection to the people around them.

Despite the CDC and WHO’s multiple attempts at providing clear mask guidance, misinformation and confusion surrounding face masks has run rampant.

A study published in August from Duke

ART BY Sammie Thompson

University only poured fuel on the fire. The study was perceived by many media outlets to conclude that wearing neck gaiters was worse than wearing no mask at all, because the gaiters could break large germ-infested particles into smaller ones that could hang in the air.

After the publication of this study and the debate that ensued, the authors of the study pushed back against this claim, stating that it was mostly “speculation� due to a lack of conclusive evidence.

Personally, I wouldn’t choose to wear a neck gaiter. There are so many other options that have definite evidence that they protect both the mask wearer and the people they are around.

Now that we’ve gone over the types of face coverings to buy and the types to avoid, let’s look at the regulations Austin Independent School District (AISD) has in place for mask wearing during in-person learning.

Not surprisingly, the regulations are based on CDC guidance. AISD is requiring all people two years and older to wear a face mask

that completely covers the nose and mouth and snugly fits onto the face while they are on campus.

Students are encouraged to bring their own reusable cloth mask that can be washed every day, however, masks will be provided to everybody who arrives at school without one to use for that day. Bandannas/gaiters and masks with exhalation valves are not allowed.

I believe that the use of masks and other face coverings are absolutely necessary in order to stay safe during this pandemic, as long as they are used properly. Not only is it important to choose a mask that is effective, that mask also has to be used consistently and responsibly. I would recommend investing in several cloth face masks that can be worn daily and washed in between uses.

According to the staff at Mayo Clinic, wearing face masks and using preventive measures to reduce infection, such as social distancing and frequent hand washing, significantly helps slow the spread of COVID-19.

Let’s listen to the scientists on this one.

Investigation into the biases of popular news sources Which networks have remained trustworthy and factual in this age of polarization, if any?

Dylan Zellner Dispatch Reporter

Misinformation has forced itself into the day-to-day lives of everyone so subtly that many people haven’t even noticed.

It is a plague that has latched onto anyone that it can get its hands on. It seems as if nobody knows who can be trusted, so no one gives much thought to anything anymore.

There has to be some unbiased sources that can be trusted, but it’s hard to find them in the jungle of bias where towering trees of confusion block us from seeing the truth. In order to find unbiased sources, I have examined four major news networks: Fox News, CNN, NPR, and PBS News.

Fox News is very commonly known as a conservative leaning news station, with Tucker Carlson claiming most of the credit. Tucker Carlson is a Fox News anchor who has his own segment, called Tucker Carlson Tonight, where he states his right-leaning opinions as if they are fact.

Carlson speaks his opinions so abruptly that he has had

FOX

NEWS

ART BY Sammie Thompson

channel

lawsuits filed for slander. Fox’s defense was that no “reasonable viewer� would believe what Carlson states, even though he is a news anchor that speaks as if what he says is fact.

I think that it is completely outrageous that Carlson is allowed to say whatever he pleases because no “reasonable viewer� would believe him.

Although Carlson is extremely biased, it doesn’t mean the entire station is as biased as him. Fox News is still a right-leaning news station that can embellish from time to time, however, after actually watching a Fox News report, I was surprised at how Fox News isn’t as right-leaning as once believed. If Fox News is going to be something someone chooses to watch, I would suggest also getting information from another source, because strictly watching Fox News can leave any viewer becoming unknowingly biased as well.

Similar to Fox News, CNN is seen as biased as well, however, CNN is seen as more of a liberal news station. When watching CNN, the anchor’s reporting seems less biased than one would expect. For example, CNN News anchor

Jake Tapper questioned why former Vice President Joe Biden didn’t give a stance on adding judges in a recent interview.

That type of interview will make one question how biased CNN really is when they aren’t afraid to question the candidate that they would seemingly want to look good. CNN also fact checks Biden in the same way they do Trump.

This shows that they are actually going after what I suspect is their preferred candidate for the 2020 Presidential Election. CNN does have some biased undertones, but they aren’t as strong as Fox News, where it is almost impossible to find any form of debunking among their own party.

CNN does still have opinion pieces, but their opinion pieces are written and put into the category of Opinion writing.

There isn’t a news segment dedicated to opinions, like Tucker Carlson Tonight. CNN is not an incredibly biased source, but is still left-leaning, in my opinion.

This means that when viewers watch or read something, CNN makes that viewer want to visit multiple sources to gain a better insight of the bigger picture.

According to Business Insider, a Gallup and Knight Foundation survey found out which news sources Democrats and Republicans believed were biased. Overall, NPR was rated as unbiased, but scored better among Democrats than it did among Republicans. In spite of Republicans seeing NPR as more biased, NPR has recently reported on the Amy Coney Barrett trial by only stating facts and quotes.

There seems to be no bias when correcting the mistakes that left-leaning sources have made. I believe that NPR is a trustworthy source some could even use to find when other sources are being biased and untrustworthy.

PBS News is another seemingly unbiased source that only delivers the facts. When covering the Amy Coney Barrett trial, instead of bending the truth to make it seem as if either the Democratic or Republican side is right, PBS News reports on the facts.

The news anchors give quotes and statements to summarize things their audience needs to know from whichever issue they are viewing. They give each sides’ view and positions so that any viewer can come to their own decision on which side they believe is correct.

News can easily be used to manipulate viewers into believing what the station owners believe, making it nearly impossible to know what the truth actually is. What we call the truth has turned into a weapon, giving power to whoever wields it.

Effort has to be put into finding trustworthy sources. This is even more important now because of how the world feels like it’s upside down, and we will not be able to make the world right side up if we follow everything blindly. We all have to put effort into finding the truth because it will help make our future more stable. It is up to everyone to fight misinformation and strive to educate themselves.

14 COMMENTARY THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

Joe Biden is the better choice for Americans The Dispatch endorses former Vice President Joe Biden in the 2020 election EDITORIAL

The United States is currently without a competent leader.

Roughly four in 10 adults say they or someone in their household has lost their job to COVID-19, over 700 Americans have died in 2020 at the hands of police, and over 220,000 Americans have died due to the Coronavirus.

The pandemic has revealed President Donald Trump’s inability to run this country and it is time for his immediate removal in order to save what little integrity this country has left.

On Oct. 8, The Dispatch editorial board anonymously held a mock Presidential election. The Dispatch unanimously elected to endorse former Vice President Joe Biden.

Joe Biden isn’t a savior.

He’s not going to save this country from climate change or end systematic racism.

What Joe Biden does have is policies to avoid the inevitable and

at least the acknowledgment that both of these issues actually exist.

At least Joe Biden acknowledges that the majority of Coronavirus deaths could have been prevented if the President took proper precautions. The Dispatch is endorsing Joe Biden not because he is the candidate we want but because he is, and will always be, better than Donald Trump.

The major criticism of the Democratic party is their hesitancy to embrace progressive policy. How long can the Democrats run on being the slightly better choice?

Democrats constantly criticize those who don’t vote or vote third party but never ask those people what they can do to earn their vote.

This strategy will not last the party much longer. The hope for change in the party towards more progressive policies like Medicarefor-all, which 87% of Democrats support but Joe Biden doesn’t.

Regardless of personal feelings towards Biden, this country needs

ART BY Rae Gray

a leader who believes in systematic racism, who believes in climate change, who believes in a national mask mandate, and someone who is at least allowing a public option

for health care.

This is the bare minimum but it’s a bare minimum that Donald Trump doesn’t reach.

In 2020 and going forward, we

can’t afford to have someone in office who doesn’t have a clear plan for combating climate change, when scientists predict that damage will be irreversible in less than ten years.

We need someone who is committed to reversing the extremely harmful Trump administration immigration policies, such as denying asylum to those escaping violence, as well as the separation of families. These are a few of the policies that are destroying the United States.

Once again, Joe Biden isn’t going to change the current rise in nationalism but getting Trump out of office is necessary for the future of America.

Who you vote for shouldn’t just stop with the Presidential election either, voting in local elections often has a more immediate effect on your everyday life. There are 23 million eligible Gen Z voters this election year. We have the ability to make a difference.

Blue Lives Matter chooses to ignore Black Americans Maya Amador Commentary Editor

Black Lives Matter, BLM, is a organization founded in 2013 in response to the murder of Trayvon Martin. Their mission, which you can find in its entirety on their website, is to “...is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes...” The movement has made major strides going from largely controversial to becoming the social norm with millions of instagram users claiming to stand against police brutality.

However, just the phrase Black Lives matter is enough to make some people uncom-

fortable.

All Lives Matter, ALM, is less of an organization and more of a reactionary statement.

With no official website, leader, or mission they seem to only exist as a way to anger those who are actually fighting for their rights.

Blue Lives Matter has more of an online fan-base with several websites and online merch stores. On one of the several online communities, Blue Lives Matter proponents describe their mission as ” ...shed positive light on America’s heroes to help boost morale and gain society’s much needed support.”

Every single counter-movement to BLM is completely ignorant to the racism Black people say is very much still present in Ameri-

can. Refusing to believe people's pain is extremely dangerous and harmful.

The idea of “blue lives” is an anomaly. Police have the ability to walk away from their jobs but Black people can’t change their skin color.

Not all police are bad people but all people take part in a broken system that is actively hurting Black people. Police are often called to respond to mental health situations, which they are not qualified to handle properly.

This was the case with Daniel Prude, who was detained while having a psychotic episode. The police handcuffed Prude after he had run into the street naked. He started to spit on police, this led the officers to put a mesh hood on Prude and push his face into the ground. He went to the hospital and

died a week later. These inhumane practices should not be celebrated or protected.

Supporters of ALM and Blue Lives Matter will also bring up this idea of Black-on-Black crime as a much more important issue in the Black community. The argument is that Black people should be more concerned with 70 percent of violent crimes against Black people are committed by other Black people instead of police brutality.

While this is an issue, ALM seems to entirely miss the point of why this is a problem.

Systematic racism has caused Black people to be born at a disadvantage for generations.

The War on Drugs, specifically, is cited as responsible for the Black-on-Black crime statistic.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement funding increased during the 90's resulted in a 26% increase of sworn officers between 1992 and 2008 resulting in places like New York being over policed.

The erosion of the Fourth Amendment was extremely rampant during this time. The line “...but upon probable cause...” has led to what Thurgood Marshall, the first Black Supreme Court Justice, has called “the drug exception to the Constitution.”

This exception led to the murder of several Black Americans, most recently Breonna Taylor was murdered because the police were legally allowed to enter her home with a no knock warrant under the suspension that she was selling drugs out of her home.

If you truly believe all lives are important then you should be the first one on the frontlines lifting up Black voices. Hearing that Black people are three times more likely to be killed by police should anger you to no end. All Lives Matter has never meant equality instead, it has meant that White people continue not to believe Black people when they talking about the racism they experience.

Questions? Concerns?

Want to share your opinion?

Contact: Email: bowie.journalism@ gmail.com Room Number : F203

ART BY Amorah Schultze

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COMMENTARY 15 TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020 THE DISPATCH

The desensitization of the pandemic Anna Holme Commentary Editor

Monday, Jan. 20, 2020. The date of the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the United States. In the many months since then, there has been a plethora of mandates, restrictions, and precautions implemented in an effort to slow the advancements of COVID-19.

Businesses were forced to shut down, unemployment rates have shot through the roof, and many people have been confined to their homes.

However, ever since the number of new cases has seemed to pass its initial apex, although with the approaching winter, there are projections for cases to increase, there has been a shift in how Americans view this pandemic. People have become more careless, and have allowed boredom to overtake safety. This is irresponsible, as the pandemic is not over, we have to maintain precautions to keep ourselves safe.

The United States has become especially desensitized to how dangerous COVID-19 is, Texas even more so. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) tens of thousands of new cases are reported in the state of Texas each week.

Travis County alone accounts for around 4% of Texas’s total cases.

Considering these numbers, one would imagine that people would take things more seriously. Over 220,000 people have died due to COVID-19 in the United States alone. This is an appalling number. Just to visualize, 220,000 people is the equivalent of filling the entirety of the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium twice over.

With such a large portion of people having passed away, it is our responsibility to not further these numbers or allow them to become normalized. Part of this normalization, though, lies in how social media influences our attitudes towards COVID-19.

Celebrities have especially taken to ignoring proper social distancing. Nikita Dragun,

Anna Holme

a popular YouTuber, was seen throwing a party in Los Angeles in late July of this year, in which many other social media influencers like the D’Amelio sisters, James Charles, and Tana Mongeau were in attendance, all without masks on. This is only one instance of the many examples of the pandemic’s normalization in mainstream culture, which is extremely damaging and honestly hypocritical, considering that many influencers present at the party also preach social distancing.

As COVID-19 becomes more and more

desensitized, many people have found themselves getting bored of the pandemic, which is understandable. Yet, it also creates a culture of forcing the return to “normality.”

In my own limited experience of being in public spaces in recent months, there are so many people eating out without masks on and people posting on social media about their outings with large groups of friends.

As schools begin reopening, I have also seen large gatherings of students completely ignoring any attempts at precautionary measures. Wanting things to go back to normal

is fine, but how one acts upon those feelings is very telling of the privilege one holds.

There are major disparities regarding who is being most affected by this pandemic. Largely lower-income communities are struggling the most, and more often than not there is a noticeable difference between the people who are and aren’t taking precautions. It speaks to one’s privilege to be able to even try to act like things are normal, as so many people have been experiencing so many struggles due to the United State’s economic state.

And things aren’t just going to get better over time. There is a growing likelihood of COVID-19 becoming endemic, which means of a disease that is regularly found on earth, like the flu or measles. It is purely our own incompetence if this does come to be, as World Health Organization (WHO) emergencies director Dr. Mike Ryan says it will be a “massive effort” to control COVID-19.

While this may seem like an uncontrollable situation, there are always things we can do to help stop the spread of this virus. It may have been said thousands of times over, but please wear a mask and social distance, it is such a simple act of human decency and kindness.

Take the precautions necessary to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. And you’re not only protecting your own interests, but you will be externalizing an attitude of empathy to the communities that are most vulnerable to COVID-19. This is the only way that we can overcome this pandemic and return to a true state of normality as quickly and safely as possible.

Questions? Concerns?

Want to share your opinion? Contact: Email: bowie. journalism@gmail.com Room Number : F203

COVID-19 policy disparities between state and Austin Amanda Zinni Copy Editor

Across the country, state, and city, governments are responding to COVID-19 outbreaks. However, the difference in response between these three entities causes harm to those they govern, particularly in Texas.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s singular response plan for the whole state is unreasonable, and there is no way a state or national government can create a plan that can satisfy everyone’s needs.

Austin Mayor Steve Adler took more action in the first two months than Abbott did in six months, including canceling South by Southwest. Therefore, the city government should be held responsible for creating and administering a plan for COVID-19.

In April, when Coronavirus cases were beginning to rise, Mayor Adler issued an order requiring face coverings in public spaces. However, this order was overturned by Abbott, even though Adler had the city going in the right direction.

If Abbott had issued a similar order for the state, Texas would most likely not be one of the national leaders in Coronavirus cases. The governor did not require face coverings in public spaces until July 2, several months after Coronavirus

Abbott’s COVID-19 Policy

Adler’s COVID-19 Policy

ART BY Anna Holme

risks prevented people from going to work.

Only a few more months after this mask mandate was announced, Governor Abbott announced that restaurants and offices across the state would be allowed to open at 75 percent capacity.

With a lack of a vaccine, it makes no sense to remove one of the few restrictions that was keeping the virus at bay. Not only does it risk

the lives of people careless enough to go out, but it also risks the lives of those who work minimum wage jobs serving the people who think it’s appropriate to go out for dinner during a pandemic.

It’s clear that Governor Abbott isn’t taking this global health crisis as seriously as he should and is acting irresponsibly.

While some may argue that the governor is acting in the best inter-

est of the economy by reopening businesses so soon, it’s downright immoral to value profit over human lives. What’s more is that Abbott is hardly concerning himself with the lives of those he’s endangered by delaying mask mandates and opening restaurants.

When you go to Abbott’s website, one of the first things you can see is a pledge to “Back the Blue,” or to promise to support police officers. Instead of concerning himself with lives that are actively being endangered, he elects to promote an entity that already has both the support and government funding to support itself.

It is perfectly possible to keep the economy afloat in a dire situation like the one we’re in now. If people continue to support their favorite local businesses from home in the form of online shopping or ordering takeout, it’s possible to keep those businesses open. The best part of using this method is that it endangers no one and both the business owner and the consumer are satisfied.

However, even Texas has a more concrete plan to deal with COVID-19 than the national government does. The new mask mandate is a step in the right direction, even though it’s a direction that should have been taken when cases first spiked. The federal govern-

ment has yet to require masks in all public places and only 33 states require face coverings in public.

The lack of decisive action from the federal government has allowed people to debate the necessity of face coverings and the legitimacy of the virus itself, ultimately putting more people at risk.

The fact that Texas is among the national leaders in Coronavirus cases is a testament to the consequences of Abbott failing to follow the standard Adler set months ago when COVID-19 cases were only beginning to spike in Texas. Even if he tried to protect the economy, Abbott continues to fail to protect those being forced to work in a pandemic.

However, the Texas state government has taken more action against Coronavirus than the federal government has, even though there is more that can be done to protect residents.

Questions?

Concerns?

Want to share your opinion?

Contact: Email: bowie. journalism@ gmail.com Room Number: F203

BULLDAWGS SPEAK OUT Is social distancing still important?

INTERVIEWS BY Anna Holme PHOTOS COURTESY OF Interviewees

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COVID-19 is still a major issue and we need to be safe when we go back to school. People should wear their masks and wash their hands as well as keeping to social distancing.

Madison Waldinger Junior

It is definitely still important. People are still dying because of the virus and masks are helping stop and contain the virus. If you want people to stop becoming sick wear a mask.

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While it isn’t fun having to stay inside, I believe it’s necessary to keep everyone in our community healthy during this pandemic.

Jake Stachura Sophomore

Abbey Smith Senior

I believe social distancing is still important to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and just to protect ourselves and each other from getting sick.

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JR Flaherty Freshman

Amanda Pfeiffer English Teacher

It couldn’t be more important now since teachers and students will be asked to be on campus in small groups for the entire instructional day [...]

We must take all precautions and remain vigilant.

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16 IN-DEPTH

THE DISPATCH TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2020

The reality of reproductive health rights

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Source: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/ birth-control ART BY Azul Lin

Birth Control Pills:

shameful secret to be on birth control,” Johnson said. “I remember when I filled out my physical this year and I had to tell the nurse that I had an IUD and the look she gave me feel terrible. I don’t understand why men can take the protective steps necessary to have safe sex but women can’t.”

Along with slut shaming, modesty shaming is when a person is made to feel bad about abstaining from sex. According to Thomas, there is no choice that a woman can make without being judged.

“I do believe that there is a tone of modesty shaming in our society,” Thomas said. “I personally believe that the Lord made sex for marriage, and that's why I want to save it as a special thing between me and my husband. I also feel like I'm too young, but I understand if other girls feel ready to make that decision in their lives. There's a lot of places where mostly men shame women because of their choice to remain abstinent. Saying that, it also can go the other way with slut shaming, unfortunately women are shamed for the choice that they decide to make either way.” *Names have been changed to protect the identity of the anonymous sources.

1973- Roe v Wade: This landmark case started in Dallas, Texas in 1971, and challenged the strict abortion laws in the state. It was argued that under the 14th Amendments privacy clause a womans right to an abortion was protected. It was decided that the state could not prohibit abortion in the first trimester.

1978- Pregnancy Discrimination Act: The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was amended in 1978.

Under section 701, subset "K" was added to protect pregnant women from employment discrimination.

It also included women who were mothers, had pregnancy complications, or were planning on being mothers in the future.

1990- Hodgson v Minnesota: This case changed the state law that required that minors gain parental consent from both biological parents before receiving an abortion, regardless of marital status of the parents or parental rights over the child. It secured the right for the minor to obtain a judicial bypass to receive an abortion.

1992- Planned Parenthood v Casey: Decided in a 5-4 decision under the Rehnquist Court, it was decided that any restrictions providing an "undue burden" upon a woman seeking an abortion in the first trimester should be over turned.

One of these "undue burdens" was the spousal consent required for married women.

1994- Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act: Passed by congress in 1994, this act protects people seeking reproductive health services or religious services from violence, physical obstruction of the entrance, or threats while accessing a clinic or religious institution. It also protects against property damage to clinics and to religious institutions.

2016- Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt: In 2013 the Texas State legislator passed a series of restrictions on clinics that provide abortions. They were challenged in the Supreme Court because of their undue restrictions on abortion access. It was determined in a 5-3 decision that states could not place undue burdens on abortion access.

Sources: https://www.oyez.org, https://www.eeoc.gov, https://www.justice.gov

Depo-Provera Injection (Depo Shot):

Condoms and Barrier Birth Control:

PROS: - Condoms are readily available , easy to obtain, and they are relatively inexpensive.

- They are the only form of birth control that is able to reduce risk of STD infection.

- No prescription or doctors appointment is required for use.

- No adverse side effects unless the user or wearer is allergic to latex.

ART BY Azul Lin

PROS: - Lasts up to three months and requires less commitment than other "set it and forget it" birth controls.

- Over 99.9% effective during the three month period and if taken on time.

- The Depo-Provera Shot has been known to stop menstruation all together

CONS: - It is a high dose of hormones and has been proven to cause substantial weight gain in its users - The reoccurring appointments every three months can be difficult to keep up with.

- Once it is injected there is no way to stop its side effects until the three month period is over.

CONS: - Condoms have a 14-15% failure rate when used alone.

- There are few alternatives for those who are allergic to latex.

- Condoms require diligent use to be Nexoplanon Implant (the Arm Implant): most effective.

PROS: CONS: - The arm implant - Irregular bleedIntra Uterine Device (IUD): can last between ing is common three and five with the imyears. plant and for -It is the most some women it CONS: PROS: effective form of may not stop.

Insertion can be - Hormonal IUD can hormonal birth - The implant can extremely painful. be effective for up control. shift or move deeper - There is a bigger to five years and - The insertion into the arm than it is chance that if non hormonal IUD process is relasupposed to. there is a pregcan be effective tively simple and It has been known to nancy it is ecfor up to 10 years painless worsen acne, headtopic (meaning - Hormonal IUD - Depending on aches and nausea in it occurs in the has proven to help the person it has some women. fallopian tube). lessen menstrual been known to - Unlikely comcramps and heavy lessen mood plications can periods. swings and stop occur such as the - One of the most menstruation device piercing effective forms of after the adjustthe uterine wall, birth control with a ment period (usuor coming out.

99.9% effectiveness ally 3-6 months).

ae Gray

ART BY R

CONS: - Using Birth Control Pills as contraceptives requires diligent use for them to be at their maximum effectiveness.

- The pill is on average only 91% effective, one of the lowest ratings out of hormonal birth control options.

- It does not provide any protection against STDs

1965- Griswold v Connecticut: Decided in a 7-2 decision under the Warren Court, this case granted married couples the right to birth control under the 14th Amendment right to privacy. It was later extended in 1972 to unmarried couples with Eisenstadt v Baird.

ART BY Azul Lin

PROS: - There are many different types of birth control pills so there are different options available to find what works best with the users body.

- The pill can help to lessen acne, ovarian cysts, PMS, iron deficiency, ovarian cancers, mood swings, painful menstruation and can help to regulate the users cycle.

The Long Road to Bodily Autonomy

ART BY Azul Lin

Pros and Cons of Different types of Birth Control

is not able to exit the body.

While this is not a curable c o n dition some of the treatments include; laparoscopic surgery, hysterectom y, and hormonal therapy.

This condition can cause extreme pain during menstruation and can lead to infertility or subfertility if left untreated. “ I have endometriosis,” senior Emily Moore* said.

“So, my uterus does not correctly shed the lining during my period, which makes it really painful for me to have periods and birth control is one of the easiest and least invasive ways to treat that. So, I went on the pill.”

Besides serious medical conditions, birth control can also be used to regulate hormonal issues for women, and allows for a generally more regulated menstrual cycle.

“Some women need to eliminate their period all together, so there is no cramping, bleeding, or mood swings,” anatomy teacher Renee Keyes said.

“Many teenagers are put on birth control for these positive side effects alone.”

For women, being on birth control means that they are able to have periods without excruciating pain that prohibits them from being able to function normally.

“I can function on my period now that I’m on birth control,” Moore said.

“I don't debate whether or not I'm going to go to school that day because I'm not in pain anymore.

It also makes my periods lighter and a lot more manageable.”

However, even with all of the positive side effects that birth control can bring, Johnson believes that there is a stigma that comes with girls having birth control.

“I feel that the stigma around birth control affects girls because it’s almost viewed as a dirty

ae Gray

they're under age and they can't care for a child mentally or financially.”

Following the death Oftentimes, women's of Supreme Court Jus- reproductive rights and tice Ruth Bater Ginsberg, religious freedom clash. the future of reproductive In 2018 the Trump adhealth rights and access ministration expanded to reproductive health ser- the Obama-era policy of vices have been in question religious exemptions and as the Supreme Court is passed a mandate allowleft with a super majority ing for religious or moral of conservative members. objection in the insurance Particularly of concern is a coverage of contraceptives woman's right to an abor- for female employees of tion, as decided in the 1973 religious affiliated corporacase Roe v. Wade. tions or institutions. This Recently the conserva- mandate was later brought tive party has put abortion to the Supreme Court, at the top of their agen- which upheld the ruling. da, with President Donald “That ruling makes Trump planning to de-fund women have to find anPlanned Parenthood if he other insurance or pay gets reelected because of for birth control on their its participation in per- own,” Cunningham said. forming the controversial “There are so many womprocedure. en who need birth control “I think with the loss of in America and it's how Justice Ruth Baiter Gins- women can succeed ecoberg and the nomination nomically and financially.” of Amy Coney Barrett, Roe Birth control does v Wade is at risk of being more for women than just overturned,” junior Tam- preventing pregnancies my Johnson* said. “Even and is often used for oththough Barret is a woman er reasons. According to she is very conservative and plannedparenthood.org, it does not support access to can be prescribed for many abortion or contraceptives, different ailments, such I think if she is sworn in it as painful abnormal pericould potentially reverse ods, ovarwhat we've ian cysts accomand many plished in If abortions are o t h e r terms of rehormone productive made illegal, they are still going to happen rh eel aa lt te hd rights.”

In counthey are just going problems. tries where “I actuto be unsafe and abortion ally didn't is illegal unregulated, which c h o o s e the rate to go on is dangerous for of aborbirth conwomen. tions per trol, it was unwanted recompregnancy Izzy Cunningham mended to is similar in me by my Senior countries d o c t o r, ” where abortion is broadly junior Ally Thomas* said. legal. In fact, according to “I had medical problems, guttmacher.org, both have including really bad nausea an abortion rate of about and stomach aches. And 40% of the total unwanted my period cramps were so pregnancies. awful, with everything that “It's kind of like the gun was already going on it debate, in the sense that if would make me really sick you restrict gun access peo- so my doctor recommendple are still going to illegal- ed that I go on birth control ly acquire guns,” senior to help with the pain of my Isabella Cunningham said. periods.”

“Same thing with aborBirth control is also tions, if it is made illegal, prescribed for a condition it is still going to happen, called Endometriosis. Enit is just going to be real- dometriosis is a condition ly unsafe and unregulat- in which the tissue that ed, which is dangerous for normally lines the inside women. Especially when of the uterus grows on the there's instances of rape, or outside of the uterus, and

ART BY R

Rae Gray Managing Editor