The life of senior Learn more Theater goes to Sylvain Akakpo, about Native Play Production, page 4 American page 12 culture, pages 6-7

BELLEVUE EAST HIGH SCHOOL 1401 HIGH SCHOOL DRIVE (402) 293-4150 BELLEVUE, NE DECEMBER 2018 ISSUE 3 VOLUME 68 Local pantry accepts donations

Helping Hand. Linda Sema, a Bellevue Food Pantry staff member, takes canned food items out of a box on Dec. 12 to store into containers that can later add to the pantry’s inventory. The food pantry received donations all year round from locals in Bellevue. “I do this because I love feeling helpful to the community and giving back,” Sema said. Photo by McKenzie Gandy

for receiving the greatest amount ishable and nonperishable food food pantry every month. or for their families, so it’s impor- Cam Smith of donations. Special events such items. Food items collected dur- “We serve approximately 250 to tant that there are sources for peo- Reporter as the Bellevue East and Bellev- ing a food drive in one county may 300 households in Bellevue month- ple to get food and not worry about The Bellevue Food Pantry is ue West games also impacts the benefit a child or family living ly. In 2017 we had more than 4100 all the bad things,” Watson said. in a constant need for donations amount of donations we receive.” in another county,” Communica- individuals impacted by the Bellev- The Bellevue Pantry is open to throughout the year and with the Mobile food pantries are also an tions director of Food Bank for the ue Pantry. When donations are low donations every Monday-Thursday holidays coming up, donating is effective way to get food on the ta- Heartland Angie Grote said. “In that reduces the number of meals from 1-4 p.m.. They accept canned makes sure every family has food bles of families in need. Food Bank our service area, approximately we are able to provide in each pan- food and non perishable food items. on the table. for the Heartland has food drives 209,000 people are considered food try,” Bradley said. The Mobile Food pantries once a “The Bellevue Pantry is totally at Mission Middle School. Non- insecure and may not have regular Making sure there’s enough month and every other month at supported by the Bellevue commu- perishable food items and cloth- access to the meals they need to be food is important to both the work- Bellevue East. nity. We receive both monetary and ing donations happen every third healthy,” ers and volunteers of the varying “Keep in mind there is approxi- food donations. Schools, churches, Wednesday from 5-6:30 p.m. These Households across Bellevue are food banks, but also to the Bellevue mately 10 families in Sarpy County businesses and individuals donate food drives are held all around Ne- in need of food. Donating to the community. that don’t know how they will feed to the pantry,” director of the food braska and depend on citizens. food pantry allows people unable “People who are hungry tend to their family tonight. With out plac- pantries in Bellevue and Omaha, “Food Bank for the Heartland to afford food are able to put dinner lean towards crime and basically es like the Bellevue Pantry we can Carmen Bradley said. “The Holi- serves 93 counties across on the table. Over 200 households anything they can do to get food on fill that need for emergency food,” day season tends to be our season and western . We source per- are in need of food and rely on the the table, whether it’s just for them Bradley said. PAGE 2 TOM TOM Bellevue East High School NEWS December 21, 2018 Rusty Hike; new mayor of Belleuve ter resources than most cities and I McKayla Vermeer want to exploit those. Co-Editor in Chief What do you most hope to ac- How does it feel to be elected Q: Q: complish in your career in politics? as Bellevue mayor? Making a difference by mak- It is an honor to represent our A: A: ing Bellevue more competitive in city. I am a 4th generation resident, the metro area when it comes to at- local volunteer, business owner and tracting new jobs and opportunities. investor in Bellevue and I feel I have the city’s best interest at heart. What are you most excited Presiding over my fi rst meeting last Q: for in this term? night felt like I belonged there - it was a good feeling. A: To bring the community clos- er together and create a new sense What are the main policies Q: of pride. you are focused on for this term? When did you decide you There are several policies; Q: A: wanted to be involved in politics? roads (infrastructure), being growth Why? friendly to expand our tax base, and make sure our city workers are do- My father was a county com- ing the best job they can and enjoy A: missioner when I was in my teens working for the city. and I was able to see that a normal citizen can make a difference. My Why did you decide to run Q: fi rst public offi ce was in 2008 when for mayor? I won my father’s same commis- sioner seat. I felt like I was very Hike to the top. Rusty Hike was elected as mayor of Bellevue on Nov. 6. Hike has ideas to help change Bel- I was frustrated with how A: effective in that role at the time levue in positive ways. “If I have made Bellevue a better place to work, live and play, I have accomplished my stagnant development is in our and now I feel I can be effective as goal,” Hike said. Photo courtesy of Joanna Hike community. I think we have bet- mayor. Dunkin’ Donuts changing intersection Owner Bryce Bares proposes modernization on Galvin, Harlan “We’re excited to build a Dunkin’ on the corner of Harlan The plans are for Dunkin’ Donuts to begin building in Brooklyn Anderson and Galvin,” Bares said. “This store will be a ‘Next Genera- the spring and have the store open by the fall of 2019. This News Editor tion’ Dunkin’.” store will be a “Next Generation” Dunkin.’ There are not that The Dunkin’ Donuts team and the City of Bellevue study many open in the U.S. the morning traffi c counts on the roads and evaluate the de- “It will incorporate a lot of new technology and have a mographics of the area, such as median income, number of different look than our other restaurants,” Bares said. “We’re households, and daytime population. After evaluating all of exploring technology like ordering kiosks and a dedicated the factors, they start to determine whether to take the risk mobile-order drive-thru lane where you order from your and build at a location. phone.” “We spent about six months working with the City of Bel- The city and the Dunkin’ Donuts team will be paying for levue to improve access to the site which was the big hurdle the project which is roughly around $1 million for a typi- to development,” Bares said. cal freestanding Dunkin’ Donuts in a neighborhood. The Dunkin Donuts will be replacing the old gas station on the There are medians on Harlan Dr. and Galvin Rd. which Dunkin’ Donuts team puts funding into it in the beginning corner of Galvin Rd. and Harlan Dr. and is projected to be currently prevent left turns to the site of the future Dunkin’ and then has a loan with the bank that gets paid off through- open by the fall of 2019. Donuts. Those medians will be modifi ed which will allow out the years. Bryce Bares, the owner of the Dunkin Donuts in Oma- for increased traffi c fl ow and easier access to Dunkin’ Do- “It feels really good to bring a modern and sharp looking ha, has proposed a plan to the City of Bellevue to build a nuts and Walgreens. building to that corner and the old gas station was an eyesore Dunkin’ Donuts on the corner of Galvin Rd. and Harlan Dr. “I think that the Galvin Rd. corridor is on the verge of a but Once completed, that corner will serve as a gateway into which have been accepted by the Bellevue City Council on revitalization,” Bares said. “So much retail has moved away Old Town Bellevue, and we’ll be very proud to have helped Sept. 24 to continue on with the plan. from that area that it’s left Old Town Bellevue under-served.” reshape that corner,” Bares said. TOM TOM PAGE 3 December 21, 2018 NEWS Bellevue East High School Barclay Knapp offering sense of direction credits were in art history and the ful career can start here,” business The district partnership facili- for the remainder of the time they Abbie Deng history department there was fab- instructor Dawn Danauskas said. tator, Garrett Simms, was key in had with him. Opinion Editor ulous,” Knapp said. Barclay attended Bellevue Knapp returning to Bellevue. He “It was overall very informa- Barclay Knapp, creator of In- Business students and teachers East when it was known as Bel- created the itinerary and planned tive because of how he viewed the ternet of Things Access (IOTA), took their seats in the auditorium levue High. After he graduated in the day with both East and West Virtual Enterprise program from a is a Bellevue High graduate that and listened to Barclay as he re- 1975, he got accepted to Johns high schools. business person perspective and told his story to aspiring business told his path to success. Teach- Hopkins University in Baltimore, “I contacted Mr. Knapp ear- as graduate of East,” junior Breck students on Nov. 14. ers and faculty members listened Maryland, studying mathematics. lier this year and began a series O’Grady said. “I think he very “I think thing the most impor- in as well, a rare opportunity for From there he continued his edu- of conversations. Knowing ev- well did give students a chance tant thing is in your academic ca- them also. cation and got his MBA at Har- erything that he has experienced [to engage] because of how he reer; in your career you need to “Since Mr. Knapp has literally vard Business School. in the business and fi nance world, opened up to questions.” continue to be open to new things walked the same halls of Bellevue “My favorite quote is by Louis we started talking about him re- Knapp took the time to visit and I think this part of my suc- East, just like the students today, Pasteur and he said ‘fortune fa- turning to Bellevue to speak with the various student-run business- cess is because I did get a well- he is easy to relate to and students vors the prepared mind,’ and I our high school business and eco- es in the school, like the school rounded education. I went to a can see themselves being success- think I was very fortunate - from nomics students. Hearing from store operated by the DECA chap- very highly scientifi c school, ful in the future as well. It helps Bellevue, to Johns Hopkins, to someone who has fi rst-hand busi- ter, Beast Brew by FBLA and the Johns Hopkins University, and I drive home the point that the Harvard. I learned how to learn. ness experience is great, but when new class, Virtual Enterprise’s No was a math major, but my second starting point of a happy success- I learned how to observe, and so that person is also a graduate Coast Soap company. when luck came my way, I learned from the same town? It was a very “Any chance to build relation- how to spot it,” Knapp said. unique opportunity,” Simms said. ships in the community is a must. Knapp’s success story started Knapp presented his story us- The closer these are between stu- off when he was really young; he ing a PowerPoint emphasizing dent and community leaders, the became an entrepreneur in his late lessons he learned on his journey better. Learning increases 10 fold 20’s and continued to work from to success; he wanted the students with their help and experience,” there. Knapp’s current business to understand. Senior Ellie Foral business instructor Andrew Wer- venture is IOTA, which is giving was one of the students who lis- ner said. internet or connectivity to every- tened to Knapp. Foral found his Knapp fi nds a successful edu- day devices. From there, IOTA words encouraging. cation as important as a diverse connects those “things” to their “Hearing Mr. Knapp’s story background and having diverse network and allows for services just kind of reaffi rms that where intellectual abilities. like tracking and other applica- you’re from doesn’t matter be- “I fi nd the most successful tions that let their users work with cause you can go anywhere. It’s people, my colleagues, who are them technologically. encouraging for me to know that well rounded and have had life “I was fortunate because I was just because I don’t go to the best experiences, have taken history, successful young. I started one of school in the country, doesn’t English, philosophy classes as Billionaire Barclay Knapp visited East to talk about his life successes and the fi rst cellular phone companies mean I can’t be successful in my well as math, science, and engi- lessons on Nov. 14. Barclay Knapp is the creator of IOTA and graduated when I was 26 years old, and by own right someday,” Foral said. neering,” Knapp said. “You have from Bellevue High School. “Being open to new things allows the 27 I was the chief fi nancial offi cer After ending his presentation, to be prepared; it will show out. opportunities come to you.” Knapp said. Photo by Hailey Hendry of a New York Stock Exchange Knapp allowed the students in the You’ve got to be able to recognize listed company,” Knapp said. auditorium to ask him questions it.” School board members discuss changes to BPS

as an active participant in seeking solutions Hailey Hendry for plan time issues, I experienced numerous Co-Editor in Chief attempts at resolutions. Committee members The current Bellevue Public Schools researched practices across the metro and na- board members were elected on Nov. 6. tion, surveyed staff and worked with the BEA The elected candidates are Nina Wol- to fi nd the solution to continuous year-round ford, Maureen McNamara and Frank Kumor. plan time.” These fi ve board members spoke with the Though the district has many strengths, a Bellevue Education Association and have common problem the board members see for come up with new ways to better the BPS the school is the behavioral issues of the stu- district for the staff and students. dents throughout all grade levels. Many ideas “The board’s role in curriculum develop- have been given thought to try and cease the ment is to make sure the administration is epidemic. Along with the behavior, budget- asking teachers what works in their class- ing for the schools and building maintenance rooms,” Wolford said. “We should formu- has also been a reoccurring issue. late our grading philosophy, our approach to “Ultimately, it appears the only solution rasing test scores, etc. based on direct input would be additional resources, and yet with from teachers.” limited funding sources, this has forced the In addition to the concerns listed by Wol- district to explore the best options while ma- ford, board members are also concerned nipulating schedules, specialists, etc., know- about the amount of plan time teachers are ing we are limited by the minutes in the given. school day,” McNamara said. “This model “I would like to see us move towards a has been funded in school districts across better and full plan [time] of all teachers,” the nation. Again, the district staff has done a Kumor said. “We are looking for ways to ac- good job of seeking solutions; it is a tedious complish this so we move forward with our process that has plagued school districts for strategic plan. This is a high priority for our decades.” district.” The candidates ran for many different rea- Each board member brought to light the sons, but all had a similar desire to serve the amount of plan time the teachers in the dis- adults and students within the schools. trict have. It has been said that many elemen- “Thirty-fi ve years of experience as a class- tary staff members feel they do not have room teacher, principal and director have pro- enough time to plan out an entire days’ worth vided numerous opportunities to learn from of classes. others and acquire skills for working with a “First, I would want to know if the district multitude of individuals in a positive man- needs to consider common plan time while ner,” McNamara said. “Those skills, which exploring continuous year-round plan time have been attained, will serve the board well options. If so, this adds another dimension as we move forward collaboratively support- to scheduling,” McNamara said. “After years ing the students, staff and families.” PAGE 4 TOM TOM Bellevue East High School FEATURES December 21, 2018 Hitting all the right notes voices blend together in a harmony sophomore Julia Cheek said. well enough. If someone does not to make the audition or if I won’t Madie Ybay Features Editor as they reach the audience’s ears. The choir department has four check off, they are not allowed to check off. I just really want to get it “I joined choir because I love different groups with different perform at the next performance; if right so I can perform with all my Up on stage vocalists take their singing, I always have, and I cannot purposes. The groups practice with they miss two performances, they friends,” junior Chloe Johnson said. place. After the months of practice, imagine life without it. I’m so glad check-offs. Check-offs are when will get kicked out of the group. East High Singers is also a the choir department has fi nally I did because I now have this whole section leaders check their sections “Freshman Chorale is a lot easier varsity choir group. Singers is an perfected each song carefully. Their other family I can always count on,” to make sure they know the songs for me than Take II, but I’m glad that actual class during the school day. I have to take the class because it They are the singing group that helps me fi ne tune skills like reading wear purple robes. They perform for sheet music and being able to hit just many occasions such as graduation, the right notes,” freshman Jordan concerts, and more recently a White said. wedding. Freshman Chorale is a choir class “I love singing, so whether it’s for with all freshmen. All students that Singers or Take II, I love performing want to be in choir in the upcoming and showing off what I and my years are to tak Freshman Chorale as friends have been working so hard to a class. Mxied Chorus is also a class perfect over the past couple months. that is not freshman nor a varsity Especially in Take II, I get a rush choir. These groups participate in from performing and competing that concerts such as the fall concert and makes all the hard work pay off,” Candlelight. E Street is a chorus sophomore Cullen Krishna said. group that is a extra-curricular. It is Take II is the only show choir not actually a class that takes place that East has. It is also the group during the school day, but instead that competes against other schools. they meet after school during the Take II is varsity choir that combines week. To get into E Street, students both singing and dancing. They have have to try out since it is a varsity competitions and have events such choir group. E Street participates as senior night, concerts, Chick- in concerts at the school and more Fil-A night and so on. recently at Chick-Fil-A during the “Choir is defi nitely one of the It’s lit! East High Singers practice for the Candlelight concert in the auditorium on Dec. 17. Sophomore Cullen holiday season. things that has built me into the Krishna takes time and dedication to perfect his part in Singers. “I’m just trying to memorize music to keep up “The worst part for me is the person I am today. Choir is one big with everyone else in my section,” Krishna said. Photo by Brooklyn Anderson stress of check-offs and auditions. I family and we always have each just get so worried over if I’m going other’s backs,” Cheek said. Leadership Academy gives back to community with Angel Tree

at her church. She said she loves see- in the Angel Tree. They said it gives Emily Nelson ing the Salvation Army’s presence in a better look into a world not familiar Reporter her community. to some students. Fritz said it’s not Every year, the Angel Tree re- “The tree makes students feel just about giving back to the com- turns and provides an opportunity good that they’re making someone’s munity, but also bringing the com- for students to give back to the com- holiday better.” Mendick said. “It munity together. munity. This tradition was started by could be a $5 gift and the person will “Some kids don’t know what it’s a Leadership Academy student who be grateful. The people who receive like to not even be able to afford thought it would be a great service the gifts are thankful that other peo- Christmas presents.” Fritz said. “I’m Joyful Giving. Trees decorated project. ple are thinking about other people not saying Christmas is only about with Salvation Army gift tags “I think it benefi ts students from and not just themselves.” the presents, but it’s nice to have this were in several East classrooms the community who receive the gifts Fjell said the tree has become idea that someone cares about you.” at the end of November. Students, because they may not otherwise re- more successful throughout the According to the Nebraska De- faculty and staff could choose a ceive a present for the holidays.” years. With more teachers and stu- partment of Education, 43.6 percent tag which indicated a gift for a Leadership Academy sponsor Sara dents sponsoring trees each year, it of students at Bellevue East are eli- specifi c age of a girl or boy, then Fjell said. “I think it benefi ts our stu- provides families with more presents gible for free and reduced lunches, bring in the gift, and the Salvation dents because it is a great example and happiness for the holiday season. which means their family income is Army would ensure that the child of student servant leadership, giving Junior Ethan Fritz said he gets a kick below poverty level. Many families received it for the holidays. Some back to one’s community.” out of buying presents for others and are not focused on getting their chil- of the rooms that participated were The Angel Tree is a Christmas can only imagine the joy it brings. dren presents, worrying about neces- Sara Fjell, Kayla Brown, Elizabeth tree or holiday stocking that has “It’s crazy because you would sities instead. Beman, Whitney Wilson, Rebecca Salvation Army tags that people pick a young boy or you could pick a “It reminds me every year how Holland, and Jeremy Lenz. The can grab and then purchase gifts for teenage girl,” Fritz said. “Either way, lucky I am.” Mendick said. “The An- fi nal date for gift giving was Dec. specifi c kids on their list of families you know that they’re going to be so gel Tree reminds me that I actually 19. Photos by Vanessa Hineman in need. According to junior Me- grateful for what they receive.” really have it good. I’m so grateful and Kaida Page gan Mendick, who is in Leadership Both Fritz and Mendick said it’s that I’m given this opportunity to do Academy, the tree was also featured important for students to participate this.” Families speak about military veteran grandparents

Here in East High School, we have about 30 years in the navy, Tweety’s Sharon Guchu yet when their grandparents were family from the military members Reporter students who have parents and grandfather served for about two in the military, but that doesn’t who were abroad and separated grandparents who are veterans. years at the Korean War and Foral’s prevent them from hearing about from their loved ones. Who is a veteran? According to seniors Elizabeth Foral, Nautica grandfather served in the World War all the accomplishments of their “I know that my grandma and American War Library, a veteran is Geiser, Gabriel Tweety, and are just II. grandparents. grandpa wrote a lot of letters to each defi ned by federal law, moral code some of those students. “Veterans are brave people “He puts his fl ag and all his pins other when he was overseas,” Floral and military service. There are While serving in the military, because not everyone would be out on the fi replace and every time I says. “She still have those letters different types of veterans. Some there are different time periods willing to protect their county like go to his house I see it,” Geisler said. and look back at them is kind of of them are war veterans, combat when people served. For instance, they do,” Geisler said. Other memorabilia includes adorable and makes me cry a little veterans and protected veterans. Geiser’s grandfather served for All three students were not born items such as handwritten notes to bit.” TOM TOM PAGE 5 December 21, 2018 FEATURES Bellevue East High School Staff provides help to senior Dogs assist Student living alone supports students, staff himself, works toward graduation

better himself through education supports himself and still goes to Abbie Deng and experiences.” school full time and is involved in Opinion Editor His ambition and dedication to extracurricular activities,” Powell We all face challenges and ad- success stood out to many. Not too said. versity in life, but to brush it all off long after long after arrival, Akak- Sylvain decided to live on his and keep going is something that po decided to live on his own own after he and his father came Trigonometry, math instructor Cynthia Watts’ service dog, stands in his many people haven’t mastered yet. after he and his father came to a to a mutual decision. When he alert position to let her know when her blood sugar is decreasing. Photo This is not true for one student mutual decision. When he lived in lived in Africa, Sylvain had al- by McKenzie Gandy at East. Senior Komlan Akakpo Africa, he had already been living ready been living on his own so shows the world just how easy life on his own, so the change wasn’t the change wasn’t too hard for “There is a lot of really good can be. too hard for him. Since Akakpo’s him. When faculty members heard Brooklyn Anderson experiences with Trig,” Watts said. “It’s just life it’s not that hard” move from Togo, counselor Sara the news many of them wanted to News Editor “The best experience was when he Senior Komlan Akakpo said. Powell has had the chance to work help including Powell, Principal As he walks into school Trig alerted me when he wasn’t being Komlan, more known by the with him more and learn his back- Jeff Wagner and Finan. keeps distractions away and makes trained.” name Sylvain, started at East in ground. “When I didn’t have food in sure to stay by his owner at all times. Trig is a service dog while Pug- 2016 when he moved from Togo to “Sylvain is not your typical my apartment they helped me get Now Pugsly on the other hand, he sly is a therapy dog. The service the U.S. Togo is a country in West high school student, but part of stuff; Mrs. Powell and Colonel gets ready to put a smile on people’s that Trig does is to alert Watts when Africa centered between Ghana what makes him unique is the fact Finan and the Paul family, they faces. Trig and Pugsly are service needed and to keep Watts safe while and Benin. that he started living on his own at also helped me. Just the school; animals that help out at East. staying away from distractions. Pug- “People see Africa as a country, the age of 18 after getting his fi rst everybody wanted to help me. I Service dogs have been allowed sly is at East to help students and but it’s not, it’s a continent. They job at Walmart working 10 p.m. to didn’t think I needed that kind of East since Mar. 7, 2011 and geom- teachers when they need it, so they think ‘you’re African, you prob- 7 a.m. during on the weekends and help, but they were all willing to etry instructor Cynthia Watts has are allowed to pet him and spend ably come from a poor country.’ 8 p.m. to 5 p.m. three days out the help me, like every teacher, every- had Trig for almost a year. Pugsly time with him for a little bit before People also ask me, ‘Do you guys week on the weekdays,” Powell body was trying to help me, even has been around since the beginning heading back to class. have water?’ Like where I lived said. Dr. Wagner took me to the grocery of the 2018-2019 school year when “I love him so much. When you I had water and I used water the Along with Powell, Sylvain store and helped me get some gro- Colleen Pribyl, the freshmen coun- pet him, he will smell your hand same way I use it here in America worked closely with Lt. Col. Pat- ceries. That was cool; it was amaz- selor, started working at East. and then lick it. He will put his head right now. It just depends on where rick Finan. Sylvain approached ing,” Akakpo said. “Trig is about 18 months old and down so you will keep scratching you go in Africa. Every country is him during his sophomore year As Akakpo made this change he is a Labradoodle,” Watts said. “I his head,” senior Shae Friman said. different and every part of a coun- wanting to learn more about AF- to his living situation, he now am a diabetic so when my blood sug- “Then he will start begging for treats. try is different,” Akakpo said. JROTC, but joined his junior year. juggles maintaining a home, going ars gets dangerously low, he makes They have treats in the couselor’s of- The transition from Africa to “I fi rst met Sylvain my fi rst to work, and graduating from high sure to alert me.” fi ce. They are like miniature milk the U.S. was one Akakpo had to year here,” Finan said. “I was im- school, all at one time. When Trig was fi rst a part of bone treats.” adjust to quickly. When he moved mediately impressed with him; he “I passed all my classes last Watts’ life, he was dominant in the Pugsly is a puggle, which is a pug to the U.S., he had to adapt to the was very motivated to learn every- year and this year has been okay. beginning and needed more train- and beagle mix, and he is 13 years language, as well as the American thing that he could about ROTC. It’s hard to study when you get off ing to make sure that she was safe old. Pugsly has only been working as way of life. I know at the time he was work- work late and you come home and throughout the day. Trig was trained a therapy dog for about three years. “I come from a different cul- ing, but he would come and work you’re just so tired, but I just take through Dillon’s Dog Training When he was fi rst adopted, Pribyl ture. I respect differently than the football games. He would go it,” Akakpo said. where other kinds of service dogs decided to make him into a therapy American people. If someone is as long as he could, but then he He left behind many close fam- like therapy dogs, veteran service dog for hospitals and then eventu- older, you respect them. You don’t would have to jump on his bike ily members in Africa, and has had dogs, seizure and allergy alert dogs ally lead him into East. Pugsly went call them by their name; you call and ride to work.” to utilize resources like social me- and much more. through training with Nebraska Hu- them ‘uncle’ or ‘aunty’ or some- After Akakpo got his fi rst job dia to stay in contact with them. “The training cost around $3,000 mane Society and the overall cost thing like that,” Akakpo said. at Walmart, he started living on “I have a lot of people that live and I have to keep up with grooming was $220 and then $60 a year to have After his arrival and enrollment his own within two months and there; I miss all of them. They call and more training and the price alone him be a part of Paws for Friendship. at East, Akakpo has had mentors in has been supporting himself ever me everyday, but it’s not enough. for Trig was an outrageous amount,” “Pugsly just calms people down the building who have also helped since. I want to see them face to face,” Watts said. when they see him,” Pribyl said. him adjust, including ELL teacher “A lot of kids his age could Akakpo said. Trig is not allowed to be petted by “We get some angry students that Nancy Sivils. have given up and quit and lost He has bright hopes for his fu- other students and teachers because come in sometimes and they forget “Sylvain joined clubs right hope with his situation. When we ture, intending to pursue his edu- whenever he is wearing his vest, he their anger when they’re lying on the away so he could meet new people work with students we are always cation further after he graduates. is working and has to keep all of fl oor petting him.” and practice his English,” Siv- trying to build resiliency and a “I want to study electrical en- his attention on Watts for her safety. Owning a service or therapy ani- ils said. “He understood that the work ethic into their mindset. Sy’s gineering in college, so I’m look- When he needs to alert her, he fi rst mal requires time and dedication. challenges you face and the mis- one of those kids who just natural- ing into that; I want to move back seems agitated and sits up straight “It’s a commitment,” Watts said. takes you make can help you grow. ly has it. He’s the kid who moved to Africa and maybe open a busi- and then takes his nose to bump her “You not only need to form a rela- He is a kind, caring, resilient indi- out on his own during his junior ness there or do electrician work,” hand to tell her to check her blood tionship with the animal, you also vidual, who is always striving to year of high school and fi nancially Akakpo said. sugar levels. have to take care of the animal.” PAGE 6 TOM TOM PAGE 7 December 21, 2018 IN-DEPTH Bellevue East High School

Native history and culturePhotos courtesy of Gregg Deal Native Americans have long history in Nebraska, Bellevue Americans pressured the Umonhon schools,” Deal said. “Kids were elimination and it would be hard for Emily Nelson and other tribes to sign the 1830 forcibly removed from their homes any form of communication to be laid Reporter Treaty of Prairie Du Chien,” and as they got to the school they down between colonials and natives

“I feel that when you omit Cummings said. “Exposure to disease cut their hair, scrubbed them clean, because of that history, despite the 1787-1828 aspects of history you give value to had decimated the and put western clothes on them. natives being part of the American Congress A relocation program that history and value to the people from 10,000 to 337. An 1854 Treaty They had to speak English; if they story. Native Americans Congress 1956 1924 involved,” Native American artist established the current boundaries of spoke any other language, they were “You can tell our identity were viewed as passes a law that 1871 passed a law offered housing and activist Gregg Deal said. “That the lands, with beaten.” becomes an incredibly integral part separate nations stopped treaties that gave assistance for Native does a disservice to the foundation the northern portion being sold to the Deal said incidents like this in America’s identity, that we are part entirely; laws were with Native citizenship Americans, in the of this country and the values we are Winnebago in the Treaty of 1865 and weren’t uncommon. According to of this existence,” Deal said. “But, supposed to be built on.” Treaty of 1874.” an article from the Northern Plains our existence did not have the same passed to protect tribes; tribes are to all Native process many Deal is part of the Pyramid Lake According to the Wisconsin Reservation Aid there were 60 level of quality.” their land not longer seen Americans tribal governments Paiute tribe, and is an advocate for Historical Society, in the fourth schools for 6,200 Native American Cummings said that there are as separate were disbanded Native American representation and Treaty of Prairie Du Chien, the students by the 1880s. Deal said many stories of the Omaha people rights. He speaks often about how and tribes including one school now has a graveyard that are beautiful and show the nations 1492-1787 Americans are a major part of the the Omaha agreed to the land cession containing over 200 headstones, 13 complex and creative connection 1968-now United States, and that their history of two strips of land on either side of of those listed as unknown. they have to America. She said these Disease was The Indian General Indian During this time, the United 1830 1887 is rich and contains many stories of the boundary established by the fi rst “It was all about eliminating the stories should be shared. Senior spread from Removal Act Allotment Reorganization 1935 States government made hardship, triumph, and heartbreak. Treaty of Prairie du Chien. The treaty culture out of these people,” Deal Aurora Villarreal, who belongs to the early European of 1830 led to Act sought to Act was created attempts to help the lives Director of Native Student Studies also established the Nemaha Half- said. “The stuff that was happening Cherokee tribe, believes the topic is settlers to Native the relocation remove to protect the of Native Americans; at University of Marisa Breed Reservation, which provided in these schools was incredibly gross simply brushed over in textbooks. however, Native Americans Miakonda Cummings recalls the land in southeastern Nebraska to the and disturbing.” “I wish native history was Americans, of many Native reservation remaining Native story of her people in Nebraska, the mixed-race descendants of European When the turn of the century rolled discussed more in school,” Villarreal decreasing Americans boundaries American land and have lost more that 80 percent of Supreme Court Umonhon. She said the Umonhon and American fur trappers and their around, the United States Census said. “Their experiences and population and from their land encourage them to is the only tribe that resided in Native American signifi cant others Bureau reported the population of interactions with the settlers are not cases since 1970 what is now called Nebraska prior from different tribes. Boarding Native Americans in the country as talked enough about and it can be increasing tension self-govern to statehood and still resides there schools were also being built for roughly 250,000. Deal said in terms disappointing.” today. Native American children. of the population as a whole, there “In the fi rst half of the nineteenth “These boarding schools were were virtually no Native Americans at Read the rest of the story online century, increasing settlement by essentially forced assimilation this time because of their systematic at thechieftainspear.org Shaping American culture Mascot concerns continue

Americans are still an active part of however. A large issue that affects for over 20 years. It is a frustrating teams are named after religious, McKayla Vermeer American society and culture. the community includes the use of Madie Ybay endeavor. However, I think it is regions of origin, or occupations. Co-Editor in Chief “Most people’s perception of Native Americans items in non- Features Editor important enough issue, that I have For schools to change mascots it In Nebraska and across Native Americans and their culture traditional ways. Native American culture has wrote a book on the topic, and I would cost a lot of money. the nation as a whole, Native is that it’s something in the past. “We struggle with stereotypes been used as mascots for many have taught a class on this issue. It is “I think that the mascot is Americans remain a signifi cant part That Natives no longer exist. Or that perpetuate negative images school and sports teams throughout worth my time and effort,” Zendejas actually respectful. It is nice to see of American culture, even though if we do we don’t contribute to of us. We struggle with people the U.S., causing controversy as to said. Non-Native people using a Native they are most often thought of in society and we are invisible to most appropriating our art and culture whether they should be used or not. People who advocate for change symbol to respect and honor Native main stream Anerican culture as people,” member of the and spirituality. We struggle with Some people fi nd them offensive may do it for different reasons. Americans. I don’t think that there existing purely in history books. and Tribes of Oklahoma the right to sovereignty within our and others believe they are honoring Some, like Zendejas, advocate should be a ban on the mascots, “Being Native American in Gretchen Carroll said. own Nations. We struggle to give a tradition. Dating back to the 1950’s because of education. According however there are things that people today’s world can be extremely Due to the common thought that hope to our young ones to have a when Bellevue High was opened, to the NCAI, most students do don’t know that are incorrect. For crazy. We are still fi ghting for land Native Americans only exist in the better life,” Carroll said. according to Bellevue Public not know much about Native instance, ceremonial face paint and dealing with racism,” junior past, stereotypes are prevalent. The Statistically, Native Americans Schools website, the Chieftain Americans, yet some schools should not be referred to as ‘war and member of the Omaha - perceptions that remain are largely have the most health issues out of head has been the mascot for East. still have them as mascots. Other paint,’ that is wrong,” Cherokee tribe Kendra Dragon said. supported by how Native Americans any other demographic. In fact, the During the 2015- 2016 school year, Natives fi nd it offensive. So much tribe member Joshua Lively said. In the United States there are portrayed in popular culture. Pine Ridge Reservation in western controversy arose on whether BPS in fact that, according to Change Schools in Nebraska have already are over 570 tribes with federal “Some frequent misconceptions Nebraska - home to the should change the mascots or not. The Mascot, the usage of Native begun changing their mascots. In recognition, and even more that are that I have heard is that most people Lakota - is just one example of UNO professor Ed Zendejas spoke American mascots have caused 1991, The Nebraska Commission seeking this recognition today. The still believe that we live in teepees, alcoholism and poverty affecting a out against the Native mascots to serious negative psychological, on Indian Affairs asked 27 schools majority of Native Americans today we act how we are portrayed in Native American community. the school board during this time. social, and cultural effects on Native that they stop using American - with or without tribal affi liations - movies, but oddly enough we are “Some Native people struggle “The change needs to come from youth. Indian mascots and nicknames. live in densely populated areas like just like everyone else in today’s due to historical trauma and crushing within the community. People must “I don’t fi nd the mascot to be Millard South High changed their the Omaha metro area. society,” Dragon said. oppression, but Native people are be willing to listen and attempt to offensive. I think it’s fi ne the way mascot from the Indians to the “For the tribal people living in Native Americans are very much more than stereotypes and certainly understand what is really at stake,” it is, however I understand why Patriots in 1999. Way before the Omaha, their lives are much like integrated into modern American more than mascots,” Ritter said. Zendejas said. others would want to change it. Nebraska Commission on Indian yours and your family’s. Some society. Just this year, two Native “Native Americans in the US have Some Native American sacred I don’t think it’s disrespectful to Affairs request for a change, UNO Native people continue to speak American women - Deb Haaland the shortest life expectancy, the symbols have been used as mascots me personally, but if others fi nd it had changed their mascot from the their language, practice their and Sharice Davids - were elected greatest health disparities, highest all around the country. The National offensive and want to change it, Indians to the Mavericks in 1971. ceremonies and live their cultures into Congress. suicide rates, and highest rates of Congress of American Indians that’s okay, too,” junior and Sioux BPS decided not to change their Rise up Native American artist Gregg Deal creates pieces depict- - some do not,” director of Native “Native people are in every poverty.” (NCAI) has been one of the oldest member Ian Wedergren said. mascot after requested to do so ing Native American culture and people. He created this piece American studies at the University profession, two Native women were The issues that Native Americans and most outspoken organizations There are also people who believe because of the city’s honor toward called “Yotse” meaning “Rise.” “Having correct representation is Pride Deal also creates pieces of a more politcal nature relating of Nebraska Omaha Beth Ritter just elected to Congress. There are face should not outweigh the about their concerns with harmful in keeping the Native mascots. the culture, and it’s Native history. important not just for Native people, but also for non Native people to Native Americans. This piece, entitled “American Indian #3,” said. native doctors, lawyers, astronauts, successes. stereotypes. In 1968, the NCAI Some who want the mascots to “For schools, it should be about to understand the context of our people and history.,” Deal said. juxtaposes the American fl ag with the Native American. “It’s both There are many misconceptions professors, actors, journalists, and “The struggle for some is real but began a campaign to challenge stay, believe that they are keeping educating students. If you continue, surrounding Native Americans, professional athletes,” Ritter said. there are also many, many examples stereotypes in media and sports. tradition and respecting Natives. it will be diffi cult. Change is hard Photo courtesy of Gregg Deal true and not true,” Deal said. Photo courtesy of Gregg Deal including the thought that they only There are still hardships that of resilience and revitalization,” “I have been advocating for According to Psychology Today, for people to accept sometimes,” existed in the past. In reality, Native many Native Americans face, Ritter said. changing or retiring Indian mascots some would argue that other sport Zendejas said. PAGE 8 TOM TOM Bellevue East High School SPORTS December 21, 2018 Wrestling produces new records

Camrin Smith Reporter Wrestling season kicked off on November 9 along with the rest of winter sports. The four month sea- son has been put into full gear in the beginning of December, with the start of duels and invitationals. “On our fi rst meet we had two champions, the Grice brothers, both seated in their 5-0 and ranked one and two in state,” coach Todd Porter said. The team has been conditioning and been working on moves, and doing workouts to get their bodies in shape for duels. Ready to wrestle, sophomore Collin “Conditioning is diffi cult be- Mutzenberger and freshman Gavin Zurcher cause you’re putting your body end practice by competing with other through things you don’t want to wrestlers in their weight class. Photo by go through,” freshman Garrett Acacia Phillips Grice said. The effort that the team has things like that,” Porter said. “I’m gaining Garrett and Gabe Grice, of Fame. The work put in by the The team has high expectations been putting in preparing for the really proud of what we’ve done expectations are high in Porter’s wrestlers will not slow down from for the rest of the season. Ending rest of the season has been hard here because it’s very diffi cult to eyes; however, the previous years. on Feb. 18 the team has time to and well worked, Porter said. be successful at Bellevue East, “I don’t have any expectations “Wrestling over the time I’ve prepare and room to grow. “Everyone says congrats on the and the kids that are a part of it are for the rest of this season; I just been here has been the most suc- “We feel like we’re going to hall of fame last year, but without proud to be.” want to do my best,” Garrett Grice cessful boys program in the build- have a really good year, we’re all the hard work that’s been done The team has had six meets said. ing,” Porter said, “In the 21 years a very young team but we have by my assistants and all the kids since the beginning of the sea- The last years produced new I’ve been here we have more top some talent. We have four fresh- on the team, we wouldn’t have the son. Starting on Dec. 1, and go- records for East Wrestling, and 10 fi nishes at 10, which far our men starting which is unheard of,” success that gets you individual ing through the 21. With the team even put Coach Porter in the Hall strips any other boys sports team.” Porter said. Senior athletes last season approaching

Getting the rebound, senior Hannah Madi- son (front) scrambles to grab the ball as junior Madison Pelzer (back) grabs the ball off the fl oor in the game against Bennington on Nov. 20. Being an exhibition game, this was the fi rst game the varsity girls played for the season. Photo by Cora Bennett

In the game, senior Christian Archie and senior Stevins Spurgeon run down the court to get During their practice, senior Michael Palmquist and sophomore Nathan Wheeler go head to back on defense against Bennington. Photo by Cora Bennett head to practice for an upcoming meet. Photo by Acacia Phillips

continuing basketball at Midland University Hailey Hendry next year and major in Early Education. Co-Editor in Chief “What I feel when knowing this is my last The year is half over and the students and opportunity to play basketball I play like I staff could not be happier. That much closer will never play again, like everyday is my getting into college, the senior student ath- last,” Madison said. letes are coming to the realization of playing Senior Michael Palmquist has partici- high school sports for the last time. pated in wrestling since his freshman year, When tryouts come, not many athletes as well, but does not plan on furthering his participate in sports throughout their entire career in high school. high school career. The athletes will often “I think my work ethic has improved a quit or will not make a team their senior year. little more since freshman year because I Those who do, often cherish the sport and know I’m reaching my last moments of high plan on playing in college. school,” Palmquist said. “I have learned a lot from these four The athletes and coaches create a bond kids. Mostly that when you put your mind to that will last after the sport has concluded for something you can achieve it,” boys varsity the seniors because of the excessive amount basketball coach Chad Mustard said. “They of time that is spent between the players and have all come a long ways both on the court coaches. and in life. Their growth and maturity has “I’m closer to some than others, but they been remarkable.” all have fun personalities,” Mustard said. Senior Hannah Madison has been playing “They are fun to work with and they really basketball since elementary school when she do want to be good. Those kids are the types played for Bellevue St. Mary’s. She plans on coaches like to coach.” TOM TOM PAGE 9 December 21, 2018 SPORTS Bellevue East High School Girls, boys basketball seasons improve

Sharon Guchu Looking for the open player, senior Fred Reporter Knotts looks down the court watching his This year, the girls and boys basketball teammates scramble to get open. As the teams have started the season, with both va- varsity point guard, Knotts is in charge of risty teams losing 2-4. starting plays in order for the team to score Cailtlyn Conover is a frehsman on the points to win the game. The boys are on teams that plays for both varsity and JV. track to go even farther this season com- Conover has been playing since she was pared to the successful season they had last in the third grade and plays for the Omaha year. Photo by Cora Bennett Sports Academy as well. “I started playing because I was playing other sports throughout my whole life so I decided to try basketball out,” Conover said. The girls vasrity team’s average points per game has increased from last year, and is gradually getting higher. “They are going up because we are scor- ing about 50 points a game,” Conover said, “which is where we wanted to be going into this season.” The coaches intend to coniue pushing their teams through practices and drills that strengthen the players. “They have matured a ton; they have put a bunch of time into their game and it shows on the court,” boys varsity coach Chad Mus- tard said. “I think this could be my best team at East. The seniors have the chance to be very successful because of their hard work and dedication.” Senior Maddison Luderman is a player Driving to the hoop, freshman Caitlyn Conover sees the open lane and opportunity to score a basket for her team. The game was an chance on the vasrity team and has played for East for the coaches to see how each individual plays. Photo by Cora Bennett all four years. Luderman can see the positive changes for team. “The coaches are the same as last year, his positions vary on the purpose during the eter,” Richter said. “So far this year, there have been a couple butFILE I feel NAME like the girls0311-AD_UGA_VISIT_EXP_BELLEVUE_EAST_D1 are getting along bet- game. DRAFT 1 Many different changes have impacted of changes. We lost key players like Hunter ter this year and are closer,” Luderman said. “A center is to get rebounds and put the the boys varsity team this year, but these and Austin,” Richter said. “Compared to last DESIGNER ANGELICA GENOVESI DATE November 7, 2018 1:24 PM Robert Richter is a sophmore on the boys ball back at the rim and a power forward is change have not deterred them from their year, my freshman coach was not the best JVROUTING team and playsGD center _____ and forward. CD _____ Both CW kind _____ of the PM same _____ job, but DM with _____ more DIGIperim- _____mission to success. ,but this year they are very supportive.”

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THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE BASED ON RACE, COLOR, ETHNICITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX, PREGNANCY, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, RELIGION, DISABILITY, AGE, GENETIC INFORMATION, VETERAN STATUS, MARITAL STATUS, AND/OR POLITICAL AFFILIATION IN ITS PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES, OR EMPLOYMENT. 0311ADUGA1218 PAGE 10 TOM TOM Bellevue East High School OPINION December 21, 2018 TOM TOM STAFF High school vaping epidemic; Editors in Chief Hailey Hendry McKayla Vermeer

Advisor Stephenie Conley 2.1 million students addicted Brooklyn Anderson and concentrate vapes, desktop, If you vape, you are more inclined vape and the epidemic has now News Editor Editorial portable and oil vapes. to try smoking later in life and pro- even trickled down to middle Tom Tom Staff Cora Bennet Even though the vaping indus- gressively move up the chain to school students. Because of the ad- Entertainment Editor All across America there are try claims to be marketing to adults heavier drugs, according to Kate dictive properties, students can’t students taking the path towards trying to fi ght their smoking habit Zernike in The New York Times. stop and feel the need to bring their Madie Ybay drug addiction, but another epi- by having little nicotine in them, There is one question that needs to vapes to school otherwise, they Features Editor demic, known as smoking devices, about 99 percent of vaping pods be answered: why is nicotine so ad- end up feeling the symptoms of is on the rise. These devices can (where the e-liquid is stored) have dictive? withdrawal. For example, the ex- Silas Chisam be easily concealable, some re- nicotine in them. According to Nicotine infl uences the amount periences of nicotine withdrawal Sports/Web Editor sembling little fl ash drives making Holly Korbey in Eudotopia, there of dompamine produced in ones would include intense cravings, Abbie Deng it easy for a student to keep them is more nicotine in one vape pod body. Dopamine is the same neu- sweating, irritability, and head- Opinion Editor hidden in plain sight in non-smok- than there is in an entire pack of rotransmitter found in drugs such aches. ing areas such as school buildings. cigarettes, thus making people an as Marijuana that produce a mini This problem needs to be ad- McKenzie Gandy This problem takes many differ- established smoker by the time high. The high that comes from in- dressed at home; parents should Photography Editor ent forms and designs including: they fi nish the pod. haling nicotine is temporary which be educating their children on the drops, JUUL’s, E-cigs, Box’s, For the companies that claim increases the person’s want to keep dangerous risks of vaping or us- Matthew Powley Pen’s and more. The vapes them- to be helping prevent people from smoking in order to remain high. ing e-cigarettes. There should be Video Editor selves also have different types smoking, it’s actually worse to Over 2.1 million middle and consequences and deeper levels of Jill Stofferahn including dry herb, e-liquid, wax start out vaping or vape in general. high school students in the U.S. precaution to purge this issue. Videographer

Sharon Guchu Photographer/Reporter Emily Nelson Phone addiction affects Reporter

Camrin Smith Reporter teenage mental health Zayda Birkel Cartoonist ing what to do with life. Do not get what to do without a phone since a negative effect to it, our mood me wrong, I have been addicted to teens revolve around social media. changes in a heartbeat. When the Selena Lewis my phone and it was a struggle to I see posts on social media of negative emotions take over the Business Manager say the least. It blows my mind to photos mimicking our reactions to mind, negative obsessive thoughts see how people do not know how losing our phones then titling them take over that put us in a depres- to interact face-to-face and not be “when you lose your phone.” The sive state. When this happens, it’s EDITORIAL POLICY afraid about it. I do believe that sad truth is every person that views hard to stop the thoughts because there is a phone addiction that has these posts is able to understand we start to believe them and it cre- The role of the Tom Tom is not only the same effects as drugs and alco- them because we all feel that way ates a hole. The deeper the hole to promote the accomplishments hol. when we lose our phone. When gets, the harder it is to get out of it. and highlights of the school, but Imagine a time in the world one person relates, the posts are For being someone that is ad- also to inform the Bellevue East community of events and issues when we did not have any form of then shared and spread. dicted to my phone, I constantly that will affect the students, technology at our disposal. Sound So then what is the cause of have to keep myself in check so I faculty, staff, administration, and scary? Well, it shouldn’t because phone addiction? The rewards in- can take care of myself mentally community. Its primary focus is to Brooklyn Anderson it was like that a long time ago. volved in the device are the same and physically. serve Bellevue East High School News Editor and cover issues that affect Technology took a spike in the late as the rewards that drugs give Taking time away from the cell teenagers today. The Tom Tom All of those Tweets, Snapchats, 20th century and took an even big- people. When our phone alerts at phone allows people to breathe, does not necessarily represent and text messages that go off, mak- ger spike in the 21st century. Phone us, a chemical in the brain, called even if it’s for 20 minutes in the views of the Bellevue Public Schools and strives to support ing us reach for that piece of tech- addiction didn’t rise until smart- dopamine, gets released which is day. It takes dedication to take itself through advertising. In order nology buzzing in our pockets. You phones were invented along with a neurotransmitter that sends sig- time away, but we just have to give to achieve the optimum learning take a look at your phone uninten- other portable devices. nals between the nerve cells in the ourselves a break. There is a lot to situation, as well as serve its tionally and something that occurs According to Forbes, there are brain. When it is released, it sends do when trying to break phone ad- audience to the best of its ability, the staff believes that the decisions in a lot of people happens - addic- mental health risks involved with pleasure throughout the brain. For diction that has worked for other should rest primarily with the tion. phone addiction like anxiety, de- example, when the phone goes people. Keeping distance from adviser and editors, according to Phone addiction is a real thing pression and suicidal thoughts off, the fi rst instinct is to grab it to the phone will have a big impact. standards of journalism. Material that affects everybody young and which have increased in teens see who was texting, tagging us in Try to leave your phone at home, judged to cause signifi cant psychological harm, or that violates old every day. This strong addic- within the past few years. When posts, liking our posts or even a re- even if it’s only for quick grocery the privacy of a person, or that tion has the potential of increasing the phone is taken away, the expe- minder that we set up. That is the shopping. Try to fi nd a hobby that is libelous will not be printed. mental illness as well. The feeling riences of withdrawal happen and reward when picking up the phone. doesn’t require a phone so you are Obscenity or profanity will not be printed in the Tom Tom. Stories of detachment, loss, separation the increase of heart rate occurs be- Not every notifi cation is posi- able stay busy while staying off of in the Tom Tom will be based anxiety, withdrawal and not know- cause the thought of not knowing tive so when the notifi cation has the device. on substantial facts with quotes clearly attributed to named sources whenever possible. The Tom Tom will not run gossip or stories or columns founded on rumor without facts. Any student appearing at a public event such as a sports event or music concert may be photographed, and that photo may be published without violating the privacy of that individual.

LETTER to the EDITOR

COMMENTS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THE TOM TOM ARE ENCOURAGED IN THE FORM OF LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. LETTERS MUST INCLUDE YOUR FULL NAME, GRADE, AND BE SENT TO ROOM B-03 OR DE- LIVERED TO A MEMBER OF THE TOM TOM STAFF IN ORDER TO BE PUBLISHED. YOU MAY ALSO E-MAIL LETTERS TO [email protected] Created by Zayda Birkel TOM TOM PAGE 11 December 21, 2018 OPINION Bellevue East High School American schools lack credibility; unwanted need in young students much time in school, why do our test scores a school system? One may look at gradu- environment that doesn’t invite learning, but not refl ect that? ation rates, test scores or even how many invites a resentment for it. In my own experience, I don’t hate hours students spend in school; but what is When the teachers receive the resources school. It gives me something to do with my the most important thing to look at? This they need that will only be the beginning and life; frankly, I’m glad it’s a requirement to go seems simple: we need to look at whether there will still be many more problems to through the fi rst 12 grades. However, Ameri- or not students are comprehending, retaining tackle. The material being taught is drastical- ca is constantly bashed by other countries for knowledge and enjoying learning. ly different and not something students are having an awful education system. A lot of factors have played into the de- excited about learning. Nowadays, educa- From Abby Jackson and Andy Kiersz in a cline of test scores and world ranking for the tion is something students don’t want to par- Business Inside article, our math test scores American education. Children in this today take in and will avoid as much as possible. on the Program for International Student As- are drastically different from children 20 or When I was in elementary school, there sessment were 94 points lower than Singa- more years ago, which tells us that the blame was one way to do a math equation. Now, pore, which is statistically the highest scor- doesn’t necessarily fall on teacher’s shoul- there’s about a million. While that is an ex- ing country. Our reading scored 38 points ders. The education system as a whole needs aggeration, the learning process is overcom- lower, and science 60 points lower in 2015. to be looked over starting with the superin- plicated, as if it’s trying to be something it’s Emily Nelson According to Carlos Mejia in a Fatherly ar- tendents of every public school district, then not. As the years progress, students graduate Reporter ticle, Singapore students spend nearly 9.5 every working person down to the teachers. and put the years they disliked the most be- Today it seems like fewer students want hours a week on homework and even more As I said before, teachers are not the ones hind them, and the system backpedals even to go to school. The stigma often surround- time in school. Which makes me wonder if to blame. They need better pay for resourc- more. ing K-12 education is, as students, we are it even matters how much time we spend in es, more time for their own curriculum, and The education system cannot be fi xed in forced to be here rather than want to be here. school and on homework. more control of their own classroom. Stu- a matter of weeks, months, or even years, so This may lead to resentment from students Professor F.H. Buckley discussed in a dents could benefi t greatly from this, which we must start somewhere. Administration toward the education system, which aids in Fox News article that our math scores rank could raise test scores and ultimately better needs to start communicating better with stu- affecting students’ mindsets so they do not 38th in the world, right alongside developing our education system. dents and teachers to establish a way to make want to go to school. countries. A teacher sets the mood for the class- improvements on all ends of the spectrum. To me, that’s a huge problem. Students While high school graduation rates con- room, allowing room for students to be as The people in charge should become more have to spend years of their lives at school, tinue to grow higher and higher, it seems as creative and productive as possible or not. hands-on and prominent in classrooms. This an average of 180 days per school year, and though test scores are plateauing. At least If they can’t be the best for their students will allow them to actually make a change an estimated 16,380 hours (not even factor- that means we aren’t scoring lower. We are because they don’t have what they need, it instead of creating orders that will force the ing in the time spent for extracurriculars, simply not where we want to be as a nation. will completely transform the student’s idea students to want to drop out as soon as they sports and homework.) If students spend so On the other hand, how do you truly rank of their teacher. This creates an unhealthy can. Old, outdated electoral college proven unfair; popular vote better, more effi cient method

dential candidate that won (in these cases George W. Bush and Donald Trump, respectively) did not re- ceive the popular vote. A bill proposed in January of this year would enact popular vote as the way to determine which can- didate would become president. The bill has already been enacted into law in ten states: Rhode Is- land, Vermont, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey, Illinois, New York, and California. Additionally, the Dis- trict of Columbia has approved this McKayla Vermeer bill. Co-Editor in Chief By maintaining the electoral Throughout American history, college system, our country is al- citizens have been engaging in lowing people to be president over the democratic process of voting. a nation that not even the majority Every four years the members of of citizens support the views of. our nation would come together The whole concept of democracy to decide who would be leading is giving citizens a voice by vot- our country. This process occurs ing for their offi cials, but when the through the electoral college, an majority of citizens vote for the outdated way to determine the candidate that does not even end results of a presidential election up winning, is it even democracy because the number of representa- at all? The electoral college is not tives a state gets is not accurate in accurately giving a voice to every proportion to population state to citizen, unintentionally devaluing state. some citizens compared to others. disparity to be found. In largely presidential election than citizens jority of Americans answered that A study done by NPR in 2016 The whole concept of the elec- populated states like California, of California, which frankly, is an they would support the changing to shows that a presidential candidate toral college can easily be argued each electoral vote is equal to ap- injustice to the whole of the Unit- elections by popular vote, so it is would only have to receive 23 per- as being against the whole founda- proximately 508,000 people, while ed States. Every citizen matters, not like the decision to change the cent of the popular vote in order tion of this country. If all men are in states with lower populations and every citizen’s vote should be system is an isolated idea. If we as to win the 270 necessary electoral supposed to be created equal, then like Wyoming, each electoral vote counted as such as we are all cre- a nation have the ability to count votes. While this scenario is highly why are some citizens being liter- is equal to 143,000 people. ated equally. each vote, then the most important unlikely, it is still hard to ignore ally valued numerically less than The idea that one citizen is An “easy” solution would be to issue is why that is not taken into that a candidate would only have to other citizens? This is inequality worth more than another should simply remove the current system account when determining who be supported by less than one quar- in the most literal, mathematical be a concept that scares and infuri- of the electoral college and instead becomes president. If each citizen ter of American citizens in order terms. Looking at the population ates everyone. By the logic of the have the more democratic system is granted the democratic right to to become the president. In fact, distribution per each electoral col- electoral college, citizens of Wyo- of popular vote. In 2016, CBS vote, then it is only right that their in both 2000 and 2016, the presi- lege representative, there is great ming have more of a say in our News put out a poll and the ma- every vote matters. PAGE 12 TOM TOM Bellevue East High School ENTERTAINMENT December 21, 2018 Lights, Camera, One-act play High School on December 1. They put on a fi gure out which way it’ll go, as each person Hamik was English teacher Jerry Geho. Camrin Smith performance of their one-act play the night has made a varying degree of mistakes. Geho was recruited by Hamik in an effort to Reporter before in the auditorium at East. “I play the lawyer; I’m the one that ques- help get more teachers around the school to After the big plays of the season are Schools that compete are broken up into tions everything and is a very mean person become more immersed in the theater pro- fi nished, schools around the state rehearse classes by size and student talent based off to everyone else, and my character is kind gram. for weeks to prepare for the NSAA play of previous years. East’s theater program is of the one that sets in the motion that we “Working with a partner isn’t something production competition, and Bellevue East is placed as a class A school. could be in hell,” Wenninghoff said. as teachers we get to do, and so it has been was no exception. “The NSAA blocks out an amount of Rehearsals for “Tracks” started right af- really different getting the chance to bounce “They’re more important because time to set up, perform, and then strike the ter the fall play “12 Angry Jurors” ended. ideas off of another person. Mr. Hamik and they’re actually being scored and judged, stage. Once all the shows go, they [judges] The small cast of 10 students rehearsed I work really well together and I am excited unlike actual performances [fall plays] tabulate all the ratings together and the about 3 times a week, running lines and to be a part of it all,” Geho said. which are to perform and hope the audi- come out with the winner,” Theater Direc- memorizing. While rehearsing came to an Going to districts and even heading to ence likes it,” freshman Sydnee Wenning- tor Joe Hamik said. end and the competition was coming up, the state would make an impact in the theater hoff said. The performance or act, called “Tracks” nerves of competing again kicked in and the department. The last time East went to dis- Play production competitions take place was about a group of average civilians from cast started to notice. tricts was over a decade ago in 2005. once a year, roughly around the end of No- different cities waiting at a bus stop. They “The last two weeks have been intense Although this year East did not make it vember or early December. It’s organized soon fi nd out they are not where they origi- leading up to the home show because we’ve past the fi rst competition, the cast still re- by the Nebraska School Activities Associa- nally set out to be. been getting actual directions with block- ceived 7th place in their class. Chieftain tion (NSAA), who set performance times Everyone discovers that they all have ing, as early on rehearsals have been just Theatre was able to use this competition and places. died in one way or another and the bus stop lines,” Wenninghoff said. as a learning experience and are to improve East competed at Lincoln Southeast leads to either heaven or hell. No one can Helping out and co-directing alongside for next year.

Students from the Chieftain Theatre gather on stage Nov. 30 to perform a one-act play titled “Tracks” that they have been rehearsing for weeks. Photo by Camrin Smith

that he has AIDS, I sobbed. The movie re- spectfully depicted the AIDS epidemic of Mercury the late 80’s. Smash room brings relief, While Freddy was the protagonist, they in no way forced him to be the “good guy.” lives on in The story was told truthfully and showed all lets out underlying stress the ugly parts of Queen’s backstory, such as the amount of crazy drugs Freddy was on the waiver, we got suited up. They provid- ‘Bohemian Jill Stofferahn and the messed up rumors he spread about ed gloves, smocks and helmets, as well as his parents. Obviously, what Queen-based Reporter asked that you dress in pants and close-toed Rhapsody’ movie would it be if it didn’t have a bang- It’s fi nals season, the most stressful time shoes. These precautions made me feel very ing soundtrack to back it up? “Bohemian of the year for students and teachers. So as safe; I was able to fully enjoy the experi- Rhapsody” was such a good movie and I you fi nish studying this year, on the verge of ence and not have to worry about getting would recommend it to just about anyone. a mental breakdown. remember this article. hurt by the glass. Madie Ybay Whether you like Queen or not it was a re- Le Smash is a new smash room located in Next, they had a table fi lled with differ- Features Editor ally accurately and beautifully portrayed. I Omaha. ent bats, hammers, and golf clubs to choose I know I can be dramatic a lot of the give it a good 5 out of 5 stars. The smash room was built to provide from and provided boxes of different bot- time, but “Bohemian Rhapsody?” I could people with a safe space to relieve stress tles and ceramics to smash. Once you get not have kept in the tears if I tried. Every- by breaking things. I had to check it out. into the room you can choose to plug your body knows Queen, or at least three songs Scheduling was an easy process, you sign phone in and play your favorite music for from them. “Bohemian Rhapsody” the up on their website and can get in as soon releasing anger, or they will play music for movie follows the story of Queen and their as the next day. Prices vary from $20 to $40 you. The only rule they had for us was to rise to fame. dollars. I think these prices are a little ex- not destroy the walls, everything else is free The casting for the movie was really pensive for what it is, but after further read- reign. Originally, my sister and I had signed good. The actors and actresses were im- ing on their website I found that you can up for a 30-minute session, but we ended up mersed into their roles and portrayed the get $10 off if you bring your own items to staying there for 50 minutes. Any questions story well. Rami Malek played Freddy smash. we had were answered right away. Overall, Mercury, spectacularly I might add because When I fi rst got there I was asked to fi ll I’d rate my experience at Le Smash an 8 out a huge part of the movie was Freddy’s sex- out a waiver, being that I am only 17. I had of 10, but I do not see myself going back. uality. I think that Malek played the role had to have my sister sign as my guardian. A high school student spending over $20 to well without any salaciousness. If you are under 18 years old you will need release stress is not reasonable. However, it When Freddy had to tell his bandmates someone to sign for you. After fi lling out would be a great place to go with friends.