The Rampage

Izzy Schrock Convergence Editor Photo of Tara Huberty. All photos in this article by Izzy Schrock. With the constant advance of technology and social media, more and more people are getting into photography. Whether you want your Instagram pictures to look good or are interested in a career in photography, here’s some basics and tips that can take your pictures to the next level.                  Know Your Camera             The first step to great photos is knowing your camera. Whether you are working with a smartphone, point-and-shoot, or DSLR, reading the instruction manual and understanding the controls are important. DSLR means digital single-lens reflex camera, which is the most advanced and largest camera. Photography and art teacher Anne Otte recommends carrying your camera with you everywhere and taking pictures in all sorts of situations.  “If you have a high q...

Izzy Schrock Convergence Editor      Iowa’s Department of Education has stated that they will no longer automatically grant waivers to school districts wanting to start earlier than the week of September 1. The only exception to this is if the school can make a strong case that starting later would have significant damaging effects of its students learning (read: highly unlikely).  Junior Brendan Anderson says the later calendar start wouldn’t really matter to him, he’s always ready for when school starts. Many students like the postponed start date so they have time to go to the Iowa State Fair and relax and prepare for school the week after. “[I go to the Fair] everyday, at least every night,” said sophomore Aspen Phillips. The Iowa State Fair, lasting from August 13-23 in 2015, is filled with Southeast Polk students. “We have a lot of student involvement, with the shuttle and FFA,” said sophomore McKenna Cox.  With the postponed date, many people...

Izzy Schrock Convergence Editor      This Saturday, January 24, 2015 the SEP Speech Club is going to compete at Speech Districts located at North High School. There are multiple group acts like improv, short film, one-act play, choral reading, and many more. The events are scheduled all throughout the day. This is sophomore Hunter Manz’s second year of speech club.      “I love trying to read with different inflections and acting as characters that are nothing like me in real life,” said Manz. Manz is hoping to score a 1 (the best option) in Choral Reading. If a production scores a 1, they will move on to the State speech competition. Junior Sydney Scott joined speech this year and will be performing in the Reader’s Theatre and Choral Reading categories.      “I’m actually terrified. So nervous,” said Scott concerning this weekend’s competition. Emotions are on a roller coaster as the competition approaches. Feelings of anxiousness...

Izzy Schrock Convergence Editor        If you’re looking for something fun to do this winter break, try going to Brenton Skating Plaza in downtown Des Moines. Brenton is open every day of the week. On weekdays adult admission is $5 and weekend (including Friday) is $6.50. Skate rentals are $3.75 per pair. Brenton holds a special price on Tuesdays for student skating. For only $5 students can buy admission and rent a pair of skates if their student ID is brought. Brenton skating plaza is an open-air rink with an indoor concessions and skate rental. Admission is cheap, and you have the option to stay for as long or short as you like! If you get the chance, stick around long enough to catch the zamboni. Not only is the ice best for skating after, but watching the bright purple zamboni resurface the ice is entertaining and mesmerizing. Don’t know how to skate? Brenton Plaza offers a four-week learn to skate class for $40 that you can sign up f...