the CATAMOUNT
College Station High School
4002 Victoria Ave. College Station, Texas 77845
Vol. 6 No. 3
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
Prepare FOR impact Head injuries result in decreased participation in physical activity Grace Costenbader and Makayla Fox Opinions Editor and Assistant Editor Recently, concussions have been on the rise and a hot topic among high school students, especially athletes. After enduring a bad accident on the skim board, senior Erin Blume is currently concussed and is only allowed to be present at school for one period a day after being homebound for four weeks. “At first I just really felt out of it and didn’t really know what was going on, and when I went to the doctor, they said [the concussion] was pretty bad,” Blume said. Her concussion impacts her life from the intensity of the crowds to the noises around her. “I am not able to be in super loud places with a whole lot of people or even do a lot of school work,” Blume said. “It’s a lot of sitting at home.” Concussions not only restrict surroundings, but also impede students’ ability to complete schoolwork. Sophomore Nicole Goggin received her concussion from being swung across the floor while playing a basketball game. “[My concussion occurred] during finals so it was really hard to study and keep up with all my classwork,” Goggin said.
continued on page 3 Graphic by Dru Peacock
INDEX
News Opinions People Sports Entertainment Etc.
2-5 6-8 9-14 15-17 18-19 20
9 Bargain shopping results in unique experiences, clothing pieces. PAGE 9
16 Cougars return to semi finals to face new opponent McCallum. PAGE 16
20 Santa’s Wonderland draws students to work during holidays. PAGE 20
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The Catamount
Cougar NEWS Shop students compete in woodworking contest Juniors Payden Nowak and Julian Lugo won High School Best In Show at Bark and Build, a woodworking auction featuring dog furniture, on Nov. 3 in downtown Bryan. Participants bid on pieces, and all the proceeds go to Aggieland Humane Society. •
Theatre casts students in popular winter musical Auditions for High School Musical were held on Nov. 29, and junior Michael Hueste as Troy Bolton and sophomore Jensen McMurray as Gabriella Montez. The show dates will be Jan. 18 at 7:00 p.m., Jan. 19 at 7:00 p.m., Jan. 20 at 1 and 7:00 p.m., and Jan. 22 at 7:00 p.m. •
Cougar Band hosts upcoming holiday concerts The primary Cougar Bands will be performing at the CSHS Auditorium on Monday, Dec. 18 at 7:00 p.m., playing their Christmas classics. Following that concert on Tuesday, Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m., the jazz band will perform a separate concert. •
HOSA participants qualify for state competition ▲ The Catamount staffers enjoyed the snow during their late night on Thursday, Dec. 7. College Station soil has not seen snow since a light sprinkle in 2011; however, the total coverage last week resulted in five inches. Many students were still at school during the snowfall due to Mr.CSHS. This was greater than snowfall amounts in Boston that same week. PHOTO BY COURTNEY WELLMANN •
Senior Jenny Liu qualified for state competition in Human Growth and Development and senior Rosetta Wang qualified for state competition in Nutrition. •
Mr. CSHS competitors showcase diverse talents CSHS held their annual mangeant (man pageant) last Thursday night at 7 p.m. Juniors and seniors competed against each other, judged by Jonathan Brady, Chad Lehrmann, Tiffany Parkerson and April Todd. Brendan McIntyre and Greyson Privett tied as Senior Mr. CSHS and Mason Holmes was crowned Junior Mr. CSHS. •
The Catamount
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
News
Concussions result in traumatic experiences, changed behavior continued from page 1 While playing in a 7 on 7 football game, junior Mason Holmes experienced his first concussion. He later suffered four more concussions and spent time in the doctor’s office and, for a while, on the sidelines. “I was sent to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas, where I spent the next ten hours not knowing who I was, where I was, or even who my parents were,” Holmes said. After so many concussions, Holmes made the decision to leave sports behind, as it was too dangerous for him to continue. Even though he has not experienced a concussion recently, the symptoms are still present in his every day life. “[I continue to have] headaches off and on and sometimes I notice differences, but most of the time I feel pretty normal,” Holmes said. “Just recently I’ve started getting bad migraines.” Concussions can have long-term effects that impact daily life. Senior Chandler Sennette is still experiencing effects from his only concussion three years ago caused by a hit in football that caused his helmet to come off and exposed him to the hit. “It was pretty severe,” Sennette said. “I had to see a therapist in order to be cleared to go home because I couldn’t lift my head up.” After revisiting the doctor many times, Sennette was diagnosed with not only a concussion, but a more severe injury. “They determined I had a TBI (traumatic brain in-
jury) by things I suffered from with the injury, including seizures, inability to walk and not being able to speak,” Sennette said. “After I got out of the hospital, they diagnosed me with epilepsy. I haven’t had a seizure in two years, so hopefully I’ll be cleared soon.” Pain levels related to concussions vary depending on the person and when they experience their concussion. Some concussions are less painful, but still severe. “I was just really confused,” Blume said. “My head didn’t hurt right when it happened. I felt out of it, and I didn’t know where I was or what was happening.” Sennette felt similar in his experience, but on a more severe level. “I didn’t really have too much pain because something happened to where I could barely feel anything,” Sennette said. “Although I had the worst possible headache ever, I began to seize and feel sleepy.” Athletic trainer Chelsea Frashure unfortunately has to handle concussions in sports at CSHS on a daily basis, whether initial visit or part of recovery for a return to play their sport. “Once an athlete has been diagnosed with a concussion, we monitor their symptoms daily until they are symptom-free,” Frashure said. The process of clearing a concussion is lengthy, but every step is significant while pursuing an ideal recovery, she said. Concussions are prevalent among high school students and athletes and affect each person in a unique way.•
concussion Recovery Process Phase 1: 24-hours symptom-free Phase 2: light aerobic activity Phase 3: moderate aerobic activity. Phase 4: sport-specific (non-contact) activities Phase 5: full-contact practice (cannot be a game/ competition) Source: Chelsea Frashure
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The Catamount
Psychology, sociology enlighten students in personal lives Jaycie Robinson Staff Reporter In high school today, students can become stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis. Successfully managing time and working with others comes with the skill of compartmentalizing as well as the understanding of how the brain works. This can be established through the practices and studies of psychology and sociology. Psychology teacher Jessica Kouba noted that the study of psychology can help a student sort through the mess they mentally create on a daily loop. Whether it be time control, organizational skills, sleep management, or just finding a peaceful mental state, understanding the inner workings of the brain helps with of all of these inevitable problems. “For the students, learning about sleep and how much they receive a night really changes their perceptions of how they work in and out of class,” Kouba said. Kouba got into the practice because she had a hunger to help others, and she knew from the start that she wanted to put her time into a service profession. Not only is psychology an interest in her professional life, it also continues to help Kouba today as a mother of two children. For example, she uses a reward system based on developmental psychology she
studied previously. Junior Ethan Hanks was drawn to the idea of the human brain because he wanted to learn about the processing behind thoughts. He wanted to satisfy his curiosity for the knowledge of how his brain worked. “I really like psychology because it is not necessarily set on formulas or algorithms or anything like that. It is the betterment of one’s own actions and the improvement of the self as a whole just by focusing on one major thing and I think that is really cool,” Hanks said. In contrast, sociology is the study of society and how people interact with each other. It has similar benefits as psychology, just in a different manner. Sociology teacher Chad Lehrmann was attracted to the idea of sociology because he liked the idea of people and motivation as a group. “Sociology is beneficial to the students because they will always be working in groups for the rest of their lives. A student can learn how to motivate others and find a fitting friend group to socialize with,” Lehrmann said. The idea of socializing is everywhere. “Perspective is reality and communication is most important in life,” Lehrmann said. From understanding one’s self to understanding others, psychology and sociology can help students in their daily lives to become more productive and more connected.•
source: market-
Types of Social Sciences psychology •
Science concerned with the behavior of humans and animals.
•
Related to mental and psychological processes.
Sociology •
Study of human social relationships and institutions.
•
Sociology unifies very diverse subject matter about human persons.
Sources: medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com sociology.unc.edu
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
News
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Different family dynamics bring students together Kalindi Desai Editor-In-Chief According to the Pew Research Center, a recent study says that 48 percent of Americans think that two is the most ideal number of children to have in a family. While this statistic has grown over the last few years, some families defy this norm and instead have unique family dynamics. For freshman Michael Pettibon, having six siblings creates a family dynamic in which he has to take on more responsibilities. “[My older siblings and I] babysit a lot,” Pettibon said. “A lot of the times we stay home and watch the kids for our parents so they can go out and do something.” Pettibon and his older siblings also have to set a good example for their younger siblings. “One of the biggest roles we have is to set a good example for the little ones,” Pettibon said. “If we’re told not to do something, but we go do that, it’s not going to set a very good example for the little ones, and they’ll think, ‘Hey, we can go do the same thing they can do.’ It gives them the wrong mindset.” Despite some of the challenges involved with being an older sibling to three others, Pettibon enjoys always having someone around. “The thing that’s really cool about [having so many siblings] is that there’s always someone that you can go to or have fun with,” Pettibon said. “You don’t ever
feel lonely unless everyone is kind of already gone doing their own thing.” Senior Emma Krajicek’s family also diverges from the typical dynamic since she and her younger sister were adopted as children. “My sister and I are both adopted and I’m not related by blood to any of my family,” Krajicek said. “I was about four months old when the [adoption] paperwork went through, but my parents saw me being born and my birth mother handed me off to my ‘real mom’ as she put it.” Although Krajicek is not blood related to any of her family, they still have a close bond and have shaped her into who she is.
All in the family percentages of different family types in the united states 28.6%
Married couple w/ children under 18
2.2%
Unmarried parent couples
12.1%
Mother only with children
2.3%
Father only with children
6.7%
Householder with adult children
2.8%
Householder with parent(s) Source: census.gov
“I think the best part about my family is how close we all are. We are always there for each other through thick and thin,” Krajicek said. Just like any other family though, there are challenges that Krajicek faces due to her adoption. “I think the challenges are more personal, such as trust or abandonment issues that come hand in hand with being adopted,” Krajicek said. Overall, Krajicek says that even though her family is not related by blood, she is thankful that she ended up where she is with her family. “I don’t know where I would be without my family to guide me,” Krajicek said. “I’m so happy that I was meant to go to them.” Unlike Krajicek, sophomore Kingsley Cashion has five siblings, two of those being her triplet brothers. “[Being a triplet] is like being a part of a group of three friends that are inseparable,” Cashion said. Cashion values her brothers’ companionship and the fact that they will always be there for her. “The positives of having my brothers is knowing that I won’t be going through high school alone,” Cashion said. No matter what dynamic defines a certain family, the root of a family is based on love and acceptance. “A family is a close knit group of people that love each other and are willing to sacrifice themselves for the good of another family member no matter what,” Cashion said.•
Tony’s Alterations
900 Harvey Road #8 College Station, Tx 77845 (979) 696- 1947
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Opinions
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
THE CAT’S EYE VIEW
staff editorial
Holiday season impacts everyone differently In the midst of this holiday season, the emotions associated with this time of year vary from person to person. While the holidays are dressed up and decorated to seem joyful and celebratory, it is sometimes disregarded that not everyone enjoys these. For some, this anticipation of the holidays is welcome and celebrated, but for others, the holidays bring unwelcome memories and dreaded interactions with distant relatives. It is important that these differences are recognized and tended to, because it would be ignorant for us to believe that everyone is jolly with expectations of good times ahead. An easy way to acknowledge these differences is to be empathetic towards those who don’t find the holidays a cause worth celebrating.
New perspective on performance proves beneficial I have a tendency to be test. Or maybe I didn’t get enough sleep before I made extremely hard on myself. my spaghetti bridge for physics or I was out of town Particularly when it comes to the weekend before a big paper was due. So many school, I often times end up things can sway the way I perform at school that I feeling disappointed in myhave never really thought of before. Because of this, self for either not meeting I’ve learned that I shouldn’t be so critical of everyKalindi Desai my own standards or falling thing I do as long as I have tried short of other students’ my best. success. A few weeks ago Instead of worrying though, I heard someone about how I’ll do on a test say, “Do your best given or assignment, or stressing your circumstances.” That about the fate of my grades, same night, I received handI should continue to try my fuls of other advice regarding best. But now I’ll try not to my future college career, but be so judgmental of my perthat one chunk of wisdom formance because I’ll know it about “doing the best with was the greatest I could’ve done what you have,” as they say, given my circumstances. really stuck with me. I’m thankful for this piece of In the past, I wouldn’t knowledge because I can take this ever consider my situation. Maybe I was Art by Susan Nam into consideration as I continue senior having a stressful week in newspaper year and take on college in the future.• when I didn’t do well on an economics
View of the Pride: Do you look forward to or dread the holidays? why?
Also, potential family complications can make the holidays less cheery than would be ideal. Some people have split families, don’t have familial support, or never celebrated the holidays in their families, making this season more dreaded than antici-
AGREE
pated. The distance between loved ones can make celebrating difficult or impossible. It is important that we acknowledge the luxuries that many
“I look forward to the holidays. I start to listen to Christmas music in October.” -Kaitlyn Kotrla, freshman
of us enjoy during the holiday season and the lack of those luxuries in many families that makes the holidays more tense or
“I love the holiday season. It is the only time of the year I see my siblings, and I get to wear dope winter clothes while it’s sixty degrees out.” -Ethan Hanks, junior
harder to enjoy. Awareness of the differences in family dynamics, financial situations, and bad past experiences allows us to empathize with those who may not enjoy the holidays and make them feel less excluded in the festivities of this season.•
Staff Reporters Graphic Artist Cartoonist Faculty Adviser Assistant Adviser
“I dread the holidays because I have to see my extended family that I don’t like.” -Mattie Squire, sophomore “I hate the holidays. My family is so loud and I just want to be alone away from school.” -Jada Lawson, senior
The Catamount Newspaper
2017-2018 Newspaper Staff Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Executive Editor Senior Editor News Editor Opinions Editor Entertainment Editor Sports Editor Photography Editor Assistant Editors
DISAGREE
Kalindi Desai Noe Canchola Dru Peacock Tiffany Ha Emelie Gulde Grace Costenbader Ty’Asia Hubbard Ethan Cohen Sophia North John Clendenin Makayla Fox Jaycie Robinson Catie Sikes Kylie Vernon Susan Nam Cella Siegelman Courtney Wellmann Teresa Laffin
The newspaper is produced by the Advanced Journalism: Newspaper Production class at College Station High
School, 4002 Victoria Ave., College Station, Texas, 77845. The opinions expressed are those of the writers and are not reflective of the administrators, faculty or staff of the College Station Independent School District.
Submissions to the editors are welcomed but must be signed and should not exceed 300 words. The editor
reserves the right to edit submissions in the interest of clarity and length or to not print a letter at all. Letters containing obscene or libelous material will not be considered. The Editorial Board consists of all staff.
The newspaper is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference (ILPC) and a winner of their Bronze
Star award in 2014, 2015 and 2016, as well as their Silver Star Award in 2017.
College Station ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex or handicap in
providing education services. Monica James, Director of Human Resources, 1812 Welsh, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5412) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX. Molley Perry, Director of Special Services, 1812 Welsh, Suite 120, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5433) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination. requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
Traffic causes student to reflect on concept of time A few weeks ago as I was waiting in Austin traffic, I started thinking about the concept of timing. If we were to drive Dru Peacock out of the hotel parking lot just five minutes before we actually did, would we still be sitting on Mopac waiting to move a few feet? If I didn’t dredge up the courage to talk to that person a year ago at one exact moment, would I still be in the relationship that I’m in today? If we didn’t get that one piece of encouragment a year ago, would we still have the courage to push ourselves to reach our full potential? Or is everything much more flexible than that and things don’t balance too precisely on timing? Personally, I think it’s all about timing. Even a minute change can cause drastic change in a person’s life path, and that’s okay. Tiny changes are what makes a life unique and special to one particular person. Everyone’s timing is different so no one should worry if they’re not as “far along” as
someone else is in life. There’s a stigma today that by the time people are a certain age, they should have a baby, or be married, or be graduating from college, or maybe even be in a certain position at their job. One person’s life choices aren’t exactly the right ones for someone else, and that isn’t necessarily a widely accepted statement, especially when it comes to controversial life choices.
we are all at different places in our life choices Controversial life choices are a hot topic in today’s society and widely discussed: why did that girl decide to travel instead of getting married? Why did that young guy decide to get married when he could have been “free” for a few more years? The bot-
tom line is that we don’t know what goes on in someone else’s life so it isn’t our place to judge their decisions. We won’t know what goes on behind closed doors but either way, it is their decision to make choices that effect their life. Circadian Rhythm, which is any biological process that occurs within a 24-hour period or a biological clock in other words, is solely dependent on time. Our sleep cycle depends on our Circadian Rhythm as do our body temperature and hormones; but what if our emotional Circadian Rhythm, so to speak, is much more complex, diverse and flexible? We are all at different places in our cycle of life choices, our rhythms are all different, and they’re all marching to their own, unique patterns. Whether we’re ready for college, the military, marriage or for travel is up to us, and those decisions need to be decided without much consideration to timing. Even though everything is affected by timing, everyone’s is different. Our time will come, the pieces will fall into place and even if we get off track, our rhythm will return to its beat.•
??? QUESTION issue OF THE
Do you think the united states should have gun control laws?
yes 62%
Opinions
The Catamount
no 27%
UNSURE 11%
140 people polled
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HUMANS CSHS of
jessica blanchard senior
“I like agriculture because I love horses and it really interests me. I’ve been competing in barrel racing for 6-7 years. The sport has exposed me to many opportunities such as competing with professionals. From that experience, I’ve learned different riding styles and techniques. My mom introduced me to horses as a surprise and I’ve loved it since. So, I’ve been doing this since I was 12. It’s a really cool sport.”
Check out our Instagram to learn more about the Humans of CSHS @cshscatamountnewspaper
COUGAR UNVEILED by cella siegelman
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Opinions
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
High school job helps paves path towards future career About four months ago, I came to the realization that I was not doing much with my life. Noe Canchola I would arrive home every day, do my homework, watch TV and then go to sleep at 1 a.m. All of us have those occasional late night moments when we are in bed thinking about our relationships with people, our failures and our need to do more with our lives. On a random Thursday night, I finally decided to do something about my mediocre life by applying for a job. Fast forward a few months later and I am still working at Whataburger. Whether getting that job fulfilled an empty void in my life or not is what I am still trying to figure out. However, working there every week for about 22 hours on average has helped me decide my career choice. I know what you are thinking. How on earth can you derive your career choice
from working at a fast food restaurant? Well, it is not that I am going to pursue a career in the fast food industry but
That elusive question of what i want to do with the rest of my life is finally answered rather in the educational field. Working in an environment that for the most part is immensely stressful, I have interacted with almost every type of person. From helping out kind people to dealing with racist customers to understanding the
needs of other people, working at Whataburger has been a journey to say the least. Shifting back to my four years of high school, I have had the honor to experience so many wonderful educators at our school. These are the teachers with beautiful hearts on top of the burning desire to help their students and help build the future leaders of tomorrow. Not only the teachers, but also the coaches who I have met over the last three years have made a powerful impact on their student-athletes as well. Now as I am about to enter the last semester of high school, that elusive question of what I want to do with my life is finally answered. For the longest period of time, I thought that pursuing a career in sports journalism would be my path in life, but that is simply not the case. I want to be an educator and a coach and be the light of inspiration for young people. •
Voices who is your favorite family member and why?
“My brother because he has the most clout in the family.” Saul Canchola, freshman
“My cat, Toasted Marshmallow, because she is the only one that loves me.” Kelsey Beasley, sophomore
“It depends which parent says yes.” Sierra Reismeier, junior
Accusations against movie mogul fuel female empowerment Recently, multitudes of women amendment. However, many choose not to speak when they have been speaking out against feel powerless. movie mogul Harvey The bravery these women exhibited is Weinstein on the topic empowering and inspirational. Speaking of sexual harassment. out is not only important when one has However, most of them been threatened physically, but also I are just now expressfeel that we should speak our mind in Catie Sikes ing offenses that matters that affect our personal rights, occurred several or our community rights. When I feel months, and even years, ago. I feel that it my personal rights, or even the rights of is important to speak out as soon as possible. others around me, are threatened in When someone has wronged me and left a permaeveryday life, I make a big deal about nent mark on me, I want justice immediately. it. Justice is only gained by asserting your voice. Too many times problems have gone unsolved beIn the cases of these women who spoke and are cause someone didn’t put his or her opinion on the taspeaking out against Weinstein, they are very ble. This can happen anywhere: The office, in school, in brave. There could be extreme consequences for council meetings, and even in the national government. these women. Harvey Weinstein is a very powVoices need to be heard in order to sustain the balance erful movie director who can ruin these women’s in society. careers, and yet everyday new women put their Speaking out is important in more ways than one, name on the list of victims who are done with whether it be when a person has been wronged, or when being afraid of him. an opinion is necessary for success or problem solving. Even though it may be dangerous to speak In these times, an individual’s voice and mind out, I feel that we are in more danger when we holds enough power to create laws or enforce Art by Susan Nam aren’t speaking out. Everyone has the power to justice. • speak their mind; it is a given right in the first
“I love my family equally but I connect with my Dad because we are most alike.” Michaela Downs, senior
“My little sister. She’s an angel and plays her trumpet with me all the time.” Josh McKinney, senior
“My wife because she is my favorite person ever.” Johnathan Brady, English teacher
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
bargain buying buying bargain
People
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Thrift shops provide alternative option for fashion, new trends Dru Peacock Executive Editor
▲ Senior Banessa Arredondo peruses items at Goodwill. This location as well as The Salvation Army are popular thrift stores in College Station. PHOTO BY DRU PEACOCK
Thrift shopping tips for newbies
The game is on. Racks are stuffed with clothes, hangers are tangled and the dollar bill in your pocket is burning. Thrift shopping, the game played by bargain shoppers everywhere, is on the rise. “It’s so much easier, comfortable and so much more affordable,” senior Carolina Ocada said. “It’s also really good for the environment, which I don’t think a lot of people know. You’re consuming less material, you’re consuming less things from companies that use sweatshops, and it’s just really good in general.” Many credit their love of thrift shopping not only to low prices but also to the unique pieces they might not find at regular department or fast fashion stores. Thrifting can also result in interesting clothes that may not be available to anyone else and are true original pieces. “It’s very versatile and you can pick out what you like or you can make something different out of something if you don’t like it,” senior Banessa Arredondo said. “It kind of represents who I am because sometimes some clothes that I buy online or in stores don’t really display my identity.” Any thrift store, from Goodwill to Plato’s Closet to the Salvation Army, can offer items ranging through many different styles. Vintage shops such as Rabbit Hole Antiques in Downtown Bryan and the Leopard Lounge in Houston also contribute to this popular approach to shopping, providing items that may not still be on trend but are still coveted. “We have what you call the Fashion Cycle, where trends come in and out of style all the time,” Interior Design and Fashion Design teacher Clarissa Riedel said. “So,
Find local stores and yard sales. Some in College Station are Goodwill and The Salvation Army. Shop regularly. Thrift stores may be a bust from time to time, so one day you may find nothing and the next you can discover a treasure. Graphics by Grace Costenbader
I think when students are willing to go [to thrift shops], they get unique, original pieces that are in style but are a little bit more authentic.” By sifting through old and like-new clothes at stores throughout town, thrift shoppers find clothes many people may discard without much thought to how valuable a piece may be. “When you go to Goodwill, you look through all of the racks, and it feels more like you’re trying to find treasure,” Ocada said. In addition to finding distinctive clothing, thrift shoppers also prefer to shop consignment because they are able to express themselves in special ways that are different from the majority of the population. “Fashion for me is a way to express myself. Maybe a year ago I started thrifting, and I just fell in love with it,” junior Catherine Isham said. “It’s very therapeutic. Fashion is the one way I can express myself from the outside without you having to get to know me.” However, despite the benefits of bargain shopping, there seems to be a certain connotation to the term “thrifting” or even to names of well-know thrift shops such as Goodwill that may not be positive. “I think there’s a negative stigma to it, like when you tell people you got something at Goodwill or a thrift shop,” Riedel said, “but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with it because fashion is expensive. Finding things for a good bargain is a good deal.” With the ups and downs that come with thrift shopping, thrifters continue to play the game in the hopes of finding those perfectly unique and fun clothes. “Don’t be afraid to get something,” Isham said. “It may look weird on the hanger, but if it’s an interesting piece, you’re going to stand out and that’s going to look great.”•
Expect varying prices. Most thrift stores are pretty cheap but occasionally yard sales might be overly priced, don’t hesitate to ask them to lower the price. Don’t be afraid. It may seem daunting and endless at first but stick with it, get in the groove, and keep up your hopes that you’ll find a great deal. Source: thespruce.com
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Student Life
pulling
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Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
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Differing views on gun control laws spark debate among students John Clendenin and Ty’Asia Hubbard Assistant Editor and Entertainment Editor The sound of a gun is like the sound of bells for some and an alarm for others. Over the past few years, as America has experienced gun violence at home, the topic of gun control has climbed its way to the top of citizens’ and politicians’ conversations. “The elements of gun control have been placed on our society in the hopes to protect the people where they live, work and learn,” government teacher Stephanie Padgett said. “Every decision made was done to protect in their own way.” Furthermore, Padgett believes the issue of gun control impacts her as a citizen and individual. “The problem in society is this is not how they are viewed by many and, without proper education, there is more fear than understanding of these elements,” Padgett said. “Not only as a teacher, but as an American, Texan and just involved member of society, I hear all about the good and bad of guns.” Padgett also explained how she teaches the second amendment in her government class. “I focus on the foundations of our government as to what does the Constitutions say, in particular what does the second amendment say,” Padgett said. “It is not my place to teach these students what to think. It’s my place to teach them how to think, how to find information and how to weed out the good from bad arguments.” Senior Jonathan Masabni explained his concerns with guns, the power of a weapon and how his family tends to
stay away from guns. “The laxity of gun control scares me. This comes from my family where guns aren’t around,” Masabni said.“Babies grabbing a gun are more deadly than any other self defense. Gun control is just needed.” Masabni said he believes restrictions should be required before purchasing a gun. “I think that people have the right to own a gun,” Masabni said. “However, the process to obtain one should be more regulated.” Masabni said he does understand why the issue has become so controversial in society. “The idea of gun control is associated with the stripping of someone’s rights,” Masabni said. “This causes a polarization between the two sides of the topic.” However, senior Chris Williams believes there is a need to find a middle ground. “I think that gun control affects our society in a variety of ways. First of all, I think some simple measures of gun control, like background checks and bans on fully automatic weapons, are common sense and need to happen,” Williams said. “Anything else has a negative effect on our society.” Williams continued by defining how the second amendment was more than just the right to bear arms. “Gun rights are human’s rights. In the modern world owning and carrying a firearm is your way of self protection,” Williams said. “A world where we are not allowed to protect ourselves is not a world I want to live in.” Williams went on to comment on why he thinks the topic of gun control is hotly debated both among politicians at every level of government and everyday citizens.
“It’s a very polarized issue in that each side believes very firmly in what they believe,” Williams said. “In my opinion gun control is not the answer. Better education and better training for people with concealed carry licenses and other gun owners is the most effective way of preventing these things.” Sophomore Madelyn Russell also explained how gun control affects her as well as others who are citizens of the United States. “Without gun control, many people feel unsafe in the presence of a firearm,” Russell said. “If there were some sort of crime, I believe that it is likely to be stopped.” Russell said past events and gun control have affected both our school and the society in which we live. “Gun control impacts who has guns in our society and who does not,” Russell said. “It can prohibit many normal people from having guns but also does not necessarily change how or how many criminals obtain their firearms.” Russell also shared her definition of the second amendment and what it means to her. “The second amendment protects our country’s citizens from a tyrannical government,” Russell said. “We have the possibility of fighting for ourselves in the situation our government becomes corrupt.” Padgett reiterated that guns are not the problem but rather those who use them can create problems. “Our society was built on rights, one that each person has the right to be who they want to be, as long as it does not infringe on the rights of others,” Padgett said. “Having guns does not create the issue in our society. The misuse and misunderstanding of weapons is the trigger of violence in society.” •
gun control laws in texas
Impact of mass shootings IN the united states
The 2015 Texas Legislature passed a bill to allow concealed handgun permit holders to begin carrying handguns openly. A License to Carry (LTC) is still required to carry a handgun openly or concealed in public.
1. las vegas strip massacre (las vegas, Nv)
areas where license to carry is restricted
58 killed, 523 injured
2. orlando nightclub massacre (orlando, FL) 49 killed, 53 injured
Student Life
4 1
Federal buildings
3
3. virginia tech massacre (blacksburg, VA)
Schools
33 killed, 23 injured Public sporting events
4. newtown school shooting (Newtown, CT) 28 killed, 2 injured
5. luby’s massacre (killee n, TX) 24 killed, 20 injured source: statista.com
5
Prisons
2 Courts or court offices source: wikipedia.org
Graphics by Kalindi Desai
12 People
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
life through a lens
Youtube
Wordpress
Internet platforms provide creative outlet for daily musings Kylie Vernon Staff Reporter Vlogging and blogging have become common ways for students to express themselves. The idea of creating content that others will see and respond to appeals to many. “I think it’s just fun to express myself in that way,” vlogger and senior Jamie Hendershot said. “You can talk non-stop and no one’s judging you. I don’t know how to describe it. I think it’s so fun.” With modern resources, vlogging and blogging have become easily accessible and manageable. Some web platforms that make it easy to begin a blog are Wordpress or Tumblr. To make videos, all that is initially required is some simple equipment. “I use my phone and editing apps,” Hendershot said. It’s not all fun and games, however. “No one actually realizes how much time goes into the editing,” vlogger and freshman Shane Grant said of the work process. “The videoing part is the most fun because I actually get to do stuff, and it’s not just sitting there.” Though editing can take time, Grant considers it worth the work.
“I get to tell my story and the way I live,” Grant said. For bloggers, the process is somewhat different. “It’s so easy. I literally write whatever I want,” blogger and senior Hayley Nugent said. Blogging not only is fun, but it can also be a great stress reliever and can help with organization. “It helps declutter your brain, and it’s relaxing knowing that it’s all out of my head,” Nugent said. “Being able to see it on a computer screen in front of you is so much easier to rummage through than in your head.” Sharing personal stories with the world on a blog or vlog can seem scary but it can be rewarding. “People will see them and tell me the jokes I made [from the videos] in the hall,” Hendershot said. Just like any other creative outlet, blogging and vlogging don’t require much more than a passion for the activity and dedication. The possibilities are endless for anyone to write or film. “You pretty much have free reign,” Nugent said. •
Hayley Nugent Read Hayley Nugent’s “Inner Ramblings” as she writes honestly about what’s on her mind. Each post reveals her insightful and unique perspective on different aspects of life. https://hayleynuge.wordpress.com/
Jamie Hendershot Follow Jamie and her daily shenanigans as she features her hilarious family and fills each video with her enthusiasm for life. https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCWxXxNn06Gt2RX6IUFtG7ig
Shane grant Shane’s videos feature the adventures of his everyday life. From spending the day in an elevator to cuddling with an otter, there is never a dull moment with Shane. https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCXCuxFcIpA36FZtIhqOeNmg
Graphics by Tiffany Ha
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
People
love knows no distance
13
Long distance relationships cultivate appreciation for loved ones Sophia North Photography Editor After a long day, most people meet up with those closest to them, whether that be a sibling, best friend or partner. This meeting is usually easy, a walk down the street or a short drive. However, it is much more difficult for those who maintain long distance relationships that can place in-person interactions on hold for weeks or even months. But senior Nick Joyner believes that distance makes him cherish one-on-one time even more. “The thing I miss the most is not getting to see her everyday,” Joyner said. “I did not really appreciate it as much when she was here, and now I realize how valuable that one-on-one time is.” Joyner is dating Hannah Valentino, who moved to Rosenberg, a two-hour drive from College Station. Even though the distance is evident, Joyner feels that their relationship has flourished. “I think, despite the distance, we have still gotten closer over time,” Joyner said. “Even though it is hard not seeing each other as much as we would like,
we make it work.” Long distance relationships also extend to friendships. Graduate Tegan Brooks and senior Taylor Sadowski maintain a long distance relationship after Brooks moved to Nebraska for college. Prior to Brook’s move, the two were nearly inseparable. “Before, she lived down the street from me,” Sadowski said. “Whenever we were free, we were always at each other’s houses.” Sadowski also believes that the distance has allowed for growth, but to her it provided a platform for personal growth. “I feel lonely a lot of the time now, but the benefit is that now that she is gone, I have gotten to meet a lot of new people,” Sadowski said. “We hung out all the time, and now I have time to hang out with other people.” Additionally, with the advancements made in technology, preserving contact has not been a huge obstacle for many long distance relationships. “We text almost every day and call each other at least once a week,” senior Kate Hinkley said about her interactions with her sister Jaylen Hinkley, who moved to Utah to attend Utah State University. Although the daily contact is not hard to sustain, Kate reflects that there has been a big change at home since her sister left. “At home she was m y
partner in crime, and now that she is gone, I am outnumbered,” Hinkley said. “Before my sister and I would pick where we want to eat and what movie we would see. Now I just have to tag along with my parents.” Despite the hundreds of miles between those in a long distance relationships, they have to find a way to interact and maintain the relationship so the distance doesn’t act a barrier. “When she comes back, it’s like nothing has changed,” Hinkley said. “And it doesn’t bother me when I have to share a bathroom with her. I just like to have her back.”
•
significant others Nick joyner & hannah valentino Rosenberg, Texas 92 miles apart
best friends taylor sadowski & Tegan brooks
Lincoln, Nebraska 810 miles apart
Graphics by Tiffany Ha
sisters ley Kate & Jaylen Hink Logan, Utah part 1,458 miles a
Source: Apple Maps
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People
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
Martial arts provides self-defense techniques, stress relief Catie Sikes Staff Reporter Self defense stems from a variety of different forms of martial arts, as well as boxing and Krav Maga. These forms of self defense provides a multitude of valuable aspects and purposes that make it worth learning. Sophomores Morgan Lemons and Kaylie Scheffler attend Krav Maga lessons at Sidekicks Studio, which is located off Wellborn road. They found that Krav Maga would help them to defend themselves better. According to Scheffler, Krav Maga is a mixture of different self defense arts. “I started Krav Maga because I wanted to learn how to fight and defend myself to show that I was not weak,” Scheffler said. Sophomore Jaina Lara participates in Judo, a form of martial arts that originated in Japan. She says that judo helps relieve stress. “It helps me exert the stress I feel at school. When I go to judo, I don’t have to worry about tests or studying, I just have to worry about my opponent and what I’m learning during judo,” Lara said. Senior Tommy Nelson started to box in sixth grade in order to defend himself from bullies. “I would get jumped a couple of times, and I got tired of it. So, I told my mom I was done, and her solution was to join a boxing club,” Nelson said. Self defense not only helps exert emotions and better a persons ability to defend themselves, it also helps to discipline that person. “Other than helping me exert those bad feelings, it helps teach me discipline,” Nelson said.
Self defense includes a multitude of different moves and techniques. Some of them include jabs, arm bars, and different forms of a choke. Krav Maga provides different ways to escape a choke hold. A common misconception is that a person who is larger will be more successful at self defense, however, Lara sees differently. “People underestimate me because of my size. They don’t expect me to be able to do the things I can do,” Lara said. Self defense can help a person grow and become more self-assured. “Krav Maga has helped me become more confident and aware of my surroundings,” Scheffler said. Forms of self defense also aid in releasing negative feelings and emotions that if not released can destroy the person. “Krav Maga helps me let off a lot of my negative emotions, since I tend to let those build up until they burst. Krav Maga provides a very good physical outlet for me,” Lemons said. Self defense is considered as much a sport as it is a form of martial arts. Sports are most commonly done for fun or for health, but martial arts combines self-defense with competetive sports. “When I first thought about doing judo it was just for health. But now when I go I go with a smile on my face and leave with a grin. It’s usually hard for people to understand that it’s fun for me but it really is. It’s just like any other sport,” Lara said. The fun is often the more prominent reason for a sport. “I practice mostly for fun, the fitness and the health part are just a bonus that I gladly accept,” Lemons said.•
▲ Sophomore Jaina Lara gets into a judo position on Dec. 13. Lara participates in judo to help relieve stress from school. PHOTO BY CATIE SIKES
Different types of self defense Boxing: The sport or practice of fighting with the fists, especially with padded gloves in a roped square ring according to prescribed rules. Krav Maga: a form of self-defense and physical training, first developed by the Israeli army in the 1940s, based on the use of reflexive responses to threatening situations. judo-caja.com
Judo: a sport of unarmed combat derived from jujitsu and intended to train the body and mind. It involves using holds and leverage to unbalance the opponent.
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
Boys basketball team adjusts to new starters, experiences successful start to 2017 season Ethan Cohen Sports Editor Cougar basketball finished their 2016-2017 season with a 21-11 record, a 6-6 record in district and a fourth place overall district finish. The team made their fourth consecutive appearance in the playoffs, losing by 6 to Nacogdoches in the first round of elimination. This year the boys return several starters in point guard Cade Kortan, shooting guard Matthew White and small forward Ty Sanders, while junior shooting and point guard Kit Cawley begins his first season as a varsity starter. Junior Reagan Browning returns to the varsity level to make his debut as a starter after alternating between the varsity and JV squads his sophomore season. After losing several senior starters, the Cougars now only have three players over 6 foot on the varsity roster. This size deficit will likely be the Cougars’ toughest obstacle in the 2017-2018 season. “Our biggest challenge will be balancing out the height and athleticism of teams we’ll play in district,” Matthew White said. “Losing those seniors was tough because we lost so much size, but we make up for it with our effort.” Effort is one of the biggest differences White noticed between the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 squads. “We are more focused this year and we’ve put more effort into practices,” White said. “We are also more focused heading into games.” Focus was imperative to the success the team had early on, but one of the team’s biggest strengths is one that’s rather unexpected. “I would say our strongest asset is being underestimated every time we walk into the gym,” junior power forward Reagan Browning said. “People count us out.” The Cougars’ upcoming District schedule includes some very competitive teams from Bryan, Waco University, cross-town rival Consol, and Rudder, who currently sits atop the Distrcit 18-5A rankings. Rudder could prove to be the Cougars biggest challenge, as they return a slew of players from their 2016-2017 season, in which they made a 4-round playoff run that included a victory over A&M Consolidated, finishing with a close loss to a fantastic Manvel team. The Cougars season will be long and challenging, but there’s one game all players are looking forward to. “Friday, December 15th, A&M Consolidated, at home.” White said. The Cougars tip off against the Tigers at 7:30 tonight for the next installment of the crosstown rivalry. •
▲ Junior Kit Cawley dribbles past College Park defender Cameron Noel on Tuesday, Nov. 14 at CSHS. The Cougars fell 74-42 to the Cavs, who were led by 5 star Kansas commit Quentin Grimes. PHOTO BY DRU PEACOCK
Team Stats 2016: Overall Record: 21-11 District Record: 6-6 Field Goal%: 18.8 Win%: .523
Sports
15
The legacy of the Cougar football team For the second year in a row, the Cougar football team is on the cusp of attaining the Holy Grail of high school football, the Texas State ChampiJohn Clendenin onship. After a brutal playoff schedule including traditional powers Georgetown, Port-Neches Groves and Fort Bend Marshall, our Cougars find themselves back in the 5A Division II State Semifinals. While the mantra of “Cougars vs. the World” is ringing true more than ever, proof lies in a 49-47 comeback against state champion favorite Fort Bend Marshall, in which the Cougars lost starting left tackle Jeremiah Williams. In a game where they found themselves down 34-21 at halftime, they have never backed down or shown any sign of quitting. The defense held strong against the potent Marshall offense, limiting them to 13 second half points and helping to fuel another Cougar style second half comeback against their opponent. However, all of that is in the past, as College Station is back in the final four for the second time in as many years. After the heart break of last year’s game versus Corpus Christi Calallen, the Cougars will be facing the Knights of Austin McCallum in the semifinal round of the playoffs. The Knights are in the midst of a Cinderella season, having gone 14-0 in the best season their school has ever had, including a 20-7 dismantling of Calallen last weekend in the Alamodome. They will prove another test for the Cougars, as they bring a duo of 1,000 yard rushers and one 2,000 yard rusher. Led by dual threat quarterback Maxwell Perez, the Knights have steamrolled through a relativity easy schedule, only being tested in the past few weeks of the playoffs. Unlike the Knights, the Cougars endured two early losses to TAPPs Division runner-up St. Pius X and 6A Division-II State Semifinalist Austin Westlake and were written off by most of the major media. However, as the Cougars march on through the playoffs, they have consistently proven doubters wrong. They have outdueled some of the best players in the state, such as PNG’s Roschon Johnson, and have mounted comebacks versus some of the best teams in any division. The early season struggles and setbacks should provide the Cougars with the ability to overcome anything thrown at them during this upcoming game tomorrow night at NRG Stadium, and this is how this team will be remembered. So, to everyone reading this, be there, be loud and be proud for the Cougars tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m. in Houston.•
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Sports
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
Football team powers through playoffs to reach semifinals Ethan Cohen Sports Editor For the second straight year, the College Station Cougars are returning to the UIL State-Semifinals. In one of the best games of the season, the Cougars defeated a phenomenal Fort-Bend Marshall team to grant their second berth to the state-semis, tying for the longest playoff run in the program’s four-year playoff history.
JACKSONVILLE The first round saw the Cougars face off against the Jacksonville Indians. Quarterback Marquez Perez came ready to play, completing 12 of 17 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns, and rushing for three more. Both of Perez’s passing touchdowns fell in the hands of wide receiver Harrison Wellmann who also returned a punt for a touchdown later on in the game, accounting for 18 of the Cougars 61 points. The Cougar rushing attack also had a strong night, as senior Dada Anderson had 84 yards and two touchdowns off 10 carries, and senior Azarian Foght had one touchdown and 68 yards off four carries. Meanwhile, the Cougar defense was phenomenal and never let up, pitching a total shutout of the Jacksonville offense in a dominant display.
GEORGETOWN Next up, the Cougars faced the Georgetown Eagles in one of the most highly contested games of the season. The Eagles jumped out early in the first quarter, scoring a field goal and a rushing touchdown from quarterback Cooper Bell. The Cougars answered in the second quarter, as Alan Guerrieri kicked two field goals to lower the deficit to 10-6. The Eagle defense intercepted a pass from Perez and returned it for a touchdown, but Perez quickly rebounded with a 13 yard touchdown run to put the score at 16-13 to end the first half. The Cougar offense exploded in the third quarter, taking a 10 point lead by scoring 21 points, bringing the Cougars score to 34
points. The defense held the prolific Eagles offense to only one touchdown in the third quarter, a touchdown that included a two point conversion run from Georgetown wide receiver Caden Leggett that put the score at 34-21 heading into the fourth quarter. The Eagles offense scored one touchdown in the fourth quarter to close the gap to 34-31, while their defense held the Cougar offense scoreless. The game ended in dramatic fashion as junior cornerback Ryan Stapp came up huge, leaping through the air to strip a pass to Caden Leggett on 4th and 2, ending what could have been a game-winning drive for the Eagles. Stapp’s stop gave the Cougar offense the ball with a little under two minutes remaining, and after a first down and several short runs, the clock ran out and the Cougars were victorious.
Fort bend Marshall Following their big win over Georgetown, the Cougars faced the Port Neches Groves Indians for the second year in a row. In one of the highest scoring games of the playoffs, the Cougar rushing attack was simply too much for the Indians to handle. Dada Anderson totaled 239 yards and 4 touchdowns off 17 carries, while Perez had 217 yards and 3 touchdowns on 12 carries, and Foght ran for 110 yards and 2 touchdowns on 9 carries. Kicker Alan Guerrieri was perfect, going 9 for 9 on PAT’s and 1 for 1 on field goals. Defensively, the Cougars had some trouble dealing with the Indians rushing attack, but were dominant in defending the pass, as safety Brandon Joseph had 2 interceptions. The Cougars defeated the Indians for the title 66-40 to advance to the region finals.
PORT NECHES Groves In another playoff rematch, as the Cougars faced Fort Bend Marshall in the region finals in another very competitive game between the two teams. The Buffaloes were fantastic in the first half, scoring 34 points and holding the Cougar offense to 21. In what seems to have become a trend this season, the Cougars
▲ Seniors DaDa Anderson (27) and David Hahn (71) celebrate as quarterback Marquez Perez darts into the end zone for a touchdown against the Marshall Buffaloes on Dec. 9. Perez went 7 for 16 for 118 yards through the air, while rushing 142 yards, accounting for 6 of the 7 touchdowns that led the Cougars over the Buffaloes 49-47 to earn the Region 3 championship. PHOTO BY DRU PEACOCK dominated the third quarter. Anderson rushed for a five yard touchdown, while junior defensive backs Stapp and Brandon Joseph had key interceptions that set up two pivotal touchdown drives, helping the Cougars score 21 unanswered points to take the lead. The Buffaloes responded with a touchdown early in the fourth and decided to go for two, but were stopped by a tackle from Perez who had switched to defensive back for the drive. The Cougars then drove down the field, and Perez threw the go ahead touchdown to junior receiver Brandon Williams with less than two minutes to go. Marshall got the ball and drove down the field, and quarterback Jabari James threw a touchdown with 10 seconds left to bring the game within two points. The Buffaloes lined up for the onside kick, but the Cougar special teams quickly jumped on it to seal the win, 49-47. The Cougars now face the Austin-McCallum Knights. The Knights are undefeated on the year, and dashed the Cougars chance at redemption against Calallen last Saturday by defeating the Wildcats 20-7. Heading into this match-
up, head coach Steve Huff is proud of how his team has played, and recognizes the challenge the the Cougars are about to face. “One thing is we’ve played some very gritty ball games and come back against some very good teams,” Huff said. “McCallum’s defense is really really good, and offensively they’re able to keep the ball away from you.” The Cougars will kickoff against the Knights at 7 p.m. at NRG in Houston.•
PLAYOFF STATS: Passing Yds.: 631 Rushing Yds.: 1531 All Purpose Yds.: 2439 Total TD’s: 29 Total Points: 214
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
The Catamount
Sports
17
Girls basketball continues quest for second district title Tiffany Ha Senior Editor
▲ Sophomore Mia Rivers drives past a defender to score on Dec. 13 against Waco University. The Lady Cougars lost 59-58. PHOTO BY JAYCIE ROBINSON
Last year, the girls basketball team won their district championship for the first time in school history. However, the team faces new challenges this year with a fresh set of players. “With a lot of new faces on varsity this year, we have really had each other’s backs to make sure everybody is taken care of on and off the court,” senior Kasey Hinton said. With only two seniors on the varsity team this year, the team dynamic has switched gears to accommodate the learning curve necessary with the young members. However, the underclassmen have shown promising potential. “This year we have a lot of new faces and kids who are eager to fill the spaces that were open from last season,” senior Sydney Johnson said. “We all want to be successful and losing isn’t fun so we have been focusing on the little things and being perfect at those.” Two of the varsity returners, Mia Rivers playing point guard and Rebecca Hayley playing shooting guard, are merely sophomores, but they have elicited further success predictions from Coach Symank. “They played on last year’s varsity team so they got lots and lots of experience,” Symank said.
“They’re still just really young players who have lots of talent, but they will do great things as they progress through their junior and senior years.” Seniors Sydney Johnson and Kasey Hinton also return to the court as veterans with all district accolades, multiple starts and experience in playing in multiple playoff games between the two of them. “We are a super young team this year having only 2 seniors. We’re also a faster team than last year and are able to outrun a lot of our opponents,” Hinton said. “Being one of the two seniors, I’m having to step up and fill a huge leadership role by maintaining composure and maturity in tough situations.” Although the Lady Cougars fell short in a few of their non-district games, many of those games were only single possession games. “I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t challenging,” Johnson said. “I think with our district being as strong as it is, it’s gonna be really close games the whole time, but I’m confident that we can secure a playoffs spot and even defend our district championship from last year.” The Lady Cougars will again be in action tonight against district and crosstown rival A&M Consolidated, on the road to winning the District 185A championship before postseason play begins in February.•
2017 Girls basketball district Preview dec. 15 dec. 19 jan. 5 jan. 9
@A&M Consolidated (2-7)
For head coach Wendy Hines’ second year with the Lady Tigers, she will need to rely heavily on a young team following key departures from last season. Expect the Lady Tigers to move some freshmen players around to complement their varsity’s depth.
Rudder (7-4) @Waco (1-7) Temple (10-3)
Perhaps the Lady Cougars biggest opponent in the district for the last few seasons, the Lady Rangers are now led by their first-team all-district player sophomore Deondra Young. Junior Treece Daily will also be a play maker for this young team.
After an 11-19 season in 2016, the Lady Lions woes have continued onto this season. Waco is currently 1-7 and haven’t won in district yet. Senior first-team all-district player Montierra Warren leads the team with senior Perrisha Cox helping the back court.
Last year, the Tem-Cats had 18-3 (9-3) record and this year look to improve in district play. With first team all-district talents like seniors Jhakaya and Keziah Dilworth, expect Temple to win more games than last year.
18
Entertainment
The Catamount
TacoBar
Let’s
Taco
Noe Canchola Managing Editor
‘bout it
Staffers visit local taco places in hopes of finding favorite taco joint
Taco Crave
Ethan Cohen Sports Editor
Taco Crave was a very different experience in comparison to many Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurants I’ve ever been to, but it was easily one of the best. The restaurant’s exterior and interior are rather simple, which seemed to serve it quite well, as the atmosphere was very relaxed and the service was quite friendly. Available for purchase were tacos, burritos, quesadillas, each of which allows the customer to pick the ingredients or “flavors” that go inside. These include dif-
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
308 N Main St ferent flavors of beef and chicken, mushrooms, carnitas and more. The menu was relatively cheap, as I don’t recall seeing a single item over $10, and for such affordable food, the quality was amazing. Given that quesadillas are my personal favorite, I ordered some and was pleasantly surprised that even the items that aren’t considered the restaurant’s specialty were great. The only con of the restaurant is that its location in Downtown Bryan is rather out of the way for most CSHS students. Besides this minor inconvenience, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and am excited to go again.•
2805 Texas Ave S
979-693-9586
Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago in a densely populated Chicano city, I have experienced a wide range of Mexican restaurants. That being said, it is often difficult for taco-based restaurants here in College Station to satisfy my taste buds, but one particular taco joint caught my eye. Located off Wellborn Road near Laynes, The Tacobar offers a variety of items such as tacos, burritos, breakfast tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and paletas de hielo (popsicles). Immediately when I walked in with my brother for a quick bite after school, the only employee working there was both ea-
1411 Wellborn Rd. #100 ger to help and adequately timely to serve our food. I ordered two fajita tacos, with cheese which was a respectable $2.09 because not one single item exceeds $8.00. The food itself was surprisingly tasty as the meat on the tacos was well-cooked, and I could tell the food was made with care. Reflecting back on my experience at The Tacobar, I would say that this local Mexican restaurant is definitely now my favorite in the Bryan-College Station area. Mixed with their welcoming atmosphere that engulfed me with the nostalgia to their reasonable prices, The Tacobar is a must-visit for anyone with a love of tacos, on a budget, or just looking to hang out with friends.•
MadTaco
John Cledenin Assistant Editor
As I walked into the South College Station Mad Taco location, I could see why it had become such a popular spot for people of all ages, with a vibrant outdoor patio with games for kids all the way to a bar for the adults. I arrived at the register and looked at a menu full of different items, from the 14 tacos they offer to appetizers from their “munchies” section. Eventually I settled on a basket of their Cajun Fries and two tacos, one Fried Chicken and one Carne Guisad all for $4.50, $3.95 and $4.50 respectively. As I went to the soda fountain, I was looking forward to sipping on some nice cold refreshing Dr Pepper with my tacos, but was
404 Jane St #400 surprised to find that Mad Taco uses “Boots Cola” products. As I sampled these, I was dismayed to find that none of them could match the taste of the soda they were trying to imitate. After choosing a drink, I was surprised to find that after only three short minutes, my appetizer had arrived, followed half a minute later by my tacos. As I began to eat, my mouth was filled with amazing flavors of the three items and I enjoyed my food to a mix of music from today’s pop hits to 90’s latino music. I found that the staff was very attentive as I could place a green tag on the stand in the middle of the table if I needed more food or simply a napkin. I will definitely be going back soon.•
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Entertainment
rapping it up
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Seniors share their path to making music on SoundCloud Noe Canchola Managing Editor “Peep my mixtape” is often a common phrase used by aspiring rap and hip-hop artists, but as history has shown, the streaming service SoundCloud has provided a powerful medium for people to release their music. Artists like XXXTentacion, Lil Pump, and Lil Uzi Vert have made millions of dollars from SoundCloud, and for a group of seniors, their passion for music has driven them to release several tracks on SoundCloud themselves. “I hope my listeners just get a feeling of happiness, the kind just to get up-lifted at the end of a long day,” MILKY WAY member and senior Greyson Cashion said. “I just hope my music can make someone feel a little better in any way possible.” MILKY WAY was a group started by Caleb Claborn during his sophomore year. At first, Claborn had no intentions to create the group, but after experiments with various beats and lyrics, he decided to expand on his music and make a group with Cashion. “I have this little upstairs studio where I create various beats and use my lyrics to write my music,” Claborn said. “One day Greyson and I had a little get-together, and I told him let’s do it just to do it, and we have enjoyed it ever since.” Although Claborn and Cashion’s newfound love to share their music began in
high school, fellow rapper Aaron Staab has been writing raps since a young age and now it has translated into his own music. “I have always written raps and stories since I was younger because it was always a way to put thoughts onto a paper,” Staab said. “Around freshman year, the challenges I had been facing had grown tremendously, and I began putting all my time and energy into creating songs.” Nowadays, many rappers become popular because they make it out of beats rather than delivering a message to their audience. Cashion, however, believes that rap should have meaning to it and strives to incorporate a message into his music. “I would say that I am someone who wants to get a great message across in ways that most people are used to today,” Cashion said. “I prefer rap that has meaning behind it, not just a bunch of mumble lines that you can nod your head to.” There is no denying the growing popularity with the up and coming music artists of today despite the sometimes negative attention that they receive from older generations. Despite this, these new artists have become Claborn’s favorites. “I’m into that new style of music that we are heading into,” Claborn said. “Playboi Carti, Lil Uzi Vert and Trippie Redd are some of my favorites. They are not talking about the best stuff, but they are doing what they want to do while making money, and that’s pretty cool.” No matter what happens going forward, and if all three rappers become successful, Staab believes that the future of rapping is changing. “I believe in a couple of years from now there’s going to be a lot of new waves, so just be on the lookout for that,” Staab said. “There’s a lot of young talented artists who are ready to make a change.” •
I prefer rap that has meaning behind it -Greyson Cashion Senior
CHECK OUT THEIR SOUNDCLOUD MilkY way
amory
20 Etc.
The Catamount
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
Working here is a SnowBALL
weeken
Winter attraction spreads holiday cheer, Christmas spirit Emelie Gulde News Editor One of the staples of College Station holidays is Santa’s Wonderland, an amusement park opened specifically in the winter and fall that replicates a Christmas village. Several students have found the perfect seasonal job working there. “The atmosphere is really peppy, fun and spirited. All the workers are happy and seem like they enjoy themselves because it is really a great place to work,” senior Haley Adams said. “The people who are there every time with a smile are doing it because they actually love working there. They don’t do it for the money, they do because they love it, and they love to make guests happy and get them in the Christmas spirit.” There are many different types of seasonal jobs available for high school students, but some things that set Santa’s Wonderland apart are the $10 per hour pay and flexibility with scheduling. “It’s a good paying job with great benefits that helps you get your Christmas spirit up,” said senior Austin Crenshaw. Santa’s Wonderland is also a great first job for students who have extracurricular activities and studying to do but still need to save up money. “The only difficulty I have going to school and a having a job is if you work until closing on a weekday and have to go to school the next morning, it is very difficult to stay awake in your first two class periods,” senior Katie Dyer said. Santa’s Wonderland has many attractions, such as a hayride, bonfires, holiday movies, food and musical performances. “My favorite thing to do is when all of Santa’s helpers hold a rope to keep away the crowds, and then Santa comes in. We sing Christmas carols, and the kids are always entertained,” senior Jeremy Halling said.
Although some may choose the employment for the good pay and flexible schedules, others choose it for the family tradition. “I chose to work at Santa’s Wonderland because my parents have worked there since I was 2 years old. I always enjoyed going as a child and always told myself when I grew up, I was going to work there,” Dyer said. Another unique aspect is that many employees there are high school students. It is sometimes difficult for high schoolers to find a job that has not been filled by college students. “At Santa’s Wonderland we love the fact that out of 700 seasonal employees, many of those are high school students. Having so many young people here helps our business thrive,” coordinator Mike Parks said. “These students often come back year after year at Christmas helping make Christmas family memories for thousands of people across the Brazos Valley and even the state of Texas.”•
Senior Austin Crenshaw, who works on the Santa crew, throws wood on the fire to cook biscuits at Santa’s Wonderland on Dec. 12. Many students enjoy the seasonal work at the winter attraction. PHOTO BY JOHN CLENDENAN
Timeline of Santa’s wonderland Graphics by Sophia North
Established in 1998
Nov. 10 - Opening Weekend
Nov. 18 - Fun Run Weekend
Dec. 30 - New Year’s Celebration Weekend Source: www.santaswonderland.com/faq