the CATAMOUNT
College Station High School
4002 Victoria Ave. College Station, Texas 77845
Vol. 5 No. 5
Friday, March 31, 2017
shedding the stigma
Mental health issues prove to be serious concern for teens Dru Peacock and Sophia North Entertainment Editor and Assistant Editor
Adolescence is a time when individuals are barely grasping a sense of control. They are trying to find themselves through the arduous obstacles of life, and mental illness makes that grasp for control much harder. The disorder can take over, making people lose sight of themselves as individuals. It makes seemingly simple tasks mountainous to execute; it overwhelms one’s character and clouds the mind. Mental illnesses such as anorexia, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia and depression impact one in five adults. These illnesses are too major and widespread to be ignored. “There is no shame in struggle. We all struggle in life,” said Amanda Gray, a professional therapist specializing in teen mental health. “My personal recommendation would be to learn and grow from it. Seek help, get past the struggle and learn to manage it.”
continued on page 3
INDEX
News Opinions People Sports Entertainment Etc.
2-6 7-9 10-17 18-21 22-23 24
15 Crossing guard creates positive relationship with students. PAGE 15
16 Students reach out to elderly with frequent visits to nursing homes. PAGE 16
18 Senior tennis player’s work ethic leads to success. PAGE 18
2
News
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Cougar NEWS Art students receive accolades at VASE At the regional Visual Arts Scholastic Event, 14 art students entered pieces that earned the highest score of four. Students include Abby Aronson, Cassity Burson, Miranda Carrillo, Anna Clubb, Morgan Daughters, Jack Franklin, Peggy Garner, Samantha Herrick, Jenny Liu, Matt Luedtke, Carolina Ocada, Sloan Peacock, Michelle Schulien, Savanah Syler, Tess Teodoro, Margaret Tipps and Maya Vemulapalli. Art students Sydney Maulsby and Jack Franklin also earned pieces that received a score of three. Senior Miranda Carillo and junior Kate Hinckley advanced to state competition on April 28.•
One Act Play team places at bi-district
Theatre earned fourth place for their performance of After The Fall at the One Act Play bi-district competition on March 25 at Waco University High School. Individual medalists include senior Tucker Luedecke, All Star Cast, senior Lauren Roe and junior Emma Krajicek, Honorable Mention All-Star Cast, and sophomore Noah Bullard, Best Technician.•
UIL Academics sweep district rankings The UIL Academics team excelled at district competition with members placing top three in nearly every event. The spelling, accounting and computer science teams earned first place team overall for their events. The current issues and journalism teams earned second place for their events. Individuals who earned top three will advance to region.•
Junior Sam Crockett blocks chemistry teacher Jeremy Dockan for sophomore Jagan Daughters during the Hoops for Hope faculty vs. students basketball game on Feb. 23. The event was organized by Student Council to raise money for a scholarship in honor of two faculty who have died from cancer. The students defeated the teachers 52-50 in overtime. Over $800 were raised from admission, concessions and t-shirt sales. PHOTO BY TIFFANY HA
▲
AP 101 - Margherita pizza
102 - Brazos BBQ Chicken Pizza
103 - Tony’s Bow Tie Pasta
104 - Elective -Gelato
free small gelato 1727 texas ave s, College StATION
with additional gelato purchase,
with your CSHS ID
napaflats.com | 979.383.2500
BPA members succeed at competition At the state conference in Corpus Christi, several BPA members were commended. Sophomore Judy Zhou received recognition for her role as incoming State Historian. Junior Ashika Verma excelled in Java Programming, qualifying her to advance to the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference in Orlando in May. Junior Sarah Yao was deemed a national alternate for Advance Word Processing. Senior Ben Porter also received third place in Computer Programming Concepts.•
The Catamount
Friday, March 31, 2017
News
3
Stigma around mental illness creates misinterpretations continued from page 1 In this, remember not to sweep these illnesses under the rug. “Mental illness is something we really need to take seriously,” school counselor Anne Hoffman said. “After school shootings and other incidents, mental illness has really been brought to the forefront.” Mental illness can spill into everyday life, making it difficult to complete normal tasks. When this happens, seek help because mental illnesses cannot just be pushed aside. “People like to think that they can cope with it, but in my opinion you never really do. You just find things to distract yourself,” said student Leonard Bradley*, who suffers from depression and anxiety. “At the end of the day you still have to get in bed and realize that you can’t distract yourself anymore.” However, in most cases these disorders can be decreased if they are treated and the triggers are managed. The school counselors said that triggers can be anything from not getting enough sleep, not doing well on a test, having a bad relationship or hearing a certain song on the loudspeaker. Their job is to help students cope with these triggers, no matter what they are. “No two people are the same, even if they have the same diagnosis,” Gray said. “One person struggling with depression may exhibit symptoms in a totally different way than the next.” Despite many organizations raising mental health awareness, society has created a stigma around mental
illnesses. Movies, television shows and music can contribute to these harmful ideas by negatively portraying mental illnesses, which can affect getting jobs and interactions with others. “The way that mental disorders are portrayed in pop culture and by the media are very inaccurate and demonizing,” said junior Liam Turner, who suffers from schizophrenia. “It makes it even more difficult for people like me to succeed in society because people already have all these predisposed ideas that they’ve created through society’s interpretation of the disease.” Misinterpretations of mental illnesses are furthered when one allows the illness to be a classification. To prevent this, it is recommended people say that someone has depression, not that they are depressed, or say that someone has schizophrenia, not that they are schizophrenic. “Society has created this idea of a ‘normal person’ that we must fit into and if you are an outlier you will face obstacles in achieving goals. The ironic thing is, there really is no such thing as a ‘normal’ person,’” Gray said. Help with mental issues can come from many places. A mental illness, like any other illness, requires help and treatment. Bradley encourages finding other people who struggle with a mental illness and developing friendships and relationships with them to fully understand that they are not the only one going through this.•
*Name changed for privacy
Sunday morning Bible study and worship @ 9:45am.
Please come and join us! Visit us at www.focusedstudents.com
Discount Cleaners
20% Off
3300 E 29th St 979-776-2785
ANY DRY CLEANING ORDER if presented at time of payment Expires 5/31/2017
18%
of adults experience mental illness in a year
21%
of 13- to 18-year-olds experience severe mental disorders at some point during their life
in the U.S. live 1.1% ofwithadults schizophrenia in the U.S. 6.9% ofhadadults at least one major
depressive episode in the past year
90%
of children who die by suicide have mental health conditions
Source: National Alliance on Mental Health Free meal and worship gathering @ 6pm on Wednesday evenings.
2805 Texas Ave S 979-693-9586
Mental health statistics
4
News
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Committee allows student input on ways to improve school
subcommittees within cougar cabinet Dress code:
This subcommittee works with Principal Tiffany Parkerson to renew rules that are currently hard to follow
Diversity:
This subcommittee works together to celebrate diversity throughout the school
Innovation:
This subcommittee suggests ideas to make the classroom environment more engaging
Seniors Only:
This group is for the class of 2017 to plan potential senior activities Source: Cougar Cabinet members
AJ Jones Senior Editor Character, outstanding leadership, understanding of others, goal-oriented, academic excellence, responsibility and service: the Cougar qualities that students strive to achieve. Cougar Cabinet is a group of students who advise the principal on how to make the school a better environment for learning and growing as they strive to achieve these qualities. “Cougar Cabinet is Mrs. Parkerson’s student cabinet where she can get the student opinion on things going on at the school,” senior and student body president Ben Hanik said. The cabinet is a way for students to express their opinions on how to keep the school fair, unique and innovative. “We talk about a variety of topics regarding school like work environment, teaching methods, cheating, dress code and bullying. There are also different subcommittees you
can join based on topics you’re interested in,” junior Jenny Liu said. Including a variety of students, the cabinet brings students from all grades and a variety of activities. “Each student brings new ideas to the table since we are all different,” junior Suzanna Borchgardt said.
i hope we will change the school for the better. -jenny liu junior Students find a new respect for school policies and procedures. “It’s wonderful to be knowledgeable about this school and to have the ability to influence the factors that contribute to my educa-
UR SMILE. O Y IN E V IE L E B #S M IL ES TH AT
EM POW ER
Schedule Your COMPLIMENTARY Consultation Today!
979.776.8689 • Clear & Metal Braces • Before & After School Appointments • Insurance Accepted • Flexible Payment Options
2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
ORTHODONTICS smiles that EMPOWER.
College Station | 1712 Rock Prairie Rd
Dr. John Andrews
Bryan | 2011 E Villa Maria Rd
aorthodontics.com
tion,” Liu said. Hearing different people’s opinions allows for a new and understanding perspective of the administration and student body. “I like listening to what other people have to say about certain things. It helps you get all the ideas on the table so that everyone’s voice is being heard,” Borchgardt said. This group allows for student leaders to leave a lasting impact on the school. “I hope that from my time in Cougar Cabinet, I will gain some insight into how the school works. There’s always room for improvement, and I hope we will change the school for the better,” Liu said. Cougar Cabinet is a program that allows students to have a voice in the school that they come to everyday. “I just think it is super awesome that Mrs. Parkerson takes the time to listen to us students and then takes our ideas into consideration,” Hanik said.•
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
News
5
Science supports emotional benefits of enjoying music AJ Jones Senior Editor It seems that everyone has a vault in his or her brain that has the lyrics to hundreds of songs that could be recited at the sound of the song, but being able to recite the chemistry equation learned weeks ago seems more difficult. Scientists believe that is because music has a more powerful effect on the brain. “Music takes you to a place deeper than just normal conversational level,” music teacher Kearby Etheredge said. According to Elena Mannes, author of The Power of Music, music stimulates more parts of the brain than other human functions. “[Music] is very powerful because we all have to let our emotions out somehow, happy or sad, it doesn’t matter, and instead of venting to people that may lead to conflict, we can just let it out in music,” senior Strutter Kaylea Haas said. Students throughout the fine arts department find that music impacts their everyday life. “If I’m in my feels I usually listen to sad music, and if I want to get happy, then I listen to faster music,” sophomore choir student Braden Thornton said.
According to a study done by Nature Neuroscience, music can have this effect on people. When a person is listening to a happy song, a chemical called dopamine is released that is known to produce what’s called a “feelgood” state. “[Music] energizes me because I have to be alert every class period and what starts out maybe as an ‘okay, I’m in a good mood’ becomes true because I’m singing all the time,” Etheredge said. Studies by Nature Neuroscience found that dopamine levels were 9 percent higher in volunteers listening to music they enjoyed. “When we do jazz, I get all hype, but then we switch to contemporary and I’m dancing [to music] for my grandfather, so my mood must be more calm,” Haas said. Even though neuroscientists are just beginning to understand the effects music has on the brain, it’s undeniable that music can release hundreds of emotions on the listener. “You have an experience with a group of people when they’re performing music together. It’s unifying,” Etheredge said. “It connects you in a way that math class just doesn’t. It’s always about the music, and when you perform it together, you all experience a part of that same emotional quality.”•
[music] is very powerful because we all have to let our emotions out somehow.
-Kaylea Haas Senior Strutter
Effects of music on mental state Reduces stress. Research has found that music relieves stress through chemicals in the brain Induces a meditative state. Slower musical beats can change and slow brainwaves to a similar state of meditation Relieves symptoms of depression. Research has suggested that slow music such as classical beats has an uplifting effect. Elevates mood. Music has been connected to self-awareness and the ability to relate to one’s feelings Improves cognitive performance. A study found that listening to music can improve a skill while performing a task Source: healthline.com
CSHS social week April 4-7
Take a picture and post it on social media with the hashtag #cshssocialweek
Laura Anderson Kurk editorial services
writing tutor certified editor college application consultant laurakurk.com
Tuesday: photo bomb a freshman Wednesday: take a selfie with a sophomore Thursday: jump with a junior Friday: send off a senior
6
News
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
New secretary of education sparks controversy after historic vote Sophia North Assistant Editor Betsy DeVos was appointed under Trump as the new Secretary of Education. However, her limited qualifications and preference of private school education over public school education have raised concerns about the future of education. The Secretary of Education controls all directions, supervision and coordination for activities regarding education, but DeVos has only ever had experience with private schools, which has prompted questions from public school students and teachers about her position and potential impact. “She has no personal experience with being an educator, let alone public education- neither she nor her children have ever attended public school,” science teacher Shawna Mizer said. “I just don’t think that someone who has absolutely no experience with the common American’s educational experiences should be in charge of the country’s education.” A wealthy philanthropist, whose family has been donating to the Republican party for a long time, DeVos faced criticism that her position was given to her because of financial and money related reasons, not her qualifications for the position. “She donates a lot to the Republican party, which I feel was the main motivator for her to be appointed,” junior Alayna Granger said. “She has never even worked in education, which is really frustrating for those who have worked in education.” Further concerns have arisen because, despite the arguments against her, she was still appointed to the position because of the influence of President Trump. “This seemed to be an exploitation of the powers of
the president,” senior Lucas Chollett said. According to The New York Times, she displayed a lack of familiarity with laws protecting students with disabilities during her confirmation process. “During her hearings she was unfamiliar with the act protecting children with disabilities, which is just a basic thing to be familiar with in that position,” Chollett said. “It’s almost like a sign that she didn’t do her homework.” She also did not know the metrics for assessing student progress. Granger said that this is an important concept to grasp, though, because the Secretary of Education relays information about public schools to the president, whether that be how curriculum is being delivered, the statistics of the number of graduates, etc. As she continues to play a role in education, administrators worry for their future because DeVos believes that private and charter schools will better lead the way in education. “Privatizing school and making them ‘for profit’ does not work. You cannot treat learning like a business environment,” Mizer said. “It must be a place of exploration, creativity, nurturing and learning.” Even though she lacks experience, there is still hope that she will do everything in her power to improve education through her methods and ideals. “I feel that she will try to do what she believes is best; whether or not her changes will have a net positive result, I am doubtful,” Chollett said. “But she will do the best she can.” No matter what though, Granger said that we do have a voice in America, whether that be writing a letter to our congressman or protesting; we have a voice that can be heard.•
this seemed to be an exploitation of the powers of the president. -lucas chollett senior
The Voting For Secretary of Education Feb. 7, 2017
•
YES NO
50.5% 49.5%
Source: www.freep.com
•
Vice President Mike Pence cast the tie-breaking vote in DeVos’s favor, making the final vote 51-50 This marked the first time in U.S. history that the VP was called upon to break a tie vote over a presidential Cabinet nomination
Job breakdown Responsibilities of the Secretary of Education
Advises education policy of K-12 and post-secondary levels
Assists in contributing about 8% to district budgets
Handles discrimination in schools on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.
Collects data and does research on student outcomes and success
Enforces federal education laws
Source: www.businessinsider.com
Friday, March 31, 2017
THE CAT’S EYE VIEW
staff editorial
Disregarding mental health further enhances stigma As a country we’ve made incredible progress when it comes to attitudes about mental health. But the underlying truth often overlooked is that while America has come a long way, we are still a country that ignores conversations about mental health in our discourse. It’s this disregard that stands in our way of creating communities that support and understand the importance of mental health awareness. The main reason mental health topics are still commonly swept under the rug is that we don’t like the discomfort we feel when faced with signs of mental illness. This is a mindset that we contribute to as a culture, but one that quickly needs to end. The vast majority of us will be affected by mental illness directly or indirectly during our lifetimes. The percentage of the U.S. population that struggles with anxiety, depression, OCD or some other illness in any given year continues to rise rapidly. Knowing we will all battle with difficult things in our lives, doesn’t it seem right to be more accepting of mental health issues? Together we need to end the stigma. Part of the problem is that discussing matters relating to the human brain make us nervous because they pertain to who we are fundamentally. Our society has become obsessed with appearing happy and “normal.” When we feel miserable, we worry about how that will be perceived in our social lives. So, we hide in an effort to fit into our always positive and always extroverted society. Bringing these issues out of the shadows and giving people the knowledge to discuss the complexities of mental illnesses will go a long way toward making sure help is given where it is needed and insure that lives are being healed. We can easily contribute to this cause by beginning and continuing to fuel open and honest discussions about these problems. Conversations like these take the power away from the problems and give everyone the ability to overcome them.•
2016-2017 Newspaper Staff
Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Executive Editor Senior Editor News Editor Opinions Editor Entertainment Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Assistant Sports Editor Photography Editor Assistant Editors Graphic Artist Cartoonist Faculty Adviser Assistant Adviser
7 Staffer changes perspective on life comparisons The Catamount
Amelia Kurk Kalindi Desai Emelie Gulde AJ Jones Tiffany Ha Alina Dhanani Dru Peacock Ty’Asia Hubbard Noe Canchola Ethan Cohen Grace Costenbader Abby Hopkins, Sophia North, Kyle Alfaro Susan Nam Cella Siegelman Courtney Wellmann Teresa Laffin
I have constantly compared myself to others. I have become so influenced by what others say or think about me that I can be influenced by their opinions Kalindi Desai and then let them define me. But I’ve started to realize that comparison is actually the worst. I’ve always known that earthly opinions should not influence me. It’s so easy to critique myself on the smallest of things and let those insecurities belittle my confidence. Or, I will focus on the things people might think about me, and I end up freaking out about how I could’ve done this or that instead to make me seem “cooler” because apparently, I need validation from others to feel good about myself. Knowing what others think of me bugs me beyond belief, but comparison seems almost involuntary. This unhealthy habit chipped away at all of
Opinions
my confidence. But I’ve had enough of playing this comparison game in which I never seem to win in my mind. Instead, I’ve decided to make the conscious decision to push all of those negative and destructive thoughts out of my brain and replace them with uplifting words of affirmation. I am starting to not just know, but understand and believe in the truth that earthly opinions have no importance in the big picture. I have learned that we shouldn’t let everyone else’s opinions change the way we think of ourselves. Our self worth has so much more value than another’s opinion. Although I still struggle with comparison despite knowing how destructive it is, I am learning to accept all my weird quirks and habits as a good thing. I am trying to embrace all of these things about myself that I used to be ashamed of. And even though I still get embarrassed by the silly things I say and do, I have started to accept them as a part of who I am.•
View of the Pride: Do you agree or disagree with the appointment of the new secretary of education?
AGREE
“I believe Mrs. DeVos will widen opportunities for children and teenagers to have more choice in their education.” -Eric Roquet, junior “I think DeVos is going to do great things, and I love that she supports concealed weapons on school campuses for teachers.” -Travis Psencik, senior
DISAGREE
“I don’t agree mostly because she has no understanding of public schools nor what teachers go through.” -Ricky Arellane, freshman “Coming from a position of extreme privilege, I don’t think she understands how to make choices that benefit students of middle and lower classes.” -Srinidhi Narayanan, sophomore
The Catamount Newspaper
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 and 2015.
College Station ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex or handicap
in providing education services. Glynn Walker, 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. Catherine George, Director of Special Services, 1812 Welsh, Suite 120, College Station, Texas 77840 (979764-5433) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination. requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
8
Opinions
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Leadership program resurfaces white privilege conflicts A question that seems to be a topic of discussion, the thought of most millennials and just the reality of life: are white people more privileged than everyone else? When speaking to my white Ty’Asia Hubbard friends, I ask them whether or not they believe white privilege exists? The responses always seem to vary. I have friends that do believe it exists and find it to be an issue America faces as a whole. Whereas, on the counter argument side, my other friends do not necessarily believe the issue itself exists. Coming from my point of view, as a black Christian girl, my walk in life is quite different from others. From personal experience, on Monday nights I attend Junior Leadership Brazos events that aspire to help me become a leader within my community. Out of 38 students, I am one of three black students who were awarded the opportunity to participate in an outstanding leadership program. Call it affirmative action or whatever you want, but this isn’t exceptional. I wouldn’t call this diversity. The meaning of diversity is the inclusion of individuals representing more than one national origin. Through this I’m able to see how white privilege exists. Some may argue that each individual worked hard enough to earn that spot, which is true. The real question is: How can a white student acknowledge this issue? For example, I attended a racial injustice talk, where a majority of the audience was white. Did I feel out of place?
???
Of course, but that didn’t cause me to limit my opinion in any shape or form. After talking about a specific topic concerning the issue, the speaker would dismiss the audience into a group conversation. From there we would discuss the questions he appointed us. One girl asked how she could stop racial slurs and remarks within her school, so I told her to use her white privilege. I pointed out that she, as a white individual, can do so much more than I, as a minority, can. I told her to go out and use her advantages, whether they’re used to start conversations or help her take a step back to analyze her everyday life. White privilege exists and here’s why. The 60s weren’t that long ago, and during that time period, African Americans weren’t granted full equal rights. How can you argue that white privilege does not exist when right before your eyes history tells you? If working hard gets you where you need to be, then why is the gap still bigger than ever? Though we have made progress, this still doesn’t make up for the times we have lost as a whole. Progress can be made. I’ve experienced terrible situations being turned around by those who are capable and willing of doing so. I have hope for our society. Whether it’s now or later, I see change happening. After reading this you may or may not feel differently when it comes to whether or not white privilege exists, but there is an ultimate goal to take away from this column. Ask yourself: how can I, as a white individual, acknowledge this issue and address it?•
QUESTION issue OF THE
of these options, where do you see yourself most likely to live as an adult?
31%
of students want to live in the
City
44%
of students want to live in the
Suburbs
25%
of students want to live in the
Country
707 students were surveyed
overheard ite what’s yourmfuasvicor? genre of “Though I do like other genres, rock music has been in my life since I was little and has been a constant for me.” Simon Kinman, freshman “One genre doensn’t cut it. I like the emotions and vibes of all genres.” rachelle villegas, Sophomore “R&B because it inspired me to want to start my own music group.” keith rose, junior “Country music because it teaches good morals through the lyrics and reminds me to always remember where I come from.” Kaytlyn livingston, Senior
COUGAR UNVEILED by cella siegelman
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Reflection on materialism elicits caution from temporal joys “I thought I would be happier, but I’m my same, miserable self.” I’ve heard this many times, even in one week, when Emelie Gulde one of my friends or someone in a class talks about something new that they have bought or found. I know for certain that I have been that person. A couple weeks ago I found a $100 bill outside of the Starbucks by Scott and White. Sure, it made me happy and I felt lucky for a day, but ultimately, nothing changed about who I am as a person. In the end, it made me no more special than
any other day. Maybe we are not looking for something to make us look more put together, but we are looking for something to make us feel like we are enough. There’s a constant voice in my head telling me I’m doing something wrong, and I could be better. We search for something to make us more glamorous, but the truth is that we have been created perfectly. It’s not that we should stop trying to succeed, but that within us we already have the perfect potential to become someone amazing. I’m aware that not everyone is religious, but I believe that if an all-powerful God was to create a
human, why would we be on earth for anything less than greatness? Material items, fleeting words of affirmation, even knowing that certain someone loves you back won’t make you joyful. Yes, they make you happy, just like finding a $100 bill on the ground, but deep down what we seek is joy. Joy is what we are created for, we are not created to live in sadness. We live in a world that thinks the meaning of life is to get what we want, and that we will be happy once we get it. We yearn for joy because we are made for it, so we fall for a lie. We run off into the sunset to get what we want, but soon enough we realize that what we want can’t make us happy.•
Hereditary struggle evokes unique perspective on life “Are you there? I need help.” stubbornly taken up residence in our DNA is a tendency toward Something had kick-started my anxiety that sometimes manifests itself when we are on the consciousness, and I jolted out of a deep cusp of something big, and often becomes a force that pushes sleep. Glancing at my phone, I saw that it us to succeed. was two in the morning. A lone notification When my grandfather was finishing dental school and flickered on my screen—a cry for staring into a future as an officer in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, his hair fell out from intense Amelia Kurk help from the other side of the world. anxiety, but the conscientiousness behind the It was Rowena, a teen nerves earned him the trust of everyone who lived in Australia. I had taken an interest around him. Years later, his son, my uncle, in her posts in an online group I followed took an elevator down to the ER with panic because they seemed more authentic than the that felt like a heart attack several times others. I could tell she had no support from her before he completed his residency at Johns family or friends. Hopkins Hospital, but the compassion with which “I’m here,” I responded. We began a he approached his patients contributed to his success as a conversation that lasted weeks—about what panic sought-after neurosurgeon. feels like, what’s happening inside the body, what Through the years, my family members have struggled triggers it and how to grow from the experience. through several bouts of cancer, open-heart surgeries and It made no difference that we were on opposite deaths, but we’ve been able to draw from a deep well sides of the planet or that our backgrounds of strength obtained from surviving hard times. were different. We were human, sharing the I’m grateful for my anxiety. This gift has taken realities that come with having a chink in our me out of myself as I searched for understanding. armor. I’m a more compassionate person than I might I was able to be there for Rowena have been, and I notice people and appreciate because I had already done the differences. hard work of finding clarity during A struggle with anxiety could have been a my own struggles. It’s not that I’ve had a detriment to my plans, but instead it has become a Art by Susan Nam force that drives my goals for the future of finding particularly difficult life. Instead, I believe I’ve had a life mercifully informed by family members ways to light the path for others. We will all have who look for the meaning that comes from experiencing life’s times in life when fear overwhelms us and hope grows thin, but highs and lows. I have been able to hang onto hope by watching the people in I come from a long line of over-achievers—parents, my life who have prevailed over the fear. Hope, they taught me, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins who believe in setting is a byproduct of helping others.• lofty goals and working hard to obtain them. One quirk that has
Opinions
9
Voices how have memes
impacted your life?
“Memes have turned me into a meme lord and a new man as I now live, breathe, eat and sleep memes.” Simon Kinman, freshman “Largely, they make sad days more joyful and stressful situations less crazy.” Brianna Jacques, sophomore
“My life has changed completely. I mean my life has become a meme.” Austin Ham, junior
“Oh man, they’ve impacted my life so much that I used to call myself the ‘meme queen.’” Ashley Poprik, junior
“Ever since I started participating in memes, I’ve begun to disappoint myself in ways I had never previously imagined.” Kyle Beasley, senior “Probably not as much as Minions have impacted my life. How bah dah?” Stoney Pryor, AP Statistics teacher
10
People
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
blood, sweat, and tears
Combat experience leaves lasting impact on military, families Alina Dhanani Opinions Editor Though they are often clad in camouflage uniforms with the intent to blend in, what these heroes do for our country is something any human can see in plain sight. In fact, the stamp of combat itself is never too far from either the soldiers in the military or the civilian. Military veteran and cheer coach Susan Keough explains that the effect of combat and war changes every recruit. “You find that you can be a completely new version of yourself and that you’ll look at certain situations with a new intensity, but are uniquely able to gain an appreciation for what soldiers do,” Keough said. However, people regularly walk into combat, after watching movies that avoid revealing the authenticity of what combat really is, to perceive its realities. “Every war movie has a formula: you take a teenager, put him in a war, make him the hero and then he returns home to be awarded medals and the girl,” said sophomore Ethan Hanks whose cousin is a Marine. “War brings much more damage than r e -
ward, unlike movies suggest.” While others deal with such reality, seniors Catlin Green and Bobby Seay will also have to battle sustaining their relationship, as Seay will join the Marines this summer. “You need to have full faith that it will work out, because it will, whether you’re still together or not, because I know at the end of it, at least I’ve got a best friend in her,” Seay said. The couple remains confident for their future, and Green realizes that she must prioritize the country’s needs above her own and knows that when Seay’s name is called in the background of phone calls that she is reminded of his larger purpose. “People think that it’s the people that go off into the military that have the hard time, but really the people they leave behind feel the same things,” Green said. “Because on the other side of that phone call there could be dangerous things that you only just begin to comprehend and you just can’t argue with that.” Similarly, senior Ukraine immigrant Anastasia Nekrashevych highlights Ukraine’s war situation by means of its effect on civilians, even of those in another country like herself. “I have a cousin that I spent a huge chunk of childhood with, and it pains me to see that while I have opportunities thrown at me, he has limited hope for leaving the country and has a general negativity toward the future,” Nekrashevych said. In fact, for Nekrashevych, this has pulled her out of class and has left her worrying on more than one occasion. “Those like my family in Ukraine feel the negative influences of the economic downfall and the fear of the worse in the future,” Nekrashevych said. “As I often see in my family, this causes many to feel disheartened about the safety of their own family and the goals they should strive for.” Ultimately, Keough notes that when humans are forced or opt to go into combat situations, individuals learn most about what’s inside of them, and most importantly, what’s inside their hearts. “There is a certain aspect of humanity that keeps you going, because even without training, you care and that’s one of the simplest, most meaningful things a human can do,” Keough said.•
badges of honor Purple Heart Awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have been wounded, killed or who have died or may die of wounds received from an opposing enemy force.
Silver star Awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the U.S., or while engaged in military operations involving conflict against an opposing force.
Meritorious Service Authorized on January 16, 1969 and awarded to members of the Armed Forces for noncombat meritorious achievement or meritorious service after that date. Source: www.military-certificates.com
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
food and faith
People
11
Foods associated with faith proves to enhance religious experiences Alina Dhanani Opinions Editor It’s evident that the marks of any good occasion are those that entail food, people and reconnecting with God. However in many faiths, it is the journey before the feast that truly brings importance. For Jewish senior Gavriel Pincus and others like him, celebrations often reveal good fortune and thankfulness. “The connection to food and Passover is that the food is a way to have everyone come together as a family, for one, but to also get across the points and the main values of Passover,” Pincus said. “It brings food and faith together and is truly something to see.” While those of the Jewish faith are reminded with food of their ancestors’ enslavement in Egypt and their exodus from it, other faiths use the time as a pertinent reminder of who they are. Methodist and sophomore Caroline Loy explains how such symbolism narrates her life. “We use communion to remember how Christ died for us and how he shed his blood for us,” Loy said. “There is no limit to how much we admire him and love him for that, and there’s nothing to compare that feeling to.” Loy explains that, in communion, participants consume bread and wine to symbolize the body of Christ and the sins washed away by Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. Representations as such are not only found in Christianity, but also faiths across the spectrum, and in retrospect involve the lack of food itself. “For Ramadan, people are mostly just incredulous and can’t wrap their head around the concept of fasting,” Muslim and freshman student Zoha Sultan
Other faithrelated practices
said. “I mean, not only is it fasting of the body, but of impure thoughts that might bog down society. It’s a break from society itself.” Similar to Muslims, Catholics like junior Joseph Pettibon find fasting as a way to further his relationship with God and to remember what it is like to be Catholic in such a modern age, especially by abstaining from meat during Lent in order to honor Jesus Christ. “It’s not about saying no to something, but saying yes to someone: God; and many don’t realize that fasting from things we enjoy reminds us Catholics that we are made for eternal life in heaven and do not need materialistic pleasures,” Pettibon said. In this practice, Catholics find new dimensions to their prayer life and can find what should truly hold significance to them as individuals. “I have found that my relationship with God grows deeper and deeper through prayer accompanied by fasting,” Pettibon said. “Self-denial is a fantastic way of showing that, while the things of this world can be objectively good, they do not bring eternal joy.” Through life, these individuals and many like them, find meaning and purpose by honoring their traditions with plentiful food or lack thereof to ultimately reconnect with where they came from and what they have accomplished in faith. “Without a doubt, food is a beautiful way to share history: you can get together, you can celebrate who you are and you get to put things in perspective along with your spiritual brothers and sisters,” Pincus said. “It’s just simply beautiful.”•
▲ Sophomore Caroline Loy participates in the Christian tradition of taking communion. Communion is practiced on the first Sunday of every month at her church Christ United Methodist Church. PHOTO BY ALINA DHANANI
MONETARY DONATION
CHARITY
DEVOTION TO PRAYER
VOLUNTEERING
12
Student Life
The Catamount
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Student Life
Normalization of degrading rhetoric heightens objectification of women Tiffany Ha and Ty’Asia Hubbard News Editor and Features Editor Driving up to HEB for gas, a girl may think nothing of her clothing choice of a t-shirt and shorts for a quick errand run. However, her choice of clothing may ignite a spark in some men’s minds, minds that may go straight to objectifying. “I’ve had men walk up to me as I’m filling my car up with gas, trying to ask for my phone number repeatedly, yelling at me. Not only does it fuel me with anger, it honestly leaves [me] nauseous--almost shaking. I don’t think most men understand what it feels like to [be] threatened like that,” senior Lydia Wagner said. “I want to say something to them and be like ‘that’s so disrespectful’ and stand up, but you also are afraid that they’re going to do something to you. So, it’s a scary boundary to stand up for yourself.” When addressing this topic, women are taught to handle the harassment by changing their choice of clothing, but this method doesn’t always seem intended for change, but instead for momentary dismissal. “Women are usually expected to act and dress a certain way, whether it be to not stand up for themselves or not wear shorts,” sophomore Zoey Hughes said.“It’s like this because
throughout history women were always the fragile people who weren’t powerful and always had to conform to what society thought was the best.” The normalization of this objectifying culture can come from constant exposure to objectifying rhetoric in media. “I think that pop culture has a lot to do with it--TV, movies, music, that refer to women as hoes or sluts--just slut-shaming rhetoric. Basically, the glorification of the male sex drive and how it’s a necessity for them and how women are objects they want to take advantage of,” Wagner said. However, there are males who notice and contest the perpetuation of female objectification in society today. “Boys are just raised to be entitled. As early as I can remember, I distinctly remember adults talking to little boys, as if it was something cute, about all the girls that they have on the playground as if they were collectible toys,” junior GC Lingan said. Although women are often the center of objectification, this negativity and degradation of others affects society as a whole. “I think it’s detrimental to everyone, because not only does it add this stigma to how women should be, but it’s also, passed onto boys and it becomes the norm,” Hughes said. “It
CAUSE:unrealistic ideals
causes a divide between everyone when people are asking to be treated fairly and with respect.” Though often faced with objectification regularly, women still try to find a balance between condemning unsolicited requests, but also taking pride in their bodies. The negative stigmatization of women’s bodies makes it difficult to feel in control. “I have been asked to send pictures, and on one end of the spectrum, you don’t want to worsen the idea that women’s bodies are so taboo, but also you want to say no to that,” Wagner said. “It feels disrespectful when someone asks you that, because it is a private thing, just as their body would be. There is also the factor that if you were to do that you would be slut-shamed.” This kind of rhetoric is often dismissed in our society. However, it takes a generation to make a positive change. “It hurts my heart to know these things are taken so lightly. Most people have a mom or a sister or a female figure they love and care about in their lives,” Hughes said. “I hope that someday as a generation we are able to overstep these boundaries that history has set in place and that women are able to express themselves in the way we should be able to.”•
EFFECT:poor self image
Every day, women are reduced to their body parts. They are routinely degraded in everything from pop culture to casual conversations. Because of society’s pervasive obsession with objectification, women struggle with self-image and confidence.
9 out of 10 women want to change at least one aspect about their physical appearance
57% of rock music videos portray women as a sex object
Each year, the average adolescent sees over 5,260 advertisements mentioning attractiveness
50% of commercials aimed
at girls spoke about physical attractiveness while none of the commercials aimed at boys referred to appearance
81%
of ten-year-old girls are afraid of being fat
AND
only 2%
of women think they are beautiful
Sources: tocqueville.richmond.edu and www.co-creativemedia.com
13
14
News
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
oh, the places you’ll go
Living environments offer unique experiences for residents Grace Costenbader Photography Editor Growing up in different environments, whether it’s the city, the suburbs or the country, can affect the way one approaches life and its unpredictable circumstances. “My personal experiences have always helped me understand where people are coming from,” said English teacher Jonathan Brady, who lived in Dallas before moving to College Station. Having grown up moving around frequently, Brady has lived in the city, the suburbs and the country, and all have impacted him. “They all have advantages,” Brady said. “There is something about living in the city that is super cool. You’re always on the cutting edge of everything.” To contrast the busy, chaotic life of the city, the suburbs are more family-and-communityoriented. Suburb living is more centered around building relationships and being neighborly. “The community aspect of it and living around people your age really makes the suburbs what it is,” said senior Averie Newton, who lived in Big Spring, Texas. Newton lived in suburbia for her childhood, and she said it taught her a lot about interacting with other people because of her surroundings.
“People in the city have more of a diverse setting, and they meet more diverse people, but I feel like the suburbs is a really happy medium,” Newton said. “You’re separate from the business of the city, but there’s the community aspect of it, so you’re not isolated from everyone.” Newton expressed that if she had the choice, she would choose to live in the suburbs in adulthood because of her career path. On the other hand, life in the country is different in many ways from living in the city and the suburbs. Sophomore Mason Holmes, having lived in the country for most of his life, leads a different lifestyle than that of Brady or Newton due to the lack of people in the near vicinity of his house and his common pastimes. “It is so nice to come home knowing that I don’t have to worry about bothering neighbors, and I just really get the chance to escape the world for a while,” Holmes said. “Growing up in the country has taught me how to be responsible.” Despite the difference in residence, none of these people find it difficult to communicate and have relationships with people who live differently. “I was exposed to a lot of different cultures. Living in different places has given me experiences and a lot of knowledge,” Brady said. “It has also made me very fascinated with different cultures.”•
Where should you live? Scan the QR code below to take a 21-question quiz to determine if the city, suburb or country life is right for you.
Source: quizony.com
Friday, March 31, 2017
a helping hand
The Catamount
People
15
Crossing guard brightens lives of students with conversation, encouragement Abby Hopkins Assistant Editor The red hand switches to a white walking sign, signaling it is now safe to cross. Students across the street look at their trusted crossing guard, Bennie Pate, for clarification. He puts on his friendly smile, walks out in the street with his stop sign and motions for the students to walk. As each student passes, he greets them with a fist bump, high five or kind words. Their faces light up one by one, admiring this man they have come to know as a friend. “It’s really a gift of a job,” Bennie Pate said. “All my jobs before have always been, ‘Hurry up and get this done,’ and I was always criticized for talking too much. I’ve never been allowed the courtesy to talk as much as I want to, and I love high school kids.” This quality is one of the many characteristics that draws others to him. For his son, sophomore James Pate, these social skills are something he can look up to in his father. “For me, he is a role model; he’s very sociable,” James Pate said. “He likes to talk to people and he gets to know the students personally.” This admiration is not only unique
to his son, but to students who walk to and from school, who are immediately impacted by his engagement. “Knowing he is there and that he is so excited and happy to see everyone makes walking a lot better,” junior Amaya Birch said. The interaction with students is the aspect Bennie Pate said is the highlight of the job. “There’s something inside that tells me sometimes people need a conversation,” Bennie Pate said. “I feel like if I can get a chuckle out of somebody or a smile or something, maybe that will help. I try to get them in a good mood before they get to school.” The positivity and kindness that Bennie Pate radiates allows him to easily build relationships with students to where they feel as though he is more than just the school crossing guard. “When you see him it’s like seeing an old friend; he has that warm kindness about him,” freshman Adrianna Okonkwo said. “He gets to know you. It’s not a forced conversation. He talks to you about real stuff and makes you laugh.” Even when students are undergoing hardships, are tired or simply do not want to go to school, Bennie Pate’s constant enthusiasm helps brighten their days. “He has been able to turn any bad
for me, he is a role model. -james pate sophomore
“
▲ Crossing guard Bennie Pate high-fives a student as he walks to school. Pate has worked at CSHS for three years and enjoys connecting with students and brightening their day. PHOTO BY ABBY HOPKINS day into a good day because he is always wanting to talk, even if he’s not feeling it,” sophomore Jacob Morgan said. “He is always there for everyone.” The continual support causes students to recognize and appreciate the authenticity that can sometimes be hard to find. “I wish someone could tell him how thankful we are that he’s there,” Okonkwo said. “You don’t find a lot of people like
that these days that are so friendly and kind to everybody.” In the end, the main thing that connects Bennie Pate with students and parents alike is simply keeping a smile. “My only goal is to keep a smile on; I try to keep everybody smiling,” Bennie Pate said. “I’m a lazy person, and I’ve found that it takes less muscles to smile than it does to frown, so I’m being energy efficient by smiling all the time.”•
describe our crossing guard, mr. pate, in a few words “Outgoing, nice and friendly.” -sophomore Jacob Morgan
“Very positive and encouraging.” -junior Amaya Birch
“Very kind and welcoming and he enjoys his job.” -freshman Adrianna Okonkwo
“He is very kind and logical and he is a hands-on person.” -sophomore James Pate
16
People
The Catamount
good ol’ times
Friday, March 31, 2017
Multiple groups of students benefit from interacting with elderly Amelia Kurk Editor-in-Chief
▲ Senior Maddie Byrd plays the piano for her friend at the Crestview Methodist Retirement Community on March 19. PHOTO BY AMELIA KURK
ways for teens to connect: Bake cookies and deliver them to a nursing home Volunteer to help older adults in your neighborhood by raking leaves or mowing lawns, etc. Become pen-pals with residents at a local nursing home Spend more time with older adults in your own family Source: tentotwenty.com
The stereotypical scenes are always touching—a nice young man steps up to help an elderly woman cross at a busy intersection, or a group of teenagers gives up their seats on a crowded bus for a group of folks who are their elders. But perhaps, a scene just as moving takes place when the old help the young. It is these intergenerational connections that, more than any other relationships, teach us all how to be better human beings. Senior Maddie Byrd is familiar with the benefits of these connections. From playing regularly in a quartet at a local nursing home to participating in a mentor relationship to devoting weekends to helping an elderly couple in her community, Byrd has formed friendships and forged memories that give her a true understanding of intergenerational relationships. “The older generation has a lot to teach us,” Byrd said. “They have more experiences than us, and it’s interesting to learn how they dealt with different problems in life and how they were able to succeed.” Byrd’s interest in forming a community with older generations became a formal mission when she put together a quartet of fellow orchestra students to play holiday music during parties at Crestview Methodist Retirement Community in Bryan. Joining Maddie on a regular basis for these mini-concerts were senior Lucas Chollet and junior Sarah Yao. “They’re very gracious and always appreciate us being there,” Chollet said. “It’s pretty humbling to see that just taking an hour out of your day to play at the nursing home can have such an effect and really brighten up someone’s day that much.” Yao agrees that the process has been gratifying, both for quartet members and their Crestview audiences. “They always come up to us afterwards, thank us for playing and tell us how much they enjoy having us there,” Yao said. “This has definitely been rewarding for me.” Students can find many rewarding opportunities to work with older generations in Bryan and College Station. One example, started by the Methodist Retirement Communities in 2012, is the Wisdom for Youth from Senior Expertise (WYSE) program. The
WYSE program brings together elderly mentors and high school volunteers to facilitate relationships. At CSHS, the WYSE program operates through Student Council. Student Council sponsors jumped at the chance to be involved with the WYSE program because it allows students to serve their community. “The program requested students who demonstrate leadership, character and a desire to connect with and learn from the older generation,” said Student Council sponsor Chad Lehrmann. “Students have formed strong bonds with their counterparts and have learned tremendously impactful information about the past.” Senior Natalie Alcala has participated for two years and counts the WYSE program as one of the most meaningful things she has done in high school. “I’ve always had a heart for older people because they have so much life to give and a lot of times there aren’t people who want to listen and learn from them,” Alcala said. “I thought this program was a really cool answer to that.” Kathy Ritter, retired high school teacher and Alcala’s WYSE mentor from her junior year, agrees the program benefits both generations. “It has given me a chance to meet and interact with young people,” Ritter said. “It was so encouraging to me to find that young people can still be enthusiastic and work hard, study hard and focus on what matters to them.” Senior Alicia Trimble also found the WYSE program to be a natural fit for her because she believes in the importance of learning from the past to improve the future. “It’s important to get to know people from older generations and learn from them so that we can avoid making the same mistakes that they did,” Trimble said. “I enjoyed teaching [my mentor] things about my generation while learning about hers.” These intergenerational connections formed through volunteering have the potential to change perceptions and improve the humanity of all involved. “The most valuable lesson I learned is to love people without any conditions and to practice forgiveness,” Alcala said. “I learned that we’re young now, so let things go, be loving, be forgiving, be more accepting of others because there’s a lot more to life than what we sometimes make it out to be.”•
Friday, March 31, 2017
3
D
The Catamount
People
17
printing
Students learn how to use 3D printing in everyday life, expanding their horizons Kalindi Desai Managing Editor Advances in technology have caused the modern world to become much more efficient in production, and 3D printing is a new technological discovery that has become a popular hobby for some. “It’s really cool technology,” sophomore Alan Wagner said. “It’s awesome to be able to create something on the computer and then a few hours later you can hold that design in your hand.” 3D printing uses melted plastic to produce objects by layering it over itself until the whole object is complete. “There are heaters inside that melt the plastic filament and then the plastic is dragged along the bed of the 3D printer,” sophomore Luke Batteas said. “The fans cool [the plastic] rapidly so it hardens.” The printers can make anything that is designed on the computer using special softwares that are able to convert the web design into a tangible object. “You have to have a software called a slicer,” Wagner said. “Basically what it does is slice up the model into layers so the printer knows exactly what to do.” Wagner and Batteas have their own printers at home and frequently use them to make fidget toys such as gears and Rubik’s Cubes. The items
help students concentrate better by giving them a simple task to work on while listening in class. “A lot of kids make fidget tools because it is such a popular item that helps use some energy while keeping them focused on what they’re doing,” robotics teacher Jill Conlin said. Conlin encourages the students to use the 3D printers in class in order to allow students to get experience. “I try to implement the 3D printers as much as possible,” Conlin said. “My freshman class this year is going to make a little nameplate keychain so that they can get experience using the printers and converting their models to physical items.” 3D printers can make a wide array of objects, ranging from as small as a keychain to as big as a car. Even the smallest of designs, though, can take up to five hours to print. “An average size design that I make takes about 5 hours,” Batteas said. “The time also depends on the infill, which is how dense you want the object to be.” Conlin has once had a print take 36 hours to make due to the density and size of the object being printed. This new technology has improved means of production in many different aspects and the allure of the process draws people to use the printers not only for convenience but for entertainment purposes as well.•
▲Sophomore Alan Wagner presents some of his designs that he has used a 3D printer to make. Wagner has a 3D printer of his own and often uses it to make fidget toys and other trinkets. PHOTO BY AMELIA KURK
facts about 3d printing 3D printing dates back to the 80s It was primarily used for prototyping, but it is now used for a wide array of items The printers print in layers You can print with material such as titanium, ceramics and wood 3D printing lowers production cost Source: materialise.com
18
Sports
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Tennis player’s willingness to improve motivates team Ethan Cohen Assistant Sports Editor
▲ Senior Taylor Jean hits the ball during practice on March 21. Jean is on varsity for his second year after playing on JV both freshman and sophomore years. Through his hard work and dedication, Jean moved up in the JV ranks and now looks to compete in the district tournament and state tournament this spring. PHOTO BY ETHAN COHEN
Taylor Jean vs Consol’s Tori Templin 4-6
▲
10-6
▲
Win
▲
Match 3
Loss
▲
Match 2
Win
▲
Match 1
▲
The Cougar Tennis team is another testament to the unprecedentedly quick success of CSHS athletics. The team has produced numerous tournament championships, district championships, several state championship athletes and has been state ranked for five consecutive years. This is an awfully hard tradition of excellence to live up to, but senior Taylor Jean is doing just that. “Taylor has a willingness to work hard,” head coach Ed Stricker said. “He’s very goal-oriented, and shows up to practice every day.” Stricker praised Jean’s work ethic and recounted how it hadn’t always been there. “He was on the JV squad his freshman and sophomore years and he wasn’t really focused on his tennis,” Stricker said. “Close to the end of his sophomore year he really started working his way up through the JV ranks and has become one of our best varsity players.” Jean’s game has drastically improved over time, and these improvements are becoming very apparent in the results of his play, especially at this time in the spring season. “I’ve won two tournaments already this year,” Jean said. “Outside of school I’m ranked in the super-champion category, which is the highest category you can be in.” Although he is currently thriving as a player, Jean understands that he still has room for improvement on the courts. “I need to work on my volleys,” Jean said. “In singles it’s not often you’re up against the net so it’s something I could improve.” Jean’s rise amongst the ranks of his fellow players and outside of school established him as a leader on the team, and someone to look up to. “He’s absolutely a leader,” Stricker said. “He leads by example and a lot of the younger kids really look up to him. He’s frequently guiding players and helping them with things like forehand,
backhand and technique.” Jean’s role as a leader is one he both respects and embraces, and one he is proud of. Jean “I’m given many opportunities to lead every day,” Jean said. “I’ll lead us through workouts or warmups, and I’ll help the team get ready at tournaments. It’s a good opportunity.” Jean’s leadership comes much needed at this time, as this year saw the team lose many players who played integral roles to the team’s success. “This year we lost 11 of last year’s 16 starters,” Stricker said. “A lot of new players stepped up this year and showed no fear.” Many of these new players are underclassmen, but Jean and the rest of the upperclassmen have quickly taken them in and made them part of the team’s family. “It is a tight knit group. So many of us have played together for a long time and we are really connected,” Jean said. “Many of these new players are the siblings of previous players who have been around us for a while, and we embrace them.” Jean is off to a very hot start, and he already has his goals for his senior season set out ahead of him, but this is far from his last season of tennis. “I’m looking to win district, regionals and then place in state,” Jean said. “I’ve accepted an offer to Texas A&M Texarkana, and I’m definitely looking forward to competing in college.”•
6-2
*Jean defeated Templin 2-1 and gained his second tournament championship of the year.
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Sports
19
Lone senior golfer learns patience to drive her to more success Noe Canchola Sports Editor Often considered one of the greatest golfers of all time, the late Arnold Palmer once coined the phrase that “golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated.” The game of golf is a sport that requires tempo, consistency and most importantly, patience. Senior Scout Hartlage has been playing golf since her freshman year, and she knows all too well about having patience. “Not getting mad at one shot that may ruin your round is really important,” Hartlage said. “We’re out there to have fun and not be super serious, and I like to make it fun for everyone.” However, when playing golf, one may get frustrated or irritated because of the mental aspect of the game. Hartlage has not only faced this challenge, but has also overcome it. “She used to be bad at hitting the shot fat. That’s when you don’t hit it as far as you could,” junior and best friend Jamie Hendershot said. “She finally overcame that and ever since then, she’s been playing incredibly.” At first, Hartlage was hesitant to play golf as she did not find the game interesting, but as she entered high school, she decided to take a swing at it. The reluctance to play golf at first pushed her to try the sport and as time progressed in high school, she got better and now is comitted to play college golf at Concordia University. “I tried golf once when I was little, but I didn’t really like it because I was playing hockey at the time,” Hartlage said. “I don’t really know why I wanted to play golf. People ask me that all the time. I just like being outside in nature.” Over the years Hartlage has learned to manage her
goals realistically as sometimes the results that she expects do not go as planned. “Usually I set goals before rounds. I never want to have a three putt or anything like that. Each round I tell myself I want to shoot under this, and that’s my basic goal,” Hartlage said. “Getting over a shot wasn’t what I planned is probably one of my greatest achievments. I’ve just learned to forget about it because each hole is a different hole.” In order to prepare for golf tournaments and other events, one must be able to put in the practice when golf is not in season, but also stay motivated. Hendershot has witnessed Hartlage’s work ethic first-hand as she sees that her perseverance has made her successful on the golf course. “Scout is a special player because she’s always motivated and never seems upset about the sport,” Hendershot said. “Golf has taught her to be more patient and to be calm in tough situations, and that has really helped her.” Even with a sport as individually-centered as golf, Hartlage, who is also the only senior on varsity, shows great appreciation and reverence for her teammates. Although each player gets their own individual score, the strong friendship and bond between teammates still stands. “I’ve become more of a leader because there are a lot of freshman playing golf for the first time,” Hartlage said. “Golf is usually a very individually centered sport, but being on a team is really cool. Once you’re on a team, you get to experience a lot of bonding with each other, and there are people who can help you out, and I really like the experience here at CSHS.” The girls golf team will be in action next Tuesday for their district meet at Cottonwood Creek in Waco.•
& Senior Scout Hartlage lines up her shot on the fairway at Pebble Creek golf course on March 28. Hartlage is the only senior on the girls team this year. PHOTO BY NOE CANCHOLA
▲ Senior Scout Hartlage practices her drive at Pebble Creek golf course on March 28. Hartlage has said she signifcantly improved her swing each year she has been in golf and has learned to be more patient as a senior. PHOTO BY NOE CANCHOLA
Hartlage’s Season Scores at Glance High Medowns Range (90) Cotten Creek (90) Pebble Creek (84)
Combined Season Score
90
20
Sports
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Senior mentors younger teammates Kyle Alfaro Assistant Editor Many people who are not in an individual sports always think those ‘individuals’ in it are only in for themselves and nobody else. For senior Jared Garlick, not only is he the top scorer for the boys golf program, he also serves as a team leader and great teammate. And one can tell that Garlick is a driven student who won’t let anybody can stop him from reaching his goals in life. “He’s a great leader,” golf head coach Trae Davis said. “He leads by example, he’ll do the right thing. He knows what’s valuable to him.” Garlick understands he does a lot for his team, not just by being a great player and putting up scores to help his team. “I contribute to our team and try to be a great leader,” Garlick said. “I try and mentor the younger guys and be an example for them to follow.” There are many things that Davis enjoys about coaching Garlick. Not only does Garlick put on a show whenever he’s golfing, but he also provides a lot for Davis to be able to help him grow as a player. “He’ll come to me whenever something is off,” said Davis. “If he hits left, he’ll come and ask what he should do to work on it. He’s very coachable.” Davis also commends Garlick’s work ethic in practice and how much of a leader Garlick is on the course. “He works really hard,” Davis said. “He’s an even kill, you know what you’re gonna get out of him. He’s been our team leader for the past three years. He’s the hardest worker in the weight room. I don’t know any other program that has a leader or captain like golf does.” If a person asks Garlick his greatest achievement in playing golf, he’d give you a very simple answer, being able to play golf in the first place. But he also has plans for the future. “Hopefully our greatest achievement would be making it to state this year,” Garlick said. “I’d appre-
▲ Senior Jared Garlick prepares to take his swing on the greens of the Miramont Country Club. Garlick is practicing for the District 18 5-A meet on April 3 and 4 at Pebble Creek Country Club. PHOTO BY NOE CANCHOLA ciate that more than anything I’ve ever done.” Besides Garlick, Davis has a lot of praise for all of the other boys for their golf season. “We’ve been through a lot of obstacles,” Davis said. “These kids show up each day and try to get better. They don’t let everything get to them.” On April 3 and 4 the boys golf team will be competing for district at Pebble Creek Country Club. Qualifiers will move on to regionals and then state.•
JARED GARLICK’S SEASON AT GLANCE Scoring Average
88.5%
Driving Percentage
61%
Scrambling Percentage
58%
Chicago Cubs early favorites to win World Series again Seven games. That is all it took for the Chicago Cubs to defeat the Cleveland Indians in the 2016 World Series en route to breaking the longest championship drought in the history of Noe Canchola American sports. Now following a moment that many deemed impossible, the once “Loveable Losers” will start the 2017 MLB season as the favorites to repeat as champions since the 2000 New York Yankees completed an unprecedented three-peat. There is perhaps no other team as young, stacked and experienced in the Majors as Chicago. Granted, players such as Dexter Fowler, David Ross, Jason Hammel, Travis Wood and Aroldis Chapman may have departed the team, but the young core of players that brought Chicago a championship is still intact. Players like 2016 NL MVP Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, Javier Baez, Jake Arrieta and Kyle Hendricks headline the Cubs stellar roster. Combined with one of the best managers in baseball in Joe Maddon, expect Chicago to rack up another 90-plus win season. However, even in a magical season like 2016 there did come struggles and injuries. In just the third game of the season, catcher Kyle Schwarber tore his ACL and missed the rest of the regular season before making a comeback in game one of the World Series. Also, outfielder Jason Heyward had a dismal season only hitting .230 with an OPS of .631, which were both career lows. Not only is Schwarber healthy and will lead off for Chicago this season, but Heyward has also worked hard this offseason and will look to redeem himself during his 2017 campaign. Addressing their two biggest liabilities of last season, the Cubs have significantly improved without major roster changes. Once a division ruled by the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago has quickly taken control of the NL Central. The blatant truth is that the competition is weak and the chances of Chicago repeating as champions is more likely than not. Their closest competitors, the Cardinals, were a staggering 17 games back of the Cubs for first place. As this offseason has played out, the Cardinals, Pirates, Brewers and Reds have yet to make any significant moves that would potentially dethrone Chicago. Nothing will ever compare to the Cubs winning the 2016 World Series, but with a roster built on championship pedigree, Chicago fans should be ecstatic. To say that the Cubs will be a dynasty is too early to indicate, but one thing is certain: Chicago will continue to Fly the W for many years to come.•
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Sports
21
Senior powerlifters advance to state, help teammates Kyle Alfaro Assistant Editor Many rewards can come with an individual sport. From records in region or state, personal records for competitors or even just something to add to the resumé. For others, like seniors Julia McGinnis and Braden Tschirhart, it means having a family. Yes, a family in an individual sport. “We’ve come a lot closer since my freshman year,” McGinnis said “We all enjoy hanging out with each other. Personally and as a team, we’ve all come closer together.” “We’ve stayed successful in doing more every season,” Tschirhart said. “We’re a family of success, basically.” Powerlifting head coach Gregg Frashure can assure the bond everybody has together for both boys and girls. “Powerlifting is for sure an individual sport, but there’s a team aspect to it,” Frashure said. “[McGinnis and Tschirhart] are both great at mentoring our younger boys and girls, when I can’t be there.” Besides having the second family, McGinnis and Tschihart put in their heart and soul into every workout. Frashure can confirm that, and it’s not only just a
one time thing; it’s day in, and day out. “They have both lifted all four years, and people who can do that show their work ethic and grind,” Frashure said. “They’re the first ones to arrive and last ones to leave.” There have been multiple challenges for McGinnis and Tschirhart. Both are very different challenges for the lifters, but both of them have completely leaped over their bumps in the road. “ J u l i a broke her collarbone last summer,” Frashure said. “We thought after finishing second last year in state, we were all hopeful for the next year. We were all scared, until she came back stronger than she ever was.” “For Braden, seeing everything that he balanced was a challenge,” Frashure said. “He’s in football, track and powerlifting, and once was in baseball. He plays a lot of a sports, but he balanced it all.” Besides the pair of lifters, the team has been doing great. Not just their great success brings praise from Frashure, but also the unity as a team. “I’m proud of how they’ve handled themselves,” Frashure said. “Some lifters come thinking it’s all about them and only their numbers. I’m most proud of our boys and girls coming together as a family.”•
They’re the first ones to arrive and last ones to leave. -Gregg Frashure Head Powerlifting Coach
▲ Senior Braden Tschirhart practices his squats on March 8 before the state powerlifting tournament meet on March 25. Tschirhart squatted 515 at the state meet for his 165 weight class. PHOTO BY KYLE ALFARO Senior Julia McGinnis practices her squatting on March 8 before state. McGinnis recovered from a collarbone injury last summer and advanced to state this season. McGinnis sqautted 410 in her 165 weight class at the state meet on March 17. PHOTO BY KYLE ALFARO
Lifts From State: MCGINNIS TSCHIRHART
SQUAT
DEADLIFT
410 515
370 460
BENCH
200 335
TOTAL
980 1,310
22
Entertainment
The Catamount
Tea Time
Friday, March 31, 2017
Staffers review bubble tea served in local restaurants Twisted Noodle Cafe Abby Hopkins Assistant Editor Boba tea: a Taiwanese tea-based drink invented in Taichung that has recently been gaining popularity across America. From an outward perspective, the drink looks odd, as it contains chewy tapioca balls at the bottom and often has an unusual color from the tea us southerners aren’t used to. However, after experiencing the taste of boba tea at Twisted Noodle Cafe, I finally understood all the hype surrounding the drink.
Walking into the cafe, I immediately felt the cultural atmosphere as the restaurant was decorated for the Chinese New Year. The friendly staff quickly sat me at a table, and I ordered the taro/mango boba tea. Though I had to wait about ten minutes for my drink, it was worth the wait. Prior to this visit, I had tried regular milk boba tea and coffee milk boba tea, but the taro and mango was definitely my favorite. The flavor was very sweet, perfect for my sweet tooth, and sort of a vanilla and berry mix. The tapioca balls added a fun touch; plus, the tea was purple, giving it some Cougar pride.
Though I only bought the boba tea, Twisted Noodle Cafe offered a variety of options on their menu, from crepes to seafood to noodles made in-house. Despite only having one size to choose from, the quantity was perfect and the price came out to only about $3.50 with tax, which, from my understanding, is a pretty decent price for boba tea. Located off Texas Avenue on Southwest Parkway, the location is fairly close and worth the short trip. Overall, my experience was quality, and I will definitely be going back to try the many different options they offer.•
Sweet Horse Tiffany Ha News Editor Growing up in Houston, boba tea was the drink of my early childhood. Stepping into Sweet Horse, I was immediately reminded of my adventures in Chinatown, sipping boba tea alongside my cousins. The owners established an artistic, wholesome atmosphere by scattering the place with fake plants, chalkboards and vintage posters, and seem to add more décor every time I come. The environment was welcoming with free wifi and board games set up for customers to play. Sweet Horse’s menu is fairly varied, offering a variety of
milk teas (from the Asian classics of red bean to taro and more simple flavors of chocolate and coffee), fresh fruit slushes and various pudding and tapioca toppings. The tea itself was creamy and rich while the tapioca balls added a chewy element. They also offer the trending thai rolled ice cream. Though the tea took longer than the usual tea place to make, one could tell that it was crafted with the care a local business puts into their products. Located near Kohl’s, Sweet Horse is a great place for the experienced bubble tea drinker looking for an old favorite or newcomers who want to try something different. One can pick up a drink for the road or settle down to catch up with friends.•
Rosie’s Pho Alina Dhanani Opinions Editor I hate tea. Plain and simple. However, walking into Rosie’s Pho located across from Bahama Buck’s on Texas Avenue and hoping to gain new appreciation for bubble tea, that wasn’t a worry. Rosie Pho’s is my family’s regular stop for the best fried rice in town. But, when my mother suggested I ditch the regular water for a smoothie with tapioca balls in them, I was suddenly a bit hesitant. Though in this experience, I was grateful I was able to try
a similar alternative to bubble tea, and Rosie’s Pho offers a variety of flavors for only about $2. After receiving my order, the appearance of the smoothie and its tapioca balls floating at the bottom of the drink ultimately made me genuinely excited. Unfortunately, it tasted more watery than a smoothie should. Decor-wise, the environment is surprisingly chill for a quick lunch stop and a delicious meal. But if going to Rosie’s Pho, I recommend visiting for the food, instead of its drinks because the food overall is never a let-down and an experience to rave about.•
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Entertainment
23
The Art of Memes
Memes provide comical entertainment, relieve stress for students Noe Canchola Sports Editor Relatable and humorous pictures, often mixed with relevant and satirical commentary, memes have become a cornerstone expression of art among millennials. The idea of being part of a pop culture phenomenon that utilizes memes as a form of communication and familiarity with people has helped several students appreciate the value of a good laugh. “The definition of what a meme is has shifted from something that was on the internet to an inside joke that reaches a broader audience,” junior Luke Hoffman said. “Obviously there’s entertainment, but it’s a very distinct form of entertainment, and people really enjoy that. As long as it connects a bunch of people together, then it’s a good meme.” The reason why memes have become heavily distributed among teens is because of the ample meme accounts on social media platforms. Having hours of memes on these sites has made it easier for students to access memes and even share their own memes around the world.
“Most teens and adults use social media. Sites like Reddit, Instagram and Twitter are really good places to post memes because a lot of people will see them,” freshman Simon Kinnman said. “Using these sites has helped me become funnier because it gives me more ideas for new jokes and one-liners.” However, with the millions of meme accounts scattered across the internet, it is sometimes easy to get lost in the plethora of memes. “With group chats like on Instagram, it can really consume your time because you and your friends are just sending memes to each other,” sophomore Hannah Luedke said. “It sometimes gets super distracting, and I don’t get stuff done.” Some students have even taken their love for memes and turned it into various Instagram accounts. Junior Dylon Edmounds finds the idea of entertaining people with memes to be self-satisfying and accomplishing. “I thought of creating a meme page because it would be fun and just something to laugh at with friends,” Edmounds said. “It’s pretty much the same reason why YouTubers create YouTube pages, just to
entertain people.” Memes have often garnered a bad reputation of being just another form of distraction as a byproduct of the internet. However, sometimes these satirical and relatable jokes help students ease the pain of high school and life. “High school is a time in our life when we’re changing and we don’t really know who we are,” junior Madison Sheffield said. “Having these jokes that we can all come around as a community can really help us cope with our problems. I think memes will always be something our generation will hold dear.” Although the meme movement is relatively new to our society, being part of a pop culture phenomenon appeals greatly to many students. As Hoffman has experienced, being part of the meme movement is an experience of a lifetime. “Social media has a connectivity with everyone around the world. You can have a joke that can spread to everyone around the world in seconds, and that’s something we’ve never had before,” Hoffman said. “It’s an exhilarating feeling to know what memes are sweeping around the world and I’m taking part of that.”•
Madison Sheffield
Hannah Luedke Dylon Edmounds FAVORITE MEME:
I think my favorite memes are the ones with absolutely no context where some crazy stuff is happening.
FAVORITE MEME:
My favorite memes are pupper memes. I just really, really like dogs.
simon kinnman
FAVORITE MEME:
FAVORITE MEME:
My favorite meme is the Arthur hand. It’s so funny. It tickles me.
My favorite meme is the one where the brain keeps getting smarter with each dumb thought.
PHOTOS BY DRU PEACOCK
24
Etc.
Friday, March 31, 2017
The Catamount
Club embraces ethnic diversity, brings awareness to social issues Emelie Gulde Executive Editor Due to the varied backgrounds of people in the student body, the new club Alliance of Cougars Embracing Diversity, or ACED, strives to celebrate diversity. “Considering what is happening in the political world, celebrating diversity is important,” senior Damilola Olowomeye said. ACED aims to celebrate student individuality primarily through discussing heritage or anything that could set a student apart from others. “There are so many topics for diversity because there is a multitude of things that make a person unique,” junior and founder of ACED Rosetta Wang said. The group’s March meeting focused on familial relations, such as single mothers, divorced or separated parents and traditional family structures as well. Demonstrating their innovation on the topic of diversity, ACED focuses on what makes each life distinct from others. “I was happy to hear about a club that just talked
about human beings,” freshman Ray Pritchard said. Unlike other clubs that have been instituted over the years, ACED hopes to influence the internal attitude of those at College Station High School. “I think a lot of clubs here at CSHS reflect things like volunteering and community service, so it’s nice to have a club that kind of goes aside from that and focuses on our students,” junior Omar Al-Douri said. Honoring people’s unique qualities does not result in a lack of personal stance on more controversial issues, but it does show respect for the lives of others. “Tolerance means to respect views that you completely disagree with and to accept others while disagreeing with them. I want people to understand it is okay to disagree as long as we do it respectfully,” ACED sponsor Jonathan Brady said. Because high school years are so formative on foundational values, ACED hopes to encourage the simple value of respect for the lives of others, per the example of American values. “This is a country where people can come here and settle for the American dream. We have many types of people across the vast nation,” Al-Douri said. The group meets every Thursday afternoon in Brady’s room 2020.•
▲ Senior Damilola Olowomeye and juniors Omar Al-Douri and Mayowa Olowomeye discuss the cultural differences noticed within the school as they eat Chinese candy on March 2. At this meeting, they discussed their heritages and their cultural backgrounds, including the atmosphere they each grew up in. PHOTO BY EMELIE GULDE
OUR MELTING POT
Different ethnic backgrounds give school diversification
hello hola
23
65%
Total Enrollment:
1860
languages are spoken at CSHS
16%
9%
9% 1%
White
9
National Merit Scholars
2
National Hispanic Scholars C
Hispanic
Black
Asian
Other
TOTAL ENROLLMENT BY ETHNICITY Source: 2016-2017 data from Texas Education Agency