The Catamount - March 2019 - Vol. 7 No. 5 by Cougar Media

College Station High School

4002 Victoria Ave. College Station, Texas 77845

Vol. 7 No. 5

Friday, March 29, 2019

Got

Water?

the CATAMOUNT

Marvel movies evoke dedication, love from fans.

Worldwide water shortages prompt conservation, awareness of dehydration

Strutters sweep awards during spring contests.

Katie Guye News Editor

22 Downtown Bryan offers food, fun.

INDEX

News Opinions People Sports Entertainment Etc.

2-6 7-9 10-17 18-21 22-23 24

It’s no secret that we need water. Whether it be to hydrate with or perform simple functions such as laundry or taking a shower, humans rely on this resource to provide basic and vital aspects of life. So we know that we need it, but how many students are heeding this common knowledge? According to a 2015 study at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, over half of the thousands of students studied were experiencing some level of dehydration. Before one can drink water, he or she at least needs access to it, a rising issue as concerns over water supply and conservation increase globally. “We just think [water is] always going to be there, but it’s not,” Student Council Energy and Environment committee head and junior Jace Cortez-Fields said. “Clean wa-

ter will run out eventually if we don’t conserve it or take care of it. We’re going to run out of clean, drinkable water.” Issues of water conservation and access are especially poignant as Flint, MI, only recently regained their access to safe tap water after three years of lead contamination. Flint’s crisis began in 2014 when the city decided to switch their water supply over to the Flint River. This more corrosive supply caused lead from old pipes to contaminate the water and led to increased lead levels in children and a deadly outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease. “I just think that knowing what’s in our water and that we need to change the ways our water is transported to us is very important,” Cortez-Fields said, “because what’s in our water can affect us and our children for generations ahead of us.” Access to clean drinking water is certainly not a universal component of the worldwide society, and many advocate for proactive water conservation.

continued on page 3

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2 News The Catamount What’s

Friday, March 29, 2019

What's

PAST PAST

NEW Choir hosts Jazz Java House

Senior wins at Houston Livestock Show

March 29: Tonight from 6-8 p.m., the choir will offer live music and refreshments in the commons. The $5 entry fee covers one drink and two food items.

March 14: Senior Payton Williams won Champion Shorthorn Steer of Show at the Houston Livestock Show. Williams represented the Brazos County 4-H at the event.

5 art students advance to state VASE competition

Student Council hosts Powder Buff volleyball game

Feb. 23: Several art students competed at the regional competition, with Paula Bernal-Gomez, Demi Hu, Eliza Roeth, Mayson Kalke, and Boya Shi all advancing to state, held in April.

March 1: Boys from every grade will compete in a volleyball tournament this Monday as a fundraiser for the senior class. STAAR

Girls powerlifting team succeeds at state

English EOC Exams approaching COUGAR BAND

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March 16: Shania Kelly placed 4th in her class, Sophie Cox and Lilly Jones both came in 7th in their classes, Fayth Ham 9th, and Athena Polymenis 9th.

April 9,11: Freshmen will take the English I exam on April 9, and sophomores will take the English II exam on April 11. Select AP practice test will also be administered both days. All testing will begin at 8:25 a.m. COUGAR BAND

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Band member accepted to prestigous arts camp

SkillsUSA members to attend state competition April 4-7: Several students will travel to Corpus Christi next week to compete in numerous events, such as computer programming and 3D animation at the SkillsUSA state competition.

Junior Ricky Arellano was recently admitted to Interlochen Arts Camp, where students from over 40 countries will learn from world-class instructors for six weeks over the summer. COUGAR BAND & GUARD

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CSHS PROM 2019

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The Catamount

Friday, March 29, 2019

News

Reusable water bottles encourage students to stay hydrated continued from page 1 Where is our water? “We’re in a water rich area. Just be aware that this is not the norm,” environmental science teacher Robert Ondrasek said. “There are billions of people who don’t have access to clean water, so we shouldn’t abuse the water we have.” One aspect of taking advantage of water access is properly hydrating. “[Dehydration] is a big issue because I know a couple people who barely drink a standard bottle of water,” junior track runner Grace Wu said. “That’s so bad for you, because it affects how you sleep, your attention span, and it’s just damaging to your health overall.” Wu, along with many other students, finds carrying a double-insulated water bottle to be helpful in staying hydrated. “It just makes you aware of how much water you’re actually taking in,” Wu said. “My water bottle is five cups, so after I finish one, [I know I need to] drink another five. I try to shoot

for 12 cups a day.” While not on the forefront of students’ minds, dehydration can play increasingly larger roles in one’s life the longer he or she continues to improperly hydrate, especially for athletes. “What a lot of kids don’t understand is if you ever get really dehydrated, it takes a week to 10 days to get over it,” Ondrasek said. “If you’re in the middle of a season, you don’t have 10 days to give up, so if you don’t do it, you’re gonna pay for it later.” According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, most teens require 10 to 14 cups of water per day. “Most students drink coffee and tea, but caffeines are very dehydrating, and if you’re not drinking enough water to counteract that, it can be very detrimental to a students’ health,” Cortez-Fields said.•

access to safe drinking Water: 57% Sub-Saharan Africa

87%

76%

85%

86%

97.5% Saltwater 2.5%

Freshwater

70%

Frozen in polar ice caps

100%

<1%Available to us 30%

Underground Middle East & North Africa

East Asia & Pacific

South Asia

Latin America & Caribbean

Industrialized Countries

Source: savethewater.org

Graphics by Dru Peacock

News

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

UIL academic students head to district competition tomorrow Jaycie Robinson Assistant Editor More than 50 students on the UIL academic team will compete at the district meet tomorrow at Katy Paetow High School. Events range from math and science to ready writing and literary criticism. “UIL or The University Interscholastic League stands to offer the most comprehensive program of academic competition in the nation,” social studies teacher and UIL coordinator April Falco said. “Students are challenged to think critically and creatively, exhibiting much more than knowledge and comprehension. They work towards scholarships as well as the rewarding experience. ” The UIL process is very invigorating as the teams progress from invitational meets where anyone can participate to district where teams are selected. Students who place first, second or third can then advance to region and even the state meet. “UIL Academics offers more activities than any other UIL division, with 29 contests at the high school level and 20 A+ Academic contests for grades 2-8. More than half a million students participate in UIL academic contests each year,” Falco said. The nature of the UIL academic events depend on the subject that is being tested. For instance, a UIL journalism event will be dependent on the students ability to adapt to an unknown prompt and write a piece of work under their category. Whereas in a UIL math event, students will be asked to perform different adaptive mathematical strategies: mental

math, general math or performing calculator applications to solve lengthy problems in a given amount of time. “Preparation certainly depends on the event as well as the type of test you are taking. The question to be asked when studying for an event is, ‘Do I really know all this information as well as more that is not taught in school?’,” senior Srinidhi Narayanan said. “We prepare by taking practice tests, meeting with others that compete our in our specific event and conversing to bounce ideas off of each other.” Narayanan competes in both math and current issues. She has to adapt to the three separate math events pertaining to the style of problems she recieves each meet. The students who dedicate their time and energy outside of school for UIL are studying complementary material as well as new knowledge to the curriculum they are already learning in school. Senior Robert Dohrman competes in current issues. “I am on Twitter for what seems like a million hours a day to keep myself updated on current events, trends and news,” Dohrman said. “It is very important for me to be well-informed on a day-to-day basis because the test will include information from August of that year all the way until the test is actually made.” The amount of preparation needed for these events can be tedious as well as unfamiliar to what is typically studied in the classroom. However, the key word in these competitions and meets is adaptation as it is an evergreen skill when the students progress onto higher level challenges out of high school. UIL not only serves to expand the students reach for success academically, but individually as well.•

UIL EVENTS: Accounting- Elementary and principles of accounting Computer Science- Programming concepts and skills Math- Knowledge of basic to advanced skills One-Act Play- Interpretation of one minute plays Literary Critism- Literary analysis, authors and works Social Studies- Mastering of primary events and reading section

Friday, March 29, 2019

News

The Catamount

Korean students in homestays attend high schools across country Erin Park Staff Reporter High school is all about making memories with friends and family before leaving home for college. But for some students, they have already faced this departure. More than 6,900 miles from home, several Korean students attend College Station High School, not with their families, but in homestays. “A homestay is when a host family takes in a foreign student so that that student has a place to live while studying in the States,” homestay host Phillip Kim said. From adapting to a new school curriculum, to using a new language, to developing a new lifestyle and living with a different family, the circumstances of international students in a homestay are tough. Phillip Kim, who has experienced hosting several homestay students from Korea, said that privacy, scheduling and transportation is constantly a compromise with the homestay student. In addition, during such discussions, both sides can feel pressured about the provisions of a homestay. “While a host family can help, I’m sure living as a homestay student will never be the same as being in your real home,” Phillip Kim said. Living away from home may make it difficult for teenagers to make responsible decisions without parental assistance. Also, being isolated from their family and being a foreign student in an American school

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is a challenge, one they usually end up tackling alone. Negative emotions are one of the major factors these students face. “When I first began to live separated from my family, loneliness, helplessness and sadness filled me greatly,” sophomore homestay student Esther Lee said. “Even when I am home [in my room], it doesn’t feel like my heart is at home.” However, although the homestay experience can be quite painful, the results are often beneficial. “Even though I would call my parents and friends often, it is true that there is a sense of emptiness that can never be filled,” Lee said. “But if I want to gain something, I have to give up something as well. Now that I am being given the responsibility to take care of myself, it has provided me a chance to mature as a person.” Furthermore, it can prepare students for a more independent life with more chances. “Living in America gives me a lot of opportunities to try and learn different things,” said junior Joshua Sung, who was previously in a homestay. “Also, the educational standards are more relaxed here than in Korea, and despite my struggles adjusting to my studies, it’s not too hard for me to keep up with various things.” Janice Kim, a freshman currently living as a homestay student, sees the difference in the opportunities given to students in America compared to Korea. “American students can do a lot at once,” Janice Kim said. “Koreans, however, can’t. Everyone in Korea

After paying the negotiated price, homestay hosts provide... - A Bed - A Room - A Desk - Meals - A Laundry Basket - A Set of Rules for the House Source: ushhost.com is very pressured to go to college. In America, however, it’s like juggling; students don’t have to focus on developing one category of talent but can expand on multiple hobbies and find new talents.” Many students, despite their personal difficulties, have gotten a better understanding of the importance of individual responsibilities and communication skills, as well as the significance of a family bond. “This chance is rare and isn’t provided to most people,” Janice Kim said. “I’ve gotten lucky.”•

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News

The Catamount

Called to duty

Friday, March 29, 2019

Students aspire to enlist in military post-high school Catie Sikes Entertainment Editor The military of the United States of America is built on honor and sacrifice, and a few students have decided that they are going to pursue a career in the military, despite the risk. “Of course it’s dangerous, but it’s a sacrifice you have to make,” said senior Gunnar Lingsweiler, who enlisted into the Army reserves his junior year. The military offers several benefits to its members such as free education via the GI bill, the ability to travel and the opportunity to serve their country. Sophomore Emily Espinoza, motivated by female naval captains on TV, plans to join the navy to be given the chance to see the world. “I think it would be a cool experience, and it’s a good way to meet new people and get out of my comfort zone,” Espinoza said “I’m going to see where [the navy] takes me.” Junior Michael Geronime comes from a military family, and he plans to continue the line by serving in the Air Force. “Pretty much every male of my family has served. It’s a good foundation, and I think everyone should do it,” Geronime said. The military is not only a service for the country but also for oneself, according to senior Logan Graves who has enlisted in the Marines. “Joining the Marines, for me, was building my character and who I am,” Graves said. While helping build character, serving in the military can also help in civilian jobs after retirement. Graves plans to take a life skill out of the Marine Corp after retirement. “I’ll do communications in the Marines, so I’ll be really tech savvy, and I’ll basically use that skill and take it into real life,” Graves said. Lingsweiler plans to be military police and take the skills he learns into a civilian law enforcement job after he retires.

▲ Senior Gunnar Lingsweiler salutes in his dress blues. Lingsweiler enlisted in the Army Reserves his junior year and now serves once a month. PHOTO PROVIDED BY GUNNAR LINGSWEILER “It is a good choice for anybody. It will help you in whatever job you choose after you serve,” said senior Nicolas Rodriguez Proenza, who is enlisted in the Marines. Retirement after the military is always optional, but most of these students plan to do the minimum four years of service before using the GI bill to pay for college. Lingsweiler plans to go through college while still in the reserves due to his large amount of free time. “After the military I would have the option of using the

GI bill, but since I work once a month in supply, I have the time to get my college done while enlisted,” Lingsweiler said. While the military is dangerous, it is a sacrifice and a service to the United States, and these students have decided that it is their duty to be the ones who make this sacrifice. They are driven by the benefits that they can receive through their service and the opportunities they can take. “It’s a duty to my country,” Lingsweiler said.•

Requirements to participate in the military EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENTS

- Good education - High school diploma desirable - General Education Development acceptable

- Overall good physical condition - Appropriate weight - Able to pass a standard physical screening prior to entry

- U.S. residency or INS I-151/ I-551 Green Card - Properly documented non-citizens allowed, but may be limited in job opportunities

Source: todaysmilitary.com

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

staff editorial

Water conservation becomes pressing issue for environment As humans, we tend to ease into our comfortable cushion of amenities and often take for granted the luxuries we have been granted. Among these, and possibly one of the most important, is water. In America, it only takes the twist of the faucet to yield the promise of clean and safe water. Because of this privilege, it is easy to assume that there is no issue regarding water or lack thereof. However, there are entire countries who know clean water to be of great value and not so easy to come by. According to U.S. News & World Report, over 40% of the population of Uganda has to travel over 30 minutes to gain access to safe drinking water. It is ignorant for us as Americans to believe that water conservation is not currently a pressing issue. In addition to the importance of conserving water, water pollution is a severe and critical issue. The overuse of easily disposable (and replaceable) items such as plastic straws, water bottles and plastic grocery bags have sorely damaged not only

The press is the enemy of the American people. Right? That’s Calla Duffield what some politicians would have you believe. But according to our Founding Fathers, nothingcould be further from the truth. In fact, it’s downright unpatriotic to troll the free press. Don’t believe me? All you have to do is look at the U.S Constitution. The Founding Fathers believed that the freedom of the press was important so that it could function to inform the public so the public would be able to make decisions based on good information. The whole purpose of the free press is to hold those in power accountable. Those who

the ecosystems in large bodies of water, but also the quality of the water itself. Chemicals and other hazardous substances that are housed in our conveniently used plastic have and will continue to do harm to the environment and ultimately ourselves.

Art by Grace Costenbader that we can use the knowledge it presents us with to make informed decisions for ourselves. In most countries where the press isn’t free, such as Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, the Philip-

YES

There are many alternatives to these damaging items such Those who choose to be ignorant or apathetic toward these topics only do harm and further the issue. Is it worth sacrificing the lives of humans and the future of the planet in the name of ease?

“For people in College Station, water is readily available. However, in places experiencing drought, water conservation is very pressing. ”

pines and North Korea; the people aren’t free. The Founders made the press a private business so it would not be a tool for government communication. In fact, it’s the only private business mentioned in the entire Constitution! This is the ultimate contradiction, though, because journalists do a patriotic public service just as the Founding Fathers intended. So, I ask you this: who is truly the enemy of the people? Those who mock reporters and their questions and kick them out of press conferences simply because the journalists are trying to ask a question? Or those whose duty it is to report fairly as a service to the public? The Founding Fathers know the answer, and the Constitution certainly does too.•

ant that we are aware of the luxuries we enjoy so that we don’t take them for granted and so that we can do our part in making changes in order to improve these situations for others. •

“I think that water is wasted more than it should be, but I don’t think it’s a pressing issue.”

-Braden Thornton, senior

-Michael Lewis, junior

Our daily choices do have an effect, regardless of whether or not we ourselves can see it or be made aware of it. It is import-

“Americans waste so much water, while there are places in the world that barely have enough to go around.”

2018-2019 The Catamount Newspaper

The newspaper is produced by the Advanced Journalism: Newspaper Production class at College Station

Aliza Ali

Managing Editor

Grace Costenbader

Assistant Editor

Jayci Tawney

District.

Executive Editor

Katie Guye

Assistant Editor

Lauren Gomulka

Senior Editor

Makayla Fox

Staff Reporter

Loredana Pearlstein

Opinions Editor

Kylie Vernon

Staff Reporter

Calla Duffield

Catie Sikes

Staff Reporter

Erin Park

Staff Reporter

Tori Salyers Grace Costenbader

Sports Editor

Ethan Cohen

Photography Editor

Melanie Evans

Cartoonist

Sloan Peacock

Assistant Editor

Jaycie Robinson

Faculty Adviser

Courtney Wellmann

Assistant Editor

Ayden Woods

Assistant Adviser

Teresa Laffin

-Madison Morehead, junior

High School, 4002 Victoria Ave., College Station, Texas, 77845. The opinions expressed are those of the

Assistant Editor

Graphic Artist

“No, because water is a renewable resource.”

-Sarah Olson, sophomore

Dru Peacock

Editor

say otherwise are going against the Constitution. And how lucky we are, that we live in a country where the press is not a device for the government to spread propaganda,

View of the Pride: Do you think the conservation of water is a pressing issue right now?

as reusable straws, metal water bottles and reusable tote bags.

Entertainment

Staffer places trust in foundations of press

THE CAT’S EYE VIEW

Editor-in-Chief

Opinions

writers and are not reflective of the administrators, faculty or staff of the College Station Independent School 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 and 2018.

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.

Opinions

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

Finding forever love proves difficult for youth “For better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do us part.” These are the words spoken by two people, committing their lives to Kylie Vernon one another on the grounds of marriage, the unification of two becoming one for the rest of their lives. At 17, it’s hard to imagine loving someone, let alone liking someone enough to want to spend the rest of my life with him. And I, like everyone else, have this little fantasy of the perfect guy and the perfect relationship and where everything in my life is essentially perfect. Well, at least as perfect as my Pinterest boards. But marriage is more than that. It’s a lifelong vow. Can you even imagine committing that much of your life to someone else? Like truly being there, bound in love, for Art by Grace better or for worse forever? One of my favorite songs is about a man and a woman, deeply in love and sharing in one another’s burdens. They talk about the hardships they have faced and how the other has shared in the weight of the other’s burdens. The chorus illustrates their deep commitment to one another as they echo “because I’ve seen you and I know you and I’m not going anywhere.” They have seen the darkness and the imperfection in

???

the other. They acknowledge that it’s there. But they are not going anywhere. They’re not going to leave. I think we have lost this element. We’ve lost that willingness to stick around. We’ve lost the meaning of love. It is not desire. It is not infatuation. It is not romance. And it is definitely not selfish. But true, unadulterated love is self-sacrificing and unconditional. It’s placing someone before yourself and valuing what is best for that person over what may be best for you. I believe that that kind of love changes everything. It heals up the wounds of hurt and pain. It works towards building bridges instead of walls. It forgives and it redeems. This love never fails. In fact, this kind of love is so contrary to our nature that it’s something that we have to work for. Love isn’t easy. Especially when the person next to us is hard to love. Extending kindness and patience and humility in Costenbader order to show him or her what love is takes effort. But it’s an effort that is so worth it. Showing love to those around us, sacrificial and unconditional love, may be the catalyst for change in those lives. If we can look outside of ourselves with the intention to lift others up, to come alongside them, and to bare the weight of their burdens, love will finally win. Maybe then those lifelong commitments won’t be so intimidating, and my heart will be more full than my Pinterest boards.•

QUESTION issue OF THE

Where do you study?

Home

49%

Cafe/ School Restaurant Don’t Study

16%

18%

17% 613 polled

HUMANS of CSHS

daniel worley freshman

“I am involved in Cougar Drumline, my church youth group and the College Station Composite Mountain Bike Team. Through those, I have developed into a more social, outgoing person than I was before, and I feel so much freedom when I’m doing those things. I love exploring new things and because of it, I am more compassionate, consistent and observant.”

Check out our Instagram to learn more about the Humans of CSHS @cshscatamountnewspaper

COUGAR UNVEILED by sloan peacock

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

Staffer challenges ignorance shown in stereotyping

Erin Park

In the 21st century, society’s efforts in achieving social equality have been the rage. Contradicting these goals, however, are racist stereotypes that engender words and actions that resultantly discourage particular

students. As an Asian student studying in the States, I have been discomfited multiple times as people characterized me and my friends with Asian stereotypes. The moment I made my first appearance at CSHS last August, people automatically assumed I was good at math, grew up under strict parents, was obsessed over KPop hype and thought I was Chinese because I was Asian - I’m actually Korean. It may be true that a portion of the Asian race displays these stereotypes, but not all of us can be put under them. Moreover, anyone in society beyond the differentiation of a race can exhibit these characteristics as well. Other than stereotyping, insensitive commentary is another factor that plays into racism. Art by Grace Some people tend to blurt out racist comments, not expecting me and my friends to understand their words. From mocking our facial features and language to even

our ancestors and family members, what may have seemed like a joke to the speaker had offended us greatly. Another instance is a time after someone had distinguished my ethnicity; this person told me not to “piss off” Kim Jong-Un or else Kim would kill me with his nuclear bombs. Although it may be unintended, impudent commentary on one’s cultural identity can be considered hurtful in the perspective of the targeted audience. It not only includes Asians but also all races in general. Every person has the right to be treated with respect, especially in terms of cultural background; no certain race should be more superior over another or should have more exposure to be joked about. A step further than just cultural respect, people should start identifying each other with individual personality instead of the divisions in a race. Every individual is distinct, and characterizing certain races solely in regards to stereotypes is not only inaccurate but possibly offensive and politically incorrect. In a packed community like CSHS, every little action impacts one another. By being Costenbader more cautious in what we publicize, we can prevent unnecessary animosity among ourselves, and even in society.•

Opinions

Voices Who is your favorite marvel character?

“Groot because I am Groot.” John McDougall, junior

“Ant-Man. He has a great sense of humor and a common life. He also has Luis.” Zoe Taylor, freshman

“My favorite is Captain America because he strives to always be a better person.” Stephanie Lively, sophomore

Freedom from peer pressure found in larger school If all your friends jumped off a bridge, then would you too? If all your friends smoked, then would you too? If all your friends had a drink at that party, then would you too? As my high school career progresses, these questions get harder and harder to answer. I constantly find myself quesLauren Gomulka tioning if the decisions I make are worth the risk to fit in. I’ve come to realize that this is normal though. As teenagers, it is in our nature to strive to fit in with the “cool” crowd. Having recently moved from an extremely small town in which my graduating class consisted of 50 students, to College Station where my graduating class is almost ten times that, I am surprised at the differences in peer pressure that I have experienced. I had never attended a school this large, so my expectations were solely based on the things I Art by Grace had seen in teen romance movies in which the setting was usually a huge high school. I expected to feel a lot more pressure to fit in than I had at my previous school. But this is not at all what I felt. Once I found my group of

people, the pressure to fit in slowly disappeared. Now, I’m not saying that peer pressure is nonexistent in large high schools, but I definitely feel that it is much easier to avoid. In such a small school, with such a small population of students, I found that it was extremely difficult to not get sucked into the partying and bad habits that so many were doing. It seemed like, one by one, I lost more and more of my friends to the party crowd. It’s not necessarily they want to drink or smoke or party, but, more so, the want to be included. When almost everyone is doing something, it becomes extremely hard to just sit back and watch. On the other hand, in a large school, with thousands of students, I have found that, although there are those who get involved with drinking and drugs, there is still a large population of students who choose not to participate. It is really just a matter of good decision making when it comes to who your friends are. Costenbader Small towns are always thought of as cozy, worry-free communities where everyone gets along and everyone feels at home, but from my experience, I feel more free from peer pressure and free to be myself among my current 2,000 classmates than I ever have before.•

“Spider Man. He’s a very attractive person, and I appreciate that. “ Jonathan Bratcher, junior

“Black Panther because he’s the people’s hero.” Tre Miles, senior

“Vision. Through his own vision and purpose, he creates his own way of living.” Katelyn Jones, history teacher

People

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

Behind the Scenes Staff serve in underappreciated positions of leadership Tori Salyers Staff Reporter The first thing people see when they walk into the front of their school building is the attendance desk. But has anyone ever tried speaking to the people working back there when it wasn’t for a temporary ID or an admit? Or, how about at lunch, the people who work tirelessly to keep everyone fed and happy-- do some people even tell them thank you? Although many people are instrumental to students’ day, some aren’t noticed. “Because I do attendance, my job affects students a lot,” Andrea Williams said. “It can be right or wrong, and it’s my job to make sure it’s right.” Behind every absence and every new semester comes a slew of paperwork that must be done with total accuracy in order to keep everything correct and easy for the students and their teachers. The students also play a role on Williams, affecting her in her every day life. “I get to see kids from all different walks of life. Different situations, different family situations, different interests. It makes me more appreciative of these differences and appreciate the kids for their differences,” Williams said. Even the staff members who work

unseen to students make a huge difference in their schooling. “At the beginning of the year when it’s time to give out textbooks, I make sure to order more than they’re needed,” textbook coordinator Lori Reismeier said. Being around other staff members in the office during the day brings Reismeier a lot of different friends. “I love the people I work with,” Reismeier said. “Working here, one day isn’t like the next. They’re all different.” There are people students see everyday who do something as important as preparing lunches as quickly and efficiently as possible. They’re always there, and yet many students don’t recognize the effect they have in providing a cookie or a bag of Hot Cheetos. Cafeteria employee Mary Williams sees students everyday during their lunch period, even just for a few minutes, and yet she adores all the students she meets. “I’m a people person. I love kids, I love interacting with people,” Williams said. “I feel like if I smile, they smile. Some kid’s smiles are contagious and I just love [seeing them].” Williams said she enjoys her job and looks forward to seeing students each day. Many staff members work behind the scenes to make the school a better place for everyone attending.•

I get to see kids from all different walks of life. It makes me more appreciative of these differences. -Andrea Williams attendance staff

Who’s Who? Lori Reismeier

Textbook Coordinator “My advice to students would be to take in every moment. High school doesn’t last forever.”

Mary Williams

Cafeteria Employee

“My favorite thing about my job is the students. I’m a people person. I love interacting with people. I feel like if I smile, then they smile. Smiles are contagious.”

Andrea Williams Attendance Staff

“Working with students has taught me how to be patient and how to be flexible. Things are always changing in schools.”

Friday, March 29, 2019

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IN THE

People

OF IT

AP art students create portfolios showcasing creative talent Logan James Prismacolor Pencil

Liam Butler Acrylic Paint

Samantha Herrick Black ink, Prismacolor Pencil

Melanie Evans Photography Editor Every year, AP art students are challenged with the task of creating a portfolio that includes 8 to 12 pieces of art focused on one central idea (Concentration), 12 pieces that show off their skills as an artist (Breath) and five of their best pieces that they choose from their total of 24 pieces (Physical Portfolio). Students are in an environment where they are surrounded by peers that are all working towards the same goal of completing the best portfolio possible. They work on their own project but collaborate to share inspiration and advice. For the Concentration section of their portfolio, students are tasked with picking a utilized idea that they can use to create 8 to 12 pieces. The style and content can change, but the theme has to remain the same throughout all of their pieces. “We all motivate each other, and we all mostly have different ideas,” senior Logan James said. “It is really cool to see different styles and different Concentrations coming together and a lot of times, since you are surrounded by people who have different styles than you, different pictures than you, different ideas than you, it can help me if I am having a creative block. Playing off each other’s ideas and styles helps create diversity in your own work and pushes you to keep going.” Art teacher Candis Oberdorf agreed with James and said that the community the students have formed has aided them in the sometimes challenging creation of their portfolio. “I think the biggest impact I have seen the portfolios have on students is they talk,” Oberdorf said. “When they are at that level, they are all in it to do well, and they push each other to do better.” One challenge students face when creating their portfolio is coming up with a Concentration that is big enough to com-

plete 12 pieces and that will keep students interested over the span of a year. “This year, I really thought about my Concentration and took the time to figure out what I liked doing,” said senior Liam Butler, whose Concentration is animals as saints. Another way students have found to overcome the challenge of becoming bored is through prospecting all of the different possibilities of their project. James did this through venturing into different mediums with her Concentration being portraiture. “The best part of creating my portfolio so far is exploring my topic because I get to use one central idea. I have a lot of wiggle room about how I go about exploring my topic and my Concentration,” James said. “I have a girl that is inside a bag, I have a three headed person and a person that’s made out of beads. It is really cool to get to explore how you can go about creating that idea.” Similar to James, senior Samantha Herrick decided to choose the juxtaposition of beautiful and disturbed things for her Concentration, inspired by a peer’s art style. What Herrick found after experimenting with his style surprised her. “I wanted to try my friend’s art style because he does things that are really gory and violent, and I wanted to attempt it for myself and make my style a little different instead of doing the same thing, and it ended up still looking the same even though the content was extremely different from what I draw,” Herrick said. “I thought it was really cool that I made this really disgusting thing, but it still looked pretty because the way that my art is. It is really swirly and flowy.” The creation of their portfolio enables students to explore different styles, mediums and ideas and allows them to use the community of people around them to come up with new ideas that they can incorporate within their portfolio.•

MARVEL MANIA 12

Student Life

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Friday, March 29, 2019

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Student Life

International superhero movie franchise provides entertainment, empowers students Makayla Fox Senior Editor

he Marvel Cinematic Universe has grown with us over the past ten years as we have lived and grown and as the stories have adapted on the big screen. “They were a big part of my childhood and have always been a big part of growing up,” senior Grant Fairchild said. “I remember seeing the first Iron Man over ten years ago back in 2008, and here I am today, a senior in high school, overly excited for ‘Avengers: Endgame.’” Not simply the generic storyline of a born superhero, junior Morgan Lemons appreciates the depth that Marvel writers have tackled in their characters from the beginning of the MCU and their first film, Iron Man. “Tony Stark/Iron Man was a man. He wasn’t an alien with superpowers and laser eyes. He built his whole suit, and I think that people watching it in 2008 felt empowered by that concept,” Lemons said. “I think that’s a big thing about superheroes. They’re supposed to empower people and protect them.” The MCU brings to life an array of characters, ranging from high school student Peter Parker/Spider-Man to a king and protector of an African country T’Challa/Black Panther. Each have a detailed story and central conflict that makes them an inspiration or favorite to their audience members. “I think it kind of humbles you to see them, people that have a lot of power and use it to find a way in society to use their powers for the greater good and justice,” senior Hannah West said. The in-depth adaption and plot lines of these characters allow the audience to resonate deeply with their story, personality or choices. Superheroes offer a fictional story for real-life inspiration.

2008 Iron Man The Incredible Hulk

Iron Man 2

2010

“I think they are like a source of hope. I’m someone who likes to do a lot of things and be really ambitious and to have heroes to look up to and say ‘I can be like that too, I can be a hero,’” Lemons said. “It gives me more hope. Even though they are just movies, and they’re ﬁctional, I think the values that they portray and the representation that they offer to other people is really import-

it humbles you to see people that have a lot of power and use it for the greater good. -Hannah West Senior ant. It gives people help in different times in their lives.” With hundreds of heroes to choose from, it may be a difﬁcult decision to choose a favorite superhero from the MCU. “If I had to choose [a favorite character], it would be Captain America because even though he received the Super-Soldier Serum that made him phys-

2011 Captain America: The First Avenger Thor

The Avengers

2012

2013

ically stronger, he was still a normal person and put his life at risk to save others,” sophomore Mary Claire Phelps said. Captain America, also known as Steve Rogers, has appeared in three of his solo movies along with three of the Avengers films, soon to be four with the April 26, 2019, release date of “Avengers: Endgame.” He is a 101-year-old super-soldier who sacrificed himself for the war who now lives in modern day, choosing to fight for the people of the world. “My favorite character is Captain America because he is the most selfless character I can think of. He will always do what he thinks is right and put others before himself,” Fairchild said. Another captain, Carol Danvers, better known as Captain Marvel, will be portrayed by Brie Larson, the first solo female lead to hit screens in a film by the MCU. The origin story follows Captain Marvel as she finds herself on Earth, fighting her battle against two alien races, the Kree and the Skrulls, with the help of S.H.I.E.L.D agent Nick Fury. As she progresses through the movie, she learns of her hazy, forgotten background on Earth before she became a citizen of the Kree. Captain Marvel is known to most Marvel fans as the superhero harnessing the most power, and the film reveals from where her power originates. Her character will return in “Avengers: Endgame.” “The new Captain Marvel movie also means a lot to me because I want to be a pilot in the Air Force, and she’s a pilot in the Air Force. It’s meaningful to see that type of strength and knowing I’m not the only one that can do that too,” Lemons said. There’s a genuine likeability of the MCU movies that pertain to their audience. That likeability has allowed a history of movies and an opportunity for more. As Spiderman’s Uncle Ben said, “with great power, comes great responsibility.”•

Guardians of the Galaxy Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Iron Man 3 Thor: The Dark World

2014

2015

Doctor Strange Captain America: Civil War

Avengers: Age of Ultron Ant-Man

2016

2017

Ant-Man and The Wasp Avengers: Infinity War Black Panther

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Spider-Man: Homecoming Thor: Ragnarok

2018

2019

Captain Marvel Avengers: Endgame Spider-Man: Far From Home

People

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Deep in the Heart of texas

Class offers experience with influential food in Texas Jayci Tawney foods of texas Class Staff Reporter content: Texas is commonly associated with beef, barbecue and huge portions. However, Texas has so much more to offer. In the class Foods of Texas, created and taught by Erin Stutts, students will be able to safely prepare all of the interesting food Texas is associated with. “Students become more comfortable preparing foods and understand the foods that they purchase and consume,” Stutts said. The course offers a wide variety of information about the food we commonly eat in the Lone Star state. “I want students to have an appreciation for a wide variety of food and to understand the scientific principles behind why foods work,” Stutts said. For a while, Stutts had always wanted to create a class that solely focused on the food that Texas has to offer. “I’ve wanted to rename and refocus the Food Technology class for awhile,” Stutts said. “Last

year at the Foodways Texas symposium, it hit me--we should focus our learning on Foods of Texas!” Some students who are in this class have decided that they would enjoy using the skills learned in the class in the future. “I want to be able to do my own cuts of meat,” senior Tre’vion Miles said. “[Foods of Texas] is helping me with food safety.” Foods of Texas is considered an Agriculture Science class, and many of the students compete in different FFA events. Many of Stutts’ students enroll after having great experiences in Foods 101, which is the course required before being able to join Foods of Texas. “I took Foods 101, and I really enjoyed it, and Stutts is a pretty cool teacher,” junior Kersten Hester said. “I thought this would probably be fun.” Past students have also had an impact on both Miles’ and Hesters’ involvement in this course. “A past upperclassmen got me into it. He wouldn’t be quiet about how cool or how fun it is,” Hester said. Stutts and her students seem to bond over their love of food and excitement to learn about what they eat. “I love food,” Stutts said. “I’m fascinated by the foods we choose to eat and love, and I enjoy

How Texas influences veggies and nuts

How Texas impacts the beef, pork, and sheep industry How Texas influences the production and process of grain

How Texas influences the dairy industry Graphics by Melanie Evans

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strutting their stuff

Strutters build relationships, compete nationally through shared passion Aliza Ali Staff Reporter Many people have passions that connect them to other people. A passion for dancing knits the Strutters together. “My mom put me in classes when I was three, and both of my sisters did [dance], so I was always involved,” freshman Darci Wielenga said. “Dancing makes me feel like I have a place because it’s my favorite thing to do.” The team works together to perform at football and basketball games, pep rallies and competitions. Their shared passion inspires and motivates them to put in their best effort. “Everything about Strutters is so uplifting, and I have such an amazing time doing things with Strutters. Every time that we’re practicing or performing, it’s just always a lot of fun,” sophomore Madalyn Stapp said. The Strutters participate in multiple dance competitions throughout the spring to share their passion and hard work with others. “I’ve always loved Strutter competition season because you get to compete and see other teams around the area, and this is the season where we all really bond together and get closer with each other,” junior Skylar Draper said. The annual showoffs held every spring gives drill teams in the area a chance to show off their dances before the first competition and get a feeling of what the competition will be like. “Showoffs went really well. It’s always such a rush because we don’t have much time in between dances, but it’s super fun and really exciting, and it’s nice to have people in our town come support us and see what we work hard for. That’s one of the best parts,” senior and captain Kate Miller said. The team earned Grand Champion in both Officer and Team in their division and a Judges’ Choice Award, as well as placing first in all of their routine categories and placing fourth overall at the first competition. “Competition season has gone really well. Being a senior, it’s kind of bittersweet because it’s your last time, and you want to make it really good,” senior Emma Hagen said. “I’m really proud of everyone.”

▲The Strutters perform their pom routine at the Crowd Pleasers Hollywood Showcase on March 10. The team traveled to California over Spring Break to compete in Los Angeles. PHOTO BY ELISE DRAPER The team works diligently and feels proud of their accomplishments. “We have a team vision and that’s been something we were really focusing on this competition season, so we can achieve goals such as winning nationals and state. We call out things, motivate people, work on the side if we need help and stuff like that,” Stapp said. Overall, team members feel proud of each other and their achievements. Their hard work brings the team together and shows everyone their individual talents. “When we finally see the dance come together, we can see all of our hard work be put together, and it makes us proud of each other,” Draper said. “The community, the family and the friendships are ones that you can’t find elsewhere.”•

styles of dance jazz Lively, dramatic and syncopated movement; blends African and European traditions

lyrical Blend of ballet and jazz; emotional and expressive

pom

contemporary

Drill team style dance; sharp and visually-oriented

Combines elements of modern, jazz, lyrical and ballet; versatile

Source: ThoughtCo, Vox

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STUDY CULTURE Finding helpful study habits enhances productivity Dru Peacock Editor-in-Chief As we progress further into our education, one key component for success is studying. There’s hardly any getting around it, and as students, it’s an integral part of our everyday lives. “When I was a freshman, I had this philosophy that I’m not going to spend a lot of time outside of school [studying] because I just spent eight hours a day at school,” said senior Ethan Hanks , one of the NHS Tutoring Vice Presidents. “But my philosophy kind of changed. To me it’s worth it because I have end goals. I have this reminder like ‘hey, you want to get to this point in your life. You want to achieve these certain things. If you want to do that, then there’s a lot more work that needs to be put in than just the school day.’” Studying usually comes with a negative connotation, but finding ways to make it both fun and productive is essential to avoid wasting time. Finding the right study habits, like who to study with and where to study, can help with time management. “When I really started reading the textbook, I would do something that would reward myself,” Hanks said. “It was kind of a way for me to condition myself to do that.” Where you study can also play a role in learning what works best. While some students may prefer the convenience and comfort of home, others may favor the atmospheres of coffee shops and restaurants like Blue Baker or Starbucks. “I feel like just the smell of coffee wakes you up and makes you feel more refreshed. It surrounds you

with other people that are wanting to do [the same thing you are],” senior Samantha Doyle said. The time of day also relates to study habits. According to research done by the University of Nevada, studying in the evening is more likely to result in retaining more information. However, depending on the type of person, some people may have more energy in the morning versus at night. “I like to study in the mornings. That’s just because I’m a morning person,” junior Abby Perryman said. “Some people are night people, but to figure out what time works best for you [could help].” However, when factoring in extracurriculars and sports with after school practice, studying in the morning may be the only option for those who have limited time in the evenings or are simply too tired from the day. “Sometimes whenever I get home from school, I’m super tired, so I physically cannot function and my brain can’t function. So, I get some rest, and then I wake up and then I study,” freshman Chelsea Wellmann said. No matter where students study, finding what works best for one’s self is important to being successful not only in high school but in college as well. Tutoring others can be a beneficial tool to help others and learn material too. “The thing that I love the most about tutoring people is that in the end you get to see them achieve something that they couldn’t do before,” Hanks said. “It’s very rewarding and it makes you feel like you actually made a difference in something.”•

▲ Students gather at Lupa’s Coffee to enjoy a tranquil environment to study. PHOTO BY DRU PEACOCK

Helpful Study tips: Study a little every day.

Vary study locations to aid retention

Use class time wisely.

Avoid distractions like your phone.

Get organized.

Create study groups with classmates.

Source: princetonreview.com

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healthy habits

People

Students seek healthy, active lifestyle outside of school athletics Kylie Vernon Opinions Editor While many athletes excel in sports of all kinds such as basketball and football, a small group of students take fitness into their own hands. “I do CrossFit, which is a type of exercise that combines weight lifting, high intensity workouts, functional movements and constant variation,” junior Hannah McCarty said. McCarty spends an hour a day, 3 to 5 days a week, in her gym separate from school. In another realm of physical athleticism, senior Peter Wu exercises daily on his own terms. “When I was in 5th grade, my brother would do 1,000 pushups a day, and I would do them with him. I started working out with him, and we would compete. We still do,” Wu said. Wu spends his hours in the field house lifting weights and doing other forms of physical training. “On the first day of school, I went over and talked to the coaches and asked them if they would be okay with me working out there in 6th and 7th period everyday, and they were fine with it,” Wu said. While McCarty and Wu work to achieve muscular strength, their athleticism presents another benefit to their wellbeing. “Working out challenges me and forces me to complete tasks either in the gym or in my everyday life that seem too difficult at first. It’s also a huge stress reliever and outlet for me,” McCarty said.

This mental resilience assists in more specific forms of fitness. Senior Arianna Pearlstein dedicates her time to the Korean martial art of Taekwondo. “Taekwondo is really unique and it requires you to push yourself. Being physically combative adds a whole new aspect to your mental fortitude as a person as well,” Pearlstein said. Pearlstein began the martial art when she was a child after watching the Olympics. “Taekwondo was the first sport that really held my focus. I told my parents I wanted to do it, and I’ve been in it ever since,” Pearlstein said. Taking a combative class adds a significant importance and purpose to her athleticism. “As a young woman, it’s especially important to know how to be able to keep yourself safe,” Pearlstein said. Being health conscious is also a part of the athlete’s physical fitness. “It’s a lot more difficult to stay healthy here because we have a very sedentary lifestyle, and I don’t want to end up becoming one of the statistics of unhealthy people in America,” Pearlstein said. “I want to be able to have a long life I can enjoy with my family.” The self-discipline and determination each athlete displays gives them confidence in who they are and their abilities. “To think I’ve done something I thought I couldn’t is truly amazing,” McCarty said.•

▲Junior Hannah McCarty uses a rowing machine during her workout at College Station Crossﬁt. McCarty frequents the gym to maintain physical health along with mental wellness. PHOTO BY KYLIE VERNON

Alternative Forms of ExercisE Yoga The practice of stretch-

Bouldering A form of rock

ing, breathing, and relaxing all parts of the body.

climbing that can be performed in low height areas.

crossfit A workout regime based on the community aspect of fitness.

Zumba

A dance like form of exercise that tones the body and helps de-stress.

Horse Riding A high stamina sport that builds coordination and strength. Source: www.realbuzz.com

Sports

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Goalkeeper exhibits leadership qualities on, off field Jaycie Robinson Assistant Editor Taking on the role of a goalkeeper, especially on the varsity team, requires immense skill as well as unbreakable focus. Sophomore Daniel Gildin immerses himself fully in every game and practice with the goal of reaching state. “Being a goalkeeper consists of having agility, speed, good reaction time and the ability to jump without the fear of falling to the ground to catch the ball,” Gildin said. This position on the team entails interpreting the other team’s movements, plays and individual players as they move towards the goal. Being mentally present is essential when executing the roles and responsibilities of a goalkeeper. “I stay focused and absolutely do not get distracted from the game. I can’t because I might lose sight of who has possession over the ball at that moment,” Gildin said. Varsity soccer coach Matt DeBerry expresses his gratitude and appreciation for players such as Gildin as they progress through the season, competing against new opponents with an underclassmen dominating team. “I was really impressed with Daniel’s broad range of skills when

I first met him,” DeBerry said. “His communication is very strong, and he has a lot of attributes that most do not naturally have to begin with. He handles himself very well on and off the field with the carefully collected mindset that he has.” As this is DeBerry’s first year coaching the varsity soccer team, he has implemented detailed skills and tweaked the views on the strategy side of the game. “Just being smarter as a whole is something that always needs to be kept in mind,” DeBerry said. “The beginning of the season and even last year, they relied heavily on two players or so. Now we are more reliant on everyone to fulfill their role on the team.” The underclassmen players have showed their maturity and sportsmanship especially heading into the start of the rigorous season. “The season started off rough, but we have progressed to a better place strategically, and we will continue to do so moving forward,” Gildin said. “The Bellville match was a memorable game especially because we overall played really well, perfectly executing what we practice everyday after school and won 6-1.”•

His communication is very strong, and he has a lot of attributes that most do not natuallly begin with. He handles himself very well on and off the field with the carefully collECTED mindset he has. -matt deberry soccer coach

▲ Sophomore Daniel Gildin blocks a soccer ball during practice on Feb. 22. Gildin is the goalkeeper on the varsity team and was selected as honorable mention goalkeeper for the district. PHOTO BY JAYCIE ROBINSON

Individual district stats: Christian Rodriguez-Castrejon: 4 goals, 3 assists and first team defender LJ Sapp: 3 goals, 1 assist AJ Pineda: 2 goals, 1 assist Brian Bullington: 2 goals Johnny Villalobos: 1 goal John McDougal: 3 assists Andy Montemayor: 2 assists and second team midfielder

Friday, March 29, 2019

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total tAKEDOWN

Sports

Junior wrestler works to refine skillset in order to lead program Ayden Woods Staff Reporter Wrestling is a point based individual sport that involves a player and an opponent working to take the other person down to the ground and pin him or her. Junior Ariana Rodriguez has mastered the skill as a veteran on the Cougar wrestling team. “She has grown into a person that we can use as an example to show that if you work hard, learn a few good things, what you can accomplish through wrestling,”coach Dwight Mincher said. Mincher also stated that she is a great role model and friend to everybody on the team. Rodriguez is willing to help her teammates out when they are in need, he said. “She is an amazing leader, and whenever she wants something, she won’t stop until she gets it,” freshman teammate Maria Mahecha said. Rodriguez is able to help new teammates find a rhythm in the sport and she said she always makes them feel wel-

comed. “Whenever I see someone struggling, I always try and help them,” Rodriguez said. “I think that I’ve become sort of a leader with the team.” Rodriguez is a positive figure for the team. She works hard and she sets examples for the rest of the team to look up to. “The wrestling team is a family,” Rodriguez said. The Cougar wrestling team has a bond together formed on the mats. Rodriguez is loved by the team and loves them back, said teammate and friend Alex Guera. Rodriguez also faces some challenges on the mat. “My goal for next year is to not let anybody intimidate me,” Rodriguez said. Wrestling also utilizes mental abilities as well as physical capabilities by using the opponent’s body against him or her. There are various skills and moves used to take the opponent down. “The best thing that I do is my shots, just taking them down,” she said. “But I want to keep working on top more and turning and pinning my opponents.” Rodriguez is a very capable wrestler

She works hard to continue to get better at wrestling. -Dwight Mincher Wrestling coach

▲Junior Ariana Rodriguez and freshman teammate Maria Mahecha practice wresting in the College Station High School mat room. Rodriguez is on top with Mahecha pinned underneath with her arm being held back. Rodriguez wrestles against girls of similar weights in her weight class of 119 and is wrestling Mahecha who is in the weight class of 123. PHOTO BY AYDEN WOODS and is skilled in her abilities. She is also very physically capable Mahecha said. “She is athletic,” Mincher said. “She works hard to continue to get better at wrestling.” In addition to being a good team player, she also has fantastic bonds with

her teammates. “She loves her teammates and the sport we have all come to love,” Guera said. “We truly are a family, and she drives us every day to not only be better on the mat, but be better as people.”•

Wrestling Lingo: Escape: If an athlete gets out from being under control in the bottom position and gets to his feet, facing his rival, it is an escape, which scores one point. Takedown: When a wrestler takes the opponent to the mat from the neutral position, it is a takedown, worth two points.

Top position: The position where a wrestler is on top of the opponent, in control. Common term in folkstyle wrestling. Bottom position: The position a wrestler is in when the opponent is in control, or “on top” of the other wrestler. Source: teamusa.org

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Senior powerlifter competes at state meet Ethan Cohen Sports Editor Whether it’s pass rushing an offensive lineman, hurling a shot put or hammering out a rep on squat, the competitive spirit of Truce Tumlinson is always on full display. The senior powerlifter is a three-sport athlete, competing in football during the fall and track and powerlifting during the spring. Though powerlifting is a sport mainly comprised of individual performance, Tumlinson’s ability to always engender a true team atmosphere makes him an asset to the team. “Being able to workout with the team is the best part,” Tumlinson said. “You are always around other lifters when you go to the meets, and you are always trying to push each other to go that little bit higher.” Another integral part of Tumlinson’s admiration for powerlifting lies within seeing the results of his work come into fruition by bringing up his maxes. “I really like progression,” Tumlinson said. “I like adding on at each meet and seeing how much I can add on to each lift.” Athletes often draw inspiration from fellow athletes or famous figures, and Tumlinson is no different. The senior draws inspiration from his favorite series of movies and his favorite hero. “The Marvel superheroes inspire me, they all work together as a team and they’re all super strong,” Tumlinson said. “Thor is my favorite. Mostly because I resemble him, but also because of his life on Asgard.” Tumlinson’s skill in lifting has been fine tuned through his participation in other sports, particularly football. The consistent and extensive football workouts he completed in the fall put him in an excellent position to transition to powerlifting. “Really the strength of football helped a lot,” Tumlinson said. “In that sport you work out a lot, so when you go straight into powerlifting after football, you still have that strength that you developed during football to help with your lifts.” Tumlinson’s ties between powerlifting and football extend to his coaches, both of whom helped coach him on defense during the fall. Having a strong tie to those coaching him is another asset for Tumlinson’s success during powerlifting season. “It helps to have Coach Locke and Coach Frashure,” Tumlinson said. “Because they were my coaches for both sports, I have a good relationship with them.” This relationship coupled with Tumlinson’s own tenacity and natural strength has produced one of the best lifters in school history. This year he’s shattered all of his personal records and broke the school records for all lifts in his weight class. Though this is cause

▲Senior Truce Tumlinson squats in the field house on March 20. Tumlinson competed at the state powerlifting meet on March 23 and finished ninth overall with a total of 1,645 pounds. PHOTO BY ETHAN COHEN for celebration, Tumlinson knows this is the result of countless reps and hours spent perfecting his craft. He acknowledges the biggest challenges he faced while lifting. “A lot of the times you’re gonna miss your lift, but you can’t bring yourself down because of it,” Tumlinson said. “I just learned to keep working and try to get it at the next meet.” This level of work ethic coincides with what Tumlinson believes to be the most important pillar of Cougar athletics. “Effort is my favorite,” Tumlinson said. “Even if you aren’t blessed with having the skill of being the best at your position, you can keep working to get to the place that you want to be.” As his time at CSHS draws to a close, Tumlinsonwould like to leave a message to future CSHS athletes. “Don’t worry about what people think of you,” Tumlinson said. “Do what you like to do and live your own life.” Tumlinson finished ninth overall at the state meet with a total of 1,645 pounds, and he will head to West Texas A&M next fall to continue his football career for the Buffaloes. Though undecided on his major, he is interested in building and architecture and could see himself working on constructing props for movies. Maybe even Thor’s hammer.•

Zion Williamson’s shoe break drops Nike stock

A few weeks ago, the number 1 ranked Duke Blue Devils took on the North Carolina Tar Heels in one of the best rivalries in all of basketball. The game was held at Cameron Indoor Stadium Ethan Cohen and drew thousands of spectators, the attention of practically every major sports news outlet and resulted in ticket prices comparable to the Super Bowl. Though the game was already a highly awaited contest, it’s what transpired during the first 40 seconds of the game that caught the attention of the nation. After trying to plant his foot to spin, freshman phenom Zion Williamson’s shoes practically exploded. The mishap sent Zion out with an injury, let the Tar Heels run away with a win, sent Nike’s stock plunging and caused debates on a plethora of sports related topics. Despite the dramatic escapade the market and media deemed the shoe break to be, I really just don’t get it. I will say I partly understand why the Nike stock took a dip after Williamson’s shoes broke. The fervor surrounding both Williamson and the rivalry created probably the worst possible place for an accident to occur. Furthermore, Nike shoes have had problems in the past, and players like Lebron have also blown out their kicks in the middle of the game. What I don’t understand is why people believe that the shoe of one very talented freshman is worth a 1.37% drop in stock price ($3 billion). If you believe the stock dropped because of Williamson himself, I would ask you if he is currently that much of a financial asset to Nike. Frankly, I don’t know many people who are buying Nike shoes because of Williamson. Zion can’t sign any shoe deals or market himself in any way because of NCAA rules. Williamson’s injury was also caused by the kind of step he was making when his shoe broke, and had it occurred during any one of his other steps, it’s highly likely he just replaces the shoe and keeps playing. I believe that he is likely going to have a long and successful career in the NBA, but right now I think that his impact on Nike’s overall worth should be nominal. If you believe the drop is attributed to the fact that it was a pair of Nike shoes blowing out in the game, I’d say that’s more reasonable, but still unjustified. Again, Zion’s shoes were the only ones to experience difficulty during the game. The other teams’ players were fine in their sneakers, and they were wearing Jordan brand sneakers. Who is the parent company of the Jordan brand you might ask? Nike. Only one player experienced difficulty with them, and as I previously stated, that player in question should currently have little to no effect on the price of Nike’s stock.•

The Catamount

Friday, March 29, 2019

Sports

Experienced senior girls soccer player dominates defense Calla Duffield Staff Reporter From her freshman to her senior year, Callie Woods has meddled in a multitude of sports, but there is one in particular that has been a cornerstone of her life ever since she was five: soccer, where she plays the position of outside back force, and started a club called “The Shrimps” to provide a sense of comradery for the shorter members of the team. “I’ve been playing since I was five, and I love the sport, and I love the coaches. I love everything we do,” Woods said. That’s not to say that she hasn’t faced challenges along the way. The varsity soccer team went through a dramatic shift last year, during Woods’s junior year and third year on the team. “So many of my friends quit, so it was really emotional for me last year especially, because the last of my friends just kind of dropped off [the team],” she said. Being the only senior on the team has taught Woods about the powers as well as the responsibilities of being a trailblazer. “It definitely took some getting used to because usually when its six or seven people, it’s a lot for people to look up to, but because it’s just me, it’s different,” Woods said. Having senior authority has led Woods to try to positively influence her teammates on and off the field. “I feel like I just give encouragement as much as possible. It’s a lot of leadership on me, and trying to keep people from being crazy. It’s fun, but it’s definitely a strenuous deal,” Woods said. Her coach, Stoney Pryor, values Woods as a leader because of her great understanding of the game and her merit as a player and hard worker. “Her leadership style is such that because other girls see her selflessly working that they are willing to follow that, and they are willing to listen to her and follow her lead in whatever the game or practice is giving us,” Pryor said. “Woods is very much a servant leader and is very knowledgeable and very passionate and compassionate.” Pryor said Woods does everything with a dedication to the sport, keeping in mind the reason they work hard in practice is to improve their skills. “[Woods’ work ethic] is pretty good!” Pryor said.

“Between her character and her maturity, she understands [that] the reason we’re doing the stuff we’re doing is to get better. She’s gonna work hard, she’s not going to cut corners, she’s going to give it her best.” Although the toils required of a leader may take much effort on Woods’ part, the friendships that she has made on the field by far make up for the work. “It’s weird. I didn’t think we had that close of a friendship or relationship, I thought it was just a teammate thing, but when we interact with each other, you can see that we’re really close. I thought it was a simple relationship, but it’s a really deep relationship,” Woods said. Adriana Wagner, one of Woods’ friends from soccer, agrees that the team members have close bonds. “We met in soccer last year, she was the only senior and I was the only freshman on varsity, so I stuck with her,” Wagner said. “She’s sweet and easy to talk to. She’s really good [on the team]. She tries hard, and she has the best endurance and her mentality is always super positive. She encourages everyone.” Woods has found that her career in soccer has also helped her in some aspects of academic life. “I think being an athlete has taught me how to [have a good] relationship with my teachers. You have to have a respect for your coach and understand what they want you to do, and that’s helped me a lot with my teachers,” Woods said. Being both an athlete and a student has been very demanding of Woods, but she has taken that challenge head-on. “It has definitely made it a bit harder sometimes, [being on the team], just because of all the [work] we have to do, but I talk about my homework with everyone on the team too, so it’s helpful [to me],” Woods said. Looking forward with their current winning streak, the varsity girls soccer team will continue to thrive under the example of the senior who has persevered through four years of varsity soccer. “[Soccer] has taught me that if you continue working, and [if] you show up every practice and you make sure that people know that you care, that’s the most important thing,” she said. “I think my advice for younger players is to just keep working as a team, and keep building the relationships and keep up the tradition of excellence that we have at CSHS.”•

woods is very much a servant leader and is very knowledgable and very passionate and compassionate. -stoney PRyor head coach

▲ Callie Woods dribbles the ball against the visiting Lady Bulldogs of Magnolia. The Lady Cougars defeated the Bulldogs 2-0, adding to the win column that helped them reach their seventh consecutive district championship title since the program began. PHOTO BY COURTNEY WELLMANN

lady Cougar soccer 2019 season Statistics

Home record:

6-1

Away record:

6-1-3

Win percentage: 80% Goals scored:

Goals allowed:

Entertainment

The Catamount

Friday, March 29, 2019

Downtown Bryan offers array of entertainment, food Makayla Fox Senior Editor

▲A street view of Downtown Bryan taken in front of the Queen Theater. The Queen is a historic landmark in Bryan that has been a recognizable site since the 1880s. The Theater shows reruns of popular ﬁlms. Harry Potter will run at 3 and 7 p.m. every Saturday until April 20. Tickets cost $5. PHOTO BY DRU PEACOCK

Downtown Bryan is a cultural district located in Bryan, Texas. What once was a part of a railroad town is now a hub for entertainment, food and shopping small businesses. The city also hosts a monthly event called First Friday, where the businesses stay open until 11 p.m. and entertainment is on every street corner. My friends and I arrive to Harvest Coffee Bar in Downtown Bryan around 7 p.m., the downtown area buzzing with people and neon lights through the dark blanket of the night. We see that the crowd includes students, parents, couples and friends as they pass through the large window at the front of the Harvest building. Our coffee and teas offer a nice wakeup for our night to begin. We exit the coffee shop to the crowd of people, the sidewalks buzzing with conversation and waves of music traveling from the Palace Theatre, where the Battle of the Bands is raging. Traveling across the street, we reach Market 1023, one of the many small businesses located in the downtown area. The cold outside air follows us down the sidewalk until we enter the warm, busy shop. Neatly organized, the first thing to catch my eye is the expanse of greeting cards that line the back wall. The products range from knickknacks for the house to makeyour-own succulent gardens to jewelry and thrifted apparel. Other customers mill about right along with us, everyone trying to see everything the store has to offer. We exit the shop and start down the street for something to eat. The cold is still

piercing, and we are drawn to the neon lights of Mr. G’s pizza, one of the 23 eateries in Downtown Bryan that serves as a classic to many. The windows reveal the winding line of people waiting to get a bite of pizza. We decide to wait. Not long after, we are seated at a table and even in the rush, we find a kind waiter to answer a question and take our order. We order a half cheese, half Hawaiian pizza along with cheese sticks. The pizza is made with a little bit of Italy in every slice and full of flavors that make chain pizza pale in comparison. Families and friends fill the seats and the environment is warm with conversation and delight. We eat, we talk, we laugh, we feel content with our time. Although we didn’t have the time to experience the entertainment in Downtown Bryan on March 1, past visits have proven that there are many places to explore music, movies and performances in the town. The Grand Stafford and Palace Theatre are hosts for musical performances by small bands and musicians, including local school organizations. The Grand Stafford offers an intimate and loud set in comparison to the performances in the open, larger venue of the Palace Theatre. Just next door, the historical landmark Queen Theatre shows primarily classic movies, but some smaller independent films for $5. They are even featuring Harry Potter films every Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. through April 20. Overall, Downtown Bryan offers a small, intimate setting for gathering with friends, spending time with family or simply taking an excursion alone.•

WHEN IS IT? •

The event is held the first Friday of each month starting at 5:30 p.m. The next one will be Friday, April 5

WHAT IS IT? •

By dusk, streets and sidewalks are teaming with people pausing to listen to street musicians, watch a magic act, peruse artwork or just chat with friends. Shops stay open late and restaurants stay busy until well into the evening. If you’re looking for even more to do, The Palace Theater plays host to live music starting at 8 p.m.

•

Source: downtownbryan.com

Friday, March 29, 2019

The Catamount

Entertainment

Vinyl COuntdown Vinyl records provide passionate, real musical experience Lauren Gomulka Assistant Editor

music both provide the same songs and albums, a lot

tify competing for listeners, our generation has ac-

phone,” senior Callie Boyd said. “Freddie Mercury’s voice

cess to any song we could possibly imagine at our

just sounds different. I like how normal it sounds.”

ﬁngertips. For some though, the remastered, autotuned

For people who prefer vinyls, alternative music

ith airpods all the rage and Apple Music and Spo-

Although vinyls and alternative ways to listen to varies in the sound quality of the two. “Queen sounds very different on vinyl than on a

sounds that come out of earbuds and bluetooth speakers

sources just do not provide the full musical experience

simply aren’t satisfying enough. For these people, where

that they can get with vinyl records.

modern technology lacks, vinyl records and record players deliver. “I think you have a greater connection to the music because you go out and buy vinyls. You don’t just click a button and play a song,” junior Maddie Petrick said. For many people, their interest in vinyls was inﬂuenced by friends and family that have a passion for vinyls and the way they sound. “Vinyls are all my family listens to,” sophomore Josie Perkinson said. When phones, iPods, fancy radios and speakers began taking over shelves in stores, vinyls kind of disap-

“It sounds more rich and more unique, just because that’s how it sounded when it ﬁrst came out,” senior Luke Gardner said. “It’s pretty interesting.” It really takes a passion for music to take the time to listen to vinyls, especially when there are so many easier ways to listen to music available to us. “You put it on, and there’s actually a physical element of having to ﬂip over the record to listen to the next several songs,” teacher and coach Collin Slattery said. “It’s a little bit more of an investment into music that you appreciate.” It’s more work and more detail, but some people

peared, but recently, old classic albums and even some

are willing to spend the time and effort for the musical

modern albums are making their way into stores again.

experience.

“I have all my old [vinyls], and then I really like the new, rustic ones like Khalid and the Lumineers,” Petrick said.

“I guess the idea of having an actual physical piece of music kind of makes you appreciate the artist and the music a little bit more,” Slattery said.•

Places to Buy Vinyl in BCS -Best Buy

805 Texas Avenue South College Station

-Curious Collections Vinyl Records and More 710 N Rosemary Dr Bryan

-Barnes & Noble

711 Texas Ave College Station

-Thorn Music Center

404 University Dr E A College Station

-Half Price Books

1505 University Dr E College Station

24 Etc.

The Catamount

Friday, March 29, 2019

Abide Abide Bakery Bakery

Student-owned bakery sells variety of cookies Grace Costenbader Managing Editor

ith a powerful mission and drive, the sisters behind Abide Bakery are blazing their way into the baking industry one cookie at a time. “Sarah and I truly love what we create,” senior Abby Johnson said. “Owning Abide Bakery has changed our lives in so many ways.” Twin sisters Abby and Sarah Johnson each play a role in owning and running their bakery. Sarah Johnson facilitates the baking of the cookies and does most of the work in the kitchen, while Abby Johnson runs the social media and hand-decorates the cookies. But the girls didn’t set out to start a bakery. “I found a [sugar cookie recipe from Wilton] and I thought I could do better,” senior Sarah Johnson said. “I spent two years baking hundreds, probably thousands of cookies, and I developed the recipe to my speciﬁc taste, and it turns out that a lot of other people like my taste, so that’s how the cookies started.” After tweaking the recipe to meet their standards, the Johnsons ﬁgured out how they could split the responsibilities in order to develop their business into the successful one it is today. “After doing tons of research about creating a business, I got super interested in everything to do with baking and decorating,” Abby Johnson said. “Right now, I run all of our social media platforms, create the photos and posts, and I do all of the cookie decorating. I am now very passionate about decorating and that is for sure my favorite part.”

Owning a business, while rewarding, is definitely not an easy task. On top of schoolwork, other part-time jobs and trying to manage social lives, running a business as involved as a bakery is quite the quest. “[This business] is a huge responsibility. It’s a lot of time management and working together,” Sarah Johnson said. Though difficult and time consuming, running the bakery has proven worthwhile to each sister. “The cookie community is so great because it’s our own little niche that others are starting to look into,” Abby Johnson said. “Being able to create art that tastes good and people enjoy is truly so fulfilling. For me, the business is a great creative outlet that allows me to focus and make beautiful and tasty art.” Creating and running Abide Bakery has been a great learning experience for each of the Johnson sisters and has been essential in each of their journeys to discover their passions. They plan to continue running their bakery as long as possible after graduating. “Sarah and I have learned so much from starting our own business. We have invested so much time, money and energy into creating Abide Bakery, and we are so happy with how far we have come,” Abby Johnson said. These sisters have built this business from the ground up and hope to continue to grow not only in their quality and profit, but their impact on the world around them. Baking cookies has proven to be a very effective way to do so. “Cookies are great for every occasion, big to small,” Sarah Johnson said.•

The cookie community is so great because it’s our own little niche. -abby johnson senior

Treat yourself: @abidebakery DM the Johnson’s on Instagram to order cookies.

Prices: $25

for a baker’s dozen of holiday cookies

$30

for a baker’s dozen of custom cookies

*one baker’s dozen consists of 13 cookies