Catamount
the
Vol. 3 No. 2 Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
College Station High School
4002 Victoria Ave. College Station, Texas 77845
Junior Chase Spaw holds the Warrior pose during one of the football team’s post-game yoga sessions. Read more on page 12 ●
MORE OR LESS
EQUAL
We might think that here, in the America of 2014, men and women are practically equal. But though the times are modern, gender equality is still relevant to all. by Kayla Kurmaskie Opinions Editor As sophomore Danna Bader exited the school on her way home, she was met with an unsavory but not totally unfamiliar sound. A group of boys gathered on the side of building began yelling profanities about her appearance as she walked by. Bader knew there was no point in trying to rationalize with the hecklers, who would likely laugh at her or, worse, take offense and possibly get more aggressive. Though this is not a daily occurrence, Bader feels
Index News
pages 2-5
Opinions
pages 6-8
People
pages 9-13
Sports
pages 14-17
Entertainment
pages 18-20
it is a strong reflection of society’s current attitude toward women. “I know gender equality has been something that’s very prominent in my life. But, it’s something that people don’t really know, or [that] they don’t look beyond the stereotype of,” Bader said. Junior Sullivan Strohmeyer has had struggles of her own coming to terms with what is more commonly labeled the feminist movement. “Personally, I wouldn’t identify with the word feminist because there’s so much of a bad connotation of it,” Strohmeyer said.
Junior Sagar Patel crowd surfs above fellow students at the pep rally before the homecoming game, where school spirit ran high. See story on page 10 ●
Today, some individuals are choosing to identify with the more neutral term “gender equality.” This not only advocates for the social, economic and political rights of women worldwide but also addresses unrealistic standards that society often sets for men, including those concerning emotion. “They [society] think that masculinity means you can’t show emotion, when masculinity and femininity don’t have specific rules [that] you can’t show emotion,” Bader said.
continued on page 3
Stuffed moles that were made in celebration of Mole Day line a class display in chemistry teacher Casey Akin’s room. See story on page 20 ●
2 News ● The Catamount
CougarNews
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Vocalists audition for places in UIL region choir Ten choir students competed for region choir on Sept. 27. Freshman Ryan Herriage and senior Clarissa Parulian earned a spot, and they will participate in the pre-area competition on Nov. 1. The vocalists are directed by Kearby Etheredge. ●
Seniors commended for performance on PSAT
In the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program, eight students recieved the honor of Commended Students out of more than 34,000 Commended Students nationwide. The seniors William Chollett, Hannah Dombach, Tessa Johnson, Katherine McDougall, Rebecca Nam, Samuel Park, Clarissa Parulian and Jamie Roberman will be presented with Letters of Commendation from principal Mike Martindale for their academic achievement. While these commended students will not proceed to compete in the 2015 competition for the National Merit Scholarship awards, they were amid the top five percent of approximately 1.5 million students who enrolled in the 2015 competition. ●
Marching band succeeds at regional competition In the Region 8 marching band contest, the band earned all ones, the highest possible score, from all three judges for their show “The Journey Within” on Oct. 18, at Midway High School in Waco. The judges evaluated the band’s marching, musical performance and visual appeal. The band is supervised by Eric Eaks and Jon Seale. Their performance can be seen at this link: http://goo.gl/p8MrU8 ●
Boys and girls cross country sweep district meet ▲Seniors Jeremiah Booker and Fiona Cohen ride in a Camaro around the track after recognition as the first homecoming king and queen for College Station High School during the homecoming game on Friday, Oct. 17. Booker is a captain on the football team and an FCA leader. Cohen is an editor on the newspaper staff and NHS secretary. Photo by Ethan Cohen●
CA Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8-5 Friday 8-12
Award Winning CSHS Culinary Program Available for catering, private parties, and special events For more information contact Catherine Parsi M. Ed. phone: 979-694-5800 email: cparsi@csisd.org
In the 18-5 A district cross country meet, the boys and girls varsity and junior varsity cross country teams triumphed with their third consecutive district championships. The top five runners for both varsity boys and girls placed in the top ten and earned individual medals. The boys’ team is ranked sixth in state in 5A, and the girls are ranked ninth. Regionals will be tomorrow at Humble Atascocita High School. The top four teams will advance to the state meet in Round Rock on Nov. 8, at Old Settler’s Park. ●
Craig G. Anderson D.D.S. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 1615 Barak Lane Bryan, Texas 77802 979.846.1813
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
The Catamount
● News 3
Issues with gender equality arise in everyday life continued from page 1
ROLE REVERSAL Three gender roles of today that were originally flipped: Originally, high heels were worn by men. Persian soldiers, for example, needed them when riding horseback.
As women started wearing them as well, men stopped in order to distance themselves from femininity.
When cheerleading was first conceived, it was meant for boys. It was seen as too “masculine” for girls. It would not have been acceptable for their voices to become too unladylike.
Girls began taking over cheerleading in the 1920s and 1930s when these thoughts began to fade. The 1960s was when cheerleading became a femaledominated sport as it is today.
Lace used to be worn by men as well. It was a symbol of status due to its price in the 16th century.
In the 19th century, it became redefined as feminine, along with shopping for clothing.
source: huffingtonpost.com
On campus, students agreed that for the most part all pupils are held to the same standards regardless of gender. “I’ve never felt like I was left out of anything because I am a man, or that I didn’t have equal opportunity,” senior Arrott Smith said. Senior Sam Morris’s experiences have been much the same as Smith’s on an emotional level, but he has another approach when addressing the commonly observed differences in the sexes. “Personally, I think that God created men and women completely differently, and even though they were made from the same person, I think that he made them with different qualities that aren’t supposed to be identical,” Morris said. Strohmeyer shares Morris’s theologically rooted beliefs of a divinely made inequality and, like Morris, fully supports the advancement of women’s rights nationally and globally. Assistant principal Julia Mish-
ler often comes in contact with students struggling with ideas of gender superiority when they bring what they determine as gender-related issues with teacher favoritism to her. “We support every individual no matter what and will do what we can to help make the situation right,” Mishler said. From an administrative standpoint, Mishler agrees with the students about the level of treatment found at the school being more than satisfactory. While there may be the occasional oversight or gap, students seem to be excellent models for respect regardless of gender. Oftentimes, however, acts of inequality are masked in the name of “respect” and “chivalry.” These issues often arise when it comes to holding open doors or paying for meals. “It’s my treat, and I see it as my duty as the man,” Smith said. “It’s just a nice thing to do, and I don’t understand why some women see it as an offensive thing if I’m going to pay for [their] food.”
While Bader agrees with Smith that there is nothing wrong with opening a door for a woman or paying for her meal, she says that there must be a balance drawn. “Men don’t realize women can do basic acts by themselves,” Bader said. “Women are not helpless, and I think chivalry is kind of ridiculous.” Despite varying views and interpretations of gender equality, the students all agreed that though the nation has progressed with earning basic rights for women, there are still many unresolved issues. These include the pay gap and birth control availability that the country still must deal with today. Bader believes that the first step in facing these issues comes with men and women educating themselves about the feminist movement and looking past anti-men, overly aggressive stereotypes. “It’s just about equality,” Bader said. “It’s not about one gender being superior, otherwise feminism wouldn’t exist because the men are already superior.” ●
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
4 News ● The Catamount
Business class operates student-run store
the head of inventory keeps track of all items sold and stored. The advertising team has a job quite different from At first glance the Cougar Den may seem like the sale of products. They develop promotions for the nothing more than a quick stop supply shop. In actuality, store and brainstorm products to sell to the student body. the Cougar Den is the one and only CSHS retail store. “I advise them on decisions for the store,” Mrs. Yates Not only is it held within the walls of the school, it’s run said, “but 98 percent of the work falls to the students.” by Cougars. “Our team of advertisers help to The shop came to be when our promote the store,” head of inventory business teacher, Kelly Yates, and the “We’re hoping to put Grace Donovan said, “to draw business teacher from Consol wanted a students to the stand.” way for students to experience firsthand the money back into the As for the inventory, the Cougar the inner workings of running their own Den sells everything from pencils, businesses. The result: the Cougar Den. school to pens, and folders to sunglasses, other The Cougar Den is run by a t-shirts, earbuds and foam paws, all management team, currently 11 branded with the CSHS logo. members strong. The team was selected clubs and organizations The “Uh-Oh Cougars in the from Kelly Yates’s Entrepreneurship House” t-shirts being worn around for a the school is a product created and class and is composed of elements of a who need realistic business team. ordered by the store’s management “It allows [us] to manage a store big project.” team. environment,” general manager Mathew Since the store is run through the Bennett said, “and learn the makings of school, the team’s profit goes back an entrepreneur,” into the facility. The management Victoria Evans, junior The Den includes a general team and Kelly Yates hope to use manager, an accountant, a head of inventory, and an their profit gain in order to further the school. advertising team. The role of each is to facilitate sales in “We’re hoping to put the money back into the a number of ways. The general manager opens and closes school,” accountant Victoria Evans said, “to help other the store, as well as oversees the store. The accountant clubs and organizations who need funds for a big projcalculates all of the finances involved with the store, and ect.” ●
by Derek Witzenman Staff Reporter
help
funds
and
grubburgerbar.com 980 University Dr East, Ste 400 | College Station, TX 77840 FB GrubBurgerBar TW GrubBurgerBar
CSHS CSHS
vs
BRYAN BRYAN
For the game tonight, pick up some of these spirit accessories from the Cougar Den:
ITEM
PRICE
Purple glitter mask
$2.00
Purple hockey mask
$5.00
D-Fence purple foam
$8.00
Purple bead necklaces
4 / $4.00
Dog tags
$2.00
Purple glow necklaces
$0.75
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
The Catamount
● News 5
Developed political stances combat indifference by Courtney Sumlin Staff Reporter Young people between the ages of 15 and 25 constitute a fifth of the world’s population, yet this demographic is one of the lowest for voter turnout despite the numerous politicial issues that impact most young people on a daily basis. “When it comes to politics, a lot [of students] are ignorant, and a lot just don’t care,” senior Aly Sams said. Although the majority of the student body does not have to deal with many of the current social and economical problems, this does not exempt them from being aware of them. “We need to know what’s going on so that we aren’t just apathetic towards everything,” senior Jaime Roberman said. But, simply identifying with a party and knowing what is truly going on are entirely different. “The majority, like myself, see and understand the big picture, but do not necessarily understand all of the details involved in politics,” senior Blake Dorsett said. Understanding the fine details is what helps form original opinions. Students find their information from varying sources. “I don’t really pay attention too much to politics,” senior Jaxxon Grisham said, “but I watch the news sometimes with my parents.” Social media is another source despite the questionable reliability of the internet in general.
“I rely a little bit on social media because it’s quicker, but once I find out what’s going on, I’ll look at a qualified source to find out what’s actually happening,” senior Samantha Villalobos said. One such issue that might require research is the Texas gubernatorial election, which will be held on Nov. 4. This event marks the moment for some seniors to be eligible to vote for the first time. The prominent issues discussed in the campaigns allow future voters to prioritize the issues that affect their voting decisions. For example, whether a candidate is pro-life or not is Roberman’s deciding factor. Villalobos says that the candidates’ promotion of education is what will take her vote. “AP students don’t have the classes they can take because we can’t afford to hire new teachers. It’s getting harder and harder to compete with everyone else for college. In the future, if it doesn’t get better soon, a lot of students will fail because of that,” Villalobos said. Other students focus on financial issues. “[I focus on] taxes and health care because I’m graduating and leaving soon, so that’s something that will affect me,” Sams said. As the student body matures and ages, more politicial issues will become relevant beyond education and taxes. The politicial issues raised during the upcoming Texas governor election and the impending presidential election will impact future policy. “We are the future of politics,” Grisham said, “and it’s important for us to know what we want for a better country.” ●
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THE 2014 TEXAS GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION will be held Nov. 4 to replace current governor Rick Perry. Here’s what you need to know about the two main candidates: GREG ABBOTT (Republican) wants to end Obama’s healthcare plan, protect gun rights and increase government transparency. He also promotes strong voter ID laws and defending traditional values.
WENDY DAVIS (Democrat) is concerned with making education more affordable and accessible. She strives for equal pay between genders, protecting rape survivors and preserving women’s health centers. Sources: gregabbott.com and wendydavistexas.com
6 Opinions ● The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
THE CAT’S EYE VIEW
Political awareness requires independence
staff editorial
Benefits of healthy competition found in week of opposition Since CSHS’s conception we have been living under the constant shadow of A&M Consolidated High School And since that time the mentality around the district has been that the schools must be equal and exactly alike; one must not outshine the other. If this is the case, and we are supposed to be identical campuses, what was the point of opening a new school in the first place? The Hometown Showdown was the climax for tensions that have been building between CSHS and Consol for over three years. Each school has dished out and received a fair amount of trash talk over the years, but during the week of the big game, lines were crossed between a lighthearted school rivalry and uncivilized behavior. Conflicts arose over social media with Consol students threatening and demeaning not only members of our football team but other individuals in the student body. However, with the exception of a few foulmouthed individuals, the students from both schools rose to the challenge of making the most of a very tense and volatile rivalry. Despite some misguided social media remarks, the Cougars were gracious winners. Though disappointed by the loss, Consol acknowledged our worthiness as competitors. Our hope is that the lessons in sportsmanship learned over the years will only be put to greater use in the future, that our two schools will channel the continued competitions as fuel for success rather than kindle for an ugly fire that could destroy us.●
2014-2015 Newspaper Staff Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Executive Editor Senior Editor Opinions Editor Entertainment Editor Features Editor News Editor Sports Editor Staff Reporters Graphic Artist Cartoonist Faculty Adviser Assistant Adviser
Megan Paradowski Lisa Liu Julie Potrykus Rachel Grant Kayla Kurmaskie Fiona Cohen Lily Parsi Brianna Aguilar Alex Miller AJ Jones, Amelia Kurk, Clarissa Parulian, Courtney Sumlin and Derek Witzenman Becky Nam David Rambo Courtney Wellmann Teresa Laffin
Courtney Sumlin Growing up, I was blessed with parents who were determined to make me an independent thinker. While they instilled in me values that no doubt influence my political mindset, they did not choose them for me. Unfortunately, that is not the case for the majority of my peers. It would be far too easy to just blame the parents. No, this national epidemic of ignorance has two causes. We, as a collective group, are CHOOSING to digest and then regurgitate exactly what mommy and daddy tell us. And with the entire world literally at your fingertips through the internet, this is intolerable. You must be actively trying to avoid current events and the issues plaguing our world to not see them and, in turn, have some opinions on how
View of the Pride:
YES
to fix them. But we are masters at ignorance, this is exactly what we do. Sure, seventeen magazine is a lot more fun to read than NPR is to listen to, but when it is your own rights being violated,those glossy pages aren’t going to be armed with a how-to. Our parents, and their guardians before them, grew up in a different time. Their world was in a different place, and in turn, required a different approach to fix its problems. If we think we can continue to reuse the same outdated tactics today, we are kidding ourselves. The world is not going to wait for us. It’s time to wake up. Teenage political ideals are like shiny, painted blue or red balloons: loud and oppressive on the outside, with nothing but recycled air to fill them up. We have the choice to fill them, and cement them as homemade beliefs and stances, or, we can continue to be adrift, and subsequently float as far away from the democracy that we claim to love so much. The choice is entirely ours, and that is exactly why it isn’t being made.● art by Becky Nam
Has the school rivalry gotten out of hand?
“I like both schools, and I feel we have no need to have the rivalry.” -Elizabeth Kellstedt, 9 “We know each other so well that now we’ve crossed the line because we want bragging rights.” -Will Heye, 10
“No one’s actually gotten hurt and no one’s really taking it that seriously.” -Aidan Parsi, 12 “I believe that most of it is all in good fun as a way to show school spirit.” -Peyton McCutchen, 11
NO
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), the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA). 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 (979-764-5433) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination. requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
The Catamount
State win creates infamous fans, begins legacy
Alex Miller We may be the loudest, proudest, and most hated fans in the state, but that is what makes us great. Our students have shown great school spirit since we opened two years ago, but it was taken to an entirely new level during the baseball playoffs last year, and I was in the middle of it. It all started during the second round games in New Caney against Diboll. Colby Bachmann and I, along with about 20 other students, rode the fan bus to the game to cheer on the team. What we didn’t know is that we would start something that changed everything about our fans. After a batter struck out in the second inning, Colby began chanting Left-Right, Left Right! as he made his way back to the dugout. The next time, we all joined in, and by the end of the game, added Sit Down! as he made it in the dugout. The following week in Mumford, however, was when it would take off like wildfire. More students were able to make it to that game,
and the chant grew louder and better. Our seemingly harmless chant was taken the wrong way, however, and the next day, an article was written by Larry Bowen in The Eagle about the “Cougar Raggies” attending the game and how we “taunted every Robinson strikeout victim”. He referred to our group of fans as the “Cougar Raggies” because our cheers and enthusiasm reminded him of the Aggie baseball fans that taunted their opponents and became known as the “Raggies”. Our response was incredible. Soon after, we created t-shirts with “Cougar Raggies”, and within a week sold over 150 shirts. Our students rose to the occasion and became more involved with it which seemed to give our team an advantage every time they stepped on the field. As they say, if you mess with a bull, you get the horns. Our “State Champion” fans, as the Cougar Raggies Twitter page describes us, have come a long way since that second round match in New Caney. The eight weeks involving the baseball playoffs not only changed our baseball team, but our student body as well. The effects are showing this year as more students, including baseball players come to volleyball and football games, and are louder and prouder than ever before. Keep it up, Cougar Raggies. I’m proud of what I help started and hope we continue to be State Champion fans forever!● art by Becky Nam
Is school spirit important to you?
What is spirit? 10%
OVERHEARD What current political issue is most important?
“ISIS- Determining a proper course of action to stop them.” Kyle Nugent, senior
“The fact that women still haven’t received socioeconomic or political equality in this country.” Aggela Polymenis, junior
“The world’s environment is on a critical downward slope.” Phoebe Fu, sophomore
“Gun control because the government is trying to blame the guns when they should be blaming crime.” Jake Hough, freshman
DAILY GRIND
QUESTION of the ISSUE:
CSHS
CSHS
CSHS
I guess 19%
I like the games 36%
I bleed purple! 35%
648 students surveyed
● Opinions 7
By: David Rambo
8 Opinions ● The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Family illness leads to new life perspective
Rachel Grant I have learned recently I’m a very emotional person when it comes to other people. This past January, my emotions were torn in a direction I’ve never experienced before. My mom and I received a call from my aunt in California and we had to make an emergency trip after we heard that my grandma was ill which meant missing the first 3 days of the semester. As we drove to the airport, our hearts sank. My grandma had Alzheimer’s, a disease that caused her to lose brain function, for the past five years. The previous three
years we had visited her, my grandma heart-wrenching experience. I love her so couldn’t remember my name, and the much because she meant so much to me. last few years of her life, barely She is the closest person to me who her own. I miss hearing her has ever passed away so it was voice, her laugh, her smile. a new and depressingly unfaDuring this heart tearmiliar experience that I never ing trip, I learned much want to have to relive. about myself and my My grandma gave family. I learned that me so many memories in difficult times, that I will hold on to family will put aside and cherish forever. past experiences, esI know that because pecially negative ones, of her I have learned to be with someone so many valuable lesthey love. sons that I will carry As I sat with my with me for the rest grandma dying before of my life. I will also me, I thought of all share these things with that I had learned from my future children beher: knitting, selflesscause what she taught ness, laughter and smiling all the me is so important to time. Coming up on one year me. I am who I am towithout her is going to be a art by Becky Nam day because of her. ●
Communication becomes impersonal with time
AJ Jones Two out of 10. Only two of the 10 people I make an effort to say hello to me every morning, only two of them, address me by using my name. Some of them will only acknowledge me with a nod. Human interactions have been made so impersonal. A person’s name is his identity and what he is known by. Yet, people now are too lazy to take the extra breath to say a person’s name. We have reduced “I love you” to simply “love you.” The same goes for telling someone you miss them. Saying I love you makes a difference and makes your personal feelings clear. Cell phones are also to blame for this reoccurring issue. Instead of calling someone, we simply shoot a text message. Plus, handwritten art by Becky Nam notes and letter are almost
nonexistent. Another issue is the practice of shaking hands. This has become something that is only done in a formal setting. It should be used when you first meet someone, when talking to someone who holds authority over you, or when wanting to show respect. However, I believe the biggest issue is maintaining eye contact with the person you are speaking with. I personally think that if you cannot look someone in the eyes and say what you wanted to say, then there is no point in saying it. Maintaining eye contact shows the other person that you are engaged and interested in what they are saying. As a person who really enjoys being around people and getting to know them, these are skills that I have developed. I love figuring people out and seeing the potential that they have. Everyone is different and learning new things about people is something that I love. I want to be a person who people enjoy talking to. I believe that these simple things are important and make a difference in the way that people look at me. It makes them respect me and want to continue to be around me in the future. It is my point to make good impressions on my peers and elders. I also want to begin to sharpen these skills that are needed throughout everyone’s life. ●
Voices What is your favorite Halloween movie? “Hocus Pocus because the acting is great and so is the mood.” Gregg Stanley, theatre director
“Nightmare before Christmas.” Drew Connolly, junior
“The Corpse Bride.”
Brittany Jurode, senior
“Spongebob Halloween Special: Hash Slinging Slasher.” Ali Charara, junior
“Beetlejuice.”
Luisa Castaneda, junior h
“Halloweentown.” Ana Folloso, junior
The Catamount ● People
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
The Thrill of the HUNT
Bow, gun hunters set sights on seasonal game by AJ Jones Staff Reporter
it like freshman Brendan Mclntyre. The middle of the woods, “I pursue hunting the sound of nature surrounding because it’s a nice release to you, nothing to distract you. be in the woods by yourself,” Many students pursue hunting Mclntyre said. as their pastimes, passion, family Mclntyre has been hunting time and even as a course. since the age of eight. He prefers Some people hunt out of pure to hunt with a compound bow. passion for it and for the quality Which he found difficult, time with their family and but “after you learn to be friends. This definitely applies patient and listen, it gets to freshman Westin Bomskie. easier,”McIntyre said. Bomskie has been hunting For people interested in since he was little. However, he has hunting but who do not know now moved up to bows and bigger how to get involved, CSHS offers a game rifles. Bomskie hunts game such course, Outdoor Education. It is single as deer and hogs. However, he enjoys all semester course taught by Coach Ed Stricker. kinds of hunting. “I jumped at the chance to teach this course General Season: Bomskie learned to hunt from his grandpa, a because I love the outdoors and the idea of man he looks up to and deeply respects. When his passing on the legacy of hunting to the next Apr. 1 - June 30, 2015 grandpa took him hunting for the first time and generation,” Stricker said. he shot a hog, he was hooked, Bromskie said. The course focuses on skills used in Regular Season: Many hunters have a moment of pride outdoor activities. Students learn the skills or a shocking story, and sophomore Dylan needed for hunting, fishing, archery, Nov. 1, 2014 - Feb. 15, 2015 Shultze talked about hers when she shot an survival, first aid and trip planning. 11 point buck, which she named Buster. By taking the course, students Regular Season: “Right before you pull the trigger, acquire these skills as well as half of you are so nervous,” Shultze said. “It’s so a PE credit and their certificate for Nov. 1 - Dec. 7, 2014 exhilarating,” hunter education. For $20 the student and Dec. 20, 2014 - Jan. 25, 2015 Shultze has been around hunting since can receive their hunter’s education she was two years and is an active hunter of certificate. different types of game like deer, rabbits, and There are all kinds of game to hunt Regular Season: turkey with either bows or guns. and all kinds of reasons to hunt. Just ask the No closed season Others hunt for the peace that comes with students here.●
Brazos County Hunting Seasons Alligator Deer
Duck
Rabbits and Hares
9
10 Student Life
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
The Catamount
The Catamount
Student Life
11
We've got
yes we do
by Megan Paradowski and Lily Parsi Editor-in-Chief and Features Editor
Getting Started
During last year's baseball season, Eagle Sports Editor Larry Bowen wrote a criticizing article titled “Be classy, Cougar Raggies.” The story detailed what he saw as offensive fan behavior taking place during the baseball playoff games. The article intended for shame sparked a school spirit legacy that only continues to grow. “My friends and I would come to the baseball games, and we would be really loud just to get in the heads of the other players,” junior Colby Bachmann said. Bachmann had a large part in starting the Cougar Raggies trend. He and his friends were called to the office after the article was published. “[Mike Martindale] said he didn’t have a problem with what we were doing, but he wanted to let us know what was happening,” Bachmann said. “It made me mad, and I realized we had to make Cougar Raggies bigger.” In the midst of all the hype about the article, Bachmann texted his friends and encouraged them to come to the games. Junior Alex Miller, and seniors Michael McCord and Trey Cole made Cougar Raggies t-shirts and sold them to the student body. “[Cougar Raggies] has evolved a lot since then,” Bachmann said.
Moving Forward
Cole took the idea of Cougar Raggies and created a way for the entire student body to get involved. “I felt like students should have a voice in something that isn’t run by teachers,” he said. “It’s fun if students can do something on their own.”
Cole realized that if everyone yelled the same cheers in unison at school games, then student sections would sound that much better. From these ideas, Cole started Cougar Yell practices. Cougar Yell practice is held every Thursday before a home football game, and the practice includes Cole teaching the participants new cheers he invented that will be chanted at the following football game. “I wanted to start Cougar Raggie activities early in the year, not just before baseball season, so every sport feels like they contribute to the success of our school and
"
This is something that you
only get to do once in your
"
life. Marcus Nealy, junior
they are all supported,” Cole said. “Everyone should feel like we care about them.“ The first practice was held two weeks ago in the main gym, and Cole said it was very successful. “It went really well considering I talked to Martindale that day to approve the idea, and that night we had a big turnout despite the short notice,” Cole said. “I feel like the practices will only get better.”
Cole has long-term goals for Cougar Yell practices and Cougar Raggies in general. “I want our fans to be not only number one in the state, but number one in the nation,” Cole said. “I think we can take this and make it something big.”
Keeping the Fans Alive
Another major advocate for school spirit is the school stunt man, junior Marcus Nealy. “Towards the end of last school year I made friends with the cheer girls, and they told me how cool it would be if they had a guy, so they could do more stunts and cheers,” he said. Nealy joins the cheerleaders during seventh period every day and lifts cheerleaders at pep rallies and games. “I love it,” he said. “I love being around the girls because they’re really fun to talk to, and they’re just nice people.” Nealy also assists the cheer sponsors in making executive decisions. In addition, he learns new stunts and back spots during the cheer period. Nealy even recruited most of the flag runners, who also help lift the cheerleaders at pep rallies and games on occasion. “A lot of people ask me why I do it, and they’re pretty amazed that I do it just because I like the school and the idea of trying something new,” he said. Nealy believes in the impact school spirit can have on the student body. “I find school spirit extremely important,” he said. “Some people at this school think that anything school related is dumb, but this is something that you only get to do once in your life.” ●
Photo by Lily Parsi
12 People The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Every Now and Zen
Yoga improves health in sports, everyday life Yoga Poses 1 Freshman Rosetta Wang demonstrates the 2 3 4
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by Clarissa Parulian Staff Reporter Though it’s only 8a.m. on a Saturday morning, the room buzzes with energy. Football players in baggy shirts and athletic shorts cluster around the field house equipment. They’re not preparing for heavy practices in the soggy morning air, as expected. Instead, they’re waiting to start yoga. Head coach football coach Steve Huff accounted for the seemingly odd combination of yoga and football. “We used to work out really hard on Saturday mornings, and it beat the guys down, so now we’re trying to keep them fresh,” Huff said. “I think there’s no doubt they like it. Oh, they’ll gripe about it, but they know at the tail end of it, that it’s all good stuff.” The boys show up each Saturday morning after their Friday games, and an instructor comes to lead them in the yoga positions and stretches. These classes are graciously donated by YogaPod. Senior Drew Rodriguez showed up on Saturday, all smiles and ready for the challenge. “Yoga is actually fun and interesting,” Rodriguez said. “I feel like I get better at it each week. There are some points where it gets difficult and it hurts, but there
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are some times when it feels great.” Freshman Quandree White adds that it also helps mentally. “It’s helpful in getting us flexible for running,” White said. “When you’re stretching, you have to breathe between every stage, so it relaxes the soul.” Upon questioning of the uncommonness of guys doing yoga, Rodriguez assured “men can do yoga, too.” Surprisingly, no opposition arose to this statement. “Yoga is not really a thing for just women,” White said. “If you’re tight in your legs, it just something that fixes you up.” McCabe agrees and does yoga with the volleyball team in off season, but also does it at home. “I think for a lot of people, yoga is a stereotypical girl thing, but for me it’s not. A lot of the instructors on the videos have guys, and a lot of times only a guy, not a girl,” McCabe said. Like the football team, she has seen it help her in volleyball and track. “Yoga helps a lot,” McCabe said. “For track, it helps with flexibility because your muscles can stretch and pull. In volleyball, it helps with balance because yoga is all balance, basically.”
Lord of the Dance pose. Cheerleaders practice Tree pose. Football players stretch in Crescent pose. Cheerleaders relax in Cobra pose.
4 Freshman Rosetta Wang expected to feel pain in her ankles and shins this cross country season, but instead, stretching has diminished that pain. She began taking classes mid –September after a trial class at YogaPod. “Other than taking time off for yourself to relax, stretch and focus on your mental well-being, yoga helps prevent injuries because you focus on all the muscles and they balance out,” Wang said. The cheer team also does yoga during off season to keep loose, according to junior Sarah Neely. “Mrs. Selcer wanted us to do it,” Neely said. “If we go all off season without stretching, when tryouts come around, we’re not flexible anymore, so it helps keep us flexible.” In response to the football guys doing yoga, senior and cheer captain Addie Seale smiled. “Oh my gosh, I love it,” Seale said. “It’s good because it relaxes them after a game and it’s in the morning. I think it’s attractive when guys do yoga.” Neely agreed. “I think it’s so funny, but it’s good because they need to be flexible to prevent themselves from getting hurt. It’s great when guys don’t care about stereotypes,” Neely said. ●
The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
MITCHELL BRADFORD:
● People 13
NO HEARING, NO PROBLEM
Student with deafness excels musically by Lisa Liu Managing Editor
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unior Mitchell Bradford takes part in almost every music-related opportunity at CSHS, being in orchestra, theater and choir. Juggling all three of these would be difficult for any student, but there’s something especially exceptional about Bradford: he’s partially deaf. Nerve damage at birth was the reason for Bradford’s hearing loss. He’s worn hearing aids since the age of two to remedy this, but even so, he still has some trouble with hearing. For example, in orchestra he sometimes cannot determine whether or not he is playing the right tone. “When we hit the wrong note, the director will stop the piece and tell us, ‘Basses, E-flat,’ for example,” Bradford said. “I’ll think I’m playing it right, but I won’t be. I’ll be playing sharp, which is the opposite of flat. I’ll change it, and he’ll say, ‘Still sharp.’ It gets frustrating.” Bradford faces difficulties in choir and theater as well. Choir can be hard because he hears lower tones better than higher tones, yet sings with a higher tone. Theater poses challenges when Bradford has to cover his ears with a wig or rehearse in the dark, where he can’t receive visual cues as easily. His hearing aids have even run out of battery in rehearsal before. “I had to stare at the person talking to me, and when I saw her mouth close, I had to cue myself [to talk],” Bradford said. “I found out how hard it could be without those hearing aids.” However, these types of problems are only, as his choir teacher Kearby Etheredge says, “very infrequent.” Other teachers of Bradford agree. “Mitchell is incredibly high-functioning. [When he joined theater], he adapted so well that I was never worried,” theater director Greg Stanley said. “His hearing is almost never an issue.” In fact, Etheredge did not even learn of
Bradford’s deafness until he cut his hair above the ears for the first time for the musical “Guys and Dolls.” This marked an enormous change for Bradford, whose doubts about the cut were erased when people told him that it looked good that way. “That was a big step. I felt better about myself,” he said. “When I think about it right now, I realize that I might have [kept my hair long] because I was self-conscious.” Not that Bradford has ever been ashamed of his hearing aids. His parents have taken steps to avoid this since he was young. For example, his mother Lynnet Bradford says they avoided buying him hearing aids the same color of his skin, which would have implied that they were trying to mask them. “They were bright blue when he was two. You could see him coming from a long way away,” she said. “We wanted him to be comfortable. I don’t think he’s ever been embarrassed about them.” But despite his acceptance and confidence, Bradford still faces disadvantages in his musical classes, and denying this would be denying the extra effort he has to put into them to excel as he does. “He has a bigger challenge than everyone else,” orchestra director Jason Hooper said. “It may not be as easy for him, but he rises to the occasion.” Bradford indeed rises to the occasion; he’s on varsity orchestra and has won impressive awards at UIL for his singing. He’s even looking to go into a career in musical theater when he grows up, though he doesn’t want to do so famously, only to make a living by doing what he loves. Overall, he finds all his musical pursuits to be completely worth it despite the occasional obstacles. “When you are at a disadvantage, it’s the happiest feeling you get when you know you’ve gotten it right,” Bradford said. “It feels like if I can do that, then anyone can do anything.” ●
▲Bradford performs the song “What Shall ▲Junior Mitchell Bradford plays the bass in We Do with a Drunken Sailor” with the men’s the varsity orchestra concert on Oct. 23. Photo ensemble at the choir concert on Oct. 21. by Lisa Liu ● Photo by Lisa Liu ● ▼Bradford, along with castmembers Corey Barron, Jillian Volkmar, Marcus Nealy, Brianna Soltis and Eric Briggs, perform the play A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the theatre’s fall production last November. Photo by Rachel Grant ●
14 Sports ● The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Senior plays different roles on team by Alex Miller Sports Editor
Every team has their superstars, but for senior Jake Georgiades, being a team player is more important to him than being the star. “I’m going to play hard and do whatever I can do to help the team win, whether that means I’m blocking or scoring touchdowns,” Georgiades said. His coaches have seen this aspect of his game and appreciate the commitment he puts into the team before himself. “He works really hard, and he is a technician,” receivers coach Daniel Trampota said. “He focuses on the small things and does the little things right, which makes him a great receiver.” Listed at 6’3” and 190 pounds, Georgiades is not the easiest man to cover, he makes great plays on the ball. “He’s very consistent and knows how to use his body,” head coach Steve Huff said. “Jake can put his body in positions to make catches. He runs great routes and uses the best of his speed.” The pathway to where he is now has taken many turns however, after transferring from Allen Academy following his sophomore year, Georgiades had to learn a new style of football going from 6-Man to 11-Man. “The level of competition was a lot better. I had to adjust,” Georgiades said. “The work ethic is much different. I had to work harder, and it made me realize that nothing is given and that if I really wanted something, I had to work to get it.”
That was just the first obstacle Gerogiades faced though. After he did not play much his junior season at quarterback, he looked for a new position where he could excel. “I wasn’t getting much playing time at quarterback, so I wanted to find a place where I could be on the field and help the team in any way I could,” Georgiades said. He moved to outside receiver late in his junior season. Since then, he has taken on the new position and is now a starting receiver for the team. “Last year he came in and played some quarterback and then some backup quarterback. He asked if he could go play receiver, so he went and played receiver, then this season we moved him around, and he played another receiver spot,” Huff said. “It’s not about Jake. It’s always about what he can do to help out the team.” Georgiades has helped the team tremendously this season at receiver too. With 21 recepetions for 290 yards and 4 touchdowns on the season, Georgiades is averaging 13.8 yards per catch. “Whenever we need help at a certain spot, he is always there to help,” receivers coach Eddie Hancock said. Another difference with Georgiades is the way he takes on the season. He focuses only at the task at hand before moving on to what lies ahead. “Our goal for the rest of the season is the same,” Georgiades said. “Take each game at a time, and try and make a statement each week.”●
Photo of Jake Georgiades by Fiona Cohen●
Football team rallies to win first meeting against Consol, 34-31 by Alex Miller Sports Editor
▲The football team celebrates their big win over Consol on Oct. 24. The team won 34-31 in the final minute of the game. Photo by Fiona Cohen ●
After three long years of trash-talking and brewing tension, CSHS and Consol finally met on the football field last Friday, and it may have only been fitting that the first-ever "Hometown Showdown" came down to the final play too, with 4,597 fans in attendance to witness the Cougars rally late to defeat Consol, 34-31, at Tigerland Stadium. "The win to me personally was a huge accomplishment after three years of football here," senior defensive end Randy Cessna said. After a slow start to the game, and finding themselves down 17-0 with only 2:31 remaining in the first half, the Cougars found a spark, as Chris Sennette returned a kickoff 91-yards for a touchdown, and the Cougars made a field goal late in the second quarter to make it 17-10 Consol at halftime. The Tigers came out hot in the second half and soon built a 31-17 lead midway through the third quarter after the Cougars tied it at 17 all. The comeback soon began as Cole Whittlesey found Jeremiah Booker on an 11-yard touchdown pass, making
the score 31-24. After forcing a punt, the Cougars marched down the field again, and Quinterrian White scored on a 3-yard run to tie the game at 31 with 10:20 to go in the game. The clock ran and the two teams stalled after that, but with 4:25 remaining in the game, the Cougars recovered a costly fumble and soon faced fourth and goal from the 4-yard line with 29 seconds to go. Sophomore kicker Ryan Bowersox came in and made an 18-yard field goal with 25 seconds to give the Cougars a 34-31 lead. "I was really nervous before [the kick]," Bowersox said."It was that or nothing. It was for the seniors. They have been waiting for this a lot longer than I have." The Tigers then ran three plays and had time for one more from the Cougar 40 with 2 seconds left, but Jeremiah Booker intercepted the hail mary pass as time expired to seal the victory for the Cougars. "We had a good fan base that didn't give up on us," Cessna said. "We woke up and won." The Cougars face the Bryan Vikings tonight, in what appears to be a winner-take-all for the district championship. Seniors will be honored before kickoff at 7:30 p.m.●
The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
● Sports 15
Big sister/little sister program bonds volleyball teams
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by Julie Potrykus Executive Editor
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You are serve-ivor. Even Cinderella couldn’t get to your ball. If they wanted a soft serve, they should have gone to Dairy Queen. Before every game, the varsity volleyball players give inspirational messages to the junior varsity and freshman volleyball teams as part of a big sister/ little sister program. “Big sister/little sister gives us support as we go through [the volleyball program],” sophomore Kalen Wootan said. “[The big sisters] wishes us luck every game. I always have someone special that’s always looking out for me.” The big sister/little sister program pioneered this season to enhance group unity by pairing up varsity players with the junior varsity and freshmen players to diminish the separation between the different teams. “Last year we didn’t do [the big sister/little sister program],” sophomore Morgan Calhoun said. “I think a lot of people did feel like we needed to be closer as a family. With them doing this this year, I do think it did help with how everyone knew each other. Ever since the big sister/ little sister started, we’ve become closer. It gives us a chance to know each other more.” The program began with a survey with questions to better know the players. From there, coach Stephanie Cone matched each var-
sity player to a junior varsity or freshman player. Wootan and senior Rachel Nelson were matched due to their opposite personalities, while Calhoun and senior Natalie Colunga were matched based on their similar enthusiasm and excentrics. Calhoun and Colunga also play the same position, which makes game advice more applicable. Similarly, junior Hope Spacek and freshman Alyssa Pursley will both return together in the spring for softball season. These connections have built stronger friendship. “I like getting to know all of them,” Colunga said. “I wouldn’t get to any other way because we just do volleyball, volleyball, volleyball. With the little sister/ big sister program, we all get to know each other more.” In addition to the initial reasons, the pairs have bonded over pep talks to pre-game presents. The pre-game presents are a favorite among the players because both members of the pair bring the other’s favorite item or a sentimental memento based on the answers from the initial questionnaire. The presents have ranged from an artful name plate to favorite salty snacks. The nonperishable presents adorn the volleyball lockers, while the food and goodies are savored before the game. Along with presents, the big sisters offer guidance to their little sibling to motivate and encourage them through the season. These
District Ranking
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The Lady Cougar volleyball team defeated Rudder 3-2, grabbing a share of second place with Consol in District 18-5A. In order to determine pairings for the playoffs, CSHS and Consol will either have a playoff or a coin toss. Playoffs begin next week. Photo of Shelby Sumlin by Teresa Laffin►
inspirations range from playing instruction to volleyball humor to dating advice. The varsity players hope to impart their knowledge through their budding friendships to leave a lasting impact on their siblings and the volleyball program in the future. “[I enjoy] having someone that [I] can inspire,” Nelson said. “I want her to remember that she will always have someone to look up on and that she can inspire people to do good things.” To inspire their little sisters, the big sister try to exemplify the strength and love that they hope to impart in their siblings. “[I] always have to know that someone is watching [me],” Spacek said. “[I] always have to be on [my] best behavior, knowing that [my] little sister is someone that [I] want to have a positive influence.” Through the big sister/ little sister program, the volleyball program has grown closer through the budding friendships as every conversation and gift and motivation strengthens the volleyball teams. “It has really helped me become a better volleyball player,” Pursley said. “She’s been really supportive and nice.It’s really uplifting.”●
Retracing Footsteps
16 Sports ● The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Senior cross country runners reminisce about team by Rachel Grant Senior Editor
The past four years, the girls on the cross country team have faced the challenging task of laying the foundation. The five senior girls who are responsible for traditions, mottos and the team dynamic are getting ready to leave but live their last season to the fullest. “The team started with Alexandra and me freshmen year,” senior Kelsie Warren said. “[All] the seniors have played a huge role in shaping the team, building the foundation and establishing the character for every work out.” Most of the seniors agree that while leaving is hard, it is an encouraging thing to leave a huge legacy behind that will impact the future runners who join the team. “I get kind of sad to think I’m leaving,” senior Brynna Lekven said. “You spend so much time here with all of these friends and you realize that in less than a year, you’re going to be leaving and making new friends. It’s pretty cool that we’ve set the standard for all of the incoming classes.” Similarly to Lekven, senior Abigail Kellstedt believes that the team has come a far way and that there will be a lot of things that she will miss about the bunch of girls. “I’m really proud of everything we’ve done as a team,” Kellstedt said. “It’s quite amazing what all of us have been able to do together. But all good things must come to an end; I’ll be happy because of the people I’ve met and the accomplishments we’ve had together. I’ll miss it but its more I’m really proud of everything I’ve been able to do.”
The bonds the team shares have been made stronger each year. Senior Gabbi Orzabal is melancholy to be leaving such close friends who are always there but she is ready to make a big change and meet different people outside the close knit group of girls. “I think I’ll feel a mixture of emotions [about leaving], Orzabal said. “Looking forward it’s going to be really exciting starting something new, but you’re leaving your safety zone because we’ve been with each other for so long, it will be weird to run with different people than we usually do.” The seniors have played a big role in the team dynamic. Senior Alexandra Pratt predicts that it will be tough to leave, having a team that is so close and the younger classes will have a hard time not having older girls to look up to but they will take the role with wisdom. “[Having the older girls] is what has always been, we had to assume that [leadership position]. Compared to our freshman year, it’s so different but we’ve worked out our kinks. We each play a different role and so together we are very strong leadership presence on the team.” Having a team to be proud of is something worth running for Warren believes. She is nostalgic about what is to come but excited to spend the rest of her time with the team she loves. “I’m proud of [our team],” Warren said. “I’m excited to see how that is going to end up carrying over to the future years when we’re no longer there. It is sad to have to walk away and start a new experience. Looking forward is exciting, but looking back you have pride in what you did.”●
▲ Members of the girls cross coun-
try team take off at the start of the district meet in Willis on Wednesday, Oct. 22. Both the girls varsity and JV teams won for the third year. ◄ Senior Kelsie Warren takes the lead at the beginning of the district race. She has owned over 20 pairs of tennis shoes in the past six years, the most on the girls cross country team. Photos by Courtney Wellmann●
A Girl’s Best Friend Runners name their favorite pair of shoes Alexandra Kelsie Warren Pratt “My Brooks Adrenaline GTS.”
“I have stuck with my Mizuno Waze Riders since before high school.”
Gabbi Orzabal
Abigail Kellstedt
Brynna Lekven
“I really liked my Mizunos because they were the only normal colored ones.”
“My pink and green Mizunos, becasue they’re lightweight and comfortable.”
“The shoes that I am wearing now are my favorite, hot pink Brooks.”
The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
● Sports 17
Approaching the Finish Line Graduating cross country runners reach end of final season by Brianna Aguilar News Editor The sun peeks its way through the clouds on the morning of the district cross country meet. A gust of wind cools off the anxious runners at the starting line. As the time comes for the race, they line the starting point, ready to reap the reward of their months of intense training. For the seniors this is their last year to work harder, encourage more, grow greater and leave behind a legacy. These seniors have one last year to teach the others about the rewarding importance of effort and dedication. These are the teammates that set and continue to build the foundation of excellence and pride for years to come. “We started as the underdogs, and [now we’re] setting the standards high for [the rest of the team] to work towards, and they have every bit of potential to be in the same position that we are in now,” senior Connor Joseph said. Three years ago, as a brand new school, the boys cross country team experienced the process of starting from level one and working hard to fulfill each of their individual and team goals. They dedicate each minute, hour and day to become champions and currently are ranked sixth in state in class 5A. “It’s incredible to see the amount of growth of all the guys and they’ve definitely earned it,” senior Corban Ogle said. “They’ve put in the blood, sweat, tears, ice baths, sprints and the tempo
runs. It’s not easy, but now that we’ve gone through it all, I don’t think there’s anything to stand in our way.” Not only does this effort and dedication benefit the seniors but also provides an outstanding example for the other cross country members and underclassmen to follow. “Being a senior has really transcended my leadership from being ‘just another guy’ to ‘the guy.’ I want to leave the legacy that we are all great runners and great athletes who work hard and thirst for success,” senior Hogan Daughters said. The weight and power of being an example for the younger classmen as seniors not only benefits the team on an athletic level but also on a personal level. “I started hanging out with the seniors and that helped me to be more social, to take it easy, and not be so serious,” junior Jonathon Bishop said. “They taught me that you can work hard and still have a good time [because] they know how to have fun.” Consequently, this higher authority for good only stems from a tight and close knit group of teammates, which is exactly what this team of boys cross country runners has. “Cross country is one of a kind sport. It’s where teammates and coaches become as one, a family,” senior Rustam Kaunas said. Although the seniors finish their cross country season in November, their impact will resonate for all, far away or not. “I’m definitely going to miss it here. It’s a unique experience being on the team,” Cole said.●
Forming the Legacy Seniors run at district meet in Willis on Oct. 22
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1. Jonathan Cole 2. Hogan Daughters 3. Connor Joseph 4. Rustam Kaunas 4 5. Corban Ogle
18 Entertainment ● The Catamount
A BIT OF A
STRETCH
Staff tests local yoga studios
Aerofit
Review by Brianna Aguilar
As soon as I opened the door, a cool and chilly blast of air conditioning welcomed me into the fairly new Aerofit Wellness Center located on Longmire Dr. I was instantly greeted by an Aerofit staff member. I handed the employee my membership card and headed to a yoga class at 4:30 p.m. Since the grand opening, the gym continues to offer a multitude of classes suitable for every person’s interest, including body essentials, body bar, and even night club cardio with several rooms reserved for various classes. Although I was about seven minutes early to the class, the room was already full of people, mostly older adults, getting ready to start the class. I found a place towards the back where I figured I would be able to see but not be too far away from the instructor. However, as in the other parts of the gym, the room was squished and a little too tight for me to really get the full effect of the workout as I worried about hitting someone next to me for the duration of the class. I had some serious trouble trying to not kick anyone in the face while attempting “The Warrior.” Nevertheless, the actual yoga class was a beneficial, challenging session when I had room to follow the instructor's encouraging guidance; she gave enough time for the participants to watch and attempt each pose ourselves. I would recommend giving this a try with a current membership, a positive attitude, and no fear of getting a little close to strangers.
Innovative Fitness
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Review by Julie Potrykus
Innovative Fitness offers a “Hot Hatha Flow,” a yoga class in a hot room that focuses on alignment and flexibility through a variety of poses. Hot Hatha Flow is offered on weekends and after school (except for Thursday and Friday), which is convenient for students. The interior and exterior of innovative fitness looks more like a boot camp (which they also offer) than tranquil yoga escape. Despite my nostalgia for Consol, I still don’t find concrete walls and an abundance of maroon calming. Thankfully the private yoga room contrasted with the rest of the facility by dim lighting and stream radiating from the heater creating a peaceful ambiance. The room is heated to 98 degrees, which can be overwhelming without proper hydration. Throughout the lesson, the instructor reminded everyone to take water breaks and to return to a calming position called the “child’s pose” when needed. The class was very versatile for every proficiency level with difficulty modifications to accommodate everyone from me with my slip-n-slide sweat legs to the experienced bendy pretzels. A few of the poses were reminiscent of middle school from the throwback planking and PE warm-ups to the butterfly to the toe-touch. The explanations of the more complicated poses were very accessible for a newbie like me. Despite the flood of sweat exuding from my body in the hot room, I left my yoga experience relaxed and invigorated.
YogaPod
Review by Lily Parsi
Located on Rock Prairie next to Starbucks, YogaPod is easily accessible from the highway and has a lot to offer. Yogapod provides a class for everyone with over 70 classes a week and 22 different classes ranging from PodHot, or hot yoga, to PiYo, a blend of pilates and yoga. Anyone who would like to experience YogaPod gets the first class for free, one of its many great features. I’ve attended yoga classes at YogaPod weekly since May, and my favorite class by far is PodBarre, an intense and invigorating cardio yoga class with stretches that include the use of a ballet bar. Every class has a primary focus that can target areas of the body such as your core or back, or an all over body stretch, like the PodBasic classes. Those who enjoy pushing their body to the extreme should try a hot yoga class, where members practice various yoga poses in 98 degree room temperatures. The price per class is $17, or a 10 class punch card for $110. Monthly memberships are available for $160 a month or $960 per year. The price is a little high, but every penny is well spent at a YogaPod class.
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
“You have a voice and your voice is important.” This was the first lesson given by representatives from Mic Check Poetry on Oct. 7 to a small crowd of students at the inaugural poetry workshop. The group sat in a loose circle of armchairs, pens and paper in hand, fingers poised prepared to snap at the next relatable metaphor. Every other Tuesday, Mic Check President Madi Parker and Vice President Davis Land arrive at CSHS with fellow Mic Check team members to teach students about the art of spoken word poetry. These veteran poets provide their protégés with open-ended prompts and samples of poems to provide inspiration for work done on the spot and shared voluntarily by writers. Mic Check is a federally recognized 501(c) (3) nonprofit based in Bryan, Texas. But most importantly, Land says, “Mic Check is an organization dedicated to putting art into people’s hands.” On Sunday evenings the group hosts poetry slams and open mics at Revolution in Downtown Bryan. They have brought their talents and the feel of a beatnik-era poetry club to the commons of CSHS. “Mic Check is a lot of things to a lot of different people, and you can see that each time someone new gets on stage,” Parker said. “[Spoken word] is a life-giving force that moves and breathes and loves on those who seem to need it the most.” It is not uncommon for high school students to feel uncomfortable freely expressing themselves. Through these bi-weekly workshops, Parker and the experienced poets instructing
Students unite through spoken-word workshops
hope to help young voices to feel recognized and help them grown in confidence and volume. “I know in high school I definitely was too scared to show people what I was writing,” Land said. “I hope that if we accomplish anything in these classes it will be to show students that their voice is valuable and needed, that there is a space for them.” While not every human being considers themselves a poet by nature, the poetry work-
▲ Junior Zoë de Beurs sits writing in her poetry jour-
nal outside the Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival on Oct. 25. de Beurs was one of six club members to attend the event. Photo by Fiona Cohen ●
shops Mic Check hosts are run with the understanding that all people can write something worth sharing. “I think everybody needs a place to be and not everybody has an easy time finding that,” sophomore Ariel Simien said. “I think in this we’re creating a safe place for everybody to go to around people you can be really comfortable
with. I love the idea of a community based on something so beautiful.” Simien is one of nearly a dozen students who attended the first workshop. She sat alongside her fellow schoolmates learning about spoken word and even sharing what she wrote in response to a prompt. “You don’t need to arrive with the courage to share,” senior Kasandra Onderko said. “Just show up. Watch other people. That courage will come to you when you see what it does to other people and when you have that thing worth sharing.” Onderko, like many others in attendance, claims to have bee shy earlier in life. But she, like the majority of the group, gathered the nerve she needed to read during the first session. “So many poets speak straight from the gut. It’s not something you have to search for, it’s something raw that they spit out at you,” Simien said. This was true even in the group’s initial meeting. Poets both experienced and inexperienced chose to speak up and share the confessions they had carefully disguised in metaphors and similes, revealing some things but cautiously camouflaging others. Each left satisfied, fulfilled, and prepared for the next meeting. “Some people will find something that they love to do,” Onderko said. “Some people will just find a home in the people that are there.” Through this unique art form, students have built the foundation for a small community within CSHS, one that each of them hopes will grow and evolve. Thanks to Mic Check, each and every curious student who arrives on Tuesdays will have his or her voice recognized. “Above all, I hope this is realized,” Parker said: “There is power in your story and your words.” ●
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20 Etc ● The Catamount
Friday, Oct. 31, 2014
Mountain out of a Molehill 1. Chemistry classes celebrate Mole Day by Amelia Kurk Staff Reporter
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We have just passed that time of year when chemistry students in high schools and colleges across the country could be seen carrying stuffed replicas of moles around campus. And chemistry teachers got a chance to kick up their heels and enjoy chips and guaca-“mole,” pie a la “mole” and le-“mole”-ade. So, have our science-loving faculty and students gone off the deep end, or does Mole Day have a real basis in chemistry? The day, celebrated annually on Oct. 23 from 6:02 a.m. until 6:02 p.m., commemorates Avogadro’s Number (6.02 X 1023), which is a basic unit of measurement in chemistry called the mole. “The idea of Mole Day originated in an article in ‘The Science Teacher’ in the early 1980s,” chemistry teacher Casey Akin said. “A teacher named Maurice Oehler founded the National Mole Day Foundation on May 15, 1991.” That means, that this year we celebrated the 23rd national Mole Day. Each year, the foundation determines a theme, and this year was “Mole-o-Ween.” Past years have been just as creative with themes like “Molar Eclipse,” “Moles of the Round Table,” “AniMole Kingdom” and “Molar Express.” At CSHS, chemistry teachers decid-
ed to celebrate Mole Day with extra credit projects designed to increase student’s excitement about chemistry while learning. “I think that the prospect of getting to show creativity and other talents lets students open up a little and share who they are,” Akin said. “It is also a great way to earn bonus points to boost their grades.” According to the teachers, there’s a reason for the event being an extra credit assignment. “We have plenty of graded assignments to demonstrate student understanding of the topics we are studying,” Akin said. “Celebrations should be a student’s choice, not an assignment.” Despite the extra credit part, Mole Day projects help students develop a better understanding of difficult concepts. “Mole activities are a great hands-on approach for students to actually enjoy a very complex unit in chemistry,” chemistry teacher Mary Smith said. “I love watching the projects come in and seeing all the ideas my students came up with.” Many students put a good amount of time and effort into their projects. “I’ve had this planned out for exactly three years now,” sophomore Roger Stark said. “The mole I’m making is going to be Hani-mole Smith from the 80s TV show The A-Team. I started thinking about it when I saw my sister make ‘Marilyn MonMole’ when she was a sophomore.” Students have a chance to show off
1. Junior Maxim Zelenko presents his mole day project to Casey Akin’s chemistry class. 2. Sophomore Kaylee Hamilton poses with her “sophomole strutter.” 3. Junior Andrea Wu shows her giant mole in the shape of a ball. 4. Sophomore Sasha Poltoratski made a shirt that said, “mole problem, call Avogadro.” 5. Cindy Knapek’s second period class arranged their moles on the cabinet for the class to see.
their pun-sense as they name their moles and show off their culinary and game-making skills. “I’m making Mole-ble cupcakes, which are just chocolate and vanilla marbled together,” sophomore Julia McGinnis said. “And I’m creating a basket-mole game with a picture of a mole on the backboard.” Other students, like sophomore Mae Mueller, plan to attend the Chemistry Open House at Texas A&M University to receive Mole Day credit. “I like the idea of receiving extra credit for doing things that are a fun break from the usual,” Mueller said. “This way, there’s no pressure of a huge project due.” Students never fail to impress the chemistry teachers with their creativity on Mole Day projects. “The projects that are fun and quirky always stick with me,” Akin said. “Also, mole projects that are personal to the student, like foods they make with their families or pictures they related to their favorite books or movies, resonate with me because I feel like I get to know my students better.” Teachers utilize Mole Day to factor in to the educational benefit of Chemistry. Celebrating Mole Day can be expected for years to come. The mole the merrier! ●
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