APRIL2007 by Clear Creek HiLife

H i L ife

April 2007

Vol. 81/Issue 6

2305 East Main League City, Texas 77573

CCISD 2007 bond benefits growing student population

Tori Wycoff

When driving around League City on any given day, it is apparent that this area is growing rapidly. Just a few years ago, there were not any neighborhoods or grocery stores along Highway 96. In fact, there was not even a Highway 96. South Shore Boulevard stopped at FM 518 and did not extend into oblivion as it does now. This does not even account for the growth that can be found district-wide from Friendswood to Clear Lake to Kemah. As the area becomes more populated, there is a growing need for more schools. High school classes average thirty students and almost four thousand students attend Clear Creek High School. Due to this overcrowding, the Clear Creek Independent School District is putting a bond proposed for $183 million up for a vote on May 12, 2007. District enrollment has increased by 900 to 1,000 students each year, and by 2020, it is projected that our district will serve 52,000 students. This is a huge increase from the 35,500 that are currently attending school in CCISD. In recognizing this problem, the school board formed a Citizens’ Bond Planning Committee to ensure the wise use of funds and to review the district’s long-range strategic plan, demographic information and financial data. This group consists of forty members that are from all over the district. The passing of this bond would pay for the construction of one new high school, one intermediate school and two elementary schools. One of the elementary schools, the intermediate school and the high school would be built on the CCISD Education Park site at Highway 96 and Highway 146. The fifth high school would be scheduled to open in 2010. On top of that, it would fund the transformation of the two existing ninth grade centers back to intermediate schools and increase the number of science and math classrooms in the district high schools by twenty-four. This is necessary due to the bill passed by the Texas Legislature that requires all students to now take four years of science and math. Buses would be added to the CCISD fleet to allow decrepit ones to be eliminated and old air conditioners would be replaced. Buses that are 23 years or older would be

replaced. The average life expectancy of a bus is only fifteen years. The CCISD transportation department needs these buses since it serves over 20,000 students and logs about 2.5 million miles a year. Roofs that are damaged would be fixed and security devices would be installed. Surveillance cameras and keyless entry systems would be used to help with campus security. This equipment would be installed within a year. The surveillance equipment is necessary to deter vandalism and other unlawful activities on school grounds. The building of the new schools is necessary. Right now, 2,960 students attend class in a portable building and there are 35 portables at elementary schools, 40 at intermediates and 73 at the district high schools. The use of these portables allows the district to assess the growth carefully before constructing new campuses. A school bond issue is a contract to repay borrowed money on a given date and to pay interest at an agreed rate. These bonds will be sold over a period of years to match the cash-flow requirements of the construction. The district uses 25 years for the repayment of bonds for the construction of facilities. A school bond, however, cannot be used to pay teacher salaries. Though our community is growing and there are more tax payers, those taxes do not mean that the district receives any of those funds. The bond would increase the taxes of a home valued at $100,000 by $1.33 a month or $16 a year. A house valued at $200,000 would see an increase in taxes of $2.62 a month or $35 a year. Senior citizens who are 65 or older and can file for a “freeze” on their taxes and not experience this increase. If the bond fails, the district would need more portable buildings to aide the overcrowding and the construction costs and interest rate would raise substantially due to inflation. Bonds have been put up for voting in the past with the last being in 2004. This passed and funded the construction of Clear Springs High School, the Clear Creek High School rebuild, Gilmore Elementary and Westbrook Intermediate. A bond was defeated, however, in 1994 which would have allowed the building of a fourth high school. Because of this, two intermediate schools were converted into what is now the Clear Creek and Clear

Creek track hits the ground running at district. Read more on page 16. Photo by Albert Nkansah

Lake Ninth Grade Centers. The 2007 bond is necessary to aide the growing population of students attending CCISD schools. Permanent Early voting will be located at Clear Brook High School and the Clear Creek and Clear Lake High

School Ninth Grade Centers from April 30 to May 8. Other early voting sites will be moving around the district on the same dates. For more information about Bond 2007, please see www.CCISD.net/bond.

In the past year, there have been a few changes at Creek. From the construction continually changing paths to the new building to the location of the new portable that blocks walkways, the Wildcats have had to adapt. However, the most notable of these changes is the changing of principals. There have been three so far this year, but now, as of May 1, Clear Creek will have a full-time, noninterim principal by the name of Scott Bockart. Mr. Bockart graduated from Friendswood High School and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Abilene Christian. He has taught math and coached basketball for thirteen years. He went on to obtain a Master’s Degree from St. Thomas in Houston. Mr. Bockart was named the assistant principal at Victory Lakes Intermediate for four years followed by the principal of League City Intermediate for the 2006-2007 school year. Mr. Bockart chose education because he loves working with kids. Outside of school, Mr. Bockart loves to bass fish, although, according to him, he does not get to go fishing “near enough.” He also enjoys spending his free time with his wife, daughter and son. Mr. Bockart’s immediate plans for Creek are to collect all possible information about the staff, campus and programs that are already in place and assess what changes need to be made. His long term plans would be to ensure that Creek maintains academic success and to see consistent improvement in all areas.

“I hope that CCHS will continue to be an elite school in this area as it has been,” Bockart said. At the beginning of this year, Mr. Bockart met with students at League City to outline expectations both academically and behaviorally. He also made sure that any situations were handled consistently which allowed for fewer distractions in the classroom. This type of meeting might be implemented at Creek so that from the beginning of school, all students are aware of the expectations and how they should represent Clear Creek High School. When asked to describe himself in five words, Mr. Bockart replied, “professional, courteous, integrity, hard-worker and organized.” Mr. Bockart is very excited to be working at the high school, although he has enjoyed the intermediate schools. During the transition of Mr. Bockart to the

Creek’s New Principal

YOU can make a difference in Global Warming. Learn how to save the world on pages 4 & 5 Photo courtesy of Pics4Learning

read more on page

GET INVOLVED! Read how and why on pages 10 & 12. Photo by Wynette Jameson

Clear Creek HiLife

PINION

URVEY

“What career do you want to pursue after high school and why?”

Freshmen

Seniors

“A chef, because I want to make my own restaraunt and possibly go to France.” - Chris Ballard

“I’ll be an ecologist so I can save the world.” -Danielle Schaefer

“I want to be a teacher because I like helping others understand things.” - Halley Stulb

“I will be majoring in Buisness and minoring in Dance to eventually teach dance and work for the Make-A-Wish foundation and Homeless organizations.” - Torrie Hardcastle

“I want to own a doggie daycare/animal shelter because I love dogs!” - Ali Dunn “I would love to be a pediatrician and specialize in cardiology because I love the fact that I could be saving a child’s life everyday I go to work.” - Katy Winslow “I want to have an occupation where I can use my experience with foreign languages; maybe a career in international business.” - Emily Backus

“A fashion merchandiser for a designer because I have a passion for fashion.” Audrey Christensen “Professional stage actress because theater is my passion.” – Brittany Wehman “I would like to pursue a career as an attorney. I have always had great interest in such fields and have excellent people and debate skills neessary to excel.” - Tyler McGraw

Sophomores

“I am going to pursue massage therapy as my career because it’s one of my greatest skills. Plus the sense of touch can be relaxing.” - Brittany Tabias

“Psychology because it interests me and I wanna find out how to help people and their mental status.” - Taylor Smith

“Elementary Education - I’ve always liked kids and I’m good with kids too. I also want to help kids to enjoy learning and school/” - Brittany Ethington

“Orthepedic surgen because I’ve been studying it in anatomy and it fascinates me.” - Lauren Carpenter “Forensic Science/Archeology, because I have a love for science and history.” - Ariel Adout “Being a writer has always been a very strong possibility for me, maybe some free lance, bu I am also exremely interested in exonomics.” Rebecca Bellay “I want to be a psychologist because I like helping people and giving advice.” – Shelby Fisher “Psychology because it interests me and I want to find out how to help people and there mental status.” – Taylor Smith “Video game designer or animator because I love drawing.” – Rodney Smith

Juniors “Youth minister - I love kids and i’m very into my faith.” - Allison McKnight “Play pro football, but if I dont succeed I will be a doctor which is alright because I get to help people.” - Jonathan Daniels “Fashion Designer - so I can make money for my designs.” - Sahar Arabi “Chemist or psychologist, because I like to mix things in chemistry and for psychology I want to help people.” - Ariel Sanchez “Acting is one of the very few things that I enjoy doing, I’m good at, and gives enough money so that I can eventually support my own family.” - John Vollmer “I want to be an interior designer. It’s something i’ve loved for years. I think I’d love to design and decorate.” - Jenna Canary “I want to become a pharmacist because I love medicine or be involved in a physics job.” - Cathy Walker “Music. Anything that has to do with it. Producing, singing, dancing. Whatever, because I love it and would never get tired of it.” - Alicia Davis “I want to work with the public, public speaking, anything dealing with people because i’m mostly interested in interacting with them.” - Jayda Washington “I want to be an aerospace engineer or an astronomer because ever since I was a kid, my love and passion has always been space. I really think that the future and progression of the human race relies on it.” - Ryan Price

Clear Creek HiLife

Clear Creek High School HiLife Newspaper

E-mail us at Hilifenews@yahoo.com Visit us at http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/leaguecity/ cchs/ For advertising rates call: (281) 284-2377 or fax (281) 284-1705

2006-2007 HiLife Staff Principal: Adviser: Executive Editor: Managing Editor: Editors-in-chief:

Scott Bockart Wynette Jameson Jan O’Neil Tori Wycoff Olivia Huynh, Jessica O’Neil

News Editor: Features Editor: Sports Editor: Creek Speaks Editor: Centerspread:

Haylet Boultinghouse Haley Rush Sarah Poore Bobby Murphy Cassie Lee, Amanda Compton

Online Editor: Ads Manager: Ads Designer: Photo Editors: Bookkeeper: Video Editors:

Ryan Gripon Drew Walker Adam Vencil Micah Wesley, Fallan Drago Austin Young Travis Hallett, Micheal Sosebee, Andy Holcomb, Jacob Lux

Reporters: Lauren Gillespie Stephanie Haechten Cassie Lee Taylor Long Albert Nkansah Ryan Owens Melissa Devitt Kirsty Reid Rebecca Rodriguez Kearston Rowe Allie Hinga Sarah Cisneros Nadia Ahmed Taylor Freudenberg Destinee Walker

PINION

A BRIEF

EWS

EDITORIAL:

Don’t Forget to Remember Me

Tori Wycoff In the past four years I have spent over 36 months, 1080 days, and 8640 hours in high school. I have had great experiences and some not-so-great ones. I have learned a lot, met a lot of people and overall, I have enjoyed it. I have made memories here at Creek that I will never forget and I do not regret one day of being here. First off, I should address grades and classes. I was so worried about every grade I got at the beginning of high school that I didn’t really learn anything. I just memorized what was needed to pass the test, and never applied anything to my life. This year, I have been able to relax slightly more in school, mainly because college applications are over, and I can really just learn. I had the opportunity to take some wonderful classes in high school and I learned so much from great teachers like Mrs. Cash and Dr. Fleming. Mrs. Cash was the first teacher that really pushed me academically but also cared so much for her students, her class is definitely the most memorable and I can still remember some random United States history facts. Dr. Fleming, on the other hand, teaches his students about life. Yes, we also do the regular AP Literature curriculum, but his interesting stories and passive voice readings make us excited to go to his class every day. Ms. Hintethank you for teaching us about more than just Art History and treating us like adults. Now on the sports track, I played volleyball for two years of high school and stayed involved with the team for my last two. I met a lot of girls because of the team and

Cory Stottlemyer Everybody’s first year of college is different. Lucky for me, mine was not too bad. Not everyone is as lucky as me however, and some people have everything in the world that could possibly go wrong happen to them. I have seen people crack and break down before my very own eyes because of the horrors that have struck them. Though sometimes-terrible things can happen without any warning and are completely unavoidable, a lot times I see people who bring trouble on themselves. When I see people that moan and groan about their failing grades or their depleting bank account, I struggle to fight back the desire to smack them on the back of the

those relationships are still very strong. I also became close with the coaches who were always someone on campus that was there to help me. Coach Garner, I will never forget our “mother-daughter” fun and Lockett, you always made me smile. Oh, and Coach Simonds, you know I will always be your favorite!! On top of the volleyball team, I was active in a lot of clubs. I am a PAL, a member of Student Council and YoungLife. These activities all allowed me to meet a lot of people and help out around my school and community. I loved all of the opportunities that being a PAL brought, such as convention and just meeting with my PALee’s every week. Ms. Collins, thanks for a great year! With all of those activities, I also stuck to my journalism roots by being in both yearbook and newspaper. Ms. J- thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak my mind as well as write about current topics; I couldn’t have graduated without you (literally). And Mrs. Strong, thank you for allowing me to be the OCD perfectionist I am and dealing with my sometimes overwhelming stress levels. Karalee, Jess, and Amy- thanks for being such great friends and editors in YB- our daily talks were great! In high school you will be surrounded by thousands of other students and I encourage you to meet as many as you can. I kept a lot of my friends that I had grown up with but also made so many new ones through activities and classes. I became friends with people who I never thought I would and now there is not one person in any of my classes that I do not know. There are so many interesting people to meet so get out

of your comfort zone and just meet someone. My brother encouraged me to meet one new person every day of high school and I pass that challenge on to Creek’s future graduating classes. The next big thing in high school is all of the sporting events. I will never forget that my senior year our football team beat Lake- way to go boys! Attending all of the games and matches was definitely a highlight of my year. From watching Steph and Haley wreck in volleyball (I love my HayJay- she’s a beast!), to seeing EJ, Jen and Allyson on that soccer field (I always screamed for y’all!) , and my boys Jereme and Andy on Wildcat Field, I was quite a sports fan. The farthest we went to support a team would definitely have to be Texas Relays though; we had to cheer on our track stars! And how could I possibly forget the Cavs, watching Kare and Kelsey dance at halftime always made me smile. School dances were also a lot of fun. There is nothing better than getting dressed up and walking into the gym, or Doyle Convention Center, or South Shore Harbour hotel and having a ball with your friends. From going to freshman year and senior year homecoming with Taylor (we go way back to like second grade), going to three Christmas dances (junior year had to be the best though, I mean we did plan it!), and two proms- I had a wonderful time at all! Now, as the class of 2007 leaves the halls (or covered, plastic-fence-lined walkways) of Creek, we can all look back on some great memories. We are all about to embark on a new adventure in life and for some of us that means college while others will head into the work force or

serve our country. I will be attending Vanderbilt University in the fall, but I will always look back on my days as a Wildcat with a smile. I will not ever be able to forget the times we shared here at Creek, not to mention all of the fun times I had with friends. Lauren and Audrey, thanks for being my best friends and I loved every minute we shared together. From New York City to wherever our senior trip takes us, y’all were always there for me- I love you both. Jamie, our zoo adventure was a blast with Jake the Snake; thanks for being like a sister to me. Jared, Tanner, and Rob, you guys made my years great by always being able to bring a smile to my face. Catherine, thanks for being my gym buddy- goodness knows I wouldn’t have gone without you. Lastly, thanks Melissa for always listening to me and being a friend. And as for all of you who will be coming back to the entirely new campus next year, I hope all of you have a great end to your high school lives and really get the most out of everything. Do all that you want to in high school because these four years will go back so quickly you can hardly fathom it. So Seniors, our time here is almost up. We have had four years of fun and now the future lays in front of us and we choose our own paths. When speaking about graduation, Tom Brokaw once said, “You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to the good life. Let me ask you to think of an alternative. Think of it as your ticket to change the world.” So now, class of 2007, let’s change the world!

head and scream “you brought this on yourself!” I am not trying to sound high and mighty here. I have made many mistakes this past year that many of my fellow freshmen make as well, and, by learning the hard way, I am able to warn you from bringing unwanted stress and frustration upon yourself. Grades appear to be top the list of things that students fail at controlling. It is true that college course-work is a lot different than what you have to do in high school. Though I took lots of courses my first semester, they were divided up during the week, and I found myself with plenty of free time during the day. I cannot tell you how many times I was tempted to slack off during my free time and do whatever I wanted. The liberating feeling of having the choice to do whatever you want is almost intoxicating. This ability to live your own life without dictations from others is a huge way to get into trouble. In college, there is nobody to tell you when to study, when to clean your room, or when to turn off the TV, get up off your lazy bum, and do something useful. It is very easy to fall into a bad routine of laziness and wasting time doing nothing. There were many days when, instead of working on a major paper or reading a textbook, I chose to go downtown or watch a movie with friends. I do not suggest this way of studying.

Studying becomes easier when I designate a certain amount of time during the day to do school work, with breaks every so often to either hang out with friends or just relax. When I feel swamped by my course work, it calms me down when I set out a schedule of what I am going to study and list everything I have to do. There is, however, a point where you can go too far with your studying habits, and it takes over your life. Yes, it is perfectly normal to sometimes spend a whole week doing nothing but schoolwork. It happens. It is possible to work too much though, and let me tell you, it’s not a fun thing to experience. The stress of feeling overwhelmed by my schoolwork usually happens when I fall and procrastinate. Trust me, college is not the time and place for procrastination. Aside from poor time management skills, people can suffer when their social life gets in the way of everything else. I know how most people view college: one giant party. I am not going to lie; at times this is exactly what college is. College students party, this is true, but I want you to know that it is ok not to. People will still be your friend if you stay in and refuse to follow the crowd in their experimentation of every vice under the sun. Partying is not always fun and games either. Tales flow through the halls of students getting in trouble with the law, getting expelled from the college, or

getting sent to the hospital because they were unable to control themselves or were too naïve to realize how far is too far. This past Halloween, two close friends of mine both had to be rushed to the hospital due to alcohol poisoning. One had nearly choked on his own vomit after he had lost all control of his bodily functions. The other became incredibly hysterical, almost killing her and the boy driving them home. She nearly jumped out the car in her state of incredible delusion as it drove down the highway, and at one time knocked the car into neutral while it was in motion. I know what you are thinking. I sound like a parent. Well, I have some incredibly cliché news for you: they are right. Pay attention to what you hear from those in positions of authority. Most of the time, they really do know what they are talking about and are trying to help you out. Believe when I say that college is a blast. I have never had a more fun time in my entire life. I have been able to meet some incredible people, and have grown as an individual in one year than I ever thought was possible. Simple things such as getting involved on campus and taking care of yourselves can greatly improve your post-high school experience. I wish you all the best of luck as you venture off into the future and experience life beyond the confines of Clear Creek High School.

Guest editorial: The inside scoop on college

Clear Creek HiLife

4 F O L I O

E NVIRONMENT

L I N E

ATTIC Do: Install a whole-house

fan to draw in cool air and force hot air out the attic vents. Use the fan in the evening after the temperature outside drops below 80 degrees Fahrenheit and in the early morning to reduce air conditioner use.

TOILET A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water a day. Do: Check for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If you have a leak, color will appear in the bowl within 15 minutes. Flush as soon as you’re done with this test to avoid staining the tank. Bigger picture: Two out of every 10 toilets leak on average in the United States Those two leakers can waste as much as 146,000 gallons of water a year. That’s enough water for a family of four to wash clothes in their washing machine for eight years. Consider axing your ol’ big-gun toilet, those pre-1994 models that use 3.5 to 7 gallons of water with every flush. Save: If all those pre1994 guzzlers were replaced with high-efficiency toilets (federal law now requires toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons a flush), the United States could save as much as 800 billion gallons of water a year. That’s the equivalent of 12 days of flow over Niagara Falls.

F O L I O

L I N E

M c C l a t c h y - Tr i b u n e

Energy-conscious tips help preserve the environment — and save money BY KAREN KLAGS Chicago Tribune

verywhere you turn these days, there go those buzzwords again: green, eco, organic, sustainable, renewable, alternative, recycled, reused. And it’s not just Al Gore and Whole Foods Market and Mother Earth News and a bunch of longhaired, tofu-loving guys wearing Birkenstocks and obsessed with Armageddon doing the talking. The conversation now has entered bastions of Middle America — places like Target, The Home Depot and WalMart Stores Inc., all of

which are making a major green push. Add to that an ever-growing buzz over global warming, carbon footprints, China’s thirst for oil, a nuclear renaissance and the plight of the polar bear. But what’s the average homeowner to do to make any sort of difference? The idea and the prospect of living in a more environmentally conscious way have, indeed, gone mainstream in the United States. But the reality of actually doing it in your neighborhood, in your home, in your garden and in the very cupboards of your existence is another thing.

HOME COMPUTER

Where does one begin? What’s worth the time and trouble? And does any one person/one family’s efforts really count? We dissected a house, looking for easy (but not always obvious) ways that homeowners can conserve energy and water — and money at the same time. And then, where we could, we extrapolated the numbers, showing exactly how many gallons and kilowatt hours and dollars could be saved with these minor lifestyle adjustments. The question, we discovered, is not whether any one person or one family’s behavior makes a difference but how much of a difference that is.

WINDOW SHADES

REFRIGERATOR

Do: Use drapes or blinds

Do: Replace an older

to reduce heat gain (in warm climates) and/or loss (in cold climates). Save: In warm climates, closing light-colored shades or blinds during the day can reduce your home’s solar gain by up to 50 percent, thus relieving some of the load on your air conditioning system. In cold climates, closing drapes or blinds at night reduces your home’s heat loss by about 5 percent.

refrigerator with a new, efficient one. Refrigerators made pre1993 use twice as much energy as the new ENERGY STAR-qualified models. Save: $45 to $65 a year in energy costs.

SODA CANS Do: Recycle. Save: Recycling one alu-

minum can saves enough energy to run a television or operate a computer for three hours.

DISH WASHING Do: Generally, it’s best to wash dishes in the dishwasher (preferably with full loads) than to do them by hand — and scrape rather than rinse plates before loading. Save: The average American dishwasher in use today consumes 8.7 gallons a load (the most current models use 4 to 8 gallons). Washing by hand for 10 minutes with the faucet running can use as much as 20 gallons of water. Filling the sink uses about 5 gallons or less — but that’s 5 gallons for washing, five for rinsing. Bigger picture: Some 42 million U.S. homes do not have a dishwasher. If all of those households used the fill-the-sink method instead of letting the tap run, Americans could save as much as 100 billion gallons of water annually.

LIGHTBULBS

WASHER AND DRYER Do: Wash only full

loads. Save: As much as 3,400 gallons of water a year.

Do: Turn up your (A/C)

$1,900 Amount the average American household spends annually on energy bills S O U R C E : W W W. E N E R G Y S TA R . G OV

Do: Use the “cold” setting (with a cold-water laundry detergent) or “warm” setting whenever possible. Heating water to “hot” accounts for 90 percent of the machine’s washing energy; only 10 percent goes to power the motor. Save: Switching to “cold” can save the average household more than $400 annually with an elec-

tric water heater, $300 annually with a gas heater. Do: If your dryer has a moisture sensor that turns the machine off automatically when clothes are dry, use it. Don’t: Do not over-dry laundry. Save: An electric dryer operating an extra 15 minutes a load can cost you up to $34 a year in wasted energy; a gas dryer, $21 a year. Do: Clean the lint trap before every load. Save: As much as $35 a year.

L AC E Y W O Z N Y / M C C L AT C H Y N E W S PA P E R S

Do: Replace five of your

AIR CONDITIONING thermostat by a mere 2 degrees in warm weather and turn on a ceiling fan. Save: A/C costs will be lowered by as much as 14 percent over the cooling season, with no sacrifice in your personal comfort. Turn off the fan when you leave the room, though. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms.

Do: Enable the power management feature in your desktop computer. (For Windows users, click on your Start button, click “Control panel,” then “Power options.” For Mac users, click the “System Preferences” icon in the dock, then “Energy Saver”) For an initial level of power savings, turn off the monitor after a designated time. For even more power savings, designate a time period for activating “System Standby” (Windows users) or “Sleep” (Mac users). With standby/sleep, your monitor, hard-drive and other internal parts will go into a low-power mode when you are away from your desk. Do: Get rid of your screen saver. It requires more energy to run those static images of your kids (on a constant basis) than it does to have your computer and monitor go into a low-power mode. Unlike 10 years ago, the screen saver does not extend the life of your monitor. Killing it could save you $50 to $100 on your electric bill over a year, depending on your equipment. And speaking of equipment, an LCD monitor not only saves space, it uses onethird the power of a CRT monitor.

most used incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (which use two-thirds less energy, generate 70 percent less heat and last up to10 times longer). Save: $25 to $65 a year in energy costs, depending on the wattage and how long you leave bulbs on. Bigger picture: If every American home did that, U.S. consumers would save as much as $6.5 billion a year in electricity costs and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to that from more than 8 million cars. Note: A small amount of mercury is sealed within the glass tubing of compact fluorescent light bulbs. Don’t throw them out with regular household trash if better options exist. For disposal guidelines: visit www.earth911.org and plug in your zip code; call 877-EARTH911 (877-327-84911); call your local waste management company; or visit www.lamprecycle. org. Some stores take back used CFLs.)

AIR FILTERS Do: Change the air filters

in your furnace regularly. Save: Up to 5 percent of heating costs.

S O U R C E S : E N E R G Y S TA R ; U . S . E N V I R O N M E N TA L P R O T E C T I O N A G E N C Y ; U . S . D E PA R T M E N T O F E N E R G Y ; W AT E R S E N S E ; N AT U R A L R E S O U R C E S D E F E N S E C O U N C I L / N O A H H O R O W I T Z , S E N I O R S C I E N T I S T ; C I T Y O F C H I C A G O D E PA R T M E N T O F T H E E N V I R O N M E N T ; N AT U R A L H O M E M A G A Z I N E ; P C M A G A Z I N E ; W AT E R W I S E R . O R G ; A B T E L E C T R O N I C S ; W W W. I L L I N O I S R E C Y C L E S . O R G ; C O M C A S T ; AT & T ; S M A R T- H O M E O W N E R . C O M ; C O N S U M E R E N E R G Y C E N T E R . O R G .

Clear Creek HiLife

GREEN HOME MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE

E NVIRONMENT

L I N E

F O L I O

L I N E

M c C l a t c h y - Tr i b u n e

Keeping it clean and green needn’t be intimidating BY ERIN WADE

RESOURCES

The Dallas Morning News

t’s a big world out there, and keeping it clean is a big task — sometimes too big, with our busy lives. That’s why that occasional soda bottle ends up in the garbage can instead of the recycling bin, and that box of packaged food seems like such a better deal than the locally grown, organic version. But, believe it or not, little things can make a big difference. So if you’re interested in going green, even just a little bit, don’t be intimidated. It’s not about judging, says Kate Macaulay, co-owner with Michael Johnson of Green Living in Lakewood, Texas. “One woman

For more information on going green, visit these sites: ● National Resources Defense Council Guides for Greener Living: www.nrdc.org/action/tips.asp ● U.S. Department of Energy’s consumer guide: www.eere. energy.gov/consumer/ ● U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Star program: www.energystar.gov/ ● U.S. Department of Agriculture National Organic Program: www. ams.usda.gov/nop

said she was scared to come into the store because she drives an SUV,” Macaulay says. “But we’re

● You get your coffee from Starbucks.

The company may be super-corporate, but they offer Fair Trade coffees, which ensure that coffee farmers are paid a fair price, and invest in social programs in coffee-growing communities. If you prefer supporting nonchain coffee shops, ask them to offer Fair Trade selections. ● You download music to an MP3 player. Have you

stopped buying CDs? You’re already cutting waste.

● You buy or sell on eBay. You get rid of

MCT

stuff you don’t need without trashing it, and you reduce the amount of packaging used to make new products.

● You don’t rinse before putting dishes in the dishwasher. Consumer Reports tests

show rinsing first doesn’t improve cleaning. By skipping this step, you’ll save up to 20 gallons of water per load, or 6,500 gallons per year.

GREEN GLOSSARY Being “green” means being aware of your responsibility to the environment and to the community. Here are other common green terms and their meanings: ● Organic: Organic food is produced by farmers who place an emphasis on renewable resources and soil and water conservation, and use minimal pesticides as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. The term “organic” must be certified by the USDA. Visit www.ams.usda.gov/ nop for more information. ● Fair Trade: Fair Trade helps family farmers in developing countries gain direct access to international markets, allowing them to compete fairly and receive a fair price. This also deters cost-cutting practices that diminish

just happy she came in.” Going green doesn’t make your life more complicated; it’s about simplifying. By making small changes you can save water and electricity, live healthier and help protect the environment. Macaulay and Johnson learned a lot about simplicity when they lived overseas. “We’d see people live more simply, and to them it’s a way of life,” Macaulay says. Johnson had a pair of shoes with holes in the bottom and threw them in the trash, thinking they were useless. But a woman who cared for their home asked if she could have them. “It’s about finding a use for everything,” Macaulay says. “We wanted to apply what we learned when we

came home and try to influence others.” We talked with them about simple, low-cost eco-changes that can make a big impact. You can build your eco-conscience gradually, and learn to love how easy it is — and how good it feels — to go green.

quality. Look for the fair trade certification on products, and visit www.transfairusa.org for information. ● Shade grown: If you buy Fair Trade certified coffee, tea and chocolate, it is usually shade-grown. This means that the products you buy provide shelter for migratory birds and help reduce global warming. ● Sustainable: A method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged. ● Biodegradable: The product has the ability to break down, safely and relatively quickly, by biological means, into raw materials of nature and disappear into the environment.

TAKE IT BACK We can’t all be green all the time, but there are ways to offset the damage we do. TerraPass (www.terrapass. com) helps reverse the global warming impact of your car’s CO2 emissions. You pay a certain amount a year ($29.95 for a hybrid, $49.95 for a standard size vehicle, $79.95 for an SUV), which helps fund clean energy projects that reduce industrial carbon dioxide emissions. You even get a windshield sticker to show others your do-gooder side.

WHAT’S YOUR IMPACT? Visit www.myfootprint.org and fill in your information, such as ZIP code. The site does the calculations to tell you how big an ecological footprint you’re leaving on the Earth. In other words, how many acres of land are you using up? The results may surprise you.

KITCHEN OLD WAY: Using your stove or oven to cook small amounts of food NEW WAY: Opting for your microwave or toaster oven WHY? Microwaves and toasters generate less heat than stoves or ovens, so you can save energy and air conditioning costs in the summer. COST: Using the microwave or toaster oven to reheat small portions reduces the amount of cooking energy up to 80 percent.

C O U RT E S Y O F G E N E R A L E L E C T R I C

LAUNDRY ROOM OLD WAY: Regular laundry detergent NEW WAY: Green laundry detergent WHY? Most regular detergents are petroleum-based and contain chemicals that are discharged into our water system, which can harm aquatic life. Green detergents such as Seventh Generation and Ecover are nontoxic and made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, saving oil for other uses. COST: Green detergents also use fewer fillers, so you don’t need to use as much per load of laundry, Macaulay says. Select mass-merchandisers carry a selection of green cleaning products.

C O U RT E S Y O F S E V E N T H G E N E R AT I O N

F O L I O

LIVING ROOM OLD WAY: Incandescent light bulbs NEW WAY: Compact fluorescent light bulbs WHY? According to Energy Star, a government-backed program that helps people protect the environment through energy efficiency, compact fluorescent light bulbs use 66 percent less energy than a standard incandescent bulb and last up to 10 times longer. They also are cooler to the touch. COST: Replacing a 100-watt incandescent with a 23-watt compact fluorescent bulb can save you about $20 in energy costs over about three years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

OLD WAY: Running your faucet while you wash the dishes NEW WAY: Installing an aerator WHY? Aerators mix air into water, which cuts water flow and reduces splashing. However, using an aerator won’t deprive you of MCT strong water pressure. COST: Aerators can cost as little as $2, and they reduce water flow from the faucet to 1.5 gallons per minute, cutting water usage by about 50 percent. You can find aerators at your home supply store and online.

GARDEN

COURTESY OF I N T E R B AT H I N C .

BATHROOM OLD WAY: Regular showerhead NEW WAY: Low-flow showerhead WHY? Showers account for 32 percent of home water use, according to the National Resources Defense Council. Low-flow showerheads (similar to faucet aerators) deliver no more than 2.5 gallons per minute compared to standard showerheads, which release about 4.5 gallons per minute. COST: A family of four using low-flow showerheads can save about 20,000 gallons of water a year, according to the council.

EARTH DAY MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE

OLD WAY: Gas lawnmower NEW WAY: Push lawnmower WHY? Push lawnmowers aren’t new, but they’re healthier for you and the environment. You don’t have to buy gas, you get more exercise, and you don’t pollute the air or your lungs. COST: A push mower is available at Target, Home Depot and elsewhere for about $90, while gas lawnmowers cost about $200 to $400 (not including gas).

ALLISON LONG/MCT

COURTESY OF NASA

MCT

OFFICE OLD WAY: Pay bills by mail NEW WAY: Pay bills electronically WHY? It saves paper. There’s no need to be wary of doing your business online, say experts at Symantec, manufacturer of Internet security and anti-virus software. The risk is minimal if you keep your software updated. “You shouldn’t be overly concerned,” says Symantec’s Bill Rosenkrantz. “Most banks are protecting themselves better, too.” COST: You’ll save on stamps and on time spent hunched over the shredder.

Clear Creek HiLife

6 F O L I O

NEWS

L I N E

F O L I O

L I N E

M c C l a t c h y - Tr i b u n e

STRANGE SHAPES

Test your knowledge of where we’ve come from — and where we’re going

BY ALFRED BORCOVER

ANIMAL TRAVELS

Chicago Tribune

Through the ages, people — and animals — have been on the move. The great migrations out of Africa tens of thousands of years ago brought humans to Asia and Europe, Australia and the Americas. From the 17th to 19th centuries, slave traders brought 10 million to 15 million Africans into the Western Hemisphere. Between 1860 and 1920, more than 30 million people migrated from Europe to the United States, cited as the largest migration of human beings ever seen. The National Geographic Society’s Geography Action! is an annual K-12 conservation and awareness program. Part of this program, launched in 1987 to promote geography literacy in schools, is Geography Awareness Week, the third week of November. To celebrate National Geographic’s efforts, we’re offering this Geography Challenge. This is not a pass-fail test. There are no prizes. If you learn one new thing, think of yourself as a winner.

7. Whooping cranes

Match the animal with its migration route: 1. _____ 2. _____ 3. _____ 4. _____ 5. _____ 6. _____ 7. _____

_____

1. Arctic terns

2. Swallows

6. Monarch butterflies

On a globe, up and down is just a matter of perception. Name these states, provinces and countries that we’ve taken for a spin.

A. B. 3. Snakes

(35 species)

5. Gray whales 4. Wildebeests

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y P H I L G E I B / K R T

GLOBAL VIEWS

MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. To visit the ruins of Petra,

6. Which island nation in

2. If you were able to compare the bustling Ho Chi Minh City to the rural paddy farms of the Mekong River Delta, you would be in what country?

_______________________________ 7. What country lies between Nicaragua and Panama?

you would have to travel to what the Indian Ocean produces country? almost 10 percent of the world’s _______________________________ tea?

_______________________________ 3. The Masai Mara Nature Reserve is in which African nation? _______________________________ 4. According to the 2000 census, nearly 30 percent of foreign-born residents of the U.S. are from what country?

_______________________________ 8. The ruins of Persepolis, an ancient ceremonial capital of Persia, are located in which present-day country? _______________________________ 9. In 1801, an Act of Union created the United Kingdom by joining Great Britain and which other island?

_______________________________ 5. What mineral resource is Chile’s main export?

_______________________________ 10. Bangalore is a center of high-technology industries in which Asian country?

_______________________________

1. The Java Sea is

surrounded by islands of what country? A. Malaysia. B. Indonesia. C. Micronesia. 2. What country on the Gulf of Honduras was formerly known as British Honduras? A. Guatemala. B. Costa Rica. C. Belize. 3. In which Canadian province do most people speak French? A. Quebec. B. Nova Scotia. C. Alberta. 4. Which country does not border the Mediterranean Sea? A. Italy. B. Greece. C. Austria.

5. Which state is

known as the Keystone State because of its central position among the original 13 colonies? A. New York. B. Pennsylvania. C. New Jersey. 6. To explore St.

PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

8. To see Chimney

Rock, an important landmark for pioneers traveling on the Oregon Trail, you would have to visit which state? A. Nebraska. B. Idaho. C. Oregon.

Augustine, the oldest existing European settlement in the U.S., you would travel to which state? A. New Mexico. B. Georgia. C. Florida.

9. Which continent is the world’s largest producer of gold? A. Asia. B. Australia. C. Africa.

7. To relax in a ther-

quivir River flows through Andalusia, a farming region in what country? A. Spain. B. Portugal. C. San Marino.

mal spa near Lake Balaton, you would go to what country? A. Romania. B. Bulgaria. C. Hungary.

10. The Guadal-

THE REAL THINGS

Here are the answers to the 2005 Geography Challenge. There’s no official scoring; you win by playing. (Added information in parentheses is not part of the required answer.)

Animal travels 1. B (New England/Greenland/

7. 3.

TO M VA N DY K E / K R T

describe the side of a mountain that faces the prevailing winds? _______________________________ 2. What do you call a highspeed west-to-east wind current that flows in narrow corridors within upper-air westerlies? _______________________________ 3. What word describes a large, natural accumulation of ice that spreads outward on the land or moves slowly down a slope? _______________________________ 4. What is the term used for the native grasslands that cover the Great Plains of the central U.S.? _______________________________ 5. What is the time of year when all latitudes have 12 hours of daylight and darkness, and the sun is directly overhead at the equator? _______________________________

6. What Norwegian word is used for a narrow, steep-sided inlet of the sea that was carved by a glacier? _______________________________ 7. What’s the term used for the artificial watering of farmland? _______________________________ 8. What do you call the movement of people across a specified boundary for the purpose of establishing a new place of residence? _______________________________ 9. What term is used for a narrow strip of land that connects two larger landmasses? _______________________________ 10. What do you call latitude 23 degrees 30 minutes south, the farthest southerly excursion of the sun when it is directly overhead? _______________________________

ANSWERS

Name the country or language behind these famous labels:

1. What word is used to

Physical geography 1. Windward. 2. Jet stream. 3. Glacier. 4. Prairie. 5. Equinoxes (vernal equinox

Arctic to Antarctica). 2. D (South America to San Juan Capistrano, Calif., and other locations). 3. G (Shawnee National Forest, Ill.). 4. A (East Africa). 5. E (Mexico to Alaska). 6. F (U.S. to Mexico). 7. C (Wisconsin to Florida).

in spring, autumnal equinox in fall). 6. Fiord (sometimes spelled fjord). 7. Irrigation. 8. Migration. 9. Isthmus. 10. Tropic of Capricorn (the Earth’s axis varies over time, so the exact latitude varies slightly from 23 degrees 30 minutes).

Global views 1. Jordan. 2. Vietnam. 3. Kenya. 4. Mexico. 5. Copper. 6. Sri Lanka. 7. Costa Rica. 8. Iran. 9. Ireland. 10. India.

The real things 1. China. 2. Israel. 3. Thailand. 4. Japan. 5. Malaysia. 6. Arabic. 7. Korea. 8. Bulgaria.

1. ____________ 2. _____________ 3. ____________ 4. _____________ 5. _____________ 6. ____________ 7. ____________ 8. ____________

Clear Creek HiLife GEOCHALLENGE — ORIGINALLY POSTED NOV. 2005 MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE

Multiple choice 1. B. 2. C. 3. A. 4. C. 5. B. 6. C. 7. C. 8. A. 9. C. 10. A.

Answers: 1. Ontario. 2. Ukraine. 3. Arizona. 4. New Zealand. 5. Peru. 6. Israel. 7.Thailand.8. Iceland.

N EWS

Summertime Health: Fending Off Laziness and Boredom Destinee Walker

As the school year is coming to close, our three-month vacation is just around the corner. Many teenagers have a hard time staying active during the summer, and even if they plan on keeping ft, most of them don’t really don’t know what to do without a coach’s assistance and/or team motivation. Too often summer is spent in front of the television, or computer screen, eating greasy chips and drinking soda for hours at a time. Soon, the hours turn to days and before you know it summer is over and you haven’t worked out in three months. That doesn’t sound so bad until try-outs come around and you’ve never felt, or performed worse. The best thing to do is to try not to think of working out as a burden, but instead think of it as a time to be more creative with your exercise.

Want to stay in shape this summer but you’re not the outdoorsmen? Try something like pilates, kickboxing, yoga, treadmills, indoor gyms, or something as simple as crunches while you’re watching TV. Most

people make the mistake of slacking off for a while and then trying to work out as hard as they did before. This is hard on your body as well as your confidence when you soon find you can’t do a fourth of what you use to be able to do. Start slow, or better yet don’t stop at all.

If you find yourself in this situation cut your previous exercise in half and work your way back up from there. It may seem too easy at first, but it’s better to be too easy and rebuild your strength then to

over exert yourself and end up with an injury. It’s hard to stay in shape when you’re unable to exercise at all. Most of the time summer is thought to be as a time to rest from the stress of the school year. This almost always has the opposite effect. Too

Art car parade drives through Houston Art Car Parade The Houston Art Car Weekend, a radical live action pop art exhibit on wheels, rolls into town for its 20th anniversary this month. On May 11th through the 13th over 200,000 people will flock to Allen Parkway and the surrounding area to be part of the country’s oldest art car event. The origins of this weekend date back to 1984. A 1967 Ford station wagon was donated by Kit and Carl Detering to be auctioned off at the Orange Show Foundation’s annual Gala benefit. Jackie Harris, a local Houston artist, was given the opportunity to transform the station wagon into a mobile work of art. With a budget of $800 for painting supplies and plastic fruit, the “Fruitmobile” was born. The group of six who originally purchased the car at the gala donated it back to the foundation after its full transformation. That same year, Ann Harithas opened an exhibit at the Lawndale Art Center called “Colllision”. This exhibit featured two art cars. The ball was set in motion for fast growing phenomenon.

In 1987, after a few years of unofficial art car rallies. The Houston International Festival urged the Orange Show to make the Art Car Parade a reality. In April of 1988 40 cars rolled down the street with over 2,000 viewers. By the next year participation doubled and crowd size grew by tens of thousands. The Art Car Parade began to turn heads all over the nation after 1989 participant, Harrod Blank from California, documented his experiences in Houston. Soon after art cars by the thousands poured into Houston for a spot in the parade. The 2007 Art Car Weekend kicks off with the Friday Main Street Drag starting at 9am and running through 2pm. During this event, seven separate groups of art cars leave from the Houston Zoo to go out and see over 30,000 people who may not be able to get out to see the art cars. There are organized stops at 32 schools, hospitals and community centers. Saturday is the long awaited parade day. Starting at 9 am, the art cars begin lining up on Allen Parkway, between Taft and

Shepard. Anyone interested is extended a open invitation to come see the art cars up close and personal and meet their creators. It is estimated that there will be over 250 entries from 23 states and Canada. There will be a live audience of over 200,00 and an audience of over 225,000 sitting in the comfort of their home. The parade will kick off at 1pm. Anything on wheels and decked out to the drivers wishes is allowed to participate. Past vehicle entries have included cars, bicycles, unicycles, lawnmowers and wagons. Any person can be an art car artist. Just as many art cars are made by the general public as they are by recognized artists. Regular participants come from community organizations and even schools in the public and private sector. On Sunday the Art Car Awards Ceremony will take place at the Orange Show Monument form 11am-3pm. At this event cash prizes totaling $10,000 are awarded in several categories to deserving participants.

much rest can equal no energy at all. Energy is gained through exercise, eating healthy, and getting the right amount of rest. Energy drinks, junk food, and sleeping until noon will achieve the opposite effect. Exercising doesn’t have to be a major, planned out, dreaded occasion. Lying out by the pool? Jump in and swim a few laps. Driving to a friend’s house down the street? Ride your bike, skateboard, or if you’re really feeling dedicated, jog. Changing small things in your everyday routine helps your fitness level more then you would think. Take the stairs not the elevator, don’t super size your fast food order, and make time for exercise. Three days a week is ideal, more is even better. Don’t stay idle for too long this summer. Keep moving and you’ll find yourself feeling energized and ready to take on the new school year before you know it.

Creek’s New Principal COUNTINUED FROM PAGE 1

CCHS principal, he remembered his high school days and recalled how much fun it was to work with older kids. “Mr. Bockart is known for his strong relationships with teachers, students and parents, Scott’s thoughtful leadership makes him a perfect match for Clear Creek High School,” Assistant Superintendent Alex Torrez said. Creek students should look forward to great years with Mr. Bockart at the helm of the school and it is finally possible to say that there is a full-time principal on staff at Creek. “I am excited about working with the faculty, students, and community to continue the great history and traditions of CCHS. We will continue to strive for excellence and success for all of our students each and every day,” said Bockart.

Headphones causing hearing loss among avid music lovers Nadia Ahmed

On today’s high school campus, it has become nearly impossible to find a student’s purse, pocket, or backpack without some type of music playing device in it. Buses, hallways, and even classrooms buzz with murmurs and snatches of songs. However, many audiologists are now saying that ear bud headphones and music devices with extensive volume capabilities can cause long term hearing loss. The human body hears because of about 15,000 tiny hairs on the inside of the ears. They transmit sounds to the brain where they are then interpreted. Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is caused by the damage of these hairs due to extensive exposure to loud sounds. Earbuds, popular with iPods and mp3 players, direct music directly into the ear canal, causing quicker and even more direct damage than other types of headphones.

Clear Creek HiLife

All sound can be measured on a scale of units called decibels (db). Normal conversation is measured at about 60-70 db and a power saw at 110 db. Unfortunately, most music players in the United States have a maximum volume of or over 120 db with hearing loss beginning at about 85 db. Why then, do so many students choose to crank up the volume so loudly that it can clearly be heard across the room? Well, today’s digital technology cuts back on the distortion of loud music, giving songs a higher level of quality. With this development, it is nearly impossible to resist losing oneself in favorite songs. Teens also find that music helps them through classes and long hours of studying. “It helps me concentrate,” says one student. Also, many students are annoyed by background noise especially in the bus or cafeteria. A higher volume is needed to drown out all the excess noise. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be, at least partially, dealt with.

Background sounds can be managed with noise-canceling ear buds. Headphones that cover the ears are a cheaper but not as effective option. A current patent-pending development is the iHearSafe earbuds that do not allow volume over 80 db no matter how high the volume is turned. For the most part, parents find these a great help for their younger children, but not very effective in teenagers. There are also some simple lowtech remedies that work well. Just being conscious of the volume on an iPod is a step in the right direction. A good rule of thumb is if the person next to you can hear the music, it’s too loud. Taking some time for silence during day can be calming for a stressed mind as well as healthy for exhausted ears. In fact, researchers at the Harvard University- affiliated Children’s Hospital Boston say that no more than an hour of music at 60 percent of the

maximum volume is safe. Also, try to avoid any environments with excessive noise such as health clubs that blast music during classes or long concerts. If such places are unavoidable, hi-fi (high- fidelity) earplugs are a good idea. Noise induced hearing loss is an important issue for this generation. Even Pete Townsend of the popular rock band The Who wrote on his online blog that many years of listening to loud music through headphones has damaged his hearing. For most teens that love music, it is not too late to spare their ears some serious trauma without giving up their headphones entirely.

Clear Creek HiLife

C REEK C LUBS

Red Cross Club If you want to give back to the community while still having fun, the Red Cross Club is the club for you. Every other Wednesday from 2:40 to 3:00 in room P-45 the Red Cross Club meets to talk about helping the neighborhood and upcoming volunteer opportunities.

Muslim Student Association The MSA, or the Muslim Student Association, members meet every Friday at the Main Campus library. During the meetings the MSA members discuss club programs, community service projects, school events and activities, and club fundraising. The MSA club invites any Clear Creek student who wants to be involved.

Invisible Children Club Although the Invisible children Club had a late start the members have taken and ran with the idea of giving kids of Pabbo Secondary School (in Northern Uganda) a valued education. They club has planned a car wash, a bake sale, and Uganda Fest. The top fundraising school of Schools for Schools will have a chance to visit Uganda and see the school that they worked so hard to build on the other side of the world. Meetings are held every Wednesday from 2:45 to 3:30 in room N227. With the help of the kids at Clear Creek High School children from Pabbo Secondary School will get an education.

Attention Club Sponsors If you do not see your club here, or you would like the Hilife paper to feature more information about on this page, contact the page editor at bmurphy_hilife@yahoo.com, and we will do the best we can to feature your club in our next issue of the paper. Thank you.

Quiz Bowl Quiz bowl is a new club at the high school. Next year, the club plans to compete in regional academic contests, but right now they are preparing for next year. The club usually meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, but meeting dates are subject to change. The club is open only by invitation; if you are interested in joining however, contact the club’s president Haotian Xu, at haotianx@gmail.com for more information.

Anime Club The Anime club is a Japanese oriented club that discusses Japanese life style and watches new and action filled anime made in Japan. The Anime Club holds its meetings on Fridays in P-11 from 2:304:00. When you walk in you are greeted with a bag of popcorn and a smile. Sometimes The President, Kitty, teaches the club Japanese or talks about up and coming club conventions. The Anime club has been at Clear Creek for four years now and is still strong in members and in staff.

Auxilio! A special thanks to all of the Spanish V students that took out their personal time to help with the club. Wish them the best of luck, as they will soon be going to take their AP tests in May. Auxilio will be available through the month of April for student Spanish help Mondays and Wednesdays in Mrs. Rodery’s room T-11. Mrs. Rodery encourages the auxilio students to go to their teachers for tutorials, help is always available.

National Technical Honor Society National Technical Honor Society joined HOSA for the Relay for Life benefit on April 13. The Club raised over $600 for the American Cancer Society. In May, officers for the 20072008 school year will be elected. National Technical Honor Society meets on the second Friday of every month in room B125.

Clear Creek HiLife

French Club The French club offers students a chance to experience the French culture in a way they might not otherwise. Students don’t even need to be enrolled in French to join this club. All that is required is an interest in France and the lives of the people who live there. For more information about this club and where and when it meets, contact Mrs. St. Pierre, the club sponsor.

National Honor Society Congratulations to all of the new members that were inducted in the ceremony on April 9 2007. May they continue to serve the community and Clear Creek High School as all of their predecessors have. A special thanks to Mrs. McNatt and NHS president LuLu Chang and all of the NHS officers for coordinating all of the activities this year, including the induction ceremony. For more information about the club visit Mrs. McNatt in room P-05.

C.L.E.A.R The C.L.E.A.R club is continuing to establish news ways of preventing the use of drugs and alcohol among high school students. While attending the community summit at NASA Gilruth Center in late March, the C.L.E.A.R club members in the CCISD district devised new and improved ways to prevent underage drinking and the use of drugs after gradating high school and the beginning years of college. Also, in late May the C.L.E.A.R club will be continuing their plans of sponsoring a no drug and alcohol end of the year party. Come and join the C.L.E.A.R club. Meetings are every other Thursday at the ninth grade center in room N119.

IVERSIONS D Comics crossword

Fun Facts The average human will eat about 110,000 pounds of food in their lifetime.

In the USA, 13 people die each year from vending machines falling on them.

Elephants are the only animals that can’t jump.

In 1969, Apollo I took the first man to the moon. The steering system was less advanced than calculators today.

Marilyn Monroe had six toes on her left foot.

The largest exporter of camels in the western world is Norway.

Charlie Chaplin competed in a Charlie Chaplin lookalike contest and won third place.

When you are using the keyboard, your left hand does 56% of the typing.

Not only is a tiger’s fur striped, but it’s skin is as well.

During the second world war, Queen Elizabeth II studied to be a car mechanic.

Pure gold is so soft that you can shape it with your hands.

Cleopatra could speak 13 languages.

Clear Creek HiLife

Get Inv

Becoming Active

High school can be an exciting time to many, a nightmare to some, and a challenge to most. Not only do students strive to understand their studies, but they also progress in high school seeking themselves. Many fear the problem of not fitting in or not being accepted by certain people. However, this fear makes teenage students afraid to cross the line to meet new people and become active in other activities. By trying new activities and meeting new people, teens could learn something new and take one step closer to finding themselves. Do not be afraid to get involved and miss out on an exciting experience:

Dos

2. Remember namesby remembering another persons name, it shows that they are important enough to remember. Making someone feel important creates a bond between 3. Talk about interests- no one wants to be in a boring conversation. Talk about shared interests that both can talk about. Conversations are not fun if the other person cannot relate or be involved. Do not be the only talker, listen to the other person and REMEMBER what they are talking about!

1. Do not be afraid- many people miss out on the opportunity of meeting others because they feel too childish to introduce themselves to someone else. However, by introducing yourself without fear, it shows confidence to other classmates. Self confidence may be intimidating or may be used to a good advantage when meeting someone new. This could break the awkwardness of the introduction.

4. Keep the conversation going. A good way not to end a conversation is to ask questions. By doing this, one conversation will lead to another topic.

5. Ask about them- get to know the person. By asking questions about the person, one can get to know who that person is. Personality is the key to being friends. One can relate to the other person by knowing their background and their personality. This gives the other person a chance to express themselves.

MIX IT UP! Clear Creek HiLife

volved! people Many do not know how friend keep to relationships going or lose themselves in the process. High school is the most likely place to become a victim of peer pressure.

1. Don’t be afraid to talk- say, “hey” to the other person during school. If one just ignores the other, the relationship is bound to decrease. This will also prove the importance of knowing who that person is.

111

Don’ts

Be Yourself

3. Don’t become concededplace both yourself and the friends at the same level. If one puts them above the other, they will probably stop interacting. No one wants to be looked down on.

4. Do not forget other friends in the process- High school can be tough juggling school, family, and friends. However, find time for all and do not forget old friends. Anything can happen, so don’t let high school come between friends.

2. Do not give in- don’t let peer pressure affect your choices. If you do not want to do something, do not do it just to fit in. Most likely, if one has to prove themselves to another, they are not going to be a good

Bring down the walls! Clear Creek HiLife

CREEK S PEAKS

Creek students to visit China during the summer Nadia Ahmed & Allie Hinga This summer, on June 3, five students in the Chinese language classes will leave for a trip to China. On the trip, they will visit Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, where they will experience Chinese culture and immerse themselves in the language they have been learning for several years. The trip is sponsored by the Education Forum for Asia, an organization aiming to establish platforms for dialogue about issues in China and to increase mutual understanding among countries through cultural and academic exchanges. Ms. Wang, the Chinese teacher at Clear Creek, will be one of the chaperones on the trip, which will cost $2460. The experience will last nine days, and the students will return on June 12. The purpose of the trip will be to

provide students with a program that will allow them to experience the Chinese culture, and encourage them to learn and experience what the country is all about. Ms. Wang hopes that this exchange will allow for better cooperation and understanding between two very different countries, and will give students a chance to apply the Mandarin Chinese language. In hopes of achieving these goals, the students will “visit schools and have some interactive activities with Chinese students and teachers,” said Ms. Wang. In addition, there is a chance that Chinese media will cover the visit because of its educational and cultural aspects, and how it will bridge the gap across cultural boundaries. After a flight about 20 hours long, the group will arrive in Beijing, China’s capital. There, the students will visit the stadium that will be the main site of the

track and field events at the 2008 Summer Olympics. The next day, they will visit Tian’an’men Square, the largest public square in the world. They will also tour the Forbidden City, known to be the bestpreserved ancient imperial architectural complex in the world. Their afternoon that day will be spent at the Summer Palace, Beijing’s widest royal garden. The fourth day of the students’ trip will visit the Great Wall, 4,163 miles long and originally built to keep invaders out of ancient China. The next day, the group will take a two-hour plane trip to visit Xi’an, China’s oldest city. Over the next few days, the students will go sightseeing in Xi’an, visiting the famous city walls, and the Forest of Steles Museum. They will also see the eighth wonder of the world: the Terracotta Warriors. They will see the tomb of, China’s first emperor, and will personally

visit Huaqing Pools, the former bathing springs of Lady Yang Gui Fei. The next stop of the trip will be in Shanghai, which Ms. Wang calls “the heaven of shopping.” There, the City Temple Bazaar offers many exciting shops selling everything, ancient and modern. Afterward, the students will visit The Eastern Bright Pearl Broadcast Television Tower, the highest TV tower in Asia, and on the eighth day of their trip, the students will board a plane to take them home. Upon their return, Ms. Wang plans for them to share their experiences with the school and community through a project which she hints may include creating an interesting and informative website and research papers. Hopefully, the students will be able to achieve this in such a way that will give those who hear them a taste of the cultural experience they received.

National Honor Society Creek senior enters race inducts its new members for school board position

of the new members and of all of their multiple achievements. She also spoke of On Monday April 9 2007 The Clear Creek her past and asked the students to follow Chapter of the National Honor Society their dreams, and that anything is welcomed a large group of new members in possible for them as long as they try. an induction ceremony in the high school’s It is also customary for the head auditorium. The new members, a majority principal to attend the ceremony, and of who were sophomores, have spent the congratulate the new members. Due to past semester going through a rigorous the transition between his old job, and his application process, and struggling to get new job; new head principal Scott Bockart the required amount of community service. was not able to attend. Instead, Associate National Honor Society members are Principal Jamey Majewski was also present considered to be the best of the school at the induction ceremony to congratulate they represent. Members must the organization’s new members, maintain at least a 4.0 grade however he did no speak. point average, be involved in After the ceremony, new at least one extra-curricular inductees and their honored guests activity, and have to have at were invited to the auditorium least 10 hours of community to enjoy free refreshments. service upon application. The Now that the new members applicant increases their chance have been inducted, they will for membership if he or she has quickly have to prove that they received awards in any of the are worthy of membership. New activities they are involved in. members are required to attend Once the applicants have turned meetings every other week, NHS in their bid for new membership, and are expected to uphold the torch, seal, the applications flow through the same principles and standards and logo different ranks of the NHS officers as other members. They are also courtesy of and through the NHS sponsor, encouraged to participate in group Mrs. Joan Mrs. Joan McNatt, until only those community service projects, as Mcnatt. that are the most qualified remain. well as find community service According to Mrs. McNatt, the group projects of their own to participate in. sponsor, the National Honor Society is New members are also required to gain older than any other in the League City a certain number of points, represented by area. The first chapter was chartered the meetings they attend, the community before Clear Creek High School even service projects that they participate in, existed at the district’s original high and other donations of service to the school in Webster, and every year since organization. These points are required for then new members have been inducted in members to graduate their senior year with a formal candle-lighting ceremony. Each NHS honors. Members are also required year at the induction ceremony the current to uphold a steady amount of points for NHS officers speak and educate the new their respective grade levels in order to members and the audience on the four major keep active membership. Those who do principles of the organization: scholarship, not attain their required number of points leadership, service, and character. For each will be dismissed from the organization. principle an officer lights a candle. The The application process may be candle-lighting ceremony is traditional rigorous, the standards, tough to uphold. in all honor societies across the country. But the deeply entrenched traditions Another tradition is to have a guest of the National Honor society make speaker. This year, physics teacher Mrs. the process of induction and the hard Martha Bosworth spoke to the new work for membership all worthwhile. members. She spoke of the endurance Bobby Murphy

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Bobby Murphy

For only the second time in the history of CCISD a student has announced her bid for a position on the school board. Senior Mary Brown announced her bid late last month for the at-large position B on the school board, which manages affairs throughout the district. Her name will appear on the ballot of the May 5 municipal elections. She will be facing long time Clear Lake resident Ann Hammond in the only competing race for a school board spot. Until just recently, Brown said that she had no intention to run for the school board position, but after a number of kids in her government class began asking questions about the school policies that were being imposed, Mary Brown asked the one that no one had thought of. “How do I change the policy?” her government teacher answered “Run for the school board,” so Mary Brown did just that, filing the necessary paperwork and making her candidacy official. Brown is second in command of the school’s JROTC program, and she has a GPA that is considered by many colleges to be above average. She has also lived in the League City area for over ten years, and works as a tram tour guide at Johnson Space Center, making for a prestigious resume. Brown said that the election would not

affect her social life or her future. “My social life has only been affected by the increased number of handshakes that I give each day,” said Brown. She reiterated in an interview that her graduation would come before her race, and that should she win the election she would easily be able to fulfill the duties of her position, and at the same time pursue her culinary arts degree at San Jacinto College. Brown plans to be a wedding planner in the future, after the elections are over and she has the chance to go to college. There are more things on the mind of Mary Brown though than simply winning the election. Brown said that one of her main reasons for campaign was to encourage more people to vote. “I have been handing around voter registration cards, [and] I’ve really been spreading the word around to the senior class” said Brown. With voter registration at new low, Brown hopes that here bid for election will increase the number of younger voters, even if they are not voting for her. Mary Brown’s candidacy is bold and innovative. If she wins her election she will be the youngest person ever to serve on the board of trustees. We all wish her the best of luck.

Congratulations to Clear Creek’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian

LuLu Cheng Valedictorian

Laura Gordon Salutatorian

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14 F O L I O

L I N E

FEATURES F O L I O

L I N E

M c C l a t c h y - Tr i b u n e

Prepare for the latest big-screen adventure of everyone’s favorite masked superhero

THE STORY SO FAR ...

While on a field trip, high school loser Peter Parker is bitten by a genetically altered spider giving him amazing powers. While at a wrestling match, he lets a burglar escape who kills his Uncle Ben. Wracked with guilt, he becomes Spider-Man and vows to protect the innocent. Meanwhile Norman Osborn becomes the Green Goblin, above, in an accident that leaves him with superhuman strength but causes him to go insane. He asks Spider-Man to join him in taking over the city, and vows to destroy him when he refuses. The Green Goblin kills himself while trying to kill Spider-Man, though Harry, Norman’s son and Peter’s best friend, walks in on Spider-Man delivering Norman’s body home. Harry swears revenge on Spider-Man. Peter denies Mary Jane’s affection out of fear that those who hate Spider-Man will hurt those he loves.

Peter’s life is falling apart. The city is against him, his best friend wants to kill him, the girl he loves is marrying somebody else. He finds that his powers begin to desert him as he struggles with balancing his personal life with his superhero life. Dr. Otto Octavius, below, in an explosion, has four arms grafted to his body which take over his mind. He goes on a crime spree to get enough money to rebuild the very machine that left him deformed. Parker regains his powers after Mary Jane is kidnapped, and defeats Doc Ock, but not before Harry and Mary Jane learn Spider-Man’s true identity. Mary Jane leaves her fiancé at the altar for Peter, and Harry finds out that his father was the Green Goblin. S O U R C E S : W W W. M A R V E L . C O M , S O N Y P I C T U R E S , W W W. W I K I P E D I A . C O M , SPIDER-MAN COMIC BOOKS.

Graphic by Josh Ruthnick/ Contra Costa Times

SPIDER SENSE Spidey’s spider-sense acts similarly to a dolphin’s or bat’s radar. It allows him to sense danger and react instinctively, dodging punches and even bullets. SPIDER STRENGTH Spider-Man possesses the proportionate strength of a spider. He can easily lift a car. SPIDER AGILITY AND BALANCE Spider-Man can leap several stories in the air, or across a busy street. He has perfect balance and can balance on one of his fingers on a highwire. CLINGING ABILITY Spidey can cling to walls with his hands and feet. The bond he makes is so strong, in battle the wall may come apart rather than him be removed from it.

COMIC BOOK

MOVIE

TOBEY MAGUIRE

Peter Parker/Spider-Man The hero of our story, bitten by a genetically enhanced spider, Peter inherited the spider’s strength, speed, agility and the ability to spin webs.

KIRSTEN DUNST

Mary Jane Watson The love of Peter’s life, Mary Jane is a budding actress on Broadway. She knows who SpiderMan really is and supports him in every way.

JAMES FRANCO

WEB SPINNING Spider-Man can shape his webbing for many purposes depending on what the situation calls for. It can be formed into a line for traveling, a bullet-proof shield, and even a parachute. In the original comic, Peter builds mechanical “web-shooters” that are affixed to his wrist. In the movie, he generates the webs biologically.

THOMAS HADEN CHURCH

Harry Osborn/ New Goblin Formerly Peter’s best friend, Harry believes that Spider-Man is responsible for the death of his father (the Green Goblin). Flint Marko/Sandman Escaping from prison, Flint ends up on a beach during testing of a nuclear device. His body inherits the properties of the beach sand and he goes on a crime spree. Eddie Brock/Venom A rival photographer of Peter’s, Eddie Brock is disgraced by Spider-Man. As Venom he vows revenge.

TOPHER GRACE

Perhaps the most noteworthy addition to the SpiderVenom Man movie franchise is the inclusion of the black costume. But where did it come from? The black costume is actually an alien entity. In the comic books, Spider-Man finds the costume on a foreign planet when he shreds his usual red and blues. Thinking that it is some form of alien clothing, he doesn’t realize that the suit is actually a living entity until he has it tested by Mr. Fantastic of the Fantastic Four. Peter finally separates himself from the alien by subjecting it to the sound waves of ringing bells. The alien escapes and bonds with Eddie Brock. Both hate Spider-Man and set out to destroy him. Venom possesses all of Spider-Man’s powers but is stronger. He also does not trip Spider-Man’s spider sense.

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FEATURES

Talk Shows Give A Positive Outlook For Its Viewers Melissa Devitt Some people see talk shows as just a source of entertainment, but others see talk shows as a true source for inspiration and a way to get help. Oprah has always believed that when you have knowledge, more and more doors can open up for your future. Through her private charity, The Oprah Winfrey Foundation, she has awarded millions of dollars to organizations that support the education and empowerment of people throughout the world. Oprah has also created “The Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program,” which gives scholarships to students who need help getting an education. School supplies, books and toys. Sixty-three rural schools received libraries and teacher education. Just a few of Oprah’s donations include, pledging 10 million dollars to build a school in South Africa. Also she created the Leadership Academy Foundation, where she has contributed more than $40 million toward the creation

of a school in Africa for girls. Oprah urges to show compassion, to be uplifting and people to get involved and help people to help people expand their horizons. We should encourage people, discover new less fortunate than us. talent and Dr. Phil creativity, McGraw has and give inspired millions of people a people to “get real” chance about their own to realize actions and create their full more constructive potential.” lives. Dr. Phil, his Tyra uses syndicated, daily that when one-hour shows, is she plans the second highest out what rated daytime talk she is going show in the country. to cover on The show has been her shows. making headlines She has one and breaking of the top records since the ratings and show first started. has helped Not only is Tyra http://a123.g.akamai.net/f/123/12465/1d/media.canada. many people Banks a famous com/cp/entertainment/20051102/e110250a.jpg through her supermodel, she is also an amazing talk show host. Tyra says show. She handles people with image “It’s important to make people feel good, issues and low confidence.

In addition to receiving the 1996 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host, the show has also been honored with Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Talk Show in 2001, and Outstanding Talk Show and Outstanding Talk Show Host in 2002. His show recognized itself as and lasting brand built on excellence and integrity. Entertaining, educational and relatable, the show’s prolonged existence is evidence to Mr. Williams’ genuineness and sympathy, in addition to his readiness to tackle multifaceted issues head on. The show provides a safe forum for important issues. He has donated a lot of money for people in need. Talk shows are some of the most significant shows on television because the help people in need and give strength to people in need. All day long viewers can be found huddled near a television set to watch their favorite host and whatever the day’s line-up is.

The Broadway Musical Hairspray Hits The Box Office Haley Rush

The twenty first century is out and change is in the air. It is time to go back in time when abnormally large hair and kooky outfits were the way to go. Welcome to the 60’s and a new movie, based on the version of the Broadway hit that was itself based on a film Hairspray. The original “Hairspray Movie” was a 1988 John Waters comedy movie about star-struck teenagers on a local Baltimore dance show, starring the drag queen icon Divine, who gained her fame in the 1971 John Waters smut film “Pink Flamingos.”

The new “Hairspray the Movie” is very similar to the original movie except for one major difference. The new movie is a musical movie. It has the same characters and plot as the original movie, but it takes the lively dancing and songs from the Tony award winning Broadway production. Many familiar faces will be lighting up the big screen for Hairspray the Movie. John Travolta took one of the leading roles as Edna Turnblad. Amanda Bynes, Christopher Walken, and the ever so popular teen heartthrob Zac Efron are all major characters in the film. Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeifer, and Brittany Snow also

share semi-leading roles in this motion picture. The filmmakers were determined to cast an unknown to follow Ricki Lake’s character Tracy Tumblad in the original Hairspray movie. Little did they know their perfect Tracy would be found scooping ice cream at a Cold Stone Creamery in New York. Nicole Blonsky, 18, beat out a couple thousand hopefuls to nab her dream role. “When she walked out her first day on the set,” Shankman says, “it was if she had been doing this for 30 years. Like watching a Barbra Streisand being born.” Ever since seeing Hairspray on Broadway as a 15th

birthday gift, Blonsky felt destined to be Tracy. John Travolta was very eager to accept the role as the frumpy mama Edna Tumblad. It has been almost thirty years since Travolta slid into the role of Rydell High stud Danny Zuko in Grease. Now the actor is back in tune and bigger than ever. Everyone seems to be excited for the release of Hairspray In June of 2007. So come join Baltimore’s Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion, to dance.

investments, as well as launched the R Line of clothing. Seacrest is redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur and a quadruple threat in Hollywood. The audiences of American Idol seem to be very keen on the three judges of the show. They’re all uniquely different and have sometimesoutrageous opinions to share. Paula Abdul is the only female judge on the show and is known to be rather nice. She is also one of the most acknowledged pop singers and choreographers in video, film, television, and live tours. Abdul’s music career has composed of worldwide album sales greater than thirty million records, two number one albums, six number one singles, a Grammy award, seven MTV awards, two Emmy awards, two people’s

choice awards, and two kids Choice Awards. Simon Cowell’s frankness on American Idol has made him a household name in America. His UK-based production company, SYCO, produces many award winning shows. The UK version of American Idol, “Pop Idol,” is where Cowell got his first start. In 2006 he was ranked number twenty nine on Forbes Magazine’s celebrity 100 power list. A 20-year veteran of the music industry. Cowell is a director with SonyBMG Records and has helped to form the present pop music

industry. Over the last fifteen years, his acts have achieved sales of more than 100 million albums, and he has had over seventy number one records. Grammy Award-winning producer Randy Jackson has added a fun touch to the show. As a musician and producer he also spent eight years as the Vice President of A&R at Columbia Records, followed by four years as Senior Vice President of A&R at MCA Records. Jackson has recorded, toured and performed with artists like Mariah Carey, NSYNC, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Elton John, Madonna, Destiny’s Child and many more. Jackson has worked on over 1,000 gold and multi-platinum albums. His assistance has helped to sell over 200 million albums worldwide. With his flair and studio awareness, joint with his performing, touring and record company knowledge, Jackson is one of today’s most highly regarded music industry experts. American Idol is currently in the middle of its sixth season and is still going strong. America just seems to be obsessed with this singing phenomenon. With no end to sight, American Idol is a growing sensation.

American Idol Takes Hold of America’s Hearts Haley Rush

In the summer of 2002, a British hit took over America, which we know as American Idol. The singing contest was not only an instant sensation, but also one of the leading shows in American television history. The exhausting competition has already crowned two multiple Grammy winners, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood. Other top musicians who have been produced through the show are Ruben Studdard, Fantasia, and Taylor Hicks. The winners of the competition aren’t the only ones who receive success. Clay Aiken, the runner up of season two came out with a very profitable CD a couple years back. Also Katharine Mcphee recently made a debut with her fist CD. The host of American Idol is none other than Ryan Seacrest. Since the start of the show Seacrest has rose to fame over night. With a profitable broadcasting career and a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame it seems like he will be around for a while. Seacrest recently opened Ryan Seacrest Productions (RSP) and is becoming known by hosting and producing television and radio specials. He has made many restaurant

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S PORTS

Creek Track Hits the Ground Running at District Albert Nkansah Creek track and field has been running, jumping and throwing all year, and recently in April they had the opportunity to prove their athletic ability to schools across the district. That weekend, they all loaded a bus and went to Clear Brook for the District Track Meet. Coach Jordan and Coach Bidelspach, as well as all the students involved, had taking home first place bragging rights on their minds. A few guys were able to able to take the title of “the best” at their individual event. Anthony took first in the 400, Zack Duncavage received first place in Discus. Robert McLemore also took first place in both the 110 hurdles and 300 hurdles, which started a friendly rivalry against teammate Marcus Davis who took second place in both events. Creek’s relay team was a force to be reckoned with, as they took first in all three relay events. They ran with a time of 42.78 seconds in the 4 x 100, also had a time of 1 minute 30.83 seconds in the 4 x 200, and 3 minutes 21.38 seconds in the 4 x 400. Creek was able to get some athletes to regionals, including J.J. Mullins who took second in the 100, and Tre Mason who took second in the high jump. Brandon Burton also ran well getting second in the 200 and in the long jump. There were even more Wildcats that qualified for regionals as Bobby Bassett

got third in the 400 and Chris Mattison received third in the 3200. Also taking third was freshman Terrance Williams in the triple jump. The girls also ran well at District. The relay team featuring Tori Edwards, Kathleen Ward, Chrystlyn Stephens, and Kirsten Goodman, was able to get second in the 4 x 400 with a time of 4 minutes 3.82 seconds. Michelle McCullough received second in the shot put, and Tori Edwards ran to a regional qualifying third place in the 400. Also placing third was Rhevan Rhodes in the 100 hurdles. One of the most successful Creek girl was Taylor Smith who took first place in the shot put and second place in discus. Other girls were able to have a nice showing at district. Sydney Johnson finished fourth in both the 100 hurdles and the 300 hurdles. The other relay teams did well too, as the 4 x 200 finished fourth and the 4 x 100 finished fifth. The Girls fell short of becoming district champions as the came in fifth place with 73 points. However, the boys were able to claim the title of district champions as the team came in first with 183 points. Some of Creek’s track athletes’ season might have ended, but many Wildcats are going to continue to run to the finish line, hoping to beat out the best as they go to state.

Photo taken by Albert Nkansah

Wildcat Baseball Says Good-Bye to 2007 Senior players

Sarah Poore

The distinct ping made during bat and ball contact has been filling Creek’s baseball field for several weeks now, as the Wildcats continued fighting to keep their place in district. The Wildcats were still 3-5 in district when varsity pitcher Jack Pollard was asked about what he thought Creek’s chances of making to play-offs were. “I think we can get there, it just depends on if we show up to play or not, if we show up ready. When we do all aspects of the team are strong- the pitching, infield, and outfield.” It remained to be seen if Pollard’s predictions would prove accurate. Creek moved through the next few weeks with two more wins as well as a loss, leaving Creek’s standings at 5-6. It came down to what would be the deciding game for playoffs as well as Creek’s last home game of the season. The Wildcat baseball program held a ceremony for the seniors and their families, thanking them for their dedication throughout their high school careers. Senior players prepared

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a short thank you for their parents as well, presenting their mothers with roses. With bittersweet excitement, the team and their families prepared to engage in the last game they would ever play on Creeks field. Set against Brazoswood, Creek kept the hits coming and tied with Buccaneers in the bottom of the sixth inning 7-7. Unfortunately, Brazoswood came back in the eighth with 2 runs scored. The ninth inning passed by without a run by either teams, leaving the score at 7-9. Creeks loss

would prevent them from moving forward into playoffs, their district standing left at 5-7. It was a great disappointment to all involved after a season of long practices and hard work. Although Creek didn’t go as far as was hoped, the Wildcats walked away with a respectable 2007 season, with an overall standing of 12-14. Creek will undoubtedly return next year strong and continue their incredible 12 year district appearance tradition. The seniors that carried Creek this season may be leaving the

Photos by Sarah Poore team, but a promising new group of seniors are waiting for their turn to lead. The Wildcats intend to get deeper into post-season play in the upcoming season, and with the work ethic and coaching staff known to Creek, Wildcat fans have good reason to continue their faith in the Clear Creek baseball club.

PORTS

Playoffs End for Softball Athletes of the Month Taylor Freudenberg

chance to tie the game when Morgan Luksa This year the girl’s Varstiy softball had a stand up double. The next batter up, team went 6 and 6 in the District season, Kara Rau, hit a stand up triple and scored and they are now officially in the playoffs. Luksa for the tying run. The Varsity ended their season in fourth In the tenth inning, the Lady Knights place in the district, and played Elkins were able to take the lead after one of their High School for their first playoff game. players had an inside-the-park homerun, Elkins is the first place softball team in when two of the Lady Wildcats each made their district, HISD. Even with the losing an error. record of 5 and 7, the Lady cats were able At the end of the game, the Lady to squeak by and get a spot in the playoffs. Wildcats could not recover after Elkins Creek was able to pick themselves up pulled ahead with a 3-2 lead. They may after a rough start, with problems such as the have lost the first game, but they hoped they loss of one of would not lose their courtesy the battle. The runners, series is best 2 Kaylin out of 3, and Bowen, and both games were many more played on Friday, injuries. April 27. Even with During the all of their second game on troubles, they Friday against managed to Elkins, the teams land a spot in played at the the playoffs Elkins’s home by beating turf. The game out Clear was a hard match Brook when up as the two the team won teams battled it the Galveston out to see if the game. Lady wildcats Photo By Taylor Freudenberg The would be able to four teams in the playoffs from the district move on to a further round in the playoffs. are Pearland, Brazoswood, Alvin, and At the beginning of the game, the lady Creek. The Varsity team played Elkins on wildcats were the first on the board when April 26 and 27, playing at both the Creek they scored their first run in the top of the fields and Elkins fields. Unfortunately, the first. The Elkins Knights were also able Lady Knights won with a final score of 3- to score the first inning, so the game was 2. Creek played a good, hard game against tied at 1-1.After the first inning, the Lady Elkins, but came up a bit short at the end Wildcats were not able to score another run, of the game.The game started out with an and the Lady Knights took the lead 2-1. ongoing stalemate, with each team getting The game was lost with a final score three up three down until the 3rd inning. of 2-1, but Creek still managed to out-hit During the top of the 3rd, the lady knights the Lady Knights 8-5. The loss of those were able to get a runner on base and score games resulted in the end of their season, her taking the lead 1-0. Then, at the bottom but Creek intends on coming back next of the fifth, the lady wildcats were given a year stronger than ever.

Taylor Echols

Morgan Luska

Not many people are able to deal with graduating from high school, getting ready for college and preparing for track regionals at the same time, but this is just another day for Taylor Echols. Like most athletes, Echols started running track and playing football in the seventh grade, but it soon became clear he was a step ahead of the rest on the field. It’s no surprise the tall, fleet-footed receiver was signed on to Tulane University in New Orleans earlier this year to play football for the Green Wave. Echols runs the 4x1, 4x2, and 4x4 on the Varsity track team and is training hard for his last regional meet.When asked what his favorite memory was his senior year he replied, “Regionals are this weekend, so hopefully we will go to state and that will be my favorite memory.” Echols years at Creek have prepared him for what should be a successful athletic career at Tulane.

Morgan Luksa has been one of Wildcat softballs biggest assets all season, as her hitting and pitching continue to help the team to victory. Luska hopes to continue the success of her season on through next year and eventually to the University of Texas- San Antonio Luksa is having a fun time playing for the Wildcats, and she shows it on the field. When asked what the most memorable experience has been she replied, “Actually making the playoffs this year.” She has been outstanding both on the mound and in the batters box. She has a record of 8-9, and an ERA of .98, and has 82 strikeouts. She also has a batting average of .270, has hit 13 RBI’s, and 17 hits. Luska has been playing softball for nine years and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. She can hit, she can pitch, and so far nothing is impossible for our player of April.

Story by Destinee Walker Photo by Fallon Drago

Photo by Hailey Stephens Story by Albert Nkansah

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S PORTS

Chasing a Dream: Life in the MBL Minor Leagues Sarah Poore

It is a life of physical and financial stress, where your teammates can be your worst adversaries and your future is completely dependant on performance. For the men in the MLB minor leagues, glamour is not a priority. It begins with a yearly draft. In early June, baseball players wait anxiously by their phones for a call that will reveal the team that’s chosen them and what round they were drafted in. Players usually have an idea of where they’ll be from calls made by major league scouts in months prior, but the call on this day cements their place on a team. The MLB takes players in 50 rounds, starting with the best players and moving down. The same applies when it comes to signing bonuses. Players drafted in the first round receive millions, and after that money tapers down according to round number. The draftees’ real prize, however, is being selected at all. For them, it is the chance to fulfill a lifelong dream. Baseball players are usually called up from college, but some high school players receive offers as well. The weeks following the draft are a whirlwind for the players, as they scramble to secure a place to live in their minor league team’s state. They usually only have a few days to get everything in order. Professional teams have minor league baseball sites in multiple states, called “farm teams”. And so beginss a long journey to a spot at the top. Unlike basketball and football, where drafted players get instant millions and instant gratification, baseball draftees live virtually under the radar for years and must make it through several minor league teams before they can get a spot in the majors. The team levels are as follows: rookie ball, short season A, low A, high A, AA, AAA, and the team everyone is fighting forthe big leagues. The usual dynamic of a team is skewed in the minors, because all players are essentially trying to out play their oun teammates. On the field, everyone is in some way the opponent. Nathan Southard has experienced all of this first hand. The St. Louis Cardinals drafted Southard after his senior season at Tulane University in 2006. An outfielder for most of his baseball career, Southard found himself working left field for the State College Spikes, St. Louis’ short season A team. After a successful year, Southard moved up to the Cardinals’ high A team in Florida where he currently plays right field. Life for these players is as exciting as it is monotonous. They play an astounding 140 games in 151 days, giving the teams only two days off a month. Mental and physical endurance is key. When asked about he continual stress, Southard replied, “Its grueling. The long weeks are hard on your body, and it gets tough to keep focused and give your all day after day. But I have fun, I’m getting paid to do what I love.” While all the players are getting

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paid for doing what they enjoy, any of them will tell you that money cannot be your motivation in Minor league baseball. They get paid $1,300 a month- barely enough to cover rent, gas, and food expenses. Southard said that he handles financial difficulty by simply being cheap. “We just try to find inexpensive places to live, and be careful with how much we spend on food and things like that. A lot of guys eat fast food to save money, but I try to keep healthy. Its definitely a life lived on the bare minimum.” Going through the physical strain and pressure to do well, as well as struggling

through six months with barely any money and no promise that you will eventually find yourself in the major leagues, makes most of us wonder why these guys are willing stay in the minor leagues so long. When asked if he felt it was worth it, Southard replied “For me, definitely.” The life of a minor leaguer is far from the glory and bright lights found on major league diamonds, but most draftees anticipate the difficulty. When asked if being a pro baseball player was what he expected, Southard says, “In some ways its harder than I thought it would be. I wasn’t used to a season this

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long and demanding, but getting to travel and play so often is great. Being away from the support system of home and family is tough sometimes, but I get to play baseball as a profession. I get money to do what I’ve loved all my life. I’m just thankful to be here.” Characterized by exhausting seasons, simplistic lifestyles, and earnest attempts at a lifelong dream, life in the minor leagues is a unique experience in which success is self-created. Only a few will reach big league status, but the pursuit is the same for every player that passes though the MLB system.

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Clear Creek Independent School District

Summer 2Camp 0 0 7

Keep you mind and body active this summer.

Check out some of these fun and educational activities you can do while on summer break 2007.

For more information call: 281-284-0000 Or visit us online @ http://www.ccisd.net

PHOTOS

Clear Creek HiLife

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