CSHS Voice

Vol. XV Issue 1

Cypress Springs High School - 7909 Fry Rd. Cypress, Texas 77433

Homecoming closes for another year

October, 2011

Students look back on spirit week, the game and the dance

by Dulce Soto, BreeAngela Hamilton & Cristina Romo

Walking down the hallways during spirit week, one could see the majority of students participating in the different themes set for each day to pump up students and football players for homecoming.

This year, Monday was “Jersey Day,” when students and faculty members could wear a jersey shirt of any team to show spirit. In addition to it, seniors created their own exclusive theme for that day called “Superhero Day,” where seniors came to school dressed up as a superhero.

Seniors were the biggest participants of spirit week due to the fact that it was the last time they could participate in it during high school. “I was truly excited for spirit week this year because I realized that I wouldn’t be able to experience it in the future,” senior Chayanne Solorzano said.

For “Nerd Day” on Tuesday, the school was flooded with students and even some teachers who dressed in geek attire.

Wednesday was “Twin Day,” and it had everyone seeing double. On Thursday, students went all out for decade day, and the hallways were crowded with several students who dressed from the 50s to the 90s. Spirit week was a week of pure enjoyment for anybody at school whether they participated in it or not. “It was fun watching everybody come as nerds for Nerd Day and see all the different

costumes people would wear all week,” junior Karla Arias said.

The most participated day of spirit week was Friday. The theme was “Spirit Day,” and the school was saturated with everyone wearing the school’s colors and mums and garters.

Mums and garters have been a Texas tradition since the 1970s. What started as a simple gift of a chrysanthemum with a couple of ribbons on it grew to where girls are wearing large mums that cover up most of their bodies. Garters are sort of the boy’s version of a girl’s mum and are much smaller and usually worn on the sleeve. Mums and garters are an essential part of spirit week and are usually given to someone as a gift on the morning of spirit day. “I wasn’t planning on wearing a garter, but my really amazing friend surprised me with one,” Solorzano said.

It is clearly noticeable how much more spirited everyone is during spirit week than any other week. The excitement of looking forward to the pep rallies and the game and the dance at the end of the week causes students to be more ecstatic than usual. “I think that the majority of the school has much more spirit during that week, especially the juniors and seniors,” Solorzano said, “but regardless of how much spirit we have, the best part of it is that we get to enjoy ourselves and have fun while cheering for the school.”

Every year, Cypress Springs honors

the tradition of homecoming by spreading spirit throughout the halls, pumping up current students for the weekend’s festivities and by inviting back former students to celebrate their years spent in high school at the homecoming football game.

This year, Cy-Springs played against Langham Creek, one of our biggest rivals.

Although the Panthers fell short with a final score of 42-56, the players gave their all and played a first-rate game.

“I think that the team put a great deal of effort into the game,” wide-receiver Chris Brown said. “We all knew how much this game meant to the school, and we tried our best.”

Many of Brown’s teammates feel the same.

“The team played hard and did not give up,” running back Travis Watson

See Homecoming, Pg. 2

The 2011 Homecoming Court: James Campbell, Ashley Gray, Devin Cash, Lessli Portillo, Tam Nguyen, Yajaira Jenkins, Vannessa Alvarez, Uyi Eregie, Ian Chivaro, Valentina Rodriguez

Late buses return for tutoring attendees

Transportation offered twice a week

by Cristina Romo Reporter For two years, late buses disappeared, but now they have reappeared in our school thanks to Principal Barbara Weiman. Weiman has found the funds to bring these buses back two days a week.

They are available for those who need it the most, students who attend tutorials or make up sessions for math or science.

The buses are based on a first-come-firstserved basis.

The only real drawback to the buses being for students who attend tutoring, is that students who wish to attend club meetings or a practice, cannot ride.

“I don’t like it,” senior Damaris Pineda said. “Although I have a car, others don’t, and they don’t have the same opportunity to stay after because they don’t have a ride.”

Most students in our school depend on the regular buses to get to school and back home. Many students will not stay to attend club meetings due to the fact that they aren’t assured a ride back home.

“It’s hard to stay after school and join clubs that take place after school,” senior Jacky Lopez said.

Lopez explained that if the administration really wanted us to have school spirit and succeed it would give us all an equal opportunity to catch a ride home.

But while this is the opinion of some students, Weiman said it hasn’t become an issue. “We haven’t been filling the buses,” she said, “so more students can have a chance to ride.”

Another consideration is that in the years late buses were not available, students who needed to stay for meetings, practices and tutoring did find a way.

2

Cypress Springs High School

OPINIONS

The Voice - October, 2011

How sensitive should we be to others?

Victoria Frost When conversing with someone, both parties should be sensitive to the other’s beliefs and opinions, especially when discussing sensitive or controversial topics. This lets you know where the other person is coming from. The reason some people believe they shouldn’t have to consider the other’s sensitivity on a topic is because they think their own opinions are the only right ones. But this leads to prejudices, bias and close mindedness.

I think people should listen to what the other person thinks and believes and try to understand where their minds are on subjects. One should also be clear on what they, themselves believe so that they can grasp every aspect of the situation. This can include topics from the simplest such as dating someone or even making the most difficult decision of your life such as abortion.

People will always have their own point of view on things, and it won’t necessarily change, but they should empathize with what the other person has been through. You shouldn’t be closed minded to what others believe because you might be wrong, and the person you are talking to could have a better way of doing things, a way to see things you

haven’t considered, or a simple way to solve a problem.

I know that religion can be put into this sensitive category, as can homosexuality, abortion and many other topics that fall into the morality realm. But they should not be so closed minded and should understand that people just want to be happy and to be able to live their lives without being judged by others. I just think that people should keep an open mind on life and consider the feelings of others and not just what they think is right. Accept that the people of the world are different and will always be different, and no one can change that.

Adviser's note: This Head-2-Head column was inspired by a refusal by me to publish a column condemning same-sex dating based on Bible scripture. While using the Bible as a source is acceptible, writing an entire article judging a portion of our school population in a negative way is not. Having a position of columnist comes with a certain degree of maturity and responsibility and does not give license to a student to proselytize or alienate others.

Barry Vaughn People today are very opinionated, evidenced by the opinion section in this newspaper, which highlights the opinions of the people given the opportunity to write them. This seems like a great idea, especially writing the Head-2Head column such as this one.

H o w e v e r, when it comes to issues that are controversial, such as gay versus straight, or religion or any that hold a level of sensitivity in today’s society, even though our opinions are encouraged to be presented, they are sometimes rejected because they will “hurt feelings.”

I personally see this as a straight-up contradiction in what is said to be allowed. I, as a columnist, wanted to be in this position to express my opinions, regardless of the audience, because that is what I was told I was going to be able

to do. Yes, I understand, condemnation coming from me speaking in a column is unacceptable, but condemnation is subject to a person’s view point anyhow. Now, as far as the beliefs of others, offending them is inevitable anyway, seeing as how my beliefs are different from theirs, and to tell me that I am not allowed to offend certain people with certain beliefs is pure hypocrisy.

This is because I believe in what the Bible says, and when the Bible says something, I am not allowed to use it to defend my opinion even though I believe it is true evidence. When I am not allowed to give a rebuttal as to why I believe something is wrong using my religion, which, by true definition means my conviction, I become offended, because my conviction is the reason I say what I say or do what I do. Therefore, to tell me that I am not allowed to use my conviction, or religion in an opinion article, to me, is hypocritical. I believe that if the newspaper wants the columnist to write his or her opinions on a subject, then let him or her write their opinion, or the purpose of the column is defeated and is no longer a valid source for the newspaper because it is then simply watered down to be politically correct.

This is my opinion, and whether people like it or not, it shall stand because my opinion is my belief, and my belief is in my religion, which is truly my conviction, which is why I say what I say, and do what I do.

happens to be somebody of the same sex, then so be it. It is not that big of a deal.

Nobody is getting hurt, and you can go on with your lives. All over the country many cities are embracing homosexuality by holding pride parades. The parades are a great way to experience the LGBT community and learn about its culture.

Here at Cy-Springs, we have a club called the Gay-Straight Alliance. In this club, students can discuss the issues and

challenges that they face daily without being judged.

April 20, 2012 will be the National Day of Silence when thousands of students across the country will take a vow to be silent to bring attention to LGBT bullying and harassing. Remember every generation has its own struggle for equality. In our generation, we are fighting for gay rights. Help support the movement and be a part of making history.

Same-sex dating

People should stay out of others' personal lives

by Eileen Salazar Managing Editor In the words of Frank Ocean, “Love is not between man and woman but between

love and love.”

In 2008, the state of California passed Proposition 8, a law forbidding the right of same-sex marriage. I understand

that a lot of people are against same-sex marriage, but to pass a law banning it is just ridiculous. Homosexuals make up a large percentage of California’s population, yet California was basically telling tax-paying homosexuals that they didn’t have the same rights as their heterosexual counterparts. Personally, I don’t see what’s so wrong with allowing same sex marriage. Everybody deserves the right to love who they want, and if that just

Homecoming from Pg. 1 said.

Despite the team’s loss, the players enjoyed their time on the field.

“I had a good time playing against Langham Creek,” Brown said. “Our offense was doing a great job, and we earned a lot of points.”

The game was also enjoyable for those sitting in the stands.

“I had a great time at the game,” sophomore Eileen Salazar said. “Being surrounded by people who are just as loud, rowdy and excited as you are, makes the game all the more fun.”

Hair appointments, dress shopping, finding the right shoes. The homecoming dance arrived and excitement filled everyone’s minds as they hoped to have a good night.

“I loved homecoming,” senior DaVonna Edgerson said. “There was a lot of school spirit. The decorations and DJ were awesome. Also, everyone was on their best behavior.”

Not everyone enjoyed the dance, however. “I hated the dance,” sophomore Xante Wallace said. “I feel the DJ should have played more modern songs.”

For the freshmen, homecoming was a new experience. “My homecoming was fun,” freshman Stephen Carter said. “I got a chance to hang out with friends and dance with girls. Even though I thought the music was lame, I had fun and wouldn’t have changed anything.”

Cypress Springs High School

OPINIONS

The Voice - October, 2011

3

United We Stand

Patriotism needs to continue September 11, 2011 marked the 10-year anniversary of the event that changed America. It has been a decade since the World Trade Center in New York fell, the Pentagon was attacked, and a plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. People still remember where they were and what they where doing when they heard the news.

For most students, however, the event seems like a blur. Students were in their elementary years when it happened; ignorant of what was occurring in the country they lived in. Current seniors were only about six or seven years old, and freshmen were barely three years old.

If there was one thing that could be clearly remembered from that day, it would be society’s reaction to when the news was first learned. Panic was stricken throughout the nation while many parents in Houston rushed from work to pick up their children from school for fear of a surpirse attack on

the city. Houston was suspected to be a target for terrorists because of its resources. Schools were closed early and some families even fled the city.

It is clearly seen that 9/11 has greatly influenced everything. Airport security has since tightened with the addition of full body scans and other procedures for people to go through before they can board a plane. There was great prejudice toward Muslims and people who fit the “terrorist type,” as Osama Bin Laden was labeled as the public’s number one enemy. Nevertheless, an even more visible influence that it brought to America and society was the newly found patriotism.

At a desperate time of need, America has shown that it can unite itself to get through

even the toughest moments. Billions of dollars were donated to help with anything needed, and flags were and still are displayed excessively.

We hope that America can continue to show this much patriotism 20 or even 50 years after 9/11, and that no one will ever forget the terror that it brought upon our country, the home of the brave.

tics, to national pageants. It has been ranked Exemplary and Recognized by the state, and has made national rankings as well. The building set the precedent for all of the campuses after it. The staff and students have won countless awards in the school’s 15-year history.

So why is the reputation sometimes unfavorable? It’s because of the students and the staff saying so.

How many times does one hear Cy-Springs is “ghetto?” Really? What’s ghetto about a $35 million campus surrounded by planned communities? This

Adviser Shannon Casto Editor-In-Chief Dulce Soto Managing Editor Eileen Salazar Sports Editor Cynthia Arreguin Columnists Victoria Frost Barry Vaughn Photo Editors Stephanie Arce Damien Claudio Design Editors Carlos Cruz Juan Tellez Copy Editor Beatriz Barros

Our reputation is our responsibility How relevant is a reputation?

Whether it’s good or bad, a reputation follows a person or a place, or a group.

The funny thing about a reputation, though, is that if it’s good, it can switch to bad almost instantly, but if it’s bad, it seems nearly impossible to change to good.

Cypress Springs High School has a reputation for being at the lower end of the district schools. But why is that?

This school has put out alumni who have gone to the Olympics, to Hollywood, to major corporations, to poli-

Principal Barbara Weiman

is not the inner city. This is not a poor area or an area plagued by crime. This is Cypress, Texas, an area that was nothing but fields and forests when the school opened, and one that has grown every year since. What is ghetto about it?

How about the graffiti? Is that bad? Yes it is, and who does the graffiti in the community? The young people who live in it. Who trashes the restrooms on campus? The students who attend the school. Who trash talks the school, its staff, its sports teams? The people who attend the school and work in the school. So if Cy-Springs has a bad reputation in the community and district, then the problem starts from within. So what should be done to rectify the situation? How about a little pride? How about a little school spirit?

How about a little peer pressure to take care of the campus we, as tax payers, paid for? What sense does it make to trash, both literally and verbally, something that belongs to us? It would be like going home and tagging the front of your house or your own car. Who does that? Yet, it’s what we do to our school.

The reputation of Cy-Springs needs to improve, and it will only happen if those affiliated with it change their attitudes and take some pride in a campus, a student body and a faculty that deserve praise. This is a great school, and great things happen here every day. It’s about time we start to talk about those things and to be thankful we have the facilities and opportunities we do.

Interested in voicing your opinion? The Voice is seeking guest columnists for the paper.

If you would like to submit a column, see Ms. Casto in room 1704 for information, requirements and deadlines.

Reporters/Photographers BreeAngela Hamilton Zeneida Ramirez Ashlee McDaniel Cristina Romo Sade Johnson Brittany Stevenson Chayenne Skeete

The Cypress-Springs High School Voice is written entirely by C.S.H.S. students. The opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the faculty, staff or administration. The Voice accepts letters to the editor. Letters will be printed provided they are appropriate, accurate and newsworthy.

The staff reserves the right to edit letters for accuracy. The Voice reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any advertisements at any time. Any business whose ad is pulled or cancelled will receive an appropriate refund. Ads should be free of statements, illustrations and/or implications. The staff will not accept advertising for products or groups that is racist, sexist, illegal for high school students or violates other journalistic principles such as libel, obscenity, invasion of privacy or disruption. The staff will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, sex, national origin, religion, or physical or mental abilities of advertisers.

Advertising shall offer merchandise or service based on its merits and refrain from attacking competitors unfairly or disparaging their products, services or methods of doing business. The staff may not run political advertising. Ads which the staff accepts are not endorsements from the staff, adviser, the administration or the C.F.I.S.D. and its board of trustees. For rate sheets and/ or information, call (281) 345-3579.

Got a suggestion or complaint? Then write a letter to the editor!

Letters may be turned in to room 1704 and must have your name and grade.

4

Cypress Springs High School

NEWS

The Voice - October, 2011

Content advisory begins Pep Rallies fire up fans Students gain tutoring, meeting time

by Stephanie Arce Reporter/Photo Editor Advisory used to be a place just to hang out with friends, but this school year, Cy-Springs has implemented a new academically-focused advisory period. Advisory is now taking place at the end of second period every Tuesday and Thursday. Club meetings may also be taking place during advisory. Students and teachers have mixed emotions about the new system.

“I do believe advisory is better for school,” senior Magaly Hernandez said.

“As a senior, I work and have to get good grades, and when I’m behind, I can keep up by getting help from my amazing teachers.”

Athletes and students look forward to events

The effect on students’ academics has not been determined, but overall, the opinions have been favorable.

Sophomore Michael Magana said, “It has affected me in a good way because it truly helps us catch up on what we need in order to be successful.”

Senior Victoria Frost said, “I think advisory affects students in a positive way because it helps students out when they need to bring up their grades if they need to.”

Advisory is now a place for people to ask the questions they couldn’t really ask their teachers before and to get the help that they need to succeed for the school year.

Octagon changes name Octagon Club is now Key Club

by Damien Claudio Reporter/Photo Editor When Cy-Springs opened in 1997, the school was new, the teachers were new, and the students were new. This was a time for fresh ideas and new beginnings that would, eventually, last more than a decade. Of all the ideas, Octagon Club was one of the brightest. Octagon has been at Cy-Springs since it opened.

So when members of Octagon heard that the club was going to change names, there was disappointment in every single member.

In the 2010-2011 school year, members of Octagon were informed of the possible transition to Key Club. After weeks of consulting with both officers and members, Octagon came to the conclusion to finalize the transition from Octagon Club to Key Club.

“We made the switch as a group, due to the fact that Key Club is an International Club and there are more opportunities for students to gain community service hours,” junior vice president of Key Club, Lore Gonzalez said. “It is well organized, and students are able to meet others from other schools.”

Since the club is new, it also brings new responsibilities for former Octagon members who are now current Key Club officers.

“Because we switched to Key Club, I know that the club is supported by our sister school, Cy-Ranch,” Gonzalez said.

“Along with the help of the other Key Clubs at other schools, I know the first year of Key Club at Cy-Springs will be successful.”

Being vice president of any club is never a walk in the park. Gonzalez stated that she is well aware of her new responsibilities that come with being a Key Club officer.

“I have to make sure all our officers are on top of their game,” she said, “and I have to help the president in any way possible…I have to step up and take my

leadership role.”

Robin Brackney, sponsor of Key Club and freshmen Biology I teacher, is also taking on these new challenges and responsibilities.

“I’m a little over-whelmed,” Brackney said, “but I’m more confident than I was last year with Octagon because there are more advisors within the district that can answer my questions. Jennifer Hydes at Ranch has been a wonderful help. Her officers will come and help our officers.”

Former Octagon president for three consecutive years, Jessica Lopez, is really optimistic and hopeful for the new Key Club.

“I hope that all goes well with the new club,” Lopez said. “I’ve seen the current officers of Key Club grow since their freshmen year. They’ve all really grown on me. I will always remember them. I know that they’ll make their first year as Key Club a successful year.”

Many new members of Key Club are enthusiastic and excitingly preparing for the many service events that are coming up throughout the year.

Current Key Club member, Cynthia Arreguin said, “I am very excited to be in Key Club because it’s an international club, so I know that there are going to be more community service opportunities and I really need community service hours. “I believe joining this club will be very beneficial for everyone who needs the hours.”

Because the club is new, everyone is learning how to do everything. Club officers are taking on new responsibilities and challenges, one baby step at a time.

“No one is on their own,” Gonzalez said. “We’re all learning at the same time. There are a lot of new things to the officers and to all the members.”

Key Club wants to “help the community out and shape the world little by little,” Gonzalez said.

Anyone who wants to join can go to the meetings every other Thursday.

by Brittany Stevenson Reporter Many students await the arrival of pep rally day. Once they hear the band playing down the hallway, they anxiously wait for the bell to ring releasing them to the gym.

“They’re cool and get the crowd hyped for games,” sophomore, Trayveion Williams said, “but there should be more dancing, more flipping from the cheerleaders and better music.”

On the other hand, some students believe that they’re overrated. Sophomore Ulric Carter thinks that pep rallies need to have “more music from the drummers” and that “no one attends the games because of pep rallies.”

Sophomore Yiovani Williams said, “I feel that students should show more enthusiasm so we could build up our school spirit and show more support to our team.” He also said he thinks pep rallies should consist of more activities, better songs, and performances.

“I think that most of these students are on good behavior during pep rally week because they would do anything just to skip their last period to do something fun in school,” Yiovani said.

As for the athletes, they are generally in favor of the pep rallies. “I just hope we have at least one for basketball, senior Cameron Langley said.

“The basketball team attracts a lot of fans, and we deserve to celebrate our season with them.”

Cypress Springs High School

NEWS

The Voice - October, 2011

5

Nickelodeon brings 90's programming back to television

by Carlos Cruz Reporter/Design Editor For those who remember shows from the 90s like Kenan and Kel (19962001), Rugrats (1991-2004), and Doug, you probably wish you could go back to that time and watch those shows again.

Well Nickelodeon has decided to bring them back. This past July, Nickelodeon’s sister channel, TeenNick, aired a block called, The 90s are All That, in which cartoons and sitcoms from Nickelodeon back in the 1990s would be on the air in form of a two-hour block starting at midnight to 4 a.m. It started with hit shows such as Doug (1991-1994), Clarissa Explains it All (1991-1994), and All That (1994-2005), and according to the ratings, it became an instant hit.

According to nytimes.com, the idea of the block started when a group of Nickelodeon interns, “added up the Facebook pages and groups and found then that there were nine million apparent fans of the old shows.”

The network would continue to monitor the response from fans in order to improve the block due to criticism from fans about Nickelodeon’s decline in quality shows. Recently, Nickelodeon added two more shows to the block, Hey Arnold!, (1996-2004) and Rocko’s Modern Life (1993-1996) in response to surveys done on the TeenNick website.

Many fans are happy with Nickelodeon for responding so they can relive those nostalgic moments from when they were young. Nickelodeon’s night time blocks, "Nick at Nite,” recently added Friends (1994-2004) to the block and are considering adding more shows to it.

Many high school students say most cartoons today have been declining in terms of quality, so they are happy to see some of the 90’s shows return. “It feels awesome,” sophomore Esteban Aristizabal said. “We need to relive the past.”

Nickelodeon isn’t the only channel to bring back TV shows. MTV, which is owned by Viacom that also owns Nickelodeon, announced back in the spring that the classic cartoon, Beavis and Butthead (1993-1997) will return with new episodes beginning in October. Many fans knew that Nickelodeon was bringing the shows back even before the 90’s are All That block was even though of.

The retail store Hot Topic began selling merchandise based on classic Nickelodeon shows. When their sales went up, the channel realized it needed to bring back the shows that made Nickelodeon a household name. Then, Nickelodeon made an agreement with Amazon.com and Shout Factory to produce DVDs of shows such as The Angry Beavers (1997-2001), CatDog (1998-2004), and Aaahh!!! Real Monsters (1994-1997).

“It’s kind of cool,” senior George Cardoso said. “The 90s were awesome.”

After Nickelodeon made the decision to revive the classic shows, many channels have considered reviving their classic shows as well.

The programs brought back to Teennick: Aaahh!!! Real Monsters The Adventures of Pete & Pete All That The Amanda Show Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Catdog Clarissa Explains it All Double Dare Doug Hey Arnold!

Kenan & Kel Legends of the Hidden Temple Nickelodeon GUTS The Ren & Stimpy Show Rocket Power Rocko’s Modern Life Rugrats Salute Your Shorts The Secret World Of Alex Mack

Energy drinks still popular Hidden talents on campus Safety of drinks continue to be questioned

by Victoria Frost Reporter/Columnist In America, over $3.5 million of Redbull energy drinks were sold in 2010 according to altmedicine.about.com.

People ages 15 to 30 are the ones who normally drink the energy drinks for strength, power and speed. Many people have different points of view on energy drinks and how they affect your body.

Some say that it may affect it in a bad way.

“For some people,” senior Taylor Broderson said, “energy drinks make them jittery, and it can shorten the life span. It also can increase the heart rate, but for some people, they can make them

fall asleep.”

Other people think the drinks can make them become another person than who they are.

“Energy drinks increase your heart rate,” teacher Vickie Maines said. “They can also result in people being more anxious.”

With a sudden boost in energy, other problems can arise.

“They make you hyper,” senior Kat Campbell said. “They can also make you become very addicted to them.”

People drink energy drinks to wake up in the morning or just simply for something to drink.

“I think that people drink energy drinks to give them more energy,” Broderson said, “because of reasons like stress or sleep deprivation.”

Others think that it has to do with the people they hang out with.

“I think it is peer pressure,” Maines said, “and the trendy thing to do. Teenagers drink more to fit in.”

Energy drinks may not become addictive, physically, but some believe they are addicted to the feelings they get from the drinks.

“They can become addictive,” Broderson said. “People get addicted to the feeling of the extra energy, so they keep drinking more and more. Then when their bodies get use to the energy drink, they try to find something stronger.”

Artists work toward future careers in music

by Sade Johnson Reporter Cy-Springs is a big school full of unique students with special and interesting talents. You can look at someone and never guess they have musical talents or break dance.

“I’ve been rapping since I was about eight or nine,” freshman rapper Khalil “Kiid” Smith said. “I am inspired by Wiz Khalifa and hope to someday be able to have a song with him and Big Sean. His upcoming mixtape D-Day is set to be released this December."

Another talented musician at CySprings is sophomore Derrick Adams.

“My songs contain love, hate, poetry, and being confused about life," Adams said. "My music touches people."

Adams isn’t shy when it comes to

performing. “I have performed at a car show, church and a club. I write my best when I’m surrounded by music. One day, I hope to be able to collab with Chris Brown. He inspires me.”

Singing isn't the only genre of talent on campus. There are dancers, as well.

“I started dancing before I could walk,” sophomore break dancer Sarah Palacios said. “I’m not like other dancers. I always do my own choreography.

I dance to anything with a good beat.

If I could pick anyone to dance with, I would pick my brothers. They are my motivation.”

Looking around the school you would never guess that your peers posses these amazing gifts. So the student sitting next to you in Chemistry could maybe become the next Drake or Justin Bieber.

Freshman Khalil “Kiid” Smith, an up-and-coming rapper has been rapping since he was eight or nine years old. Sophomore Sarah Palacios has been dancing her whole life and does all of her own choreography.

6

Cypress Springs High School

Double take

FEATURES

The Voice - October, 2011

Students, staff have fun spotting celebrity lookalikes on campus

Americas number one overprotective mother of eight, Kate Gosselin, is known from TLC’s John & Kate Plus 8 and Kate Plus 8. Unfortunately, the network pulled the plug on the high maintenance mother for averaging low ratings on her post hit show. Cy-Springs English III teacher Kristen Payne has a harsh response regarding her comparison with Kate. “She’s an attractive woman, so that’s very flattering, however, I don’t particularly like her. Her personality is terrible; I hope that I’m perceived as much more likable.”

The Queen of reality television, Kim Kardashian, is known as an actress, model, designer, and for being hot. The Kardashian sister is married to NBA all star Kris Humphries. The couple tied the knot August 20, 2011 at a private estate in Montecito, California. The wedding reportedly cost around five million dollars. Kim’s net worth is reported to be over $35,000,000, not bad for someone who charges $10,000 to just send one tweet. She also cashes in big money for starring in her family’s show Keeping Up With The Kardashians. Junior Yazmin Espinoza shares some interesting qualities with the celebutante; “It’s a pretty cool feeling, I guess,” Espinoza said.

“She’s a gorgeous girl.”

Ex NBA player Kris Humphries is best known for his recent marriage to socialite Kim Kardashian. Humphries has been featured in the family show Keeping Up With The Kardashians. The basketball player played for the Utah Jazz, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, and the New Jersey Jets during the past six years. He currently became an unrestricted free agent. Like Humphries, senior Louis Chapa is good at basketball, however, that doesn’t mean he’s honored to be compared with the star. “It’s kind of good and bad because he’s famous and rich, but then again, the guy looks like he has something wrong with him, and that sucks for me.”

by Juan Tellez

An aspiring model, reality television star: Farrah Abraham, is part of MTV’s Teen Mom series. Abraham first appeared on MTV’s 16 and Pregnant back in 2008 since giving birth to baby Sophia, who she has raised on her own. Sophia’s dad sadly passed away without knowing of her existence two months prior to her birth.

Abraham, at 20 years old, is characterized by her strong personality toward others, especially her parents. In January, 2010, the teen mom accused her mother of assault for allegedly hitting her and throwing a blanket at baby Sophia. Sophomore Annalie Juan may look like her, but Juan is characterized completely differently from Abraham. Her friends say she’s a nice and outgoing person. “She’s a pretty girl, so I guess I’m flattered,” Juan said, “but as far as how she is, I wouldn’t want to end up like her.”

Sheriff Woody Pride is one of Hollywood’s biggest fictional characters. Starring in Toy Story, Woody has managed to get recognition worldwide for his sense of humor. Voiced by Tom Hanks, Woody along with the rest of his clan, has grossed over a $1,000,000,000 for only Toy Story 3. Junior Tye Mitchell shares more qualities than anyone else in this issue. Mitchell not only looks like Sheriff Woody, he also dresses like him, talks like him, and enjoys making everyone laugh. Mitchell feels comfortable with his comparison. “I get compared a lot to Woody,” he said. “I get it every week, but it never gets old.”

Fast food taking toll on health Some trade convenience for healthy lifestyles

by Sade Johnson Reporter Many American teenagers in our society believe that fast food is a treat, but it can also be harmful. Although it can be delicious, too much fast food can have its consequences.

“Sometimes I depend on fast food because it is already made and I don’t have to cook,” sophomore Christina Baltazar said. “I feel my diet is helpful to me because it makes me feel good and doesn’t affect my body.”

Sophomore Jacorey Patterson isn’t really a big fan of fast food. “I eat fast food less than three times a month,” he said. “After I eat it, I feel like, ‘ewww why did I just eat that?’ Fast food is too greasy and unhealthy. I don’t need

fast food in my diet because my mom makes me delicious and healthy food.”

Too much fast food, can, in fact, be harmful. “I eat fast food like 30 times a month,” sophomore Kaine Long said.

His fast food addiction has taken a turn for the worse. “I haven’t grown in a bit, and I think it’s form all the fast food I eat. It has stunted my growth.”

He is going to start changing his eating habits so he can become healthier. “I plan on eating a salad at least once a week in order to help my body,” Long said.

Knowing what is too much can be very important on helping keep your health intact. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are all factors needed to succeed in living a long, healthy life.

Cypress Springs High School

FEATURES

The Voice - October, 2011

Fashion trends updated for new school year From fishnet stockings to snap-back hats, students work to stay in style

by Ashlee McDaniel Reporter The new school year has come, and new fashion has arrived. People are going crazy for what the trends are from Toms shoes, colorful belts, to Hello Kitty shirts and backpacks. Most know that things come and go, and something that is a fashion trend one day might be out the next, but some trends have more staying power. According to senior Tia Harris, fashion hasn’t changed for her that much. “I have the same fashion interest as I did last year,” Harris said.

“I don’t think that just because there is something new out that you have to be like everyone else and wear it.”

One popular current trend for the women are fishnet tights. They can be worn in the summer, winter, fall and spring. There is a television series called What Not to Wear, and it basically expresses the things that are trendy to wear and the things that should be put away.

“Fishnets, patterned hosiery or bare legs

(no matter how tan you are),” co-host Stacey London said, “women should stick with neutral color hosiery that complements their skin tone.”

For the men, fashion is getting to the point where it is a must to fit in. Snap backs, Polo jeans, Polo shirts, Levis brand clothing, everything that apparently has “Swag,” is in. Senior Corey Teamer said, “Levis is the number one thing in my closet; I look fly every day, if you ask me.”

Everyone has his or her different taste in fashion whether it is with Hello Kitty, Toms, Forever 21 clothing, or just a sweater and jeans. There isn’t a “must have” in America, even if some try to make it be. Some say that it isn’t good to just walk out of your house with just anything on. You should present yourself the way you would if you were to see a special someone. Student Morgan Ballad said, “When I leave the house, I dress as if I am going to see someone. Even if it is just going to the grocery store, I still look my best.”

Interracial Dating much more accepted than in past Students in relationships share experiences are out or even face comments because they didn’t “stick to their own kind.”

They face discrimination. It’s difCy-Springs is filled with many dif- ficult for some of them to not take it ferent ethnicities and cultures, so it’s personally. People judge the relationship no surprise when there are interracial because it’s not “normal.” couples seen on campus. This type of “They use to say negative things relationship used to be not only seen as about my boyfriend and me in the taboo in the U.S., it was actually illegal. first few months of our relationship;” But over the years, interracial relation- McPhaul said, “but after a year, they all ships have become more and more toler- forgot that we were different races.” ated by newer generations.

Sometimes the acceptance from A person in an interracial relation- family members is difficult to achieve. ship may receive the unique opportunity They sometimes reject the person’s partto understand, ner. experience and “I don’t see one single probEven though appreciate differnot everyone is in ent cultures and lem with interracial couples. an interracial relabackgrounds.

I don’t look at them as inter- tionship, many still “It shows support the diverdiversity and the racial relationships; they’re sity, and it seems mixture of cul- two people dating each other to be getting more tures,” senior that just happen to be two difcommonplace than Vanessa Alvarez ever. ferent ethnicities.” said.

“I don’t see People who one single problem are in relation--BreeAngela Hamilton, 11 with interracial ships are mainly couples,” junior focused on how BreeAngela Hamtheir partner treats them, what his or her ilton said. “I don’t look at them as interpersonality is like, and the characteris- racial relationships; they’re two people tics that both partners have in common. dating each other that just happen to be The same is true for those in interracial two different ethnicities.” relationships. However, these people must also consider the other’s culture and feelings of family, friends and peers.

Note: This article uses race and “It feels natural to me,” junior Ray- ethnicity interchangeably because they shona McPhaul said. “He’s like my other usually are used this way in society; half. I don’t see him as another race.” however, there are actually only three Interracial couples are different races: Mongoloid, Negroid and Caucafrom other couples and experience diffi- soid. Terms like White, Hispanic, Black, culties that other couples may not. Some Asian, etc. are actually ethnicities, not receive disapproving looks when they races.

by Cynthia Arreguin Reporter/Sports Editor

Have you ever wondered?

by Damien Claudio & Ashlee McDaniel

After July and August, named after Julius and Augustus Ceasar respectively, were inserted into the calendar that had originally been created by the Romans, October kept its name, but moved its place on the calendar. This is why October is the tenth month instead of the eighth.

The unfinished pyramid on the dollar represents an unfinished society.

The world is constantly changing, so we will never be a perfect structure. The eye in the rest of the stones represents God. This shows that He is watching over us.

Intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair.

The sound you hear when you crack your knuckles is actually the sound of nitrogen gas bubbles bursting.

Hair and fingernails continue to grow after death.

7

8

Cypress Springs High School

FEATURES

The Voice - October, 2011

Most popular Halloween costumes named

Students head to stores to get ready for October 31

by Juan Tellez

With only less than a week until Halloween, many of us are still wondering what we are going to wear. Everyone wants to have the best costume. We all want to be the center of attention. Some of the year’s hottest costumes are flying off the shelves fast.

Many of them are extremely expensive, but your next Halloween costume doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Below you will get a taste of 2011’s most popular creations, from wizards to pop stars to Guido’s and Guidettes. Cy-Springs, take notes.

“I am going to dress up as Hermione because I am a Harry Potter Geek.”

-Junior Khanh Tran

“I think I’m going to dress up as Jersey Shore’s Snooki. I love her style.”

-Sophomore Irma Tellez

Harry Potter

Hermione

Snooki

Draco Malfoy

“I’m going to get spray tan and buy Jersey Shore’s DJ Pauly D fresh blowout wig, so I can look like a Guido” - Senior Michael Salgado

Professor Snape

Voldermort

Glee

JWoww

Pauly D

Michael Jackson

Cy-Springs Idol, big hit Sophomore Michael Magana named 2011 Idol winner

10

Cypress Springs High School

FEATURES

The Voice - October, 2011

Secret society said to mastermind events and world affairs to establish new world order

by BreeAngela Hamilton Reporter

While nearly everyone has heard of the Illuminati, few actually know what it is. Perhaps it’s a real and demonic power, or perhaps it’s one of the biggest hoaxes in modern history. In today’s society, it is impossible to escape the supposed reach of the Illuminati. Its presence is believed to be hidden in every corner you turn, and is assumed to be prevalent in every song you listen to and followed by many of the rich and famous.

“Don’t listen to everything you hear,” senior Ambur Wilson said. “The Illuminati is not what most people think it is.”

Illuminati, from the Latin illuminatus, means enlightened. The Illuminati started as a Bavarian secret society during the era of Enlightenment. Modeled

after the Freemasons, the club of freethinkers formed, and despite the banning of secret societies in Bavaria and its subsequent disbandment, the Illuminati thrived. The purported conspiratorial organization is said to mastermind events and control world affairs through governments and corporations to establish a New World Order.Various writers and conspiracy theorists claim that the society survived and its powers are still at work today. In fact, it is commonly stated that very successful musicians are among the members and that the music industry itself is under the Illuminati’s control.

These days the Illuminati are thought of as a large-scale conspiracy.

Theorists allege that world events are being controlled by the Illuminati, all in an effort to create a one-world government.

Theorists also believe that many affluent and influential people are members of the Illuminati as well, which begs the

question, “What is the Illuminati after, and why do they need us?”

“The Illuminati is like the ‘new black,’” senior Catherine Hayes said.

“Everyone wants to be a part of it; it’s the cool thing to do now.”

A number of people also suppose that the Illuminati is using subtle mind control techniques in an attempt to will people into doing its deeds. In current society, teens are immersed in popular culture. Many listen to music genres such as rap, rock and pop that boast suggestive lyrics.

“Brainwashing is possible, and it is happening now,” Wilson said. “The way that young men act today is based on what they hear and see. The songs that they listen to promote cheating on women, and now young men are unfaithful to their girlfriends. The songs that they listen to say things like ‘f— b——,’ and those are the kinds of things are said to and about young women. Young men

are trying to emulate what they see their favorite celebrities do.”

Many others buy into the propaganda and jump on what is trendy, what is the “hot new thing.”

“If you were to follow certain students around the school, all you would see is hype,” Hayes said. “Everything that artists like Jay-Z and Lil’ Wayne say is repeated simply because they are popular.”

Agreeing with Wilson and Hayes, junior Dominique Roberts said, “Mind control is a real thing. Hidden messages can be put into various things without the public realizing it.”

The immediate goals of the Illuminati are still unclear and are left up to the interpretation of the public.

“The Illuminati is scary because it’s a mystery,” Roberts said. “There are rumors that tell about what the society has accomplished, but we don’t know what they have the power to do.”

Science NHS earns Grand Champion at Panther Games

The first annual Panther Games were held October 15. Science National Honor Society took home the grand champion trophy and will hold it until next year's games when they will defend their title.

Cypress Springs High School

J. Cole

REVIEWS

by Juan Tellez & Eileen Salazar

Cole World The Sideline Story J.Cole is an up and coming artist signed to the illustrious Roc Nation. His official album Cole World: The Sideline Story served as a warning to all who heard it with the meaningful flows, extensive vocabulary, and unmistakable ability make for a frightening combination for the competition. The album shows his versatility and ability to keep the listeners' attention. Songs like “Lost Ones” give us a deeper look into the emotions of a hard-knock life, but he is still able to give us “club bangers” with songs like “Can’t Get Enough.” His potential combined with the insightful guidance from the Roc Nation personnel creates an optimistic and bright future for the young artist.

The Voice - October, 2011

11

Jay-Z & Kanye West Watch the Throne

Jay-Z and Kanye West are no strangers to anticipated releases. Jay-Z, a veteran in the rap game, combined his smooth flow with super producer Kanye West’s dynamic beats to form a collaborative album. Fans held high expectation for Watch the Throne. The album’s diversity was key to its success with songs that soothed the soul like “Made in America” to tracks that hyped us all like “N***** in Paris” and “Otis.” That can be accredited to Kanye’s ability to insight emotion through his beats and Jay-Z’s ability to carry out emotion through his lyrics, though both said that Kanye out-shined his mentor with more relevant and stylish flows. This dynamic duo is unstoppable.

Nintendo

Columbiana

Star Fox 64 3D

When you think about an action movie, you might think about a good guy getting revenge or going after a bad guy, but what about a woman? That’s what Columbiana brings. The film is about a young woman named Cataleya whose parents were killed by henchmen of a mob leader named Don Luis in front of her home in Columbia in 1992. Don Luis' top henchman Marcos asks Cataleya where a small chip that her father gave her before he was killed is located. She refuses to tell where it is and escapes in a parkour-style chase scene. She eventually escapes and takes a flight to Miami then to Chicago where she meets her uncle, Emilio (who’s also a mobster).

He enrolls her in school.

Fifteen years later in California, she disguises herself as a drunken woman named Valerie who gets arrested and sent to jail for the night, but she’s actually planning an assassination, putting her skills to the test. Whenever she kills a person, she draws a Cataleya orchid and writes "thief" or "traitor" on their chest. She eventually returns to Chicago where she stays with her boyfriend Danny under a fake name, Jennifer.

For the next few days, she meets up with Emilio who gives her information, but he also criticizes her and tells her to stop before she gets into more trouble. One morning, Danny takes a picture with his phone of her sleeping and shows it to his friend.

His friend asks an agent to find more information on her based on the picture.

The FBI eventually finds a link between Cataleya and her California identity, and tries to find her while she is on her way to kill Don Luis.

The film is like a combination of The Bourne Identity and Salt, with its action and drama. Most of the film’s actions and dialogue are well done and clean.

However, most of the action scenes are predictable, and at other times, the camera work is chaotic. The film has pretty much everything that is expected in an action movie like drama, action and chases and is recommended for those who like action, drama, excitement and surprises.

Those who had a Nintendo 64 may remember Star Fox 64. With its fast pace, dog-fighting style shooting, it became one of the greatest games of the Nintendo 64’s lifespan. Now, Nintendo re-released the classic N64 game along with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D back in June, for their 3DS system in form of Star Fox 64 3D. The game has the same plot as the original N64 game in which you play as Fox McCloud and along with his team, he is given the mission to defeat Dr. Andross in the planet Venom.

The game is exactly as it was 14 years ago, but the graphics were given a 3DS makeover making them more smooth and less blocky. The controls are really good for this game, the buttons are well responsive and you may also use the system’s built in gyroscope to control the Arwing, and it is well responsive. The use of the system’s 3D is excellent and is used a lot in this game. For example, meteors and lasers jump off the screen, and it won’t slow down when the 3D is turned on.

The game has several modes, such as “Main Game,” which basically presents the story mode and challenge mode, “Score Attack” in which you beat the level while getting the best score, “Training,” in which a tutorial is playable to practice your skills, “Battle,” in which up to four players can battle it out or go against three CPUs to practice, and “Options,” in which the sound and control options can be changed. However, the game does not have online play which would have made the game more fun with more players.

Star Fox 64 3D has everything that was in the original game back in 1997, and with a 3DS makeover, the game is a must have for those who have a 3DS. The use of the 3D is excellent, and even though there is no online mode, that wouldn’t stop you from shooting bad guys while doing a barrel roll.

12

Cypress Springs High School

SPORTS

The Voice - October, 2011

Football fans fill stands, have fun Cross country on the move

Fans hang with team through highs and lows

by Cynthia Arreguin Reporter/Sports Editor Fans fill the stands to support the teams. Twenty two players on the field fight to score into the opposing team’s end zone. Everyone cheers, hoping for the win.

“I love going to football games,” junior Zeneida Ramirez said. “After a long week of school, it’s fun to just go and have fun with my friends.”

When people go to the games, it is a totally different environment. It becomes exciting and exhilarating. It’s time to just enjoy and watch the football players give it their all. Some of the fans show much support for the team and enjoy everything about the game.

“As a fan of our school’s football team, I try my best to support them by going to most football games and cheering them on,”

junior Damien Claudio said. “Even though we almost never win, I still have a good time at every single game that I attend.”

Though winning isn’t everything, the Panthers fight for the win every game. Going for the win seems to matter the most. Cheering and supporting them at every game lifts their spirits.

“We win some; we lose some,” senior and varsity receiver Chris Brown said. “It pumps us up knowing people are there cheering our team.”

School spirit should always be at its highest on game days, but Cy-Springs students often say the student body does not have much spirit as a whole, although many individuals alone do have spirit.

“People shouldn’t say that they don’t like our school just because we lose,” Claudio said. “It’s disrespectful, and their lack of school spirit is probably one of the reasons why our football team is the way it is. Go, Panthers, Go!”

Runners find personal reasons to compete

by Brittany Stevenson Reporter Cross country takes a lot of commitment and dedication. No timeouts, no halftimes, no substitutions. Sophomore Robert Rodriguez is a cross country member.

“I joined cross country to get fit,” Rodriguez said. “I prepare myself for a long run by eating apples and subway and running about two miles daily.”

Rodriguez’ advice to other students that would like to join cross country is to “drink a lot of water.”

“I advise students to eat right and exercise daily if they plan to join cross

Wide receiver Chris Brown sprints down field to make a reception against Cy-Ranch.

Volleyball teams head to end of season Players have come a long way since beginning

by Ashlee McDaniel Reporter The volleyball teams are hitting the mark this season. Varsity player Emily Lutz is a returning varsity player from the 2010-2011 school year. “My freshman year I was on the freshman A team, and I kinda sucked,” she said. “Now my eagerness is at a very high level because I have colleges looking at me, and I want to get a scholarship.”

Tashona Williams is a returning

player for the second year. Playing on junior varsity, she is ready for whatever this season brings. She knows that with playing last year, she has an advantage from all of the girls that didn’t. “I’m excited for this season,” she said, “and I am willing to do whatever it takes to make this a great one.”

While some think volleyball is an easy sport to play, Lutz thinks otherwise.

“Volleyball is a contact sport,” Lutz said.

“Working together is the hardest part of all because our different techniques

sometimes can get in the way.”

The volleyball teams have played many games since August. The Lady Panthers contend their biggest competitions out of the Cy-Fair school district are Cypress Woods and Cy-Fair High Schools. “We have a lot of heart,” Williams said, “and we are confident in ourselves and in each other. We consider each other as family, and I think we have a chance in defeating those teams and even winning district if we all pull together.”

Volleyball coach Gina Holcomb conferences with her team during a time out in the game against Langham Creek.

Junior Jasmin Jauregui competes in the Klein Forest High School Invitational.

country,” sophomore Manet Ota said. “I train by running about four miles a day, and I’ve even run about six miles at the most.” Ota also says she feels “nervous, anxious and excited before a big meet” and she eats foods like “power bars and Gatorade” to stay on her A-game.

Cross country helps people improve in many things such as health and discipline.

“I like that cross country helps me improve my running and speed,” Ota said. “Being in cross country keeps me grounded.”

Although some students may have nervous feelings about running they still get the job done and dedicate their time to cross country. “I feel anxious,” sophomore Bryan Paniagua says describing the way he feels before a big meet. He makes sure to run about four to five miles each day to stay in shape for cross country, which is also his advice to students that would like to join cross country.

“I make sure to eat fruits and drink a lot of water to keep my body healthy,” Paniagua said.

Cy-Springs has many hardworking and persevering students. They have changed their diets, and exercise and run daily. They have pretty much changed their whole lifestyle to become healthy for cross country.