November 2013

the

crimsonconnection

cypress woods

volume 1

issue 3

Friday, November 8

Long

live the

LEGACY

the

crimsonconnection EDITORS-IN-CHIEF nikki carter rachel kainer

LAYOUT EDITOR alexis starkey

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR cassie cotton

NEWS/FEATURE EDITOR gail mcgehee

EDITORIAL EDITOR adayre bevill

SPORTS EDITOR abbie mcintosh

PHOTO EDITOR sarah orr

BUSINESS MANAGER brad wargo

SOCIAL COORDINATOR byria hamblin

editorial policy The Crimson Connection is published seven times a year and distributed free by the Cy Woods Journalism Department. The Editorial Board consists of two editors. The Board determines the stances of editorials, as well as the content of the newsmagazine.

Letters or comments are welcome and should be sent to room 1866 at the school address. To be printed by the school newspaper, the letter or comments must be signed and legible. The editors reserves the right to edit letters. The opinion of the staff does not necessarily represent or reflect the opinions of the faculty of this school or this district.

Make your voice heard. The Crimson Connection staff wants to know your questions, concerns, or comments. If you would like to contribute to the next issue of The Crimson Connection, please email us at: abigail.paysse@cfisd.net Cypress Woods High School 13550 Woods Spillane Blvd.

Cypress, TX 77429 (281) 213-1913 abigail.paysse@cfisd.net

“

Letter from the editors:

“

Dear fellow Wildcats,

We would like to start off by saying how much work went into this issue, and we really hope you enjoy it. Take time during these next few weeks to think about what you’re thankful for; as cheesy as that sounds, most of the time we don’t realize how much we have been given. Since our next issue won’t print until December, have a fun and safe Thanksgiving break, and enjoy the remainder of football season!

Sincerely,

contents

Rachel Kainer and Nikki Carter Editors-in-Chief

5 Photo by: Sarah Orr

12 Photo by: Cassie Cotton

11 Photo by: Julia Held

16 Photo by: Samantha Smith

Cover photo by: Cassie Wyant

thecrimsonconnection.com

By the beat of lu c k Senior gets invited to march

The roar of a crowd of almost 30,000. The feeling of accomplishment when a show is finished that demanded blood, sweat, and sports tears. The chills experienced when the highpoint of the show is reached. It is a feeling only a handful of people get to experience, and senior Javier Garza was one of them.

Last summer, Garza received a call to march with The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, an amateur marching band involved in Drum Corps International.

“I was sitting on my couch when I got the call from Mr. Wood [band director] and he was like ‘Hey, we have an open spot,’” Garza said. “They needed someone to fill it, and I was available.”

Filling an empty spot was no easy task. The Academy was already in the middle of their season. Garza had a lot to catch up on in a short amount of time.

“It was very difficult to learn everything,” Garza said. “I had never done anything on that level before.

I actually did not learn all the music because I was really focused on the drill. You can march and not play, but you cannot play and not march.”

Despite the small amount of preparation, Garza was thrown into the production right off the bat.

“I ended up doing my first show five days after I joined up with the group,” Garza said. “I did not march the whole thing; they just needed me for a section to move a prop so the Color Guard would not fall over and kill themselves.”

Despite not marching the whole show, Garza still had the responsibility of keeping up with everything, but it was a different kind of responsibility than what he was used to.

“I have been [band] leadership for a while here at school,” Garza said. “At

editor

abbie

mcintosh

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11.08.13

DCI

The Academy, I was just the new guy. would march together for something It was actually kind of nice not having important, but things worked out, and to worry about anyone but myself. we got another shot to march together.”

It made it a lot easier to focus on the However, Garza had to say goodbye show.” to old friends to say hello to a new With a new sense of what season of high school marching band. responsibility is all about, many “I missed some of August camp members of the band have noticed because of Drum Corps, but jumping differences in Garza. into camp was not difficult at all,” “Everything about Garza has Garza said. “It was a little weird improved,” Band Director Kevin coming back, but everything was fine Wood said. “From being a musician in the end.” to a performer and even as a person; Garza has taken many things from everything has improved greatly.” his summer at The Academy, but one Even members of Garza’s section, the thing really sticks out. trombones, have noticed “It is about what you take away from differences. things opposed to what you are “He has given,” Garza said. “Scores do taken more not matter, other people’s initiative in his opinions do not matter. It leadership, is all about how you feel playing, and you performed, how you marching,” did in whatever you were junior Jack doing, and your own Belcher said. personal satisfaction “He has with what you have done definitely that really matters.” improved.”

Drum Corps -JAVIER GARZA requires a lot of focus and time, but some great travel opportunities came along during the tour.

“I caught up with the group at the end of the tour, but I still got to travel to some really cool places,” Garza said. “I went to my very first China Town in Philadelphia where I ate this really strange pastry thing that I should have not eaten, but it was a cool experience.”

Garza was lucky to experience another amazing opportunity: marching with fellow Cy Woods trombone alumni.

“It was really cool to march with Mason [Roberts] and Ryan [Carr] [former trombones] again,” Garza said. “Last year at Area, we were all thinking Garza in his Academy uniform before a performance that would be the last time we Photo contributed by: Javier Garza

“

“

“4 people

IT IS ABOUT WHAT YOU TAKE AWAY FROM THINGS OPPOSED TO WHAT YOU ARE GIVEN

“11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

people

5“

Small town to Big Apple

Student chosen to perform in Macy’s Day Parade mcgehee

editor

gail

This Thanksgiving the annual Macy’s Day Parade will be broadcasted to 15 million people across the nation, and our very own senior Matt news Stephens has been chosen to participate and play in the parade. Only 11 euphonium players are chosen from the entire country according to past accomplishments, titles, and AllState rankings in their specific instrument.

Stephens made the All-State competition just last year which drew the attention of the Macy’s Day Parade organizers.

“It is something they offer to the highest, like the top 10 percent of the state, musicians and the way to do that would be to go through the all-state students,” Head band director Michael Vasquez said.

“This is a pretty neat opportunity that not everybody gets to do.”

Stephens’ hard work has paid off in a different way than he expected, and now that an opportunity as big and the Macy’s Day parade has been presented he will take it.

“I wasn’t sure what to do when Mr. Vasquez gave me the letter,” Stephens said.

“I didn’t know how to feel at first, but after I knew I would be in it, it made me excited.”

Stephens has been a part of the Band for four years and in those four years he has found help from fellow band member and one specific director.

“Mr. Vasquez has defiantly helped me most, because he’s helped me ever since freshmen year,” Stephens said.

But Stephens was not the only one affected when growing in his musical talents.

“It feels great,” Vasquez said. “It’s nice to see a young student, one that’s just eager, that loves doing what they do just as much as I do. It’s nice to see a student follow in your footsteps. It’s very self-rewarding as a teacher.”

Stephens is not only a high level player, but also a leader to his section and inspires them to rise to their best of their ability.

“We have to hold ourselves to a higher standard because we see him playing so well,” Junior Euphonium player Chandler

Green said. “It kinda just makes us know we have quality student doing what students can practice and become like that. We hold have done in the past and a little bit more,” ourselves higher so we can be like him.”

Vasquez said. “We’ve never had a student All of the accomplishments in Stephens’ go to New York before.” past has contributed to the once in a life While he is in the parade Stephens plans time opportunity and that not something show a signal that will be very well known that has gone unnoticed. back home.

“He had to jump through a few hoops to “If I do get on TV I’ll make sure to put the get there, but it’s not anything he couldn’t C-Dub with my hand,” Stephens said. do,” Vasquez said. “It is spectacular because The Macy’s Day Parade will be not everybody can do it, last time I had a Broadcasted on NBC November 28 and student do this was in the 90’s and only two Stephens will be playing his euphonium and students from Texas made it.” marching with other high school students.

The Macy’s Days Parade organizers are not the only ones who have noticed Stephens’ talents, other students see it too.

“People should know how good he is not just inside of school but outside school and outside Texas,” Green said.

Stephens’ feelings were jumbled at first, but now that the date is approaching he is growing more and more excited.

“I’m getting really excited and sort of nervous at the same times,” Stephens said.

“I am nervous to be in it, to perform in front of 15 million people, but excited for the experience. I’m just excited to play in front of the country and nervous because I hope I don’t mess up or anything.”

When Stephens goes up to New York for the Parade, he will not just be representing himself, but the school as well. He is already reflecting a good reputation for the band. the marching band.

“It proves that we Stephens plays his euphonium at a football game with the rest of Photo by: Sarah Orr

290 12 MAN th

is on

Teacher to open Texas A&M store in Cypress

gay

reporter

colin

When you hear the exclamation, “Whoop!” you know an Aggie is close. Not only do Aggies wear maroon staff T-shirts and watch football games, they are fanatics and sometimes literally drip maroon.

However, for Aggies in the Houston area, there is a problem finding merchandise exclusively made for Texas A&M. Luckily, Houston Aggies will not have that problem anymore.

This month, Freshman English teacher Stacy Leonard and her business partner Nathan Leonard are opening Whoop! U, a store dedicated to selling only Texas A&M merchandise.

When Leonard graduated from A&M in 2000, she noticed a problem.

“I couldn’t find very many options for Aggie clothes and gear here in Houston,” Leonard said. “After talking with other Aggies who were making annual trips to College Station to stock up on their Aggie gear for football season, I realized there was a great need for an Aggie store in the Houston area.”

Other Aggie fans have the same problem finding gear in the area.

“I go to College Station and pick up a few things there on game days or during the summer,” Director of Instruction Kelly Ellis said. “If not there, I go to Academy.”

Leonard will attempt to fill this Aggie void with Whoop! U, which will sell exclusive merchandise which cannot be found at generic stores like Target or Academy.

“Our business plan is 80 percent apparel which will include T-shirts, dresses, tops, hats and more for males and females of all ages,” Leonard said. “The other 20 percent will be accessories including jewelry, home decor, decals, etc.”

With big brands like Under Armor and Cutter and Buck, Whoop! U will flourish, according to freshman English teacher Traci Underwood.

Whoop! U store at Barker Cypress and 290 Photo by: Stacy Leonard

“It will be cool to have merchandise that is not common or generic which can be bought out of a department store,” Underwood said. “I would like things that are more of a boutique style.”

It will be easier for Aggies to get gear not only for themselves but for other people too.

“It is so much nicer to know that there are quality items right around the corner that I can pick up for my friends and family,” Ellis said.

The store will open at Barker Cypress and 290 in front of Randall’s, which is a favorable and strategic location.

“290 is the route thousands of Aggies take to and from College Station,” Leonard said.

Underwood thinks this store will positively affect the businesses around the area.

“I think it will draw customers to the little shopping center right on Barker Cypress,” Underwood said, “and into stores that consumers might not usually go. It will also increase traffic in the area.”

Leonard has a simple reason for wanting to start a store exclusively for A&M gear.

Find Them On Facebook at facebook.com/ WhoopUCypress “There is cohesion among the Aggie network that cannot be explained,” Leonard said. “We have an enormous network here in Houston. Aggies need a store just for them.”

Ellis thinks this store will only make the Aggie spirit greater in the Cypress area.

“The spirit is already huge, but we are always looking to do a little World Domination ourselves,” Ellis said.

Whoop! U will be a reason one will see more 12th man, Manziel and Aggie gear around the Cypress area.

“From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it, but from the inside looking out, you can’t explain it,” Leonard said. “We are thrilled to cater to the Aggie pride that is so prevalent in Houston.”

“11.08.13

ONE

is never enough

Imagine having two more siblings than you do now. Maybe three or four. Now imagine having seven. This is the life of the Hayden family. staff The Hayden household has eight children whose ages range from six to 19. Four of the eight attend Cy Woods, giving the group the record for most students enrolled at one time.

The Hayden parents both come from large families and decided they wanted the same experience for their children.

“My mom comes from a family of six, and so does my dad,” Emma said. “We’re Catholic, so we believe that any life is good life and everyone should have a chance.”

To accommodate for having so many kids, Mr. Hayden has to work plenty and earn everything he can.

“My dad is a regional salesman and my mom is a stay at home mom,” Emma said.

“So as you can imagine, my dad has to make quite a bit of money to compensate for all of us.”

Planning activities together can be a challenge for such an array of ages, but they manage by doing things such as playing Apples to Apples, going to church, and having picnics by a lake near their house. Sophomore Peter Hayden thinks family activities are more difficult

reporter

kaurianna

kendall

voices

thecrimsonconnection.com

Eight kids rock this house

to organize.

“It’s hard to get everyone to do something together because everyone’s busy,” Peter said.

The siblings do not clash too much, but because of certain differences disagreements are not a rare thing.

“We never have big fights, but there are always small fights about everything,” Emma said. “Like [who gets] shotgun – that’s the biggest – movies and what to eat for dinner – constant struggle.”

Freshman Rose Hayden sees the most arguments over the different types of music everyone listens to.

“My sister listens to Drake, my brother listens to country, [and] my mom listens to Broadway,” Rose said. “So we’re always telling each other to turn off the music.”

Siblings often feel as if they have to compete for notice from their parents, but Peter thinks the reality is the opposite.

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“Usually you compete for less attention so you don’t have a big radar on your head,” Peter said.

Having so many brothers and sisters brings a constant company that these siblings tend to appreciate.

“You’re never bored and there’s always someone there,” Emma said. “If you get in a fight with one sibling, you always have another sibling to go to. That’s always nice.”

Not a lot of people can understand how it feels to be raised with so many others.

Though it is sometimes tricky, there are several positives about having seven people so close who care so deeply for you.

“The best part of having a big family is always having someone there for you and never being lonely. You know there’s always someone looking out for you who has your back no matter what,” Rose said.

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thecrimsonconnection.com

NEW

girl

New student shares her life on the road

States the culture changes a little bit. Each best friend I’ve made each new place has different qualities that help me learn about the place."

Rachel's brother, sophomore Spencer Clark, enjoys seeing new sights and getting to know new people as he moves around as well.

"Getting to see the different geographical features of different areas is the best part," Spencer said.

Illustration by: Rachel Kainer "The land is always different and marlow For most people, the people change even if you just go from their first day at a one state to the next."

While enjoying meeting new people and new school is always intimidating.

Not seeing new places, Rachel has also endured knowing anyone can the expected hardships of moving from be a scary thing, and place to place. senior "Cutting off friendships and making new first impressions feel more critical than they ever have. All this ones is kind of awkward at first,” Rachel piled on top of the anxieties of making said. “When you leave a school district new friends, finding a table at which to sit or a state, people kind of talk to you for during lunch, discovering your niche and around six months after you leave, but after getting used to your new classes can be a that, even your best friends kind of move stressful experience. However, for senior on with their lives and don’t realize that Rachel Clark, moving to new schools is no you’re gone, and it kind of hurts to lose that connection." foreign or monumental task for her.

Leaving a legacy of kindness and Her move to Cy Woods being her 14th school district she has attended in her friendless everywhere she has traveled, life, her seventh time moving over 1,000 Rachel has made lasting impacts on the miles across the country and her 17th time friends in whom she has invested.

"She has moved more times than I can moving total, Rachel is well acquainted with the first day experience and is hardly fazed count on both hands, and I think one move by it. While moving around so much may is difficult," Rachel's friend of seven years seem like an arduous task for most people, from Emmett, Idaho, Lucy Mumford said.

Rachel welcomes the opportunity to meet "I really admire Rachel's optimism and her ability to look to the future. She also has new people and experience new things.

“I love getting to know different kinds of a very strong sense of self-worth and selfpeople,” Rachel said. “My best friends are confidence that I've always tried to emulate. all over the country. You just always find Rachel is one of the kindest people I know, really great people. Even just in the United and I think this is a characteristic that the

reporter

madelynn

in TOWN

Photos contributed by: Rachel Clark

“

world is in desperate need of."

While her heart is still in her home state of Idaho, Rachel has an avid love for Texas and its people.

"I like the southern hospitality," Rachel said. "That makes it a lot easier to move.

I have lived in the south before, but it is really different in Texas, the hospitality thing. Other places, they can be a little bit nice; sometimes they’re just not nice at all, and then here almost everybody welcomes you."

Moving here only the week before homecoming, Rachel was quickly introduced to the intense Texan homecoming traditions.

"I'd never heard of mums before, actually," Rachel said. "It’s really nice, it’s a keepsake; it makes you feel special. It’s like this big trophy."

Experiencing the avid 212 spirit was also something Rachel gladly welcomed.

"I thought the school spirit was cool," Rachel said. "It kind of helped me like the school. I really like it when people are excited to be in their school. People don’t realize how awesome their school is because I guess they haven’t been around anywhere to see it worse."

As a frequent new student at different schools, Rachel wishes that more people would move past the new kid stereotype and realize that she is just like the kids that have been here all along.

"If I could tell the student body something about moving here it would be that students that are moving in aren’t any different than the people here," Rachel said.

"Wherever I go there are always people that have this weird pre-stereotype that says that new kids are different. Just because we’ve moved tons of times or even just moved once, it doesn’t make us anymore experienced or any less experienced in life than they are."

Senior’s family changed forever in drunk driving accident orr

editor

sarah

1,620,000 seconds.

27,000 minutes.

450 days. 15 months before a little boy was taken from his family in a senseless, violent crash. After that day, photo their three year old girl would never be able to run and dance and play the way she used to. Senior Carly Smith’s family was changed forever on March 16, 1991.

Driving to Fairfield on a late Saturday afternoon, they saw headlights suddenly coming toward them. A drunk was driving the wrong way on the wrong side of the freeway. The Smith’s were struck by another car trying to avoid the drunk driver. Their car was destroyed, and their son died at the hospital in the early

“

triumph

following weeks],” Carly’s mother Karen said. “People who did not know us were generous with their time and support because the accident was very sad. We all found our way by taking one day at a time. Anna received the best medical care I have ever seen, in many years working in medicine. She spent four months in Hermann Hospital and TIRR before she returned home and started early childhood at the elementary school.”

Twenty-two years after the accident, the Smith’s have continued to live their life to the fullest, but this does not mean the consequences of that day are not still felt.

“There is not a day that goes by without some impact from the accident,” Karen said. “We have lost our son in our life.

Anna has spent the last 22 years using one hand and making adaptations for

on the right side of her body, Anna continues to lead a happy, fulfilling life. She went on to attend college and earned an Associates Degree in Child Development.

She now works part time as a preschool teacher and has also been working for seven years at a pediatric therapy center. “[At the pediatric therapy center] I give a brief story of the accident,” Anna said.

“I like to tell it to the parents of children with special needs because it shows how successful I’ve become through the years of tough times.”

Anna hopes that her story of how she has overcome difficulties presented to her helps to inspire other to overcome any difficulties they may face.

“No matter what challenges you face you can overcome it if you work hard and set your mind to it,” Anna said. “Drinking

No matter what challenges you face

YOU CAN OVERCOME IT IF YOU WORK HARD AND SET YOUR MIND TO IT.

hours of the next day. Their three year old daughter, Anna, was also critically injured and faced two surgeries and months of therapy before returning home, partially paralyzed on the right side of her body.

The drunk driver was driving without a license and in a borrowed car. His blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit. That was his fourth offense in five years, and he had never spent one day in jail before this accident. He received only two years for the death of their son, and six years in prison for injury to a child.

The Smith’s worked hard to make sure he went to jail this time, instead of just getting another probated sentence. They were determined to get this drunk off the road. They chose not to be informed when he finished his jail term because they could not handle the disappointment, knowing he was free in what may have been only a year or so. Instead, they put their energy into helping Anna.

“We received an outpouring of kindness, attention and assistance from our friends, family and neighbors [in the

Anna Smith things that require the use of two hands.

She works harder at everything, but her accomplishments are awesome.”

Since she had not yet been born, Carly was not part of the accident, but the incident has had a great impact on her life. She has watched her sister adapt to everyday tasks that are many times taken for granted by most people, but never sees herself question why she was put in that position.

“There are people I know who have a sickness or an illness where they will give up on life, or ask why did God choose for me to have this,” Carly said. “One thing I really do like that my sister does is I never hear her saying ‘Why was it me who was hit by the drunk driver?’ or ‘Why do I have these physical disabilities? She is just always happy and she makes everyone that she is with so happy. She has found things that she can do like swimming, and she still went to college, and has lived life fully, and she is still really happy despite the problems she faces.”

Despite having limited muscle mobility

“

TRAGEDY

alcohol then driving can cause a life threatening event to you or another person, which would never be forgotten. The man who was responsible for the accident has totally changed my life forever.”

The choice that man took can never be taken back. He can never go back and save that little boy’s life and he can never go back and let Anna live the life she was participating in only a few seconds earlier.

The Smith’s have gone on to live their lives to the fullest, but never forget the tragedies brought upon them by one man’s reckless choice to drink and drive. Anna has continually inspired others with her story and made countless accomplishments in her life that many take for granted, but for Anna, they are huge mile stones.

“Things I have accomplished through the years: tie my shoes, fix my hair, type on the computer, put together snaps, buttons, and zippers on clothes,” Anna said. “I look at the positive things in my life.” *Names have been changed to respect the privacy of the sources.

L d o ot fa o lbi f nis H m ea rt

be different.”

As Mallory carries through her normal life with ambivalent pride, she always knows that her mother is by her side supporting her.

“My life would not be complete without her,” Tara said.

Albino plants which fall short of photosynthetic pigment – chlorophyll do not last for more than ten days, while albino animals face eyesight problems, which, in turn, hamper their ability to hunt and fend for themselves.

A certain type of ocular albinism passes on from the mother to her son. Mothers carrying the Ocular Albinism (OA1) gene are likely to bear sons with a serious eye malfunction.

orl

reporter

rebecca

my mom always took me to N. O. A. H. conventions,” Mallory said. “It’s a convention where people with albinism go and they meet.”

Through all the questions and bold stares, Mallory answers anyone who is willing to ask about her differing appearance.

“Most of the time people aren’t afraid to ask me, ‘Why are you different,’” Mallory said.

Mallory did not always have the same level of selfassurance she has now.

“I used to be really not confident in myself because I was albino,” Mallory said, “but now I just think of that as something that makes me stand out from other people. I didn’t want to feel different because I was a kid. I just wanted to be like everybody else. But now that I’m older, I see that it doesn’t really matter, and it’s good to

Lit Ins tle igh t in Pig to the m bri en gh t, tw

Walking d o w n the halls bearing lightlyt i n t e d staff skin and blonde hair.

Knowing the difference.

Seeingtheglances.Answering the questions. Contradicting the stereotypical albino, junior Mallory Jones struts her lack of melanin with a skip in her step and a smile on her face.

Jones is albino and proud of it. Since she was born, Jones has had albinism.

“It’s like being normal except you have really blonde hair, and people always ask you if it’s natural,” Mallory said.

Albinism automatically raises questions and draws attention to those that are unfamiliar with the harmless discoloration.

“My mom didn’t even know until I was about one,” Mallory said. “They’d never looked into it until I was born, and they didn’t know what was wrong with me until a year after. The doctors were trying to figure it out, so I knew from a really young age.”

After Jones was born, her mother Tara Jones got as many answers as she could.

“I didn’t know how to handle the difference,” Tara said. “I consider it a minor change.”

Though it is rare to most people, it is not to those that possess it.

“When I was little rudolph

Two nonalbino parents can give birth to an albino offspring, possibly if the parents are carriers of the albinism gene.

Such instances are nonetheless rare, but not as rare as albinism, emerging as a result of gene mutations.

Although statistics say that albinism occur in both genders equally, science has proven that men are more prone to albinism than women are.

Lack of eye pigmentation in any albino elicits a skyrocketing increase in one’s eye sensitivity to light. Taking into account that the melanin pigment is crucial for full development of the retina, the retina of an albino person develops abnormally.

“11.o8.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

Faith and fun

student life

11“

A youth group becomes extremely popular among students

I

t’s an escape from the pressure of being a teenager.

It’s a place where students learn about God and how they staff can incorporate His good word into their busy high school schedule. Young Life is a Christian ministry that meets every Monday and Wednesday, where adult leaders work with high school students in order to bring the good news of Jesus Christ into their lives.

Young Life has been highly attended this year due to the overwhelming excitement of this year’s senior leaders.

The senior leaders went to camp, Crooked Creek, over the summer. Crooked Creek is located in Colorado where students from all over the country participate in a week filled with games, outdoor activities and God. “This year, the senior leaders are much more dedicated,” senior Sydney Vaughn said. “It’s popular because people hear about our paint wars, and they get

reporter

emma

fritz

Junior Young Life members Nick Hooper, Taylor Tesch and Logan Norris playing games during a paint war Photo by: Julia Held

excited.”

Young life is not only about playing games, it has a much deeper message.

“You don’t have to be a specific [religion], have certain beliefs, or dress a particular way; you are accepted and welcomed as you are,” leader of Cy Woods Young Life Whitney Moreland said. “We don’t force our beliefs on any one; we share what we believe to be true, but allow kids to make their own decisions and love them regardless.”

Mondays are called Club, while Wednesdays are Campaigners. On each day, they focus on incorporating God,but in very different ways.

“At Club it’s really fun to watch and be a part of the games,” senior Cy Bruce said.

“We sing songs like pop and Disney.”

Club is mainly for games and getting to know others while Campaigner’s is a more serious time for talking about pressures teenagers face every day.

“On Wednesday, the girls and boys separate and go to two different houses, and this is when you get into deeper stuff,” Vaughn said. “We do this because girls don’t want to talk about certain

things in front of boys, and vice versa.”

Young Life is constantly trying to send a positive message to high school students about God and His relationship with everyone.

“I believe it’s a message of love,” Moreland said. “God loves them [students] so deeply and He wants to be in a relationship with them.”

Through Young Life, many of the senior leaders have expanded their relationship and understanding of God. “Young Life sends the message to stay true to yourself, and that God loves me no matter what,” Vaughn said.

Moreland hopes to send a wide range of messages, although one in particular sticks out more than the rest.

“God doesn’t keep a scoreboard of their right and wrongs,” Moreland said.

“He isn’t up there pointing his finger or making bad things happen to them, but that we live in a broken world and God is the only thing, the only one that can fulfill them and make them whole.”

To get involved with Young Life, they meet every Monday at Cy Fair Christian Church.

100 every day “12 people

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downloads

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11.08.13

Two students gave up their summer to bring the Cy Woods app to your phone cotton

editor

cassie

As one of the top app, Liu took into account the central Creating an app seems like it would ranked schools in forces that keep our school running. be a tedious process; however, Dhar “We knew the center was going to be admits it took less time than they CFISD, Cy Woods students are obsessed a grade,” Liu said. “That’s why people expected. with their grades. would want to use it. But we also “We started in the beginning of Constantly refreshing wanted to add some extra information summer and finished by the time media Home Access can like events and news just for fun.” school started,” Dhar said. “We had become tedious and wear out to meet multiple times with the the key boards of devoted assistant principal,so it took about students. Andrew Liu and three months. We met to decide Rishabh Dhar were two of these how to progress. We did most of dedicated students. Having the work at home.” created apps in the past, Liu Chacon appreciates the boys’ and Dhar knew a grade-based hard work and believes the app Cy Woods app would be the would not have been released if he best solution to their problem. would have worked with any other With support from Assistant students.

Principal Richard Chacon, the “On my side I had that vision and popular app was released as the wanted to do it and those two boys school year began. had the same vision and wanted Liu became frustrated with the to do it, it was just about getting complicating task of checking us together,” Chacon said. “If we his grades through his phone hadn’t gotten together I don’t and at the end of his junior year, think I would’ve found the right he had had enough. people and I don’t know if they “Initially the app was just an would have the right guidance. It easy way to check your grades was a combination of both of our on your phone because we were Seniors Rishabh Dhar and Andrew Liu show off their app’s home screen. visions.” tired of always going on Home Photo by: Cassie Cotton The free app is available on The popularity of the app is evident the iTunes App Store; watch out for Access on our phones and logging in every time,” Liu said. “So we created as there are up to 100 downloads a day. cool new updates and information “Some people at Cy Ranch are using regarding an android compatible this app that will notify you of new grades and keep you logged in. We it too,” Liu said. “I did numbers the version that is in the works. were just trying to simplify the grading other day; we have over 500 people from Cy Ranch using it. From Woods, system as much as possible.”

When deciding what to include in the we have about 2000 to 2500.”

Talk from

Twitter

Cy Ranch

Cy Woods

“11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

current events

Deficit for

to pay what do cut that will Americans are of the idea of spending but in disagreement over what to cut. When everyone starts saying this then nothing gets cut and we’re right back where we started.”

Many people ask, what is so important that it cannot be cut. Most of the things the government funds affect many and if stopped would cause a country outcry. Even the little things are important such as education and road construction.

“Social security is one of the biggest things that is funded,” Tate said. “Many people are against cutting it because they have paid into the fund as they have worked and want to receive benefits when they retire. A large percentage of funding also goes to national defense, but cutting this would lead to a decrease in GDP. Medicare is another large area of spending which provides healthcare for retirees. We also must pay interest on the debt. Lastly only a small percentage of spending covers everything else.” A large part of the debt is due to the recent economic collapse, but who exactly is the money owed to?

“Most of the debt is owed to Americans,” Villamagna said. “The Federal Government sells bonds. If you own a savings bond the government owes you money.”

The debt also extends to other countries who have bought United States bonds in good faith that America would pay them back with interest. If spending was cut for paying interest then America’s bond value would decrease and the interest rate would increase even further increasing our debt.

You decide; raise the taxes, cut government spending, or both in order to reduce our national debt.

de bt?

you don’t want more, then you want to affect you?’. in favor cutting

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ith

the

dollars, but not as high as a percentage of GDP as it has been in the past.

“The time when the federal government had the greatest burden of debt was when we were coming out of World War II,” history and economics teacher George Villamagna said. “The way economists measure the national debt is by comparing it to GDP. GDP is the measure of productive output or the national wealth.”

What this means is that right after WWII the national debt was approaching 120%of GDP. For example, for every $100 of income earned, $120 was owed in debt. Today’s debt, however, is right around 101 percent of GDP which is nearly 20 percent less than 70 years ago.

So even though the debt back then may have only been $260 billion America was only making $208 billion; today our debt is $17 trillion but our national income is about $16 trillion about 1 percent below o u r debt. One way to help reduce the debt is for the economy to experience economic growth.

“Right now the government a n d Federal Reserve are implementing an expansionary policy,” Tate said.

“This occurs right after an economic recession which is where we are at. All this means is that the government keeps taxes low, but pumps money into the economy hoping to get it flowing again. With money flowing the GDP increases and the debt decreases, as a percentage of GDP, is the belief that motivates this process.”

There are two other ways to reduce the budget deficit that create the national debt, either raise taxes or cut spending.

“Many people don’t want to pay more taxes; they don’t like it,” Villamagna said. “The question arises then ‘Well if

at’ su

manager

bradley

With a lot happening in Washington it is difficult to understand what it is all about.

One aspect of it all involves the debt business ceiling, but what is this debt ceiling? Starting in 1898, during the Spanish-American War, the Secretary of Treasury was given the power to issue limited debt or a ceiling on how high in debt the country could go.

“Prior to the debt ceiling the government would take each case on a case by case basis, having to give approval each time a bond was issued,” Economics teacher Emily Tate said.

“That was until the economy exploded and became too difficult to manage.”

This case by case basis involved the government voting on what they wished to spend money on and coming to an agreement.

“The United States budget process begins when the President of the United States submits a budget request to congress,” BBC News reported. The President’s budget is formulated over a period of months with the assistance of the Office of Management and Budget.

The budget request includes funding requests for all federal executive departments and independent agencies.

In March, the budget committees consider the President’s budget proposals in the light of the CBO budget report, and each committee submits a budget resolution to its house by April 1.

There is no obligation for either or both houses of Congress to pass a budget resolution.

There may not be a resolution every year; if none is established, the previous year’s resolution remains in force.”

The debt we currently have, which is right around 17 trillion dollars, is the highest it has ever been, in sheer

Wh

wargo

13“

things

you didn’t know

about social media

40%

1 10

young people are in rejected for a job because of content related to their social media accounts.

of people socialize more online than in person

9100 Tweets are sent every single second, and 58 million every day.

What kind of phone do you have?

Other None

2

40

Twice

as many men are on Reddit as

30

women

20 10

iPhone

Galaxy Non- Android Other smart smart phone phone

500+ MILLION users

@justinbieber has the most Twitter followers

50

0

Twitter has

What app are you addicted to?

45 MILL.

pictures posted on Instagram every day.

There is a twitter account that posts pictures of students sleeping in class

z z z zz @CyWoodsSleeps

zz

The most common class to sleep in is AP government

32,000,000

Twitter users participate in #throwbackthursday

28%

FACEBOOK is an increasing reason for divorce

of retweets are due to “PLEASE RETWEET”

A hour of video is uploaded to YouTube every second

If you FLIP the Vine logo, it reveals the number 6… the length of the VIDEOS

8 10

11 am

is the most popular hour on

VINE

of all photos uploaded to instagram use a fliter

80% of women find their friends annoying on Facebook

Someone likes a photo on Instagram every minute

2500 Students own the Cy Woods

APP Twitter’s fastest growing age bracket is

Garlic cheesy bread is the most repinned pin on

55 64 to

Approximately 20 million users on twitter are

FAKE

3.2 hours are spent on Social networks a day

Q&A “16 action

with the Concrete Jungle

A

chief

rachel

kainer

editor-in

11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

do you think Q Q How the spirit is going to survive after A the class of 2014 leaves?

Gabe Naudin They’re gonna lack some school spirit. I think Connor Trevino and Ben Dockery; they can follow in our footsteps and continue the tradition.

Manny Quijada We’re passing the torch down to the juniors.

How did the Concrete Jungle get started?

GN Well it was the first district game, it was runner day. We were getting all hyped up in the car, and we show up to the stands. Well actually we missed the stadium twice; we show up to the stadium late, and we don’t get seats in the bleachers, so we sit on the stairs, and of course the stairs are concrete, and I made a joke that we’ll call ourselves the concrete jungle. And it took off.

is your favorite thing about Q What How are you planning on keeping the student section?

Q the spirit going?

My favorite thing about the A MQ student section is seeing everyone Josh Boyd Only the most spirited together after school and then A students can [and will] keep the supporting the football players.

spirit going after our class leaves.

On Twitter? Follow...

@JoshuaBoyyyd

Photo by: Karianne Stanton

@GNaudin17

“

do you spot the most spirited Q How students?

GN Oh, it shows. There are people A who are just loud and obnoxious

but it’s better than being quiet.

MQ It’s obvious at the games. It’s the people who aren’t texting, not even paying attention, they don’t know what the score is. We want to be the student section that every other school strives to be.

do you think the student Q How section affects the athletes?

I play soccer and A IMQknowPersonally, that whenever last year I played soccer and you’re on the field you hear the people in the student section cheering you on and it motivates you to play harder, and it gives you an extra push. So I think that the student section definitely affects the football players in a positive way.

motivates you to go all out Q What on the dress up days?

MQ For one they’re just fun; it feels A like whenever there’s a football

game, and there’s a dress up day we just [go] 100 all day. From the morning, like first period, to the football games that are Friday night. Like all day we just kick [butt].

@manny_quijada

“11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

Long live the legacy

action

17 “

Volleyball seniors leave their mark on the program carter

in-chief

nikki

Hundreds of practices, dozens of games and countless hours of team bonding over the past four years have led up to the last season of editor Varsity Volleyball for the 2014 seniors. With playoffs on the horizon, reality is beginning to hit them— their last season together is coming to a close.

After an impressive regular season, the volleyball program will say goodbye to eight senior players who have made quite the impact on the volleyball program

Though the current seniors realize what a substantial part of the team they make up, they are not worried for the outcome of next season. Many of the seniors have already experienced three years of varsity volleyball after losing many important players, and that experience has led them to be confident in the underclassmen.

“After losing Chloe [Collins], Tori [Arenas], and Marisa [Guzman] last year, the rumor was that [we weren’t] going to be as good as we had been in the past,” senior right side hitter Katie Todd said.

“Now we’re on our way to playoffs! We had to work hard this year to get where we are now, and that’s what next year’s

year, made us 10 times stronger than we could have ever been because of the team chemistry and the team that they are.”

Though the loss of their talent will be made up for with time, the role that the seniors play on the team will HOW HARD

“”

ARE YOU GOING TO TRAIN WHEN THERE ARE NO BIG LIGHTS; WHEN THERE ARE NO FANS; WHEN NO ONE’S KEEPING SCORE,

HOW HARD ARE YOU WORKING? -MATTIE BEHR

Seniors: Manager Alexis Starkey, Katie Todd, Crystal Neill, Jamie White, Ashle Markey, Shayli Schulz, Kayla Johnson, Grace Harris, Mattie Behr, and Manager Lauren Howard Photo by: Nikki Carter

during their years as Wildcats. Besides leading the team to another post-season run, the soon-to-be graduates will leave behind much more than a winning record.

“It’s been a tradition here for each senior class to leave a legacy,” Varsity coach Ashley Ahlfinger said, “so you don’t experience as great of a loss [next season].

We lost three major Division 1 athletes last year, yet this year the senior class has done amazing. I think those traditions and those legacies [the 2013 graduates] left just keep going.”

varsity team will have to do. We have so many talented girls in the program; I don’t doubt that we’ll be just as good next year.”

The team could easily choose to focus on losing players who are crucial this year, but instead they hold strong to the philosophy of there being no ‘I’ in ‘team.’

“One thing we try to focus on here is never having a player that’s more important than anybody else,” Ahlfinger said. “There’s a tradition here [that] it’ll be about the team, not an individual player. We think that that has, truly this

be harder to fill because it encompasses what they do on and off the court.

“I want to leave a legacy of character because it’s very hard to find people with good character, especially in the athletic world,” senior middle blocker and Colorado School of Mines commit Mattie Behr said. “Everyone plays for the wrong reason, [and] everyone wants to take the easy way. It’s hard to find athletes who are truly committed to their character on [and] off the court.

See “Volleyball Seniors” on page 18.

“ 18 action

thecrimsonconnection.com

Wildcats are at it again

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Volleyball Seniors: Athletes get away with stuff that they shouldn’t and just because you can [do something] doesn’t mean you should. As athletes, the whole school is watching us, and just because your parents don’t know, just because your teachers don’t know, and just because your coach doesn’t know, that doesn’t mean that no one knows. It’s holding yourself accountable for what you do, and that’s the legacy that I hope to leave.”

The seniors put together a presentation for the underclassmen players to show what they have gotten out of being a part of the

volleyball program and to express what mark they want to make.

“We call it the senior legacy,” Behr said. “Each [senior] picks something that either she thinks she really well embodied or she wants to continue.

Hopefully we can help the freshmen see that obviously we want to be remembered by things we value, so along with showing [them] what we’ve worked for, it also shows them what we think is important as an athlete and program.”

Even though the seniors have not yet left for the next phase of their lives, the program already feels the

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could progress onto state playoffs, but this year it’s different. UIL rules have been altered and now allow for the top four teams from each district to compete in the playoffs, allowing for a bigger competition pool.

“This is the first year that UIL rules let the top four teams qualify,” Baron said. “All the CFISD schools are in a round robin together and at the end of the season the top four teams qualify.”

The team worked to make the goal of playoffs more attainable than ever.

With the unusual amount of freshman on the team, they had to work as a whole to ensure success.

“Honestly I had hopes that we could do something like this,” Baron said. “With as many freshmen as we had coming in, I just didn’t know if they had the experience.”

Even though they don’t have as big of a turnout as other events, the team manages to keep their spirit up, which drove them to their goal. Fueled from the support of the team and drive to win,

ee Cr

a M

ew tth

reporter

delaney

The Wildcats vasisko are at it again.

The tennis team is making history at the Woods for being the first team in six years to make their staff way to state playoffs.

With a record of 9-6 this year, the team has earned a spot in the playoffs.

Since May, the varsity team an Castillo rd has been practicing and : Jo by o working with this goal hot in close sight. The training continued throughout the summer where the team worked with the incoming f r e s h m a n to prepare everyone for the beginning of the season.

“A lot of it had to do with us starting in May,” Coach Chad Baron said. “We played a challenge ladder (a series of matches that determine the rank of the team) and we held tryouts for the team.”

In years past only the top two teams

n

Tennis fights their way through playoffs

“

11.08.13

they were able to make this achievable. With their hard work and determination the team was able to make history for fall tennis.

“We don’t have a ton of fans, which is surprising because admission is free, “Baron said. “ I hope the team can be acknowledged and be given more respect.”

With their determination and hard work the team was able to show that they are champions. It was a complete team effort to make it to this level.

“I mean we have a solid team this year,” Sophomore Ben Snowden said. “I thought we could do it.”

impact they have had.

“I think they’re going to leave a legacy [that] anything is possible,” Ahlfinger said.

“We lost five starters last year, so a lot of them are playing different positions than they’ve ever played before. Obviously they’ve made a statement that they don’t care what they come across or what they’re up against. One of our seniors, Jamie [White], got hurt the first week of season, and she’s back now on the court.

It’s been a hard road, and I think she’ll leave a legacy that through the storm, it’s about the battle of coming back; you’ve just got to keep pushing through every

single day.”

Of course, the seniors have not always been seniors; they were once the varsity hopefuls themselves, working for the chance to play at the top of the program.

“I remember starting out on the “C” team in middle school while most of the girls I play with on Varsity now were on “A” team,” Todd said. “One day, I wanted to be as good as them, and now I’m playing with the girls I’ve looked up to for so long, and I know it’s going to be super hard to leave them. It has been an honor to play on such an incredible team.”

“11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

Houston, we have a How a disappointing season has affected the team and city

action

19“

Schaublem

gay

reporter

david

Houston has had a history of disappointing sports teams. The city has been close to glory like in 2005 when the Astros reached the staff World Series for the first time in the club’s history, but has always fallen short. Now with football in these past years, Houstonians have had hope for a championship. The Texans have reached the playoffs for the past two years and have been rumored as a Super Bowl contender this year. However, that hope and patience for the Texans to succeed and win a championship has died away with a 2-5 start to their 2013 campaign.

Fans have placed blame on many players for their disappointing start to the season. Matt Schaub has been the focus for all the blame for the first five games because of the abundance of interceptions. Texans fans have become impatient with Schaub throughout the start of the season. Although some want him gone, some have had a positive outlook on what Schaub could do throughout the next part of the season.

“I feel like even though he’s having a bad year, [Schaub] is still the best option for our club,” sophomore Justin Boncosky said. “He just needs a confidence booster.”

Others have conflicting views on Schaub.

“I think that he is a horrible quarterback and should not be starting for the Texans,” junior Aaron Litzler said. “I don’t think that we will make the playoffs with Schaub.”

Schaub is not the only reason why the Texans are struggling, however the team was about to hit the peak of their struggle

for the first half of the season.

Week Six could have been the game to turn this losing streak around but instead was the game when the whole team hit rock bottom. An injury to Schaub plagued the team along with sub-par red-zone defense. With four total turnovers, it looked like the team as a whole had given up for the whole season.

Sophomore Zachary Coleman attended the Texans versus Rams game and saw in person the implosion of the team against a sub-par Rams team.

“With Yates having two interceptions and the two lost fumbles by Hopkins and Martin,” Coleman said. “Our team did not look as good as it could have been.”

Coleman was also frustrated with the fans because they had lost faith in their hometown team and their starting quarterback.

“I was very mad at the fans when they cheered after Schaub got injured,” Coleman said.

Coleman hopes that this is an all-time low for the team and they can succeed in the second half of the season.

“I really hope this is rock bottom because I don’t want the team to go through what happened against the Rams again in the second half,” Coleman said.

With the game against the Chiefs going into a bye week and their starting quarterback injured, the Texans needed a

Randy Bullock kicking a field goal Photo by: Flickr user Shutterbug 459

momentum booster.

“Case Keenum would be a better quarterback option,” Litzler said. “They need to start building him up so he can be successful in the future.”

The Texans versus Chiefs game could have been awful for the team because of their loss of Schaub, but their rookie quarterback, Keenum, stepped up as a leader as the team barley lost to the undefeated Chiefs. With the good came the bad, with Brian Cushing and Foster succumbing to injury resulting in Cushing being out for the rest of the year.

The defense will suffer by the loss of Cushing going into the bye week.

“The defense will have a hard time without [Cushing],” freshman Steven Vasquez said. “Now there will be less of a prominent leader, and J.J. Watt will now have to step up as the one prominent leader of this defense.”

Keenum made his NFL debut in Week Seven and the response has been positive. The one fault in the game was the offensive lineman not protecting him.

“He did really well for his first time in the NFL,” Litzler said, “but the offensive lineman did not help him very much because they collapsed the pocket.”

A championship could come soon for the city of Houston, but maybe not this year. The Texans need a good second half for a slim chance of making the playoffs.

thecrimsonconnection.com

Hollywood’s Miley Cyrus can’t stop wrecking her reputation editor

cassie

cotton The unforgettable VMA performance was just the tip of the iceberg that would cause Miley Cyrus’ complete shift from child actress to hottest media Hollywood’s mess. This past year has been exceptionally hard on the former Disney star. Although she has been getting increasingly worse for years, no one could have expected the cute, funny, Smiley Miley to become Draco Malfoy in lingerie.

A few years ago, the tabloids were abuzz with news of her Bob Marley themed birthday party; from that point her drug use escalated and took her from “party girl” to “lost cause.” After the release of “We Can’t Stop,” it became apparent she was not going to grow out of the new name she had made for herself. The video, although interesting

11.08.13

MESS

Hottest

“20 voices

video appalled audiences and well made, seemed but also prompted even to be like one giant acid more people to buy her trip. She wore what can albums. Spears became only be described as part a hit with teenagers who of a white bikini, (who could relate to her struggle knows where the other to find herself. “Bangerz,” part went) and frequently Cyrus’ newest album, “twerked.” This sort of is currently topping the ensemble, complete with charts nationwide because ferociously shaking her of her sudden reappearance lower half, became Cyrus’s in the Hollywood limelight. new trademark.

Cyrus’s train wreck is a Cyrus’s declining sanity clever marketing tool to get can be compared to advertisement into the the shock-and-awe world without having approach adopted to spend a penny. by many former Everyone wants to child stars trying to see how crazy she prove themselves in is getting and learn the new “grown-up” why, so they buy her world. Britney Spears An artistic rendition of Miley Cyrus’ signature photo face. Her tounge has spent more time music. was guilty of this. outside of her mouth than inside recently.

Her “Slave for You” Illustration by: Noor Lino

Counter Cultural connections marlow

reporter

madelynn

Walking into a mosque for the very first time at the age of sixteen, I was intimidated to say the least. The cross hanging around my neck senior reminded me that this was spiritually foreign territory, yet it was the place I needed to be most. I was there with my discipleship group to teach Turkish women conversational English and to establish lasting relationships with the women that would help them better assimilate into America. A million thoughts raced through my anxious mind.

Would they be accepting of me? Would the language barrier be too great of a hindrance?

How would I respond if they asked me about my faith, or if I asked them about theirs?

I knew too often there was an unspoken tension between Muslims and Christians, and I was always the first to avoid conflict and uncomfortable situations. However, I had felt a restlessness to reach out of my comfort zone and serve in new ways, and I decided to step out in courage.

“

Walking into the main hall of the ornately decorated mosque. I was greeted by the smell of freshly cooked Turkish food and smiling faces framed by beautiful hijabs. As we all sat down to begin exchanging conversations about our different cultures, I was humbled by what I discovered. It was incredible to watch how simple banter about culture and society proved to be the catalyst in unveiling the common ground that was too often masked by timidity and provincial minds. While I taught them American culture and English vocabulary, I was amazed to find out that I was not the only one teaching. Their gentle nature, their loving kindness and their hunger to learn enlightened me in new and humbling ways.

As the evening turned into night, I finally encountered a woman named Asye. We had a casual conversation about until she asked me about my faith. She looked at me with genuine interest in her eyes, and in broken English she asked, “What do you believe?” Even though there was not a trace of hostility in her eyes, I still panicked. I was so worried about offending her, wording something wrong or poorly presenting my faith. Nevertheless, I

took a breath, swallowed my fears and simply spoke.

I told her of my Jesus, the one who is God’s son, who came to Earth to live a sinless life.

Jesus, the man who died on a cross to take on the punishment I deserved to take for my sins and was raised again. She listened attentively as I told her about my Jesus. And with gentleness and understanding, she told me of her Isa. Isa, the man born to a virgin Mary, and the wise prophet through whom God spoke. As we talked to each other about our love for Jesus, my worries were put to rest.

The common ground we had in Jesus opened up opportunities for us to both talk about our beliefs. While neither of us left with our views swayed, we both walked away with a deeper understanding of the other.

By overcoming my timidity, I found that bravery comes in stepping out of my comfort zone. Even though stepping out in courage exposed our differences, it also shed light on the common ground we shared. I discovered that the most fruitful relationships are founded on solid common ground with a healthy respect of each other’s beliefs.

“11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

voices

21“

GIRL C DE GUY C DE Break-Up Season

holidays comes into play.

With the holidays around the corner and spirits high, ending a relationship can cause a lot of bad feelings after the break-up happens.

You’re basically ruining his whole winter break by pulling the rug out from under him. The season has turned into a cop-out as it has gained popularity.

People are using it as an excuse to get out of commitment and play the field more. When going into break-up season, really and truly think about how you feel about the person you’re with and remember the consequences of your actions.

Don’t expect to break up and get back together right after the holidays are over because us girls will realize that you did take a cop-out.

If you really evaluate the relationship and you truly just are not feeling it, then take the opportunity and end it now.

Be sure you do take your significant other into consideration because this doesn’t just affect you; you have to remember you are dealing with another person, and this decision involves both of you. Give all your effort and if the spark just isn’t there, then there is nothing you can do about it but maturely end the relationship. Just remember that time’s ticking down, and the end of break up season is approaching.

Guys, it’s here. And there’s absolutely nothing you can do about it. It’s break up season.

The time full of sweaters, leaves turning from green to brown, and the sweet smell of any teenage girl’s favorite Starbucks drink, the infamous pumpkin spiced latte.

This is only the beginning.

Throughout this time of year, most people call it “holiday season,” while guys usually consider it “break up season.” It marks the time of big spending and wallet demolition. Your lady expects cute surprises and nice gifts as to be treated like a princess.

Will we take this madness?

Well, I suppose that depends on how committed you are to your relationship.

Say you are truly committed. Yeah, sure! Go ahead and treat her to nice things such as cute bracelets, necklaces, or even something as special as a ring. Or go with a nice dinner or something of the sort. It’s always nice to show your lady some love and let her know that you’re thinking of her. Nothing wrong with that.

But if you feel as though second thoughts have been brought up between y’all, you may want to consider cutting the ties. Thinking of the best time to do it? Now, like right now. One of the worst situations you could put yourself in is ending the relationship super close to a holiday such as Thanksgiving or even as far as Christmas.

Emotions are high enough around the holidays and dealing with the tough words of a break up can cause some serious harm to the year’s celebrations.

Things haynes you need to look out for when e n d i n g something so diligent senior is your wording.

Vocabulary is everything. Leaving your significant other in suspense with a line such as “I just don’t think it’s working” leaves room for negotiation and discussion. If you have a decision made up in your mind, why go back? Don’t give yourself the opportunity to change your own mind.

It’s something you must be sure of before ever calling this meeting forward. Leave with authority and sympathy. Be sure to not come off as a jerk or make it seem as though you don’t respect them but make your reasoning known.

Witnessing the shedding of tears is average, as you should know. Take it into consideration and respect their space. They will most likely need time to themselves to think over and sort through the dozens of emotions driving them crazy in a time like this.

But what’s done is done.

You give your reasoning and cut the ties intertwining the relationship and you dash.

The holidays are now yours as you celebrate with friends and family. Your other will turn into an ex and in time they will be picked up on their feet and face the reality that comes with a break up.

It’s what makes the theory of break up season real. This is where life determines things for you. And it’s something we cannot control but something that, as a society, we accept.

reporter

reporter

delaney

T h e deadline is growing closer to break-up season. staff B r e a k up season lasts from about mid-october until around two weeks before Thanksgiving. As the rules of the season go, this is the last window for you to end the relationships you don’t wish to have. If you are having doubts or reserves, get out of the relationship during break-up season.

The whole purpose of the break-up season is to prevent the broken hearts, and I totally understand that. Holiday season brings couples to become more committed because of the family and gift giving that comes with this time of year.

If the person I’m seeing isn’t sure that we will work out and has set the dreaded “timer” on the relationship, I’d rather they just end it than prolong it over the course of the holidays and fake their feelings. Be sure that you’re ready for all the relationship includes before beginning a new step in the relationship.

Not having a spark with someone is something that you can’t pick and choose. It’s one of those things that either happens or it doesn’t. If the feelings just aren’t there, rip the Band-Aid off and end the relationship before the whole commitment of

cameron

vasisko

“22 voices

11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

The Sibling Debate

“

Don’t get me wrong, I genuinely love being a big sister. I have three younger siblings, two younger sisters and a younger brother. I don’t know what I would do without them, and I know I wouldn’t enjoy life as much. They view me as a role model, or I like to think they do, and they come to me when they need advice.

After being the oldest sister for eighteen years, I would not have it any other way.

But sometimes, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Most people believe that the oldest child is the favorite or gets everything they want, but that could not be more false.

As the oldest child, I am given the most responsibilities. More often than not, I am a chauffeur, a maid and a nanny. My parents

expect much more out of me than they do any of my other siblings, and with this great deal of responsibility comes a great deal of stress.

They know they can trust me to get things done or help out, so they put anything dire on my plate. Sometimes it seems as though I’m being pulled in a million different directions all at once. I don’t mind helping out, but I’m not the only one who can. Between school, work, a social life, getting into college and my responsibilities at home, I’m overwhelmed to my capacity.

But it doesn’t help when no one, besides my parents sometimes, notices what I do for them. When I do complain, which I feel is rarely, the response I get back is, “You don’t

do that much!” or “I don’t know what you’re talking about!” All I have to say is: walk to wherever you want to go, feed yourself, do your chores and vent to someone else THEN tell me what I ‘don’t’ do for you.

A few more things: 1) I’m bossy. Get over it. 2) You have to listen to me; it’s the law. 3) I don’t get away with everything. I’m under a flipping microscope. 4) Just because I did something or got something, doesn’t mean you have to have it too. So don’t throw a fit.

Although I may be griping and complaining right now, I love my siblings with all my heart.

And being and the oldest sibling, and an older sister is the best gift anyone has ever given me.

Everyone’s heard about “middle child syndrome.” I spent the greater portion of my life denying that this applied to me. But then I got to high school, and my opinion changed. Don’t get me wrong; I am in no way blaming parents for this treatment. Naturally with the first child, parents are just figuring things out.

They are trying to set rules so that their child won’t despise them but also won’t become a delinquent, which is absolutely understandable. But once they have a second child, the whole perspective changes.

Being the middle child, I have seen firsthand these effects.

Let me start off by saying that my

parents are the closest thing to perfect that a teenager could want. They are not too lenient, but they are most definitely not suffocating. Having said that, I am the middle child. My older sister is two years older than I am, which is not a big gap. I assumed that I would have the same rules as my sister, but I was mistaken. After this realization I assumed that my brother would have the same rules as I did, but I was again mistaken. Apparently parenting goes on a child-bychild basis. Please don’t get me wrong, my parents do not treat me unfairly; I probably have more lenient rules than a lot of high schoolers. I’m just saying as far as rules in my family go,

the middle child is sometimes forgotten.

On another note, the repercussions of being a middle child extend beyond parenting styles. Growing up my sister and I have been super close, even more after she left for college. On the other hand, my sister and brother have always been closer than my brother and I. Or at least until my sister left for college, then our whole relationship changed. In the last two years, my brother and I have grown exceedingly close in the absence of our sister. After my sister left, I basically became the oldest [of course until she comes back to visit] in my family. Now I understand all the weird little

protective habits that my sister had before she left, because now I have those same habits for my brother. I’m not saying that sometimes I don’t want to strangle my brother, my sister and I already agreed that he’s the favorite child, but I still love him and I would do anything for him. I feel like that is a trait that I would be missing if I were the youngest. I know that all siblings feel protective, but I really do believe that it’s different when you are the oldest in the house.

As aggravating as it can be to be the middle child [and as cliché as the following statement sounds], I wouldn’t change it for the world.

middle

I’m the youngest. The baby. The child.

The perfect little angel. To be frank, I like it that way. I learned from my older brother’s mistakes, and the taunting and teasing I went through growing up taught me how to fight for what I wanted, literally. When he held me above the stairs by my feet, I learned how to use my fists, and when he tried to blame anything on me, I learned to twist my words. While my brother and I may have a difference in age of three years, he still got blamed for everything growing up. If I let out a cry, it was Logan’s doing. If I went hungry while my parents were out, it was Logan. If I came home with a scrape, my parents always wondered where Logan

was. Logan. Logan. Logan. I’ve always been depicted as innocent, and nothing is my fault. While this may sound conceded and unfair it’s true. The stereotypical ‘perfect’ younger sibling portrayed in many families is popular for a reason. Parents have learned from the siblings that have preceded us, and we are taught from a seasoned parent. While this angelic depiction sounds really nice, we still have to live up to the standards our older siblings have set. If they were amazing in all aspects it’s not just parents with high expectations, teachers also expect a perfect honor roll student. I know it’s easy to just work hard and get to those standards, but some have such a high view on them we may

not ever live up to. This goes the other way around too. If our older sibling was a bad kid, we are treated like a criminal and no matter what we do to fix it people always think we are nearly the same person. Our parents are even affected because they expect the same kind of behavior that our older siblings set. Even though we come from the same blood line, it doesn’t necessarily mean we are a clone. We learned from their positive and negative experiences, and this has led us to have a wider range of cautions. The fight over attention is still something of a controversy, but being the child through rose colored glasses always makes the light a little easier to bare.

youngest

gailmcgehee

rachelkainer

oldest

alexisstarkey

Staffers share varied experiences with sibling relationships

“11.08.13

6

thecrimsonconnection.com

When I go shopping and I can’t find anyone to help me, I have a problem. If it takes me longer to find someone to help me find something than it does to actually buy an item, I am not a happy camper. This might be just me, but I hate it when people continue to put trash in an over-flowing trash can. Take it out, find another trash can, do something. People who don’t use their turn signals irk my nerves. Seriously,

23“

editor

bevill

adayre

Rants in 250

Words

voices

opinion

thanks for the heads up bro. I’m happy to slam on my breaks and suffer from minor whip lash, much appreciated. When I hear someone going HAM on a keyboard, calm down please? I don’t think those keys are going anywhere, why are you pressing down so hard? I absolutely hate when people say “I failed that test” and then get a 110 on it and complain. What?! When I say I failed a test, I failed. There is no way around it, so

why must people give me a sliver of hope that I’m not the only one who failed, only to be taken away when the grades come out.

Why is it that every time someone steals my glasses, it’s followed by a “wow you’re really blind” and “how many fingers am I holding up?” I am not blind! All of us glasses wearers can see that you have two fingers up!

We can see an obvious outline, thank you very much. We have eyes. Ugh.

The Connection goes reporter

david

gay

staff

DIGITAL

Have you ever wanted to read the newsmagazine on the go? Are you dying to read more? Well now you can! The Crimson Connection, our school’s newsmagazine, now has a new website with more

content, photos, and sports than ever before. Along with the stories that you see in the newsmagazine at school, a variety of other stories that were not in the magazine will also be available on the website.

For example, new entertainment reviews will help you to choose what to spend your time and money on. Along with more stories, there will also be more photos from our school’s events and scores from our

10% off your sub when

sports teams. Interactive opportunities to connect with the Crimson Connection will also be available, including online polls, a comment page for each story and staff profiles to find out a little bit about the reporters and editors for the magazine. With this website, the Crimson Connection will bring more content about our school and the lives we live outside of school.

you show school I.D.

17400 Spring Cypress Cypress, TX 77429

“24 media

thecrimsonconnection.com

Thanksgiving uncovered

11.08.13

“

Separating Thanksgiving facts from fiction steele

The majority of those days are often overlooked in favor of the Plymouth, Massachusetts tradition.

“These aren’t recognized because our history is so Anglo-centric,” Wilson said.

“Americans love legends.”

What students think: “Thanksgiving was a day that Puritans celebrated a good harvest with some Native American friends,” sophomore Ariana Wiltenburg said.

This sums up the general consensus about Thanksgiving. The Puritans, according to Wiltenburg, sat down with local Native Americans to enjoy a meal together.

“The Europeans invited the Native Americans for dinner in order to thank them for teaching survival skills,” junior Dee Bardwell said. “Of course, nothing has happened exactly the same each year.”

One of the most common

What teachers think: American History teacher Michael Wilson said that Thanksgiving was nothing new at the time of the Massachusetts Puritans’ celebration.

“Jamestown had days of Thanksgiving written into their charters,” Wilson said.

“Every colony had Thanksgiving for things such as a good harvest or an end of a drought, or even victory in war.”

reporter

Illustration by: Holly Steele

shannon

Thanksgiving is the true all-American holiday. Mountains of food cover the table, family members fill the house with idle staff laughter, and each person takes a turn expressing gratitude for health and family. Such is the tradition of the American Thanksgiving.

Throughout the years, Thanksgiving has morphed into a holiday celebrating food and thankfulness while all but forgetting its Puritan roots, begging the question: what is fact, and what is fiction?

misconceptions about Thanksgiving is what was served. While many people assume that the feasts Americans enjoy today have remained the same or similar to the first Thanksgivings, the Pilgrims, who were actually just one group of Puritans, ate relatively simple dishes.

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(281)304-42224 (fax) 281-758-1888

The truth about Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving has not been an official holiday forever. Each president, with the exception of Thomas Jefferson, issued and declared an official day of “thanksgiving.”

According to National Geographic, the Thanksgiving celebrated today has only been a national holiday since 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November a day of gratitude. This was changed to the fourth Thursday in November with President Franklin Roosevelt.

Luckily, one image can remain the same in Americans’ heads – Pilgrims in New England most likely wore simple black and white clothing because of their simple lifestyle. The buckled shoes, however, are a different story.

According to History.com, this image was created nearly 200 years later – at the same time that Thanksgiving emerged as a historically inaccurate holiday. At least now Americans have an excuse to get together with family and express gratitude for the year.

“ 11.08.13

thecrimsonconnection.com

Cool kids watch

media

25 “

What is white, entertaining and red all over? bevill

I

editor

adayre

t is so easy to see the influence that Netflix has had on some of our everyday lives, but opinion what influence does Netflix have on the entertainment industry? Before there was Netflix, there was cable television.

As time has gone on and Netflix has become more popular, more people are saying goodbye to their cable companies and hello to a $9.99 subscription plan to Netflix. In fact, it has been said that more college students are just relying on their Netflix instead of buying cable.

Netflix is changing the way that many Americans watch television and the way advertisers reach an audience. Many critics expected Netflix to fall flat on its face, arguing that people would not want to watch Netflix’s original programming because it would be mediocre, but they were quickly proven wrong. In fact, House of Cards, starring Kevin Spacey [Seven, Men Who Stare at Goats and Horrible Bosses] was nominated for

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, Outstanding Drama Series, and Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series and many other awards for the Prime Time Emmy Awards. House of Cards has done better than anyone could have predicted, seeing as HBO got into a major bidding war with Netflix to get the show in their lineup. Now, with Orange is the New Black doing just as well, and Arrested Development season four having the same success, it is safe to say that Netflix has definitively made a name for its self.

Overall, Netflix has influenced the way this generation watches television more than anyone expected. Not even Netflix CEO Reed Hastings could have foreseen just how much of an impact his creation would make on the television world. Due to its promise to release a whole season at once, binge watching has now become the latest way to watch a full season in a matter of weeks. People no longer have to wait a week to see the next episode of

their latest addiction. They can watch it on their time, giving the power of the television back to the people. No longer are the people at the mercy of the big networking companies like ABC and FOX, the people control what they watch, when they watch it and how they watch it.

Yes, the networking companies have been affected, but what about the actors?

Actors who have experienced the ‘Netflix treatment’ are taking full advantage of the perks that come with filming a whole season in one setting. Stars are now given the ability to take about three months to focus on one show and then go work on other projects. Netflix actors like Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright are very active in other endeavors such as; directing, producing and philanthropy. Now with the new Netflix filming actors are able to dedicate their free time to support other hobbies.

Whether one choses to subscribe or not, Netflix will definitely be something to talk about.

Illustration by: Noor Lino

Bring in your game ticket for 15% off an Entree

Life at the Woods

November

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

NHS Applications Due Girls Basketball 3:00 in 2517 Game V. Bush Proclaim the Name Boys Basketball Cy Woods 7pm FCA Meeting Meeting Game V. Klein Freedom Club Meeting 6:30am in Third Gym Forest 6:30 in 1664 12 Every Wednesday 13 Every Thursday 14 Cy Woods 7pm 15 11 2:40 1664

November FISH Club Meeting 2:40 in 2713 Key Club Meeting 2:40 and 6:40 in Teaching Theatre 18

LIFE Club Meeting 21 2:40 in 2318

22

26 Hanukkah Begins 27Thanksgiving Day 28

29

19

20

No School 25

December FISH Club Meeting 2:40 in 2713 Key Club Meeting 2:40 and 6:40 in Teaching Theatre 2

Freedom Club Meeting 9 2:40 1664

3

4

LIFE Club Meeting 5 2:40 in 2318

6

10

11

12

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New This Month

The Book Thief PG13

November 8

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire PG13

November 11

Chris Brown X

Drake Toyota Center

shows

November 8

Lady Gaga Artpop

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movies

Thor: The Dark World PG13

November 19

1D Midnight Memories

November 13

Rihanna Toyota Center

November 14

Justin Timberlake Toyota Center

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November 25

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