August 2012 - Volume 106 Issue 1 by The Horseshoe

The Horseshoe A

2012

106

First Day Issue In Entertainment: The best least talked about ilms of the summer

In Sports: What Coach Atkinson is thinking before his debut

In News/Features: Meet the gay protester who continues to eat at Chick-Fil-A

...and the teacher forced to cry on reality TV

OPINION

A New Era

George Roberson Editor-in-Chief

Welcome, 2012-13 school year. We’ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival. Not because we hate summer. Not because we miss receiving lectures about people and things we’ll forget after we’ve turned in our tests. Not because we really want to get those “completed” summer assignments off of our hands. But because this is the most important year for Denton High since its rebirth in the ‘90s. At that time, when Denton reopened as a 9-12 institution of learning (after yielding grades 10 and up to Ryan for a few years), everything started anew. And a similar thing is occurring now. First, it was IB. We became an International Baccalaureate World School in 2010, and the program is getting stronger each year. Then came STAAR, the new, state-mandated end-of-year exam taken for the first time by the Class of 2015 last year. In the spring, Principal Darrell Muncy was replaced by Principal Dan Ford and Coach Randy Patzkowski by Coach Kevin Atkinson. And then the major staff overhaul that occurred this summer. Oh, and of course, all this during this new digital age of ours. Meanwhile, DHS is getting called the ‘ghetto’ school (whatever that means)... and that’s not people’s only critique. Apparently, we could also use some improvement in sports. Specifically football. And football is all that matters in Texas. The treatment of all the societies, clubs, and activities at Denton High was very unbalanced in the past. Football was Number 1, and nothing else seemed very important. And that was the failure of the former ‘era.’ Football should still be important (this is Texas, after all), but perhaps it wouldn’t be scrutinized as much if it weren’t front-andcenter all the time. Why not place more importance on other areas of the school? And that starts here. In the first issue of the Horseshoe on the first day of the rest of this school’s life. Athletics and academics should be equal, as both are very important to this school. And that’s one of our goals: in this time of change in the world and the school, we will be even-handed. This is the way it should be, even when everything (including football and our ghetto image) is perfect. Of course, more people are interested in football than STAAR, IB, or even other sports. But this seems to be what the administration is going for: change the headline by making Denton High better across-the-board. We’ve entered a new era at Denton High School. Let’s hope they succeed.

How to survive freshman year Hey Freshmen, class of 2016, welcome to Denton High School! Congrats, you’re a Bronco! Your first year of high school can be kind of scary, but you can make the best of it. There are a lot of new responsibilities and opportunities that come with being a high school student including clubs, after-school activities, new friends, and new teachers who are there to guide you. Your new school can be kind of intimidating at first, but once you adjust to the life of a high school student, DHS will surely become your second home. Here are a few pointers to help you survive Freshman year: Stay focused. Keep on the task at hand, and use your time wisely. Hang out with the right crowd. It’s easy to get involved with the wrong group of friends that will only bring you down,

Jordan Gill Staff Writer

so surround yourself with people that have high morals and positive attitudes. Use your agenda. Staying organized is extremely important, and you’ll be surprised to find how quickly due dates come. Get involved: BRONCO PRIDE. Joining a club or sport is a great way to make new friends and get involved at your new school. Just make sure to keep your grades up because academics always comes first. Challenge yourself. Become a part of advanced classes, talk to new people, join a club, or maybe even try out for sports! Being overwhelmed in the beginning of your Freshman year is completely normal. With a bigger school, longer classes, and a larger group of students, it will indeed feel very different from your previous experiences in school. Just remember to walk in with a positive attitude and to enjoy your years in high school, because you only get four of them!

What freshmen are feeling “

“

I’m excited to meet new people, and play baseball for my school. I’m not excited about being an underclassman.

I’m looking forward to being close with my new teammates! I’m not excited about the hard workouts coming up, though!

”

-- Josh Mobley

-- Dana Akins

“

I’m looking forward to meeting new people and playing volleyball. I’m not excited for the big tests and having to wake up early.

I’m most excited to meet new people, and I’m least excited to be in a bigger school, because I get lost easily.

” -- Kenzie Dozier

” -- Jenna Moberly

Stop hating yourself Staff writer Taylor Brown shares his views on today’s biggest and most controversial issues.

Embrace the wonderful imperfections that make you, you. “You’re fat, ugly, and stupid,” “Do us all a favor and kill yourself,” “The way you live your life is wrong, and frankly, you’re going to hell for it.” Those are just some of the insults I came across shortly after coming out. Words hurt; they broke me down to a point where I truly did believe my lifestyle was wrong and as time went on, I began to hate who I was. They rotted me to my core, and having no one to turn to didn’t help things either. I could’ve run to my mom and vented all of my problems, but she was still just accepting the fact that I was gay, I was still getting used to it too. And still to this day, I have decided not to tell my dad in fear that he would disown me for being gay. I had no one to turn to, no shoulder to cry on, and no friends to lean on. And when I accepted that I was in this by

myself, I built myself back up from the ground and told myself that even though I had nobody, I still had myself. I knew I had a purpose in the world and began to accept and love myself for who I am. The point I’m trying to get across is that there will always be people in your life that will try to break you down for whatever reason; you’re gay or lesbian, you’re a new student, maybe you have a lot of money, maybe you have no money, but no matter what just remember that you are you, and anytime someone tries to get you down, get back up and show them that what they do cannot affect you. Accept the imperfections about yourself that come with the toll of life, and always love yourself, because at the end of the day, you may be all you have left. “Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” –Marilyn Monroe

When did you start your summer reading?

NEWS

Standing up for your rights Ford preparing for first full year Dylan Curtis Entertainment Editor

An openly gay teenager protests at Chick-Fil-A. A few days later, when he comes in for his interview, he’s enjoying an early lunch he picked up from Chick-Fil-A. Earlier this month, “Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day” was created by former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to support the company whose CEO is anti-gay marriage. And senior Taylor Brown decided to protest it. “I’ve always loved Chick-Fil-A,” Brown said. “I’ve always loved their Christian-based way of running a restaurant, because I’m a Christian. I love their food; that’s why I still eat there. But it disheartened me to find out that they took that stance against gay marriage.” After CEO Dan Cathy announced his views publicly, people began taking sides. Some sided with Chick-Fil-A’s views, others took to the streets (in this case, streets right in front of Chick-Fil-A locations) and protested. Brown decided to publicly announce and display his beliefs, too. “I got some bright fluorescent pink and green poster board and wrote catchy phrases on them,” he said. “One of them was ‘gay is okay!’ Ten people said they would join me for the protest.” However, no one showed up to help him protest. They all canceled at the last minute, so it was him standing outside of the Chick-Fil-A on University Drive, alone. “My mom said that no one was going to be there and it wasn’t going to be safe, but I thought it was such an important issue that I just had to get my message across,” Brown said. “They got police officers to keep me away, and one cop on a motorcycle was walking inside and outside making sure no one was causing a ruckus. But I still did.” He said it felt euphoric to protest for what he believed in. “It felt liberating in a way,” Brown said. “Being out there in front of all those people, fighting for

Protesting at Chick-Fil-A is Taylor Brown. (photo by Cynthia Pantaleon) what I believe in.” Carly McGeehee started “Same-Sex Kiss Day” at Chick-Fil-A. At the beginning of summer, McGeehee had the idea to make the public aware that Chick-Fil-A was using the consumer’s money (approximately 2 million dollars each year) to help fund anti-gay Christian charities such as the Family Research Council and Exodus International. “I find it disappointing that people are celebrating the fact that I can’t get married to the woman I love,” McGeehee said. Taylor Brown has a message of love to send to all LGBT teens. “Love and accept yourself as you are,” Brown said. “You’re not wrong, you’re not a freak. You’re you. You’ve just got to accept yourself.”

Things that could confuse freshmen: • The cafeteria is not the auditorium. • There is no third floor - despite the fact that there are room numbers in the 300’s. • Having first and fifth blocks every day... • ...then having three classes that alternate

Running around, meeting new parents and students, all decked out in his suit and tie during the chaotic week of registration was Principal Dan Ford. Ford, who took over last March, took some time to tell us about some of the new things that will be happening around the campus this year. Before his first answer could marry pen and paper, he thoughtfully offered to type up the answers himself and my first question dealt with the freshmen. “One of the most difficult transitions for students is moving from middle school to high school,” Ford said. “It’s not only the sheer size, but about fear and uncertainty. That is why we made a transition to have a freshman AP and counselor to allow for stronger relationships.” Along with other changes such as new teachers, counselors, schedules, and Ford himself, however some things have remained the same. “The basis for the changes has not wavered, but philosophies tend to dictate the direction of a particular business,” Ford said. “The changes made are to help us reach our 5 and 10 year goals. IB is going to be a highly sought after program and we are up to handle the challenge.” Every alteration made, Ford says, is for the greatest possible outcome of academic achievement. “I’m a continual learner and Denton High is like a team and like all teams, there will not always be a unanimous compromise,” Ford said. “But with every student, faculty, and community member I have interacted with, it gives me a chance to reflect and grow. I believe it is nice to have an alignment between my thoughts and the thoughts of other people.” Ford, who had the chance to observe things the last three months of school, used that as a basis for some of his changes for the 2012-13 school year. “Those few months were beneficial,” Ford said. “It gave me some time to meet the students and talk to them.” Creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere is just as important to Ford as the education students receive. “The way to have the greatest impact is to provide a wonderful learning environment,” Ford said. Much like the past, this school year seems daunting and long when standing at the starting point, but looking back it may feel as though the months flew by. “I hope that students, faculty, and everybody else, try to maintain that passion and zealous desire to do their best,” Ford said. “My vision includes an increase in extracurricular events and an improvement in student’s academic achievement.” This year’s seniors will be the first to graduate under Ford and he hopes they can look back and remember at least one thing about their time at 1007 Fulton. “I eagerly look forward to the things to come, but I am well aware that it’s one thing to be able to talk the talk and another to be able to walk the walk,” Ford said. “There isn’t a magic wand that will make this year’s graduate love DHS more than previous years. What I can say, is that I will have had a full year to build, what I hope are lifelong relationships that students can look back on and say, that man really cared about us.”

Mwape Chintankwa Staff Writer

days. • The cellphone policy and its enforcement - teachers can permit you to use them, but otherwise they must be put away. • Which one is the connector hall? (We think it’s the one by the counseling area and the lecture hall.)

If you have an idea that would make a good story, email it to us at dhshorseshoe@gmail.com.

FEATURE

This year, DHS has more than 30 new teachers, and nearly all of them are profiled below. (Profiles by Dimitrios Aerts, Taylor Brown, Ryan Carr, Mwape Chintankwa, Chandler Elsbecker, Jordan Gill, and George Roberson.)

Jeff Winkler

He used to chase tornadoes, and now he teaches. Mr. Jeff Winkler got a masters degree in Theater from TWU and will now spend his days a few streets over, teaching at DHS. “I wanted to be a part of an exciting school that is expanding into new realms of education such as the IB program,” he said. “Teachers were the people who made the greatest impact on my life. Teaching is my to ‘pay it forward.’” What he teaches: Tech Theatre He believes in a stuHas taught for: 6 years dent-centered approach. Born: McFarland, Kansas “I want to empower College: Kansas State, TWU students so they can take control,” he said.

John Ullrich

Darby Dyer

She’s 45 years old. “I’m actually not,” she said. “II tell some people I am, though.” Ms. Darby Dyer, new English teacher, doesn’t want you to know how old she is. “Freshmen, especially, believe it,” Dyer said. “They’re just like, ‘no way!’ It helps me avoid having to tell them my real age.” When she was in college (however many years ago that was), she wrote a novel in 20 days. “I was in a course in which we were participating in National Novel Writing Month,” Dyer said. “The goal was to finish a novel in 30 days, but I just wanted to be an overachiever.” She said she would welcome the chance to participate in such a challenge again, maybe even with her students. What she teaches: English “I aspire to enthusiastically inspire Has taught for: 2012-13 will be her first year. students and prepare them for college and Born: Longview, Texas real-world situations,” Dyer said. “I try to College: Panola College, UNT, TWU implement relevant, global perspectives into my lessons.”

It took him 23 years to get here, but Coach John Ullrich finally made his way to DHS. “I have wanted to coach here ever since God called me into coaching,” Ullrich said. Ullrich, who will coach the defensive line along with Coach Reggie Seastrunk, cites God as his influence to come to DHS. “When I was in college, God showed me I could serve him while doing what I love.” Ullrich said. “He showed me how much influence a Christian coach can have on the team.”

Ullrich believes that Divine Intervention helped him throughout his past coaching jobs at many other schools. He also believes that God had a part in getting him a job with the New Orleans Saints. “It was great working for a professional football team and being a teenager at the same time,” Ullrich said. “I got to know the players and saw that they are people just like everyone else, in fact, I still keep in touch with them.” Hopefully with a taste of professional experience, Coach Ullrich will help lead the Broncos back into the promise land. “We (the coaches) will change the culture of DHS football.” Ullrich said.

Wendell Williams What he teaches: Special Ed Born: New Iberia, Louisiana College: UNT Has taught for: 16 years (all in Denton) Biggest accomplishment: “My wife Audra and son Wendell.” Why DHS: “It’s a great school.” What he wants to accomplish at DHS: “Help kids reach their dreams.” Interesting fact: “I like to cook.”

Kalynne Tweedie What she teaches: Math Born: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma College: UNT Has taught for: 1 year (at a middle school in Arlington) Why she became a teacher: “I wanted to help students understand they could do math.” Why DHS: “I basically grew up around here, and I love the atmosphere.” Interesting fact: “My hair is strawberry blonde.”

John Curtis What he teaches: Economics Born: Dallas, Texas College: Texas Tech Has taught for: 2012-13 will be his first year. What he wants to accomplish at DHS: “Hopefully, I can make a positive impact on multiple people’s lives.” Teaching philosophy: “You’re going to learn from me, and I’m going to learn from you.” Interesting fact: “I’m a big ManU fanatic.”

Stacy Hays What she teaches: World Geography Born: Fort Worth, Texas College: Texas State, UNT Has taught for: 12 years (at Ryan High School) Why DHS: Can’t be at same school as husband. “Glad to be at school children attend.” Teaching philosophy: “Every student can learn. Every student needs to be valued.” Interesting fact: “I would love to do rowing in the Olympics.”

Gina Leclaire What she teaches: Math Born: Baraga, Michigan College: Michigan Has taught for: 11 years Why DHS: “I followed [Mr. Ford] here” from Carrollton/Farmers Branch. Biggest accomplishment: “Getting Masters in Curriculum Instruction.” Teaching philosophy: “All students can achieve.” Interesting fact: She has a twin sister.

Caroline Cockerell What she teaches: Family Consumer Science Born: Plano, Texas College: University of Arkansas Has taught for: 2012-13 will be her first year. Her family is: “Tight knit, crazy” Biggest accomplishment: “Graduating in four years with a GPA above 3.0.” Teaching philosophy: “Have lots of fun, but also accomplish things.” Interesting fact: “I love to dance and sing.”

FEATURE

Sarah Myles

Swingg dancing new English glish and Creative Writing teacher Ms. Sarah Myles has a fun year planned out for her stuhose dents. This is her first year teaching and she chose out Denton High School because she was excited about the vision for the future of the school. “Hopefully, DHS is turning into a school that students are proud to be from,” Myles said. What she teaches: English She also plans to make readHas taught for: 2012-13 will be her ing fun in her class with “Literary first year. Circles,” which will allow students Born: Bedford, Texas to decide which books they want College: UNT to read for assignments. “[I want to] give them a choice between reading pop culture and the classics like ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’” Myles said. “If you know how to read, you already secretly think reading is fun because you do read the things you’re interested in.”

Justin Schuff

He learned Hebrew in college becausee he was tired of taking Spanish. His namee is Coach Justin Schuff, and he is here to o make a difference and change thee school. What he teaches: Social Studies/Football “I’ve always liked Denton,”” Has taught for: 3 1/2 years Schuff said. “And I believe in the Born: Keller, Texas vision [Coach Kevin]Atkinson has College: UNT for the youth in this community.”

Will Smith

What he teaches: English/Football Has taught for: 2012-13 will be his first year. Born: Tuscon, Arizona College: Abilene Christian

Although he says it’s a bit of a mixed blessing, Coach Will Smith’s name has proven to be a fun way for him to start a conversation. “At least it’s a cool celebrity,” Smith said. “If my name were Michael Bolton n it would really be lamentable. Sometimes, mes, I get a lot of lookss of disappointment, you know; I’m some 5’8” white guy who’ss not very talented… but the flip side is that I get a lot of laughs. It’s nice to not have to work hard to get laughs.” Formerly a football player at Marble-

Falls High School, Smith now coaches defensive backs for the Broncos while teaching English III. (His personal favorite author is Hemingway.) The lessons he learned in football, such as discipline h and effort, he plans to implement into an his coaching. h “Good teachers are effective teachers,” he said. “Education is a human right and h aall can learn.” As to why he came to DHS, there are a few reasons. “I believe in the administration,” Smith said. “But really, I’m here for the money and the glory.”

The fo football staff plans to develop the players into great men by instilling discipline d and selflessness into them. “I want to make a difference,” Schuff said. “I hope to leave Denton ab better place than I found it. I want to show kids how to reach their full potential.” fu Schuff wants to teach humility and personal responsibility. “Our players must learn to put themselves second and always strive for the greater good,” Schuff said.

Ninfa Tarango What she teaches: Spanish Born: Alpine, Texas College: Southern Methodist Has taught for: 2012-13 will be her first year. Why she became a teacher: “Teachers have the power to make a true difference and everlasting legacy.” Teaching philosophy: “Education is a tool which teachers use to empower each student.” Interesting fact: “I love country music.”

Jason Schindler What he teaches: Math/Football Born: Dallas, Texas College: UNC-Wilmington Has taught for: 7 years (at Keller High School) Why DHS: “Taught with Coach Atkinson, moved with him.” Teaching philosophy: “Students learn the most with hands-on experience.” Interesting fact: Played guitar for 18 years.

Jennifer Oswalt What she teaches: Math Born: Dallas, Texas College: Navarro College, TWU Has taught for: 3 years Why DHS: Because of Prinicpal Ford Why she became a teacher: “To show students they are important and can be successful no matter the odds.” Interesting fact: “I struggled with math in school, but ended up teaching math.”

Christine Kratch What she teaches: Chemistry Born: Sherman, Texas College: Texas Tech Has taught for: 3 years Why DHS: “Wonderful atmosphere and I like the Denton area.” Why she became a teacher: “I enjoy sharing the love of science.” Interesting fact: “I played rugby in high school. And I love the beach.”

Melinda Jobe What she teaches: Social Studies/Cross Country Born: Fort Worth, Texas College: Texas State, Midwestern State, UNT Has taught for: 17 years Why DHS: “It is an IB school, in my neighborhood with a fantastic faculty! Plus I have the chance to work with a great group of cross-country runners and coaches.” Interesting fact: “I was once in a NASA experiment measuring body fat in women astronauts.”

Profiles continued on page 7. Those not found there can be accessed online at dhshorseshoe.com.

6 Teacher lands on TLC Taylor Brown Staff Writer

Nothing quite says “America” like a good reality TV show. We all watch them whether we like to admit to it or not. We have been compelled to watch the so-called unscripted” shows ever since the early 2000’s when shows like “Big Brother” and “Survivor” graced our screens. But what is it truly like to be on one of those reality shows? “Reality TV is not what you think it is,” AP World History teacher Ms. Christy Bruce said. “The way they edited the show made me look like someone I’m not.” Bruce was referring to her appearance on TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress,” where she assisted her sister in finding the perfect wedding dress. “When my sister told me that she was getting married, I was the one that suggested we try to get on the show,” Bruce said. “However, had I known that I would be portrayed the way I was, I probably wouldn’t have done the show at all.” Bruce tells us that she was portrayed on the show as a rather snarky woman who was fighting with her sister about a dress that she wanted for herself. She also said that the show’s producer would bring up sensitive subjects to make her cry for a dramatic effect on the show. “They would push me about my mom, who passed away, until I cried and go on to use the clip to make it seem like I was crying over a dress,” Bruce said. When Bruce first saw the episode, she was shocked at the way TLC manipulated the footage. “Leading up to the episode I was actually really excited to see myself on one of my favorite shows,” Bruce said. “But then I was scared to watch the episode because my family and friends told me that I looked really mean on the show. And when I watched it, I was just shocked to see how mean I did look.” Bruce compared the ordeal to misunderstanding a status update on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter. “Reality TV is kind of like Facebook,” Bruce said. “If someone Posing with Randy Fenoli from “Say doesn’t know you but is your Yes to the Dress” is Christy Bruce. Facebook friend or Twitter fol- (courtesy photo) lower and you make a joke, it’s hard to get context like that so people don’t understand you’re joking.” And after some clips were published on YouTube, fans of the show took to the comments section to show their disapproval of Bruce’s portrayed behavior. “There were some nasty comments on YouTube about my appearance on the show because of the way they made me look,” Bruce said. “The whole thing is ridiculous.” However, when TLC called back for the taping of the second episode, Bruce didn’t turn them down, but made sure to play it safe. “During the second taping, I made sure to not make any sarcastic jokes and I made sure to act all nice and approve of every decision my sister made,” Bruce said. As a result of the entire situation, Bruce can pretty well say that she is disgusted with reality TV and the process that goes into making it. “Now that I understand how reality works, I would never want to have my own show,” Bruce said. “I can promise it’s not really reality.”

FEATURE Amitea promises amity Aromas of sweet summer berry and peppermint chamomile flow throughout the air. It’s around noon and we’re at the newest addition to the Denton tea scene, Amitea. Living up to its name, Amitea promises an atmosphere that nourishes friendship over tea. It started when owner Stacie Cates was tired of traveling all the way to Dallas to get quality loose-leaf tea, so she decided to open up her own tea shop. “I’ve always wanted to have my own business, and tea became my passion about ten years ago and so I opened my own tea shop!” Cates said. “And I wanted to provide the people of Denton with a close and accessible place to get good high quality loose-leaf tea.” However, opening up her own tea shop was not an easy task. First, she wanted to make sure the tea she served was up to a certain standard in quality, which would require a strenuous research process. “I researched the different types of tea and ordered tea from all over the world to find out where the best tea is,” Cates said, “And I decided on very tasty, high quality tea from the U.K.” One of the most important factors in having your own business is to have a name that will stick in people’s minds; in this case, Amitea. “Amitea is actually a play on words,” Cates said. “Amity means friendship; this is a place to nourish friendship over tea.” Cates told us that she hopes that Amitea will become a gem to the Denton community. The interior of the tea shop is beautifully decorated with art strictly from Denton-area artists. Cates even decided to display artwork from DHS’ very own student body. “I display only artwork from Denton-area residents in order to promote their careers as artists,” Cates said. “They ask me to display their

Taylor Brown Staff Writer

artwork, and I happily agree. It gets their name out there and makes our store look beautiful!” And the most prevalent decoration in the store is hard to miss. The entire floor is made up of hundreds of complete puzzles ranging from SpongeBob SquarePants puzzles to a puzzle of New York City. “We had parties at our house and a lot of the kids from DHS would come to help put these puzzles together into the wee hours of the night,” Cates said. “We’d have puzzles all over the furniture and the floor, and I’d tell them ‘Y’all can’t go to sleep until you finish that puzzle!’” Some of the same kids who helped Cates with the puzzle-floor actually decided to help her decorate the store and because they loved the whole experience so much, they ended up working for her as well. “I’ve known Mrs. Cates for quite a while and knew that she was very sincere in wanting to open up Amitea, not just as a business but as a place where people can meet and have a good time.” Junior Mango Qualls said. “And actually, Mrs. Cates told us she would love to have us work with her, but she couldn’t pay us. I was fine with volunteering for her, though, because I really just wanted to see Amitea succeed.” Mrs. Cates even employs two of her children, junior Alex Cates and sophomore Will Cates. “It’s a comfortable work situation because, obviously, we know each other so well,” Alex Cates said. “It depends on how busy we are and who I’m working with, but usually I feel at home.” Amitea officially opened on July 28th, 2012, and has been serving up their signature ‘Teaccino’ and over 65 varieties of different teas since. The little hometown tea shop dares to take on coffeehouse giants like Starbucks. Even though Amitea is only one month old, 90% of its customers have come back, according to Mrs. Cates. They are located at 708 North Locust St in Denton.

The Horseshoe 1007 Fulton Denton, TX 76201 940-369-2150 Editor-in-Chief: George Roberson Entertainment Editor: Dylan Curtis Online Editor: Ryan Carr Sports Editor: Chandler Elsbecker Staff Writers: Dimitrios Aerts, Taylor Brown, Mwape Chintankwa, Jordan Gill

Adviser: Mr. Greg Bogomol Principal: Mr. Dan Ford The student newspaper of Denton High School is published by the publications staff. The ideas expressed in this publication and on the opinion page are solely those of the individuals providing them, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the staff, adviser, faculty, administration, or the Denton ISD Board.

FEATURE

A bump in the road When taking a driving test for the first time, it’s normal to feel incredibly nervous, but two students in particular were so tense that they actually turned left at the same red light. George Roberson, who took the test first, posted a status to Facebook about his failure. Yasmeen Alshara, who happens to be friends with him, told her dad about how George had turned left on a red light. “You won’t do that,” Yasmeen’s dad said to her. She thought it was funny when she did exactly that a day later. When she did, she also posted about it on Facebook. “When George commented on it, we basically figured out that it was the same red light,” Yasmeen said. When George had taken the test, he wasn’t nervous about the driving portion of the test at all. “I was really worried about parallel parking,” George said. “I thought I was going to fail because of it, but I was pleasantly surprised when I passed it. And then I ran a red light.” Both failures said that when they got to the

Dimitrios Aerts Staff Writer

Dwayne Dever

Drivers fail test same way, one day apart

light their mind went blank. It happened at the Kings Row/Loop 288 intersection, a light whose left turn light is green at a different time than the straight lights, and vice-a-versa. “I guess I was trying to calm myself down so much that I forgot about driving,” Yasmeen said. “If that makes any sense.” George had a similar thing happen to him. “I saw the red light from a mile away,” George said. “The left turn light was red, but when I got to the light I forgot.” The instructor told him to turn around and head back. “I didn’t know what to think,” he said. “I knew I failed, I just didn’t know why. It never crossed my mind that I ran the light.” Yasmeen’s instructor told her to turn around. She pointed at the light and said that Yasmeen had run through it. “Even after she pointed it out to me I still didn’t notice it,” she said. Both George and Yasmeen’s advice for future test-takers is: “Drive carefully, watch your speed, and don’t run any red lights.”

state-title winning football teams at La Marque What he teaches: English/Football High School in 2003. Has taught for: 13 years “I learned a lot over Born: Newton, Texas the years as a coach.” College: Rice, Texas Southern Dever said. “And I know what it takes to As part of a cast of over 30 take a football team to new Broncos, Coach Dwayne the championship, so by comDever will try to help reform bining my knowledge and exDenton High football by con- perience with everyone else’s, I structing an effective offensive truly believe this will be a great line and attempt to propel this team.” team to multiple victories. However, becoming a rather Dever was first attracted to successful coach didn’t come Denton when talking to Head without a few hurdles. Coach Kevin Atkinson. “I came from what some “Coach Atkinson’s philoso- would call a broken household.” phy of faith, family, and football Dever said. “After my parents really drove me to Denton.” De- got divorced, my mom became ver said. “I knew his background very sick and I decided to move and his experience in football, in with my aunt and uncle at the and I knew that if I came to age of 7.” Denton, I would be a part of a But Dever didn’t let that get very driven football program.” him down, he went on to attend With an impressive record Rice University on a football himself, Dever has recorded scholarship, and Texas Southmany winning seasons with ern University on a track schol-

arship. “I’m living proof that no matter what hardships you face, you can always overcome the obstacles.” Dever said. He then went on to marry his wife Adrienne, have three children, and start teaching and coaching at La Marque High School. “It’s funny because I never really wanted to teach, I only wanted to coach.” Dever said. “But after being a long-term substitute, I felt the satisfaction of teaching kids something new, and decided to teach and coach full time.” After 13 years of teaching, Dever comes at DHS, where he can’t wait to be a part of the resurgence of DHS football, and to continue the academic success. “I believe all students have the ability to learn,” Dever said. “And it is my responsibility to give them every academic advantage I can, whether it is in football or in the classroom.”

Lonnie Teagle What he teaches: P.E./Football Born: Houston, Texas College: Alcorn State, TWU Has taught for: 6 years (McMath Middle) Why DHS: “Denton is home and I want to help shape the lives of the kids in this community.” What he wants to accomplish at DHS: “I hope to have a positive impact on the lives of each kid I come in contact with.” Interesting fact: “I’m youth pastor at my church.”

Matt Laurence What he teaches: Odyssey Ware/Football Born: Mt. Pleasant, Texas College: Northwestern State (Louisiana) Has taught for: 12 years (at Newman Smith) Why DHS: “Mr. Ford, Coach Atkinson, and the environment I encountered interviewing!” Biggest accomplishment: “My family.” What he wants to accomplish at DHS: “Greatness.” Interesting fact: Lost his two front teeth in a basketball game.

Tim Morrison What he teaches: ISSC/Football Born: Baker, Oregon College: Tarleton State Has taught for: 7 years Why DHS: “The kids and community are hungry for success. They are excited and eager to work for a change.” Interesting fact: “I married my high school sweetheart.”

Kristina Shelburne What she teaches: Dance Born: Midland, Texas College: TWU Has taught for: 2012-13 will be her first year. Why DHS: “DHS is where I student taught and I really liked it here. A position opened soon after and I couldn’t turn it down.” Interesting fact: “I have two dogs -- Jazmyne and Tinkerbelle.”

Rocky Monk What he teaches: BIM Born: Grapevine, Texas College: Northwood University Has taught for: 2012-13 will be his first year. Why DHS: “I hope to bring excitement to BIM.” Teaching philosophy: “Every kid can learn... find what makes it interesting and tie it together.” Interesting fact: He’s a Chelsea Football supporter.

SPORTS

Excitement surrounds volleyball run Head volleyball coach Danielle Silva has been hard at work testing her players’ resilience during practice. As the team continues tournament play, Silva hopes that this team can stand up against anything the district throws at them. “I challenge my girls by having faster-paced practices so that we can keep up with opponents who run a quicker pace offense,” Silva said. “I also challenge them to have the best ball control, and when we don’t, be able to make plays on out of system balls.” With the goal of a district title in the near future,

Silva wants her veterans to provide some leadership for the other players. “It takes a whole team to be successful,” Silva said. “But we will be looking at our co-captains and sophomores (Kendall Wagner, Gennifer Holberg, Morgan Reese, and Jade Akins) to lead the way.” Even with leadership, the players need to improve on their serve receive in order to reach their goals. Silva, however, thinks she knows a way to improve on that. “We have started a new way of practicing our serve receive that I am hoping will start showing in our game

Football looks forward to upcoming season “Both Cy and Luke are working really, really hard. I know this… the backup will still get on the field every game.” The players are excited to get the season underway. Ward says he looks forward to making the playoffs. “Everybody’s working hard, everybody’s pushing each other,” Ward said. “We’re going to be a better team this year. The Broncos will take the field on Friday with a new set of Nike uniforms, featuring a white helmet with a purple-and-gold “D” on the side. The uniforms are designed in a more contemporary way, based off of the University of Missouri’s look. “What we’re going to wear on Friday nights is exactly what every Division I football team is wearing on Saturday afternoons,” Atkinson said. “I like to provide our kids with the very best.” Atkinson says his new offense doesn’t really have a defined name or style, but it’s going to be a potent threat to opposing defenses. “We’re going to be fun, we’re going to be fundamental, we’re going to be explosive, and we’re going to be exciting,” Atkinson said. “I always say the young man that plays for us... it’s going to be like Six Flags: you’re going to leave a little tired, but The Broncos prepare for their season opener against you’re going to have a Bishop Lynch. (photo by Jordan McLaren) good time.”

Last year, they were 1-9. But they’ve come back with an almost entirely new coaching staff, a new attitude, and even a new look. Following last week’s scrimmage, the Broncos are ready to begin their season versus Bishop Lynch this Friday. Head Coach Kevin Atkinson, however, has to make the decision of who will be starting at quarterback when the Friars visit Bronco Field. Junior Cy Ward and Senior Luke Satterfield are the frontrunners for the job, but even though he won’t say who will get it, Atkinson has confidence in both of them. “We’ll have a more solid decision made as we get into fall camp,” Atkinson said.

Chandler Elsbecker Sports Editor

in the next couple of weeks,” Silva said. A large freshman class tried out for volleyball over the summer. Silva is glad to have them here, saying she wanted to discuss with them more than just volleyball. “I am very excited about the number of players that came to tryouts,” Silva said. “I worked very hard last fall and spring to make my way to the middle schools (Calhoun, McMath, and Navo) and talk to future Broncos. Not only about volleyball, but about girls’ athletics in general. My goal as a head coach is to promote unity among girls’ athletics.”

Who knows him best? Swimmer DJ Lang has broken countless records and racked up loads of wins in the pool, but he’s not competing in this one. Instead, his mother and his best friend on the swim team are battling it out to see who knows him best.

Questions

DJ Lang

Patricia Lang, DJ’s mother

Anthony Milbitz, DJ’s best friend

What’s your favorite stroke/ event?

100 yard Freestyle

100 Free or 200 Free Relay

100 Free or 200 Free

What motivates you?

The pursuit of the best times and my longterm goal of making it to the Olympics.

The goal of swimming for the college he will someday be attending.

His love for the sport.

Who is your swimming idol?

Cullen Jones

Michael Phelps

What’s your favorite movie?

Either of the recent Sherlock Holmes movies

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Who is your favorite recording artist?

Switchfoot

The Beatles or Taylor Swift

Results: Mrs. Lang takes it 3 to 1. Parents: 1. Friends: 0.