May 2014 - Volume 107 Issue 6

The Horseshoe May 23, 2014 / Denton High School, Denton, Texas / Volume 107, Issue 6 / dhshorseshoe.com Also inside this issue: celebrating the graduating class of 2014, the risks of tanning, cancer survivor Hayden Smallwood, and the year in sports.

The Horseshoe: Senior Edition

2 / TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 OPINION The pros and cons of smoking an e-cig.

6 YEAR IN SPORTS Our staff remembers their favorite memories from the sports year, accompanied by some of our best photography.

16 TANNING The dark side of having fun in the sun. Students share their experiences with the different ways of tanning.

18 ENTERTAINMENT Check out our calendars for fun activities in and around Denton over the summer.

20 SENIOR PROFILES 10 ALSO IN SPORTS Water polo inishes the season with hardware, and Dennis Krishka talks about his retirement.

14 NEWS SECTION A pep rally is held for cancer survivor Hayden Smallwood, who was granted a trip to Hawaii from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Also in News, freshman Ruth Martinez donates all of her hair to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

We asked every senior what their favorite memories of Denton High are and what’s next for them in life. You won’t believe what some of them said.

23 BATTLE OF THE BRAINS

The Top 11 students of the Class of 2014 share their journies to the top.

31 LEAVING THE HERD The departing teachers sound off on what they’ll miss the most and least about DHS.

The Horseshoe 1007 Fulton Denton, TX 76201 940-369-2150 Editors-in-Chief: Jordan Gill and Chandler Elsbecker Online Editor: Ryan Carr Entertainment Editor: Brandon Shields Opinion Editor: Shelby DuPont Staff Writers: Omar Akram, Mohammad Alshara, Leah Bowen, KJ Cox, Mo Diop, Maggie-Mae Ellison, Emily Fu, Rebecca Fu, Brendan Kimberlin, Ben Lyke, and Dareious Scott Photographers: Cynthia Pantaleon, and Austin Pugh Editor Emeritus: George Roberson Interim Adviser: Ms. Renee Koontz 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 re lect the opinion of the entire staff, adviser, faculty, administration, or the Denton ISD Board.

Find us online at www.dhshorseshoe.com, as well as on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

A version of this issue formatted for the Internet can be accessed at issuu.com/dhshorseshoe.

EDITOR’S NOTE / 3

George’s Goodbye George Roberson Editor Emeritus I’m proud to be a Bronco.

No matter what anyone says, Denton High School is back. Thanks to various forces (IB, water polo, new staff members, old staff members, an improving football team, a National Merit Semi-Finalist, acts of kindness and courage big and small by students and teachers alike that we’ve tried to cover these past few years, etc.), we have a lot to be proud about. We have a really great school. So what if our campus is older than the other two? It has character. And so do we.

I live right down the road from Ryan High. I don’t think we’re better than any other school, but I still thank God I lucked into going to Denton High.

Coming to Denton High, meeting the people here who I have come to love, and working on The Horseshoe have made me the person I am today.

When I got here, I was a lazy and unmotivated boy who had no life plan and pretty terrible hair. Now, I’m very nearly a man, and I’m a little less lazy but a whole lot more motivated.

I have a few people in specific that I need to thank.

To Chandler and Jordan: Congratulations. I am incredibly grateful for all your help while I was editor, and I am incredibly proud of both of you for making it to the top.

Chandler, you are the single most skilled individual

I have ever collaborated with. Jordan, I told everyone I could that the cornerto-corner cover photo and the semi-transparent text areas were your brilliant ideas. Your leadership will take this staff far. This paper looks great, and I have high expectations for next year. Keep me impressed, you guys. I’m sure you will.

To Emma: I can’t put into words what having you as a resource and a friend during our ascent in the department has meant to me. I’m excited to see the publications you’ll be working on in the future.

To Alex P.: You’re the best! Never change! HAGS! To Brendan and Shelby: I anticipate a lot of great work from the two of you, as well, in the coming years. The journalism department is in good hands not only this upcoming year but the year after that.

To Dareious and Susie: You guys are the cutest couple ever! I really think you guys can make it! No one can beat you!

To Brandon: I can’t imagine the journalism room without hearing your booming voice and feeling your rambunctious enthusiasm. Promise me you won’t lose that.

To Ryan: You’re an important part of our organization. Your unwavering commitment to things will

prove an asset to you and others in your life. Keep on keepin’ on. Also, please find a webcam for the journalism room so that I can virtually sit in on Schlotzsky’s Tuesdays.

To Cynthia: Thank you for all the wonderful images you’ve contributed to the newspaper. You have single-handedly raised the bar of photography for The Horseshoe. I know the staff will miss your work more than they will miss mine next year.

To Pugh: I think it’s safe to say we will all miss your ridiculous antics. Please behave next year.

To Ben: Stay red. And gold, too.

To Ms. Koontz: Thank you for taking care of us these past few weeks. I especially appreciate the attention you’ve given us knowing how packed your schedule is. I hope you have enjoyed your crash course in journalism.

To the entire 2013-14 Horseshoe staff: I am so glad to have met all of you.

My job this year has been way easier than I thought it would be because of you.

Only four people returned from last year’s staff. That

all of you non-seniors plan to return next year makes me realize things are headed in a great direction.

To all of my incredible non-Newspaper friends, including (but not limited to!) Adriana, Briana, Gus, Gwen, Isabel, Jamie, Kaela, Katie, Kaylee, MaryAnn, Megan, Raychel, and Regina: I love all of you.

Thank you for your lovely supportive friendship.

To anyone who has ever read an article in or picked up a copy of The Horseshoe: thank you.

I’ll have a lot of great memories from the journalism department to look

back on, from our trips to New York, Boston, and San Antonio to the incredibly improved newspapers we put out every six weeks.

The opportunity to be editor-in-chief for two years has meant the world to me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my years here, and I’ll miss our newspaper workdays which always devolved into gossip sessions over mediocre pizza, I’ll miss catching up and complaining about Ms. Seeley’s class with my friends in the connector hall before going home, and I’ll miss pulling into the little parking lot only to find someone who lives two blocks away is in my usual spot.

I’ll miss being a Bronco.

4 / OPINION

The pros and cons of e-cigs Annika Ellis Contributing Writer

Shelby DuPont Opinion Editor

Electronic cigarettes – or “e-cigs” – are becoming rapidly popular because they promote being healthier than the alternative. Real cigarettes have all kinds of awful substances – like ammonia and carbon monoxide to name a few – inside, and when you smoke them, it’s like you’re smoking away your life one pack at a time. While no smoking at all would be much better, electronic cigarettes are good alternatives, becoming especially popular among teens.

Firstly, electronic cigarettes don’t have nearly as many harmful chemicals in them, which is what the younger generation is warned about constantly. Instead of battery acid and tar, electronic cigarettes contain liquid nicotine dissolved in water and propylene glycol. Electronic cigarettes operate on a rechargeable lithium battery, and create the same amount of vapor – instead of smoke – no matter how hard you puff on it. It also comes on several different flavors to rope in the younger customers.

Second, smoking – or “vaping” – on electronic cigarettes has been scientifically proven to help short-time, mediumtime, and long-time smokers quit, which can help prevent smokers at a younger age. In a study of 40 tobacco-dependent smokers, researchers concluded that smoking electronic cigarettes alleviated the desire to smoke, even saying it works more like a “Nicorette inhaler” than a tobacco cigarette.

Lastly, electronic cigarettes are less of a weight on your wallet by comparison. A tobacco smoker can spend close to $1000 a year on packs, and the rechargeable battery in the electronic cigarettes is only somewhere around $600. And batteries last quite a while. When you first try out electronic cigarettes, you get a “starter kit,” which is between $30 and $100 usually. Since teens don’t normally have the kind of money to pay for several packs a day – much less a year – this is an attractive offer.

On the downside, electronic cigarettes are so new; science hasn’t really had a chance to explore all of the good and bad things. Unfortunately, trace elements of hazardous compounds, including a chemical which is the main ingredient found in antifreeze, has been documented inside the two leading brands of electronic cigarettes. Even the FDA states that states that “E-cigarettes may contain ingredients that are known to be toxic to humans, and may contain other ingredients that may not be safe,” on their website: www. fda.gov. Tests have also concluded that some teens are more likely to try a tobacco cigarette instead of settling for the electronic one.

But, on the whole, electronic cigarettes are much more worth your time and money than the tobacco cigarettes (which have 11,000 contaminates, by the way). They don’t cost nearly as much, and they save your life and lungs.

Electronic cigarettes, or “e-cigs” are a relatively new device that are used as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. Ecigs are safer to “smoke” than cigarettes because there really is no smoking. Vapor is inhaled instead of smoke, which is in turn safer than taking in the smoke of burning tobacco.

This concept alone is a very safe alternative to smoking, but the problem occurs when people who have never smoked a cigarette develop an acute addiction to electronic cigarettes

In many cases, e-cigs are being used as gateways to actual cigarettes. with nicotine vapor.

This problem occurs primarily in the adolescent population in a fatal attempt to “fit in.”

Giving in to peer pressure is a problem that every teenager struggles with on a daily basis. The yearning to be a part of a group or clique is so strong that sometimes doing something reckless or potentially calamitous doesn’t seem like such a bad thing, and being offered such things by someone you would call your friend makes it all the more appealing.

Despite the popular belief, e-cigs are a very dangerous thing.

Due to the fact that electronic cigarettes are being produced on such a large scale, not all of them have gone through the proper quality control examination by the FDA to ensure their safety. The Huffington Post says “Complaints of injury linked to e-cigarettes, from burns and nicotine toxicity to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, have jumped over the past year as the devices become more popular, the most recent U.S. data show” (Clarke 2014). We have put too much trust in something that we don’t know a whole lot about. Really, try finding a high schooler that can list every chemical used in the making of the electronic cigarette they smoke on a daily basis.

Smoking electronic cigarettes that have nicotine are not the only problem. Even electronic cigarettes that are pure vapor are just as treacherous. They are filled with harsh chemicals that could potentially hurt you, but there has not been enough research done on the topic to prove one way or another.

Electronic cigarettes were made for one reason, to help wean recovering smokers off nicotine, not to assist hoodrat teenagers in looking cool in front of their friends. There is absolutely no logical reason to give yourself a potentially life long addiction just to fit in.

OPINION / 5

Cyber bullying: just don’t do it Bullying can happen anywhere at any time, Dareious Scott and everyone has been a victim of it. Whether Staff Writer

it’s at school, or on social media it happens every day. Since our technology is rapidly growing at a fast pace, bullying tends to happen on a lot of social networks more than in person.

Whether it’s a big deal to you or not, or you choose to participate in it, cyberbullying happens.

Social networks can be seen by thousands of people. The problem is not about how extreme the case of bullying is, but really it boils down to how that certain person responds to it. In some cases the results lead to death, some lead to violent altercations, and some lead to long term depression. So that leads us to ask the question of how should people respond when they are the victim of cyber bullying.

The first solution is so simple that people completely look over this. LOG OFF OF YOUR COMPUTER /PHONE. If you exit off the social network or log off on your computer you won’t be able to see what other people said. You probably don’t want to do this, but staying on is even more hurtful especially if you’re a victim.

The second solution is also a little looked over when it comes down to it. Block the person or group of people that are taking shots at you. People refuse to do this because they’re telling themselves that they don’t care about what people are saying, but it takes a toll on you after a while.

The third solution is a little cliché and people simply refuse to do this because of how their status will be affected. If it gets bad enough, you’ll have to tell a trusted adult about what’s happening. A lot of times you won’t have to do this, but in some cases you do. You may think you have the situation under control, but in reality you aren’t doing anything to make the situation better.

The fourth solution; make your account private. Doing this will allow you to control who follows you, and what they can see to a certain point. You can completely block out the negativity of those people who don’t typically like or get along with you.

Those are the four things that can possibly help out your situation if you become a victim of cyberbullying. There’s not a guaranteed fix,

but they are the most effective. Keep in mind that when you are taking a risk when you decide to participate in any type of social media and understand that some people are just not fit to have one.

A basic white girl wrote this Shelby DuPont Opinion Editor

Raise your hand if you have ever felt personally victimized by the cruel stereotype of the basic white girl. I know I have.

Lets get some things straight.

Not all white girls live in their local starbucks with their tight leggings and Ugg boots. We don’t always “can’t even right now” and we aren’t always “100% done.” We don’t all attempt to wall twerk in our free time or go shopping every weekend.

We don’t all quote John Green and Perks of Being a Wallflower in everyday conversation. And

most of all, we don’t all use the phrase “but first, lemme take a selfie” on a day to day basis.

The fact is, white girls are just that, white girls. We aren’t our own special race and to be frank, it can be offensive when we’re treated that way. Being unique is something that everyone strives to be no matter what our race and caucasian females have had that taken away from them. We are instantly judged just for wearing glasses that some of us may actually need; or the amount of money that

daddy may, or may not have in the bank. Stereotypes hurt, and being called basic never produces an uplifting feeling.

I love starbucks, but it’s not all I live for. I have never owned a pair of Ugg boots, I couldn’t wall twerk even if I tried and I have never read a John Green book.

The basic white girl is wrong, we don’t all fit into this perfect little cut out barbie doll shape and tbh, despite what some may think we never will. Stop the stereotypes, because I, for one, can’t even right now.

The Horseshoe

The Year in Sports Our favorite images and moments from the last year in Denton athletics

(photo by Chandler Elsbecker)

THE YEAR IN SPORTS / 7 The Year in Sports According to Us

Following the Herd Broncos, Wildcats, unjustified hatred, bliss, and an amazing, unforgettable night in the Denton High student section Chandler Elsbecker Editor-in-Chief I have, with little doubt, the best job imaginable. I get into sports games at no cost on the single condition that I either write about or take pictures of what happens, occasionally getting out of school or even some food so that I may do this more effectively. Upon my arrival at said event, I sit in one of the two best spots at the stadium – the press box or sideline – and get a free supply of whatever food and/or drink that happens to be in the press box refrigerator or on the counter – again, all while watching sports. It’s unbelievable.

There is a rule among members of the sports press, regardless of level, that, in the name of professionalism and good journalism, is understood to be sacrosanct: There is no cheering in the press box. However, as it turns out, I am not very good at this when things get to “squeaky bum time” (to quote Sir Alex Ferguson). While I make every effort to remain neutral in my writing, when I’m covering a game, I tend to lose my composure.

When the football team got into striking distance to complete a comeback from a 21-point deficit in their final game in incredible fashion, converting from a significant distance on fourth down, I yelled “Oh my God!” while my heart felt close to bursting. (The comeback fell short, prompting me to write roughly 2,000 words – mostly for myself – on what that single game meant to me.) When the soccer team was mere feet from tying their third-round game at a goal apiece, but missed the net wide, I cried in pure agony, “Noooo!”

I am a fan, and there is nothing I can do to stop it, despite my best efforts and principles as a journalist.

Anyways, on January 24 of this year, I had duties at that night’s soccer game. Being against Ryan, it was at least somewhat big, even if they were no longer a district opponent. About a day before the game, it had been rescheduled to be played about two hours earlier due to the cold,

8 / THE YEAR IN SPORTS

a godsend for me, since across the street at 7:30 was the most significant game of the year across any sport. We were playing Guyer in basketball.

Any game against Guyer is huge, obviously, but if we’re being completely honest, we don’t really hold our ground against them in many sports. As huge as football is in Texas, and as significantly improved as our team is, the past two years have been blowouts against state champions. No other sports really draw that well unless the team is in the playoffs, and even then, this year’s men’s soccer team didn’t get much attention until the playoffs had started. In basketball, the games are always close, and most significantly, deafening, when we play Guyer.

Of course, I hold to the belief that Guyer High School is the most awful, evil entity there is. It’s really an awful and an unfair thing to say; Guyer’s campus is the class of the district, I hardly know any-

body at the school, and those I do know aren’t that bad in the slightest. That being said, I really don’t like them.

The soccer game ended around eight, so I did my interview, grabbed my things, and crossed Fulton to the Purple Pit. After purchasing my ticket (despite the fact I could’ve used my press status to get in, I was a fan on this occasion, and I pretentiously believe in having integrity, so I paid my two dollars), I came in with just over half of the second quarter left. We were down, but I looked up and found that if I wanted to be a part of the student section, I’d have trouble finding a seat. Just about every square inch was occupied.

The normal student section takes up maybe a quarter of the bleachers; tonight it was closer to half.

And the other half was mostly full as well. Latecomers were finding spots on the balcony. It was like nothing I’d ever seen before at a high school sporting event.

(Of course, being such a fool, I tried to find a spot in the lower level among the mob, even with letter jacket and laptop bag in tow.

I was crammed and standing in the aisle with people I barely knew, if I knew them at all. At halftime I moved my stuff up to a vacant spot on the balcony and found a friend who was sitting with the baseball players in a spot that I had some space in.)

When halftime arrived, we were trailing 34-23. The fans I’ve talked to since then about how they felt have given varied responses: some felt that a comeback was more than doable, that the team was talented enough to pull anything off, and that regardless, they would roar and chant as loud as they could until the final buzzer. I was unsure, personally, but I felt it was possible to at least make it close.

Others, however, had this agonizing feeling that this was going nowhere, and that once again,

Denton would end up on the wrong side of a defeat at the hands of a bigger, newer crosstown rival.

It wasn’t just 11 points; it was a full 11 points. It just had to be Guyer that we were losing to, because Guyer would beat us every time until the gods got bored of the otherwise never-ending schadenfreude.

Whether or not this sentiment is at all accurate is debatable, but it’s still one that exists. Denton High School has something of an inferiority complex when it comes to athletics, since our two primary rivals are so good at them, while for years it was a recurring joke of sorts that we sucked at sports.

(Again – completely unfair assessment to say that we couldn’t win anything.) We needed this game to go our way. We needed some hope.

The third quarter was more than promising. Denton outscored Guyer 21-13 in the eight minutes, bringing the deficit to a mere three points. Whenever Guyer would ex-

THE YEAR IN SPORTS / 9

Let’s Go Crazy: The Purple Pit erupts after senior Deandre Coleman ties the game with a three-pointer in the fourth quarter of the Broncos’ January basketball game versus Guyer. Denton won the game 63-60. (page 3 and center photos by Jackie Thompson)

pand the lead by a couple, Denton would score a couple in return, keeping the difference the same until just under two minutes into the final period.

Deandre Coleman was a senior who was in his first year on varsity in basketball. He got significant minutes and contributed valuable play, but he was not by any measure the best player on the team.

But there he was on the wing, taking a shot from just beyond the three-point line. Catch, release – time sort of stood still as the crowd raised their hand-threes in the air in anticipation, watching the ball sail through the air – bang.

With 6:17 left in the game, Denton had clawed themselves back into things to tie the game at 51. The Purple Pit became more of a Hive.

The place was (if you’ll pardon me) buzzing. The game was no longer a matter of making it respective; it was a matter of pulling away.

I couldn’t contain my elation.

My arms were propelled skyward,

my heart leaped, and my mouth was agape, letting loose an almost feral roar of “YEEEEAH!” The game was rather back-andforth for the next four minutes, each bucket swinging the perceived momentum. The noise was incessant for every possession, and neither crowd would pause for anything. During a timeout, the Guyer fans decided to lift one of their own in a crowd-surfing demonstration. Their side began to taunt us, like they were doing something we were incapable of.

Suddenly, I heard a roar to my left.

I looked, and in direct competition with the Guyer crowd-surfer was Dareious Scott, the staff writer who I had assigned to cover the team, hoisted into the air by the other fans and yelling. The Guyer fans lost their strength, and the surfer fell into the abyss of bodies. We went nuts, and Dareious stayed up. The Broncos began to pull away.

With a little over a minute left

in regulation, it began to dawn on us that this was in hand. A group of honor guard members at the front led a victory chant. After a buildup, they finally reached the climax.

Leader: “I believe that we will win!”

All: “I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN! I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN! I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN!” And so it went for a full minute, the whole bleachers bouncing along with the chant like some cultist ritual. Meanwhile, the blue, black, and silver-clad spectators on the opposite side of the gym were beginning to clear out. Being the courteous hosts that we are, we waved to them in farewell, making it was clear that the whole night was a pleasure.

The game left its final stoppage in play. (Guyer had narrowed their deficit to three and had taken a timeout in vain.) Key’andre Hearvey took the inbounds, the final

buzzer sounded, and the celebration began. We immediately tried to storm the court, since if there was a time to do so, it would be now, but it was to no avail. Coach Jackson himself made sure that we waited until the players had left the court before we left the stands (as the rules are the rules – even when I’d prefer they’d not be).

With my larynx in incredible pain and my heart still near bursting, I made my way out of the gym with the rest of the jubilated crowd and out to my car. The night was the most unbelievable experience I’ve ever had at a sporting event at any level, and while it feels like there’s a great deal wrong with this feeling, the instant that the game was tied, I felt young, and I felt alive. It will be something I will always remember from my time in high school.

10 / THE YEAR IN SPORTS

Come Together: The Lady Broncos huddle before taking the field against Lake Dallas for their final game of the season. The game ended in a scoreless draw, Denton’s second against the Falcons on the season. (photo by Jackie Thompson)

Roundabout: Junior Natasha Kissell rounds second base in a February tournament game. (photo by Chandler Elsbecker)

Water polo places at state meet George Roberson Editor Emeritus

At the state competition on May 2-3, both boys and girls water polo teams achieved record success.

The boys placed fifth and the girls placed

ninth, the highest ranking for either team in Denton High’s history.

“I’m very proud,” senior co-captain Gus Cocchiarella said. “It’s a great way to end our senior year, although I wish we had done better. We thought we had a great shot at playing for the championship.”

The Deep End: Senior Ben Naugle. cocks his arm back to shoot at the 4A State Championship in Austin. The Broncos placed fifth at the state meet to cap a successful 2014 campaign. (courtesy photo)

Despite the historic finish, the team did not meet their own lofty expectations.

“We were expecting better,” junior Josh Rowell said. “We had a really good team, and the team that we were beaten by was on the same level as us. We thought that we could beat team, but we made too many mistakes.”

Rowell, who will be the sole captain next year, has high hopes for the squad.

“Next year, hopefully I’ll be able to get the team started early and work really hard the whole year,” Rowell said.

The girls team, which had never gone to state before, considers the year an unqualified success.

“I didn’t really know what to expect,” junior Rachael Crews said. “Making it to state is good, and placing ninth is really good.”

Coach Robin Hay credits the girls team with exceeding expectations to play consistently.

“I knew the girls had a chance at state, but it was no guarantee,” Hay said. “We got to state thanks to hard work from every girl on the team. I think both teams can place high next year if the athletes are willing to put in work next year, too.”

Next year’s team’s leaders expect to do even better next season.

“Our team leaders will be graduating, but we have a lot of good players who are still sophomores and juniors, and they’re good leaders, too,” Crews said. “I think we can make it back to state.”

THE YEAR IN SPORTS / 11

The end of the road: Senior Aaron Maxwell is embraced by coach Blaine McBride after the final game of Maxwell’s high school career ends in a 28-21 loss to Byron Nelson. (photo by Alex Meimers)

The Year in Sports According to Us

Hope beyond the box score Maggie-Mae Ellison Staff Writer Just looking at the Broncos 2013 football season on paper, you might not see significant improvement, but some changes can’t always be seen on a stat sheet. Being a trainer, I’m with the team for every practice and game. I see the little improvements such as the team actually working together and sacrificing themselves- definitely something not seen in Denton High’s past seasons.

With the players closer and working together as a team, there were small improvements.

Going into the last game of the season, the Broncos were 4-5. One last win would make it to where Denton High could finish the season .500, something not seen in a full decade. Going into halftime, things looked optimistic for

the Broncos; down only one touchdown with a 14-7 score and another half to make a comeback and get one more win.

The second half did not go in the favor of the Broncos, and Nelson gained a lead that had everyone losing hope for the win, everyone except the football players that is. The energy on the sideline changed and the Broncos weren’t going down without a fight. And fight they did, scoring two touchdowns in less than five minutes of play bringing the score to 28-21. Unfortunately, in the end, the Broncos still lost the game.

One would think that after the last few seasons, the Broncos would be used to losing, but the last game of the 2013 season was different from other losses. The last game of every season is always emotional as the seniors say goodbye to their younger teammates, coaches,

and each other, but this season with a team that had become almost like family, it was more emotional. There were players scattered around the field fighting back tears, some had already lost this fight, as they hugged teammates, coaches, parents, and friends.

The end of the 2013 football season was different because the season was full of little, promising improvements that you might not find looking at the season on paper. Ending the season on a win and going 5-5 for the season would have been more telling of these improvements and the season as a whole. But now the Broncos have moved on to working towards the 2014 football season and hopefully more improvements that can been seen in the team, on the field, and on a stat sheet.

12 / THE YEAR IN SPORTS

Q&A

After eight years at the helm of Lady Bronco basketball, and 38 years of coaching the sport, Dennis Krishka is retiring. He sits down to explain and discuss where he goes from here. (by Chandler Elsbecker)

Why are you retiring?

For 38 years, I’ve been blessed with a job that I never really felt was a job, you know? Every morning I got up, and I just couldn’t wait to get to work. A lot of people can’t say that. But as the years have gone on, it didn’t really hit me until this year, when it started to feel like a job. I always told my wife, ‘When it gets to be where it’s not fun anymore, it’s time for me to get out.’ It’s one of those things that’s a hard decision, because even now, I don’t know what I’m going to do with myself when I can’t get up in the morning and go to the gym. It’s all I’ve ever done. It’s going to be a little different.

What do you think you’ll miss most about coaching?

I certainly will miss the fellowship with my colleagues; I’ll miss dealing with young people. That’s always been so exciting to see them develop over the years.

It was exciting to mold a group of young people into a team, and get them to play together, and see them be successful, and to see them grow. I think that’s probably what I’ll miss the most.

Do you know what you’re going to do when you retire?

I’m going to go to Wisconsin. I always went back there in the summertime.

I’ve got a pretty good situation; I’ve worked part time at a golf course there for a lot of years. Now they’re looking forward to me working there full time. From the time school is out this year until when the season is over up there, which is when it gets cold and the snow’s flying, probably in October or November, I’ll pretty much be working full time, working the pro shop at a golf course up in northeastern Wisconsin.

When I get back down here, and basketball season’s starting, I’m not sure what I’m going to do at that juncture. I still have an inkling in me that tells me I want to coach again at some point, but the situation would have to be really right, and I don’t foresee that happening.

Do you think you’ll stay around the game in some capacity?

I think so. You know, I love the game a lot. I’m as big a fan as I am the coach.

I really enjoy being around the game. When our season was over, I scouted for Coach [Harold] Jackson and the boys’ team when they were in the playoffs. I really enjoy that aspect of the game; I enjoy breaking the game down and being a part of it. So I hope in some way, whether it be individual instruction at some level… I’m certainly going to be involved in the game for as long as I can.

How about at the school? Will you check in every so often at a game, or something like that?

Well, we still have our home. We’re not planning on leaving the area, other than those five months in the summer. I plan on spending the winter months here, when basketball season gets rolling. I live on the north side – actually, in Saginaw – and they’re [Saginaw] now a part of our district now, so there’ll be a lot of games that are really close. I’m sure that there’ll be some nights where I’ll sneak inside the side door and see what’s going on, and cheer on the young ladies. It’ll certainly be different from that standpoint, but I’ll certainly enjoy doing that.”

Sideline Swan Song: Now former Denton ladies’ basketball coach Dennis Krishka watches on during a January game versus Brewer. The 2013-14 season was Krishka’s last, as he is retiring from coaching. (photo by Chandler Elsbecker)

Now Online Heffley, Harrison step away from coaching at dhshorseshoe.com/sports

The Year in Sports According to Us

The run of the Broncos Dareious Scott Staff Writer The fact that the boys basketball team made the playoffs marked a pretty good season. Going into the season the expectations were for them to make a run towards a district title and compete for a spot in the playoffs. I can admit that going into the season I was unsure on whether or not they were going to get out of district. It wasn’t because of the coaching or the lack of skill, but the young and inexperienced that was present.

Starting off the season the Broncos were going against top teams in the state of Texas. Right away I could see the lack of experience and chemistry that the teams they were facing had. My hopes for the team disintegrated, and I slowly started to become more of a critic than a fan.

Before the district season I interviewed Adarian Harris, who was pretty much the man on the basketball team. At that time he was averaging 20 points and 15 rebounds a game. I was expecting him to put himself on a pedestal, but once the interview started I was immediately surprised on how he was speaking about his team.

He was constantly talking about the team. Not once did he speak on his self-accomplishments, not even when the question was solely about him. That’s when I knew that this team had untapped potential.

The district opener was a home game against Lake Dallas, a team that wasn’t a solid basketball team, but was super athletic. Throughout the game Lake Dallas showed signs of what they were capable of, but the Broncos showed what they were. The way the fans were getting into the game, and the energy level that they were playing at made me feel proud to be a supporter.

After that night they were pouring in win after win, and the

THE YEAR IN SPORTS / 13

questions started to differ a little bit. It wasn’t whether or not the Broncos were going to the playoffs, but what seed were they going to get. More and more I bragged to other schools, and the student section was filling up by the week. It looked as though they were going to coast to the playoffs. Everyone was thinking district. Never in my life have I seen students and staff look so forward to a basketball game. It almost looked as though we were going to hop straight to the playoffs.

Once the second half of district started to roll around The inexperience showed, the doubts started to creep back into my head, and the questions about playoffs were growing louder and louder. Lake Dallas was the first losses started to pile up on top of each other. I didn’t attend the game, so I asked one of my friends for the final score of the game, and my heart dropped to my stomach when I found at that we lost 61-56. From there it went all downhill. The Broncos was losing to teams that they blew by in the first half of the season. Those losses included a 66-51 loss to Fort Worth Brewer; A team that really belonged at the bottom of the standings. The week before they lost to Wichita Falls who they beat by 40 the first time and that lost followed by a lost to Rider. The games felt empty because fans started to jump off the bandwagon. The playoff picture went from us being in the top of the standings, to barely making the playoffs. The last game was a game to determine who was going to get the last playoff spot in the district. They had to play Rider one more time to clinch that playoff spot.

The days leading up to the game I started to fill rage, as I saw the tweets that Rider was posting.

They were downgrading the Broncos as though they were a mediocre team that did not belong on the court with them. It would have

Twice is Nice: Sophomore Emerson Espinosa pulls up for a long twopointer in the Broncos’ first round playoff game versus Dunbar. It was the second consecutive playoff berth for Denton basketball after a two-year absence from the postseason. (photo by Chandler Elsbecker) been understandable if they were a much better team, but the season series was tied at 1-1.

When the game started the Broncos were playing with urgency, and looked like that team in the beginning of district. Even though the lead never got out of hand, they had the game in their control from the opening tip eventually winning the game. In the next two days had to play Fort Worth Dunbar in the first round.

Dunbar had a point guard, Dennis Jones, who was one of the best players in the area. He was very explosive and was the engine of the team. I had no extreme worries because I knew how talented the Broncos were, but I was a little nervous nonetheless.

From the opening tip Jones, and his Dunbar team was all over the place. A.D Harris was getting easy shots, but got in early foul trouble. While he was out the game, Dunbar raced to a 15 point lead early. Eventually the Broncos chipped at the lead. Harris was leading the team in the right di-

rection when he got back in the game, and they were trailing by four, midway through the third quarter. The only problem was that Harris had five fouls, but even then, other members of the team started to pick up the slack. Harris fouled out of the game early in the fourth quarter, but again the Broncos still had pieces to try and take the game. The pace started to grow extremely fast, and though The Broncos were still chipping at the lead, Jones eventually was just too much for them, sealing a 9272 win for Dunbar.

As I scoped around the gym I saw no sad faces. I sat there with a smile on my face because I was so proud of what the Broncos accomplished. The team that was supposed to be too young and inexperienced still had a fantastic season. They were still able to make consecutive playoff appearances, and still end the season with a positive district record.

That is what made the season special and worth remembering more than anything.

14 / NEWS

A Bold Direction Freshman girl donates all of her hair to support the fight against cancer George Roberson Editor Emeritus Freshman Ruth Martinez once had 15 inches of flowy black hair.

In just a few minutes, it was all gone.

On April 3, she donated her hair to the St. Baldrick’s, a foundation dedicated to finding a cure to childhood cancer. They use the donated hair to make wigs for children afflicted with cancer.

She also raised a little over $3,000 to donate to St. Baldrick’s.

“We raised $500 beforehand, and the people at the event in Dallas donated the rest while we were shaving our heads,” Ruth said.

“Our group was called ‘Directioners’ because we all love One Direction, so they played them while they shaved our heads.”

Q&A

Ruth says she’s glad she did it and she would recommend it to others.

“It’s been pretty cool,” Ruth said. “My friends are still a little shocked. I’ve had some rude comments, but I ignore them because I know I did a good thing. I keep my head up.”

The idea came from her cousin and one of her friends, who donated their hair to the foundation first.

“They showed that they have heart and care for other people,” Ruth said. “I’m actually thinking about doing it again next year. I don’t know if my hair is going to be all grown back, by then, though.”

Ruth’s mother, Diana, was surprised when her daughter told her what she wanted to do with her hair, but Ruth says she has always been very supportive.

“At first, I didn’t want to her to, but then I realized what a good thing she was doing,” Diana Martinez said. “Not every teen girl

would cut off her hair for others, so I’m one proud mommy. She had everyone’s support on this one.”

Before

An Interview with the Presidents As the end of the year approaches, a transition of power does as well.The class and StuCo president, Isaac Warriner, who has served for two years, will be graduating. James Marsh will take his place. We sat down with them to discuss the office, responsibilities, and history of the presidency.

What do you think your legacy as president will be?

So you two work well together?

IW: Well, over two years, I have raised and hope to con-

IW:

tinue to raise money for the class.

And what is being president like for you, James?

IW: JM: IW: JM: IW: JM: IW: JM:

Well, he’s not president yet.

Yes, I am.

That’s not how it works.

My inauguration has already happened.

That’s not a thing. He’s not president yet.

Isaac is irrelevant at this point.

I’d like to go off the record and punch James in the face.

In reality, I become president after graduation.

What exactly are your powers?

IW: JM:

After

There’s… it’s… it’s like… have you seen National Treasure 2? You know how all the presidents have a book of secrets?

We should make one of those.

We’re like two peas in a pod. James will do a good job.

What made you want to run?

IW:

I like to think that I’m a fun guy, and I always think about when I would do speeches in elementary school, and my speeches were so boring I would get last place, I didn’t cry or anything though so I igured humor would work best to keep people interested.

Will you miss DHS? IW:

Yes. But then again, maybe I’ll go take over the student government at UNT. It’s been a lot of fun being president, it’s been a good experience, and I’m glad I got the chance to do it. It was kind of a struggle to get into, but it was really worth it.”

Interviews by Cynthia Pantaleon, George Roberson, and Ben Lyke.

NEWS / 15

Smallwood’s dream comes true George Roberson Editor Emeritus Cheerleaders, teachers, and assistant principals draped in Hawaiian leis waited in the Purple Pit packed with Hayden Smallwood’s fellow sophomores and football team members on Friday morning.

The assembled audience thought they were having a Hawaiian-themed Class of 2016 meeting. When Hayden’s family walked in with a Make-a-Wish Foundation employee, however, it was clear something more was going on. Hayden, who has been battling cancer and was given the medical all-clear, was referred to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. His wish was a trip to Hawaii, and it was granted as a surprise in front of all of his friends, classmates, and teammates.

“Hayden was referred, and we got all of his wish information,” Make-a-Wish employee Lauren

Whitson said. “That’s where the fun began. We asked ourselves how we could make the reveal as big as possible.”

Whitson had told Hayden his Hawaiian wish was unlikely to come true the week before, but, as she gladly admitted at the assembly, this was a lie.

“It was really shocking and really awesome,” Hayden Smallwood said. “I had no clue this was happening. It was a normal day. I got up. I went to school. They totally pulled a fast one on me.”

That morning, Hayden, still unaware of what was about to take place, was escorted to the gym by a few administrators.

“I heard on the walkie-talkie in the nurse’s station that everybody was looking for someone,” he said.

“They weren’t saying my name, but they were like, ‘We can’t find him.

Do you know where he is?’ I was just thinking, ‘I wonder who that is?’”

It wasn’t until he saw his fam-

Lei All Your Love On Me: Hayden poses with the cheerleaders.

Maui Mommy: Hayden Smallwood smiles with his mother after recieving the surprise of his life from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. ily walk into the gym that he fully realized what was happening.

“I went into the gym and sat down by the football team, and then out of nowhere I see my family,” Hayden said. “They totally got me. I had no idea. A lot of people knew about it, and no one told, for which I’m glad.”

David Ashcraft, Hayden’s ROTC sergeant, lead planning of the event.

“I got a call about six weeks ago saying Hayden had been submitted for Make-a-Wish,” Ashcraft said. “I asked staff, band, ROTC cadets, and many more [people at Denton High] to help in complete secrecy. If it hadn’t been for the team effort, it wouldn’t have been such a success.”

Ashcraft said making Hayden believe his Hawaiian wish wasn’t financially feasible was essential to the plan. His mother and father, who knew the truth all along, both spoke at the event and were overcome by emotion.

“I want to thank each and every one of you,” Hayden’s father Bryan said. “You’ve done good for my boy.”

Hayden will be taking his father, mother, and sister Hailey, a junior at DHS, with him on his summer trip.

“I’m very grateful,” Hayden said. “It means a lot that so many people care. It’s good to know I’m not alone.”

16 / FEATURE

Where to do it and what to avoid Tropical Tan 2 Spray: None Bed: $44/month (Genesis); $54/month (Super)

Palm Beach Tan Spray: $69.95-$89.95/month Bed: $25.95-$109.95/month

Max Tan Spray: $20/spray Bed: $22.95/month (Executive); $29.95/month (Platinum); $69/ month (VIP)

Planet Tan Spray: $69.95-$89.95/month Bed: $25.95-$109.95/month

Leah Bowen Staff Writer Even though summer hasn’t arrived yet, many girls have already begun to get their tan on. There are many different ways to tan, but the three most popular tanning methods are spray tanning, sunbathing, and bed tanning.

Spray tanning is probably the least common of the three, but still very regularly used.

“The process for a spray tan is that you go in, take a shower and scrub everything off your body,” sophomore Ariyana O’Brian said. “You make sure your face is washed and you don’t have any makeup on. Then you get in the machine, turn on the button and place yourself in the positions that it tells you to. You get sprayed and in like five minutes, you are done.”

This process is skin damage free. Although there are some slightly unhealthy effects, like breathing in the tanning spray and getting it inside your lungs, it is not likely to be harmful while tanning this way.

Spray tanning doesn’t affect your health, but it can affect you in other negative ways.

“My spray tans last for about a week and a half,” Ariyana said.

“I get orange a lot and I have to come to school and people will call me ‘The Big Orange’.”

In contrast, sunbathing doesn’t lead a person’s skin to become an unnatural color.

Spending hours in the sun will give your skin a golden brown look. This look comes off as quite attractive to most

of the teenage American culture today.

“Honestly, this kind of sounds bad, but I tan because dark fat is prettier than white fat,” junior Roan Spargo said. iously Getting tan is taken pretty seriously by most female teens.

“I refuse to take a hot shower after I am done because I am afraid d that I am going to wash ash it away.,” Roan said. id. “I won’t shave my legs for a couple ple days afterward ard because I’m m afraid that I will ill shave my tan n away somehow.”

Male teens ns hold a different ent view.

“I just become ome tan in the sumummer,” sophomore more James Van Pelt said. aid. “I don’t know how long ng that I am out in the sun. I will just be doing something and I get darker. I usually take my shirt off because I don’t like getting a farmers tan. I’m not the type of guy that’s going to lie down and be like ‘I’m getting my tan on!’”

Although sunbathing looks very natural and gradual, there are negative effects that can occur.According to examiner.com your skin loses moisture when in the sun for too long and can become dried out. Dehy-

FEATURE / 17

dration occurs while tanning and is caused when the body loses water content and essential body salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium bicarbonate and phosphate.

The sun can be harmful but examiner.com also goes on to tell that there are positive outcomes from being exposed to UVA rays.

The first benefit comes from the sun’s supply of Vitamin D, which helps absorb dairy foods to keep your body healthy and strong. You only need a little bit.

Sunlight can also help your mood. People who do not see sunlight, or are not out in it much at all, are more likely to be linked to depression.

Finally, sunlight can actually help reverse osteoporosis. Many people take calcium supplements but are not getting sunlight, so the calcium is passing right through their bodies.

As a result, they’re losing bone mineral density.

The third most popular way of tanning is bed tanning.

Skincancer.org states that 37 percent of white female adolescents and over 11 percent of white male adolescents between 13 and 19 years old in the U.S. have used tanning booths. It is estimated that 2.3 million teens visit a tanning salon at least once a year.

“I go bed tanning four days a week,” junior McKenzie Goin said. “I tan in the bed for six minutes. That’s where you’re supposed to start out and then you go up two minutes every three weeks. I don’t tan in the sun because the bed tan gets you darker faster.”

Bed tanning will give you the right look you want the fastest.

“I bed tan,” senior Rhealee Boydston said. “I don’t spray tan because it’s there only for a short time and it looks disgusting when you’re orange and crusty.

It’s gross. Plus, bed tanning lasts longer. It might not be better for you, but you look better. I tan every day, sometimes twice a day. If I go in a master bed at MaxTan, they let me tan for about fifteen minutes.

Then if I go in a diamond bed at Palm Beach, it is like twelve minutes.”

Even with the best results, bed tanning is probably the least healthy of the three.

“I have had skin cancer twice,” Rhealee said. “I got skin cancer once when I was fourteen, and then again when I was seventeen. It really sucked. I had to get my skin graphed, and they put a decent sized hole in my arm. I went in periodically, like every, one to two months to get my moles checked. It was on my arm and I have one on my neck that grew back completely.”

Skin cancer isn’t that big of a fright to most people.

“I’m not really scared of getting skin cancer,” Van Pelt said. “If I get it when I am older, then I get it. I’ll probably die but everyone does.”

Rhealee looks for ways to take precaution when it comes to tanning in a bed.

“I can only tan in the beds that don’t have the Ultra-Violet bulbs, so now I will never get burned because they use a different bulb,” Rhealee said. “The bulbs they use for me don’t give you skin cancer.”

Even with the previous episodes, she isn’t intimidated.

“I’m not really scared of getting skin cancer again,” Rhealee said. “My cancer didn’t really hurt. I mean the needle that they use to numb you hurts, and it is weird to watch them cut your skin out without feeling it. Skin cancer, to me, isn’t that really big of a deal unless it leaks into something else.”

Even though tanning can be time-consuming, people still find time to fit in other activities in their summer schedule.

“Tanning isn’t really the only thing I focus on during the summer,” Mckenzie said. “I’m really looking forward to going on vacation and spending time with my friends at the pool. Summer is a time when people get to get away from all of this school and just relax.”

18 / ENTERTAINMENT

The Guide to Survive Summer 2014

Brandon Shields Entertainment Editor The year is coming to a close, and all seniors can think about is graduation. What about the rest of us who are coming back next year?

What are we going to do?

Unfortunately, many teens suffer from the same detrimental condition during those three months. This condition can be labeled lethargy, and can sprout into pure boredom. It has a chance to affect the mind negatively across the board depending on the type of person you are. Many lose simple cognitive functions because they haven’t moved away from the TV for over a week.

We are losing the war on boredom and suffering casualties.

That’s right; we are literally being bored to death. Luckily for us all, The Horseshoe has devised a stra-

tegic guide to keep us all alive, mentally and physically, without taking away the freedom we have been craving all year.

I begin by introducing to you the Summer Survival Guide or SSG for short. It contains the basic, standard level information that will almost assuredly keep you from passing away due to the plague of boredom. We begin with materials. You will need some basic survival elements, such as money, food or snacks, and friends, granted of course that you have already acquired parental permission.

Those standard components are perfect because they work as building blocks for one another. For example, if you don’t have money, which we all know because you mention, “I’m broke” every other sentence, you can just mooch it from your friends as you’ve always done. However, if you want to still

have those friends by the end of the summer, I suggest you do the very thing your parents suggested you do when your Christmas presents became too expensive: get a job. Temporary jobs are the best jobs. You don’t have to put up with people’s nonsense for a long period of time. It’s simply all about the paycheck. You’re not building a family here; you’re “keeping yourself alive.” Suggestions range from mowing lawns to just begging for an allowance and doing all those chores you’ve been putting off.

Graduation (June 6 for Denton High) is a great way to begin the summer. Knowing that you only have so much time until you’re walking down that stage and about to leave forever is daunting, but sending off some of your best friends is satisfying. Also, if you’re cheap, it is a good way to get out of the house and socialize. We all

know you could really use some of that.

After that period of time, I would recommend looking into that temporary job I mentioned earlier. With some of that cash, you can go see 22 Jump Street, June 13.

Soon after follows the Vans Warped Tour. This event takes place in Dallas at the Gexa Energy Pavillion during June 15. It’s a great way to kick off June excitingly and really stay active. Over 100 bands, mostly rock, will all be performing on this one Sunday.

Big names such as Mayday Parade and Watsky are two of the names that will be there.

The SSG expects circumstances where you might not be able to make it to events like the Vans Warped Tour and throws in downtime for you to put on your schedule. It’s late in June, and you’re

ENTERTAINMENT / 19 already getting bored and whining about it. How do we know you’re bored? We know because that blue bird to which you keep posting tells us. If you’re tired of the traditional pool scene, Turner Falls in south-eastern Oklahoma is a great way to get out of the heat and have a lot of fun. It’s literally just about an hour away.

Where you go during the time you have off from June 15 to July 1 is up to you. That’s a great time to build up some funds and really lay back. However, when July 4 comes around the corner, serve your great nation proudly by visiting a place with fireworks. Locations all over the county, the state, and the country host fireworks, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find a place. However, if the laziness has already kicked in, the SSG experts already found you a couple spots just in case. On July 3 in Addison, Kaboom Town will be hosting its annual festivities. This includes concerts all day, fireworks towards the end and at about 12 a.m. It’s suggested that you grab a few lawn chairs and get there promptly, be-

cause it will become packed very quickly. However if you miss the festivities on July 3, on the fourth there will be no shortage of venues, such as Apogee Stadium in Denton.

It’s well known by your activity on social media that you by no means are bored. Just remember that boredom is not something to take lightly. It can swoop in from the most unexpected crevices of the mind so be cautious. As a precautionary measure, I recommend you do some spontaneous things to stay “alive and upbeat”. There is no sense in being predictable. This is because as long as you can stay occupied you can combat boredom more effectively. Be more than just active, create memories, thats what being spontaneous is about.

What’s spontaneous you say?

Seeing Queen perform at Dallas’ American Airlines Center July 10. Get out of the unrecognized concerts and make everlasting memories. At this concert you can brag about who you saw instead of hiding it because the band is unknown. Chances are your parents

might want to come as well. Overall it’s a great bonding experience.

Time to take it down a notch.

The money you’ve earned, if any at all, has been outweighed by the money you’ve spent. Oh, you didn’t know that? Well, get ready for your parents to tell you how much over the top you’ve been lately. SSG recommends that if you want to survive a beating by the checkbook or just plainly by your parents, you take it easy for the weeks to come.

Play it safe, go out to get ice cream and cool off, or just plain hang out with your friends - the real ones or the imaginary ones.

The end of summer is getting closer and closer, so you must now stop delaying the inevitable: get a Netflix account and binge watch shows. For this you need many snacks, some pizza money, and of course a Netflix account. If you don’t have one, that’s what friends are for, right? You’ve used them all summer; don’t tell me you’ve gained a conscience now.

After binge watching on Netflix you’ve probably gained some

weight. That’s ok; it’s the beginning of August and school starts in about three weeks. That’s more than enough time to start working out and getting toned. It’s highly recommended that you don’t post all over social media that you’re hitting the gym. Two good reasons: nobody cares and you’re letting people know you know you’ve gained some weight. However it is up to you whether or not you would like to become the object of fat jokes.

Last but not least, it’s time to upgrade your sorry wardrobe from last year. Yeah, that’s right; it’s time to go shopping. They say shop until you drop, but I think it won’t be long until you’re dropping considering the amount of new clothing you need. This is a great time to take your wisest, well-dressed friend out to give some input on your new outfits. In the end you’ll look great, you’ll feel great, and you will have survived the summer without losing your sanity.

Despite some nagging flaws, ‘Godzilla’ meets expectations and features great visuals Brandon Shields Entertainment Editor The global blockbuster that we were waiting for, Godzilla ended up being just above average. Starting off in a whirlwind of past images and trying to set up the scenario behind the acknowledgement of existence of Godzilla, it’s shown that he is a threat to humans and needs to be killed. However, as the film progresses, it’s well-known Godzilla has not been killed as previously thought in 1954.

Even though we knew Godzilla wasn’t dead, by the amount of his screen time we couldn’t tell the difference. Monsters are being introduced left and right and all we care about is the one named after the movie. The audience is easily shocked by the first monsters discovery and it not being Godzilla.

Later, it’s confirmed that the true Godzilla is alive and emerges not far from where he was originally “killed.”

The movie successfully immerses you into the world crisis taking place. Under the surface of the crisis, the movie focuses on the collective despair of a military family. This often takes away from the main focus that matters most and that is Godzilla fighting, random explosions, and destruction. It almost feels as if they tried to personalize the story too much instead of focusing on the main issue, which is the fact that the world is being attacked by three gigantic monsters.

It’s a common strategy Michel Bay used when making the Transformer series that made the films terrific to some people and too distracting for few.

Overall, despite the distractions of the first hour of the movie, all complaints are washed away as if it were in a hurricane when the second half of the movie. The second half appeals directly towards the audience and the reason they came to see a Godzilla movie.

20 / SENIORS We asked all the seniors about their favorite memories, classes, and teachers, as well as their future plans. Here’s what they said.

Michelle Acogido Activities: Volleyball 1-2, PALS 3, IB 1-4.

Future plans: Attend TWU and major in nursing or biomedical engineering.

If you could thank one person on campus: Tim Sanchez because he’s helped me realize my full potential and that I’m stronger than I make myself out to be.

In 10 years I see myself: Being a Nurse Practioner/Biomed Engineer.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My parents because they’ve always been 100% supportive with everything I do.

Omar Akram Activities: Math UIL 1-4, Spanish Honor Society 3-4, National Honor Society 4, Tennis 1-3, Spelling UIL 1-4, HOSA 3, StuCo 4, PAC 4, DHS Horseshoe 4.

Future plans: Attend the Facilitated Acceptance to Medical Education (FAME) program, which includes joint admission to UT San Antonio and UT School of Medicine at San Antonio.

Favorite memory: The annual trip to UT Austin for the state UIL Academic Meet with the rest of the UIL team.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Frau Dieckman for always being someone who always gave witty yet helpful advice (and for showing what real sarcasm is).

In 10 years I see myself: Working as an physician in underserved areas in Texas.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My older sister, who went through the struggle of balancing to very different cultures with me.

Jacob Audrisch Activities: SNHS 2-4, Football 1-3, NHS 3-4, Art Club 1.

Future plans: Attend Texas A&M honors school and major as a business inance major.

Favorite memory: IB camping retreats.

If you could thank one person on campus: Sra. Hall because she was the best teacher I had.

In 10 years I see myself: Acting in Los Angeles.

Derek Baker Activities: Bowling 3-4, NHS 3-4, BPA 1, Football 2.

Future plans: Attend Texas Tech and major in marketing.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Peltier for helping me with all of my troubles.

In 10 years: I see myself owning a restaurant.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother and father because they taught me to work hard and be a good person.

Lauren Baker Activities: FFA 9-11, Softball 1.

Future plans: Attend Tarleton State University in pre-vet medicine.

Favorite memory: The amazing teachers. I wouldn’t be who I am without them.

If you could thank one person on campus: I would thank David Laney for his constant support in my success and helping me plan my future.

In 10 years: I’ll be graduated from Texas A&M from vet school, and begin starting my own practice.

Mary Baker Activities: Choir 1-4, STUCO 2-4, National Honor Society 3-4, Zen Club 4.

Future plans: Attend the University of Dallas.

Favorite memory: Ms. Bush called me a “skipper” sophomore year.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Baker and Mrs. Freeman for putting up with me all four years.

In 10 years: I see myself with a successful job and a family.

Most inϔluential person in my

life: My mom because she is more patient and kind than I can ever hope to be.

Shaheed Barket Future plans: NCTC then UNT. Favorite memory: Being in the newspaper.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Seastrunk.

In 10 years I see myself: Rich.

Claudia Barrett Activities: Theater 1-4, Art Club 1-4, Pottery Club 1-2, 4.

Future plans: Attend UNT and major in anthropology.

Favorite memory: Senior pictures.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Peltier for getting all my college stuff done.

In 10 years I see myself: about to have a family.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom, who has always supported me.

David Barrett Activities: Band 1, ROTC 1-4, FFA 4.

Future plans: Attending Hardin Simmons and majoring in theological/biblical studies, then attending George Trentt Theological seminar for Paschal studies.

In 10 years I see myself: In the pulpit.

Christian Bernal Activities: Swimming 2-3, Water Polo 2-3, German Club 3-4.

Future plans: Attend NCTC for basics and then UTA to major in Architecture.

If you could thank one person on campus: Frau Dieckman, who has taught me so much German.

In 10 years I see myself: In Germany working as an architect.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother - I’ve seen her struggles, and I want to pull through for her with my best effort.

Juliana Bershell Activities: Fillies 1-3, IB Social Of icers 11-12, NHS 4, Church Youth Choir and Liturgical Dance 1-4, HOSA 1, Choir 1-2.

Future plans: Attend Texas Tech University and major in Biology and minor in Spanish.

If you could thank one person on the campus: I would like to thank Mrs. Phillips. She was always there for me when I needed her. Whether it be to talk, help with applications and scholarships, or writing a recommendation letter.

In 10 years: I see myself just graduating from medical school and participating in Pediatric resident.

Mackenzie Blagg Activities: Band Color Guard 1-3, Fillies 4.

Future plans: I plan to go NCTC for basics then transfer to TWU to major in education.

Favorite memory: Joining color guard and making a family.

If you could thank one person on the campus: It would be Justin Good for pushing me to be the best I could be.

In 10 years I see myself: Teaching high school history.

Randi Bonner Activities: Volleyball 1, Softball 1-3, Pre-Law 4, Education Club 1.

Future plans: NCTC-Gainesville.

I want to major in Criminal Justice and go to law school.

If you could thank one person on the campus, who would it be and why: Mr. Ford. He made my last few years at DHS very fun. Or Mrs. Bush because she puts up with all our crap.

In 10 years I see myself: Opening my own practice.

Juan Borda Activities: Soccer 1-4.

Future plans: University of Texas at Dallas - major in biology.

If you could thank one person on

21 / SENIORS campus: Mr. Rosin for being a great art teacher and awesome guy.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My parents because they guide me in the right direction and support me.

Shak’kylia Booker Activities: Choir: 1-3, ROTC 2, Drill Team 2-4, Track 3-4, Dance Of icer 4.

Future plans: Go to New York and attend a dance school to minor it in and major in neonatology.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Burgess and Mrs. Sherborn, have been with me every step of the way, and I love them with all my heart. They told me I was amazing and showed me so much support and comforting. I will never forget these powerful women.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My sister, Neci. She and I have come so far, and when I look at her I see con ident, strong beautiful person.

Kaela Byrd Activities: Zen Club 4, Girl Scouts 1-4, Key Club 2-3, STUCO 3-4.

Future plans: NCTC this summer, then Sam Houston State.

Favorite memory: When people ind my potato picture on the internet and start talking to me about it.

In 10 years I see myself: Running a camp for homeless kids.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My sister, who not only shows me what not to do but also always supports me.

John Carmona Activities: Orchestra 1-4, Football 1-4, Latin Club 1-4, National Latin Honor Society 1-4, National Honor Society 3-4, Student Council 2-4, Math Club 1, Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra 1-4, DATCU Junior Board of Directors 4.

Future plans: I will attend the University of Texas at Austin and become an aerospace engineer.

Favorite memory: Taking Latin 3 Independent Study in the hall with my future roommate at UT. In 10 years I see myself: As an aerospace engineer.

John Cartwright Activities: ROTC 1-4.

Future plans: Military.

In 10 years I see myself: Military.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My dad and pastor - they were always there for me when I needed them.

Alexis Carrara Future plans: Cosmetology school and digital forensics.

If you could thank one person on campus: Deidre Paschall - when I had no one, she was always there.

In 10 years I see myself: Out of college and starting a career.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom. I have watched her overcome so many obstacles and come out stronger than before. She gives me the power to know when life knocks me down to stand back up and keep pushing forward to bigger and better things.

Alex Cates Activities: Softball 1, Theatre 2-4, ASL 2-4, Choir 1-4.

Future plans: Attend DBU and study sociology.

Favorite memory: Choir trip to Disney this year.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Baker because he has encouraged me to be the best of who I am using my strengths and weaknesses, and encouraged my passion for choir. He continues to inspire me despite everything he has gone through.

Marisa Cervantes Activities: Golf 1-4, Cheer 1-4.

Future plans: Attend Sam Houston University, major in forensic chemistry, and work in a crime lab.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Lisa for never giving up on me when I was ready to throw my golf clubs

away.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Coach Swindle because she has always been there for me all of high school and I don’t know how I would survive high school without her.

Randy Chapoy Future plans: Technical school, ITT TECH electronic engineering.

Favorite memory: Having my son.

If you could thank one person on campus: All the staff and administration.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Jemmy Lee Mahan, my step father.

Madi Clark Activities: Volleyball 1-4, STUCO 2-4, Choir 1-4, PAC 3-4, French National Honor Society 3, National Honor Society 4.

Future plans: Attend Texas A&M and major in business administration.

Favorite memory: The annual choir trips.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Bush because she is always willing to listen.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Mrs. Phillips because she is a positive in luence on everyone around her and encourages students to embraced their full potential.

Steven Clark Activities: Orchestra 1-4.

Future plans: UNT - major in electrical engineering and work.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mrs. Bush made me like English a bit more and had the best personality in a teacher.

In 10 years I see myself: Working as a lineman or an engineer.

Kelsey Claytor Activities: Orchestra 1-2, Basketball 1-2, IB 3-4.

Future plans: Attend Texas Tech and major in biology.

Favorite memory: The annual choir trips.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Hughes for always helping me and supporting me through dif icult times.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom because she’s always supporting my decisions and has always had a positive attitude concerning my education.

Joshua Cox Activities: Band 1-4, Jazz 4, Frisbee 3.

Favorite memory: Messing around during summer band.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Covey for opening me to a new culture.

In 10 years I see myself: Being a solider for the USMC. KJ Cox Activities: German Club 1, Theatre 1-4, Chorale 2-3, Chamber Choir 3, Newspaper 4.

Future plans: Attend the University of Colorado-Denver and major in international studies.

Favorite memory: All the amazing shows I’ve been in and the friend I’ve made through theatre.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Stratton has been there for me no matter what and has always pushed me to be the best I can be.

In 10 years I see myself: Hopefully working across the world with a non-pro it organization.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My dad is my best friend and he taught me what it means to grow up and make the best of any situation.

Teah Cozine Activities: Theater 2-4.

Future plans: Go to NCTC for a year and then transfer to a fouryear college.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mr. Stratton for his help getting me out of my shell in theater.

In 10 years I see myself: Into my theater career.

Lillia Dean Activities: Band 1-4, German

22 / SENIORS Club 1-4, Theater 2-4, Thespian Society 4.

Future plans: Texas Woman’s University.

Favorite memory: Marching band. If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Wilson for teaching me how to be strong in the hardest of times.

In 10 years I see myself: As a physical therapist.

Elizabeth Dieterich Activities: StuCo 3-4, Fillies 2-4.

Future plans: TJC/become an Apache Belle.

Favorite memory: Kicking my hat and face at Fillies Follies.

In 10 years I see myself: Dancing with the NYC Rockettes, pro football team, or Disney.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Probably Ms. Burgess because she has led me to always improve with dancing.

Mo Diop Activities: Football 3-4, Bowling 3-4, PALS 4.

Future plans: Attend Houston Community College to get my Associates degree then transfer to Texas Tech.

Favorite memory: The Ann Windle Adopt-a-Child days.

If you could thank one person on campus: Kevin Atkinson - he changed my life in many kind of ways.

In 10 years I see myself: A very successful business man.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My father - he came from nothing yet didn’t use it as an excuse to not succeed.

Majah Dixon Activities: Fillies 3-4, Track 2-4.

Future plans: Attend Texas Tech, major in business, and minor in engineering.

Favorite memory: All the assemblies, games, and get togethers we have had.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Peltier, my counselor - she’s been a blessing and an angel sent from above.

In 10 years I see myself: I see myself starting a business.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom - she’s been there

every step of the way and is the most unsel ishness person in the world.

Arianna Durbin Activities: Band 1-4, Swim 1-2, Yearbook 1.

Future plans: NCTC for basics, then pursue acting, music, or wherever life takes me.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Brannock because he helped me through when life got bad.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My dad because he is my best friend.

Dallas Enlow Activities: Band 1-4.

Future plans: Attend NCTC to get the general stuff out of the way, then go to UNT for majoring in history/ag.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Laney - he has been there to help me with any question I had.

In 10 years I see myself: Hopefully being a teacher with a house in the country.

Zachary Farmer Activities: Soccer 1-4, Cross Country 4, NHS 3-4.

Future plans: A&M at College Station and major in microbiology.

Favorite memory: Going to third round playoffs in soccer.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Hef ley for coaching. Also, shoutout to Diego and Michael!

Raven Connor Ford Activities: GSA 2, 4, DP 3, IB 3-4.

Future plans: The Ohio State University - major in business administration/management.

Favorite memory: The art program at DHS, especially James Rosin, has been inspiring and wonderful.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother has in luenced me the most, because she has been a constant affecter of my decisions and ability to discern.

I have been both in luenced negatively and positively by her, but I am glad she is part of

my life.

Sarah Fremder Activities: Varsity Soccer 1-3, Choir 2-4, IB programme 3-4.

Future plans: UNT - major in linguistics, minor in French.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mark Baker because he’s one of the only people who truly cares and tries to help and does his job and more.

Emily Fu Activities: UIL Academic Team 1-4, Chamber Orchestra 1-4, Varsity Tennis Team 1-4, National Honor Society 3-4, French National Honor Society 3-4, StuCo 3, Class Of icer 3, Newspaper 4.

Future plans: Attend the University of Texas at Austin and study business.

Favorite memory: Going to the Region and State meets every year with the UIL Academic Team.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Frau Dieckman for her care, effort, and dedication toward the spelling team and for being a great a coach and teacher.

In 10 years I see myself: Living a comfortable life and traveling the world in my free time.

Rebecca Fu Activities: Varsity Tennis 1-4, Varsity Chamber Orchestra 1-4, UIL Academics 1-4, French National Honor Society 2, 4, NHS 3-4, StuCo 3, Class Of icers 3, Newspaper 4.

Future plans: Attend McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin.

Favorite memory: All the tennis tournaments and the school trips I’ve taken with different organizations.

If you could thank one person on the campus: I would like to thank all the coaches/mentors whether athletic, academic, or artistic who have helped me or taught me to a better individual.

Christian Garcia Activities: Football 1, Track 2-3,

Mascot 4.

Future plans: The University of North Texas. Major in materials and science engineering.

Katrina Gaston Activities: Choir 1-4, Musical 1-3, Future TMEA 1, TAB 1-4.

Future plans: Southern Nazerene University - major in vocal music education.

In 10 years I see myself: Teaching the children music.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom because she is the one I go to for everything.

Idalisis Garcia Activities: ROTC 1-2, 4.

Future plans: Possibly attend NCTC for basic or go directly into the work force while looking for an agent to get my acting career started.

If you could thank one person on campus: Sergeant Ashcraft for being such a great teacher and leader and so caring.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother because I’ve lived with her my entire life and has sacri iced so much for me, loved, supported and has raised me to the best of my ability.

Ian Gibson Activities: Drum Line 1-3, StuCo 4.

Future plans: University of Texas with a major in radio, television, and ilm.

Favorite memory: Getting ISS for going off campus.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Alexander Supertramp because he lived his life the way I’d like to live mine.

Diego Gonzalez Activities: Soccer 1-4.

Future plans: UNT - major in marketing and inancing.

Favorite memory: Beating Guyer in soccer.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Rocky, Coach Hef ley and Mrs. Salazar for always helping me with whatever

Continued onto page 27

SENIORS / 23

Introducing...

The Top of the Class of 2014 The following students have earned the highest grade point average out of the entire senior class of 468 students. Combined, they stand as the top of the Class of 2014. The group includes seven valedictorians and three salutatorians. We have asked each student to write a little bit about their journey to the top.

“There is a good reason they call these ceremonies ‘commencement exercises.’ Graduation is not the end, it’s the beginning.”

- Orrin Hatch

Isaac Warriner I can not say that I’d be where I am today without the help and support of all my teachers and IB counselors. I have been blessed throughout high school to have had teachers who love their job and those who they teach, rather than endure them. In particular, I have to recognize my English 3 teacher and StuCo advisor, Ms. Phillips for everything that she has done to identify possibility in her students and help them grow that potential into success. Ms. Phillips, I cannot thank you enough for all you have sacri iced for your students, and for, against better judgement, putting up with me over the last two years. I can’t believe its almost over, but I’ll still say, forever, Go Broncos!

William Root My career goal is to be a choir director like my mentor, Mr. Mark Baker.

Mr. Baker helped me through my voice change during my sophomore year, a dif icult part of high school for me. I want to teach students with changing voices. Voice change happens for many girls and boys in middle school, so I plan to be a middle school choir director.

As a choir director, I will write lesson plans that address voice change issues and encourage my students to persevere through their challenging middle school years.

Because of my participation in academic UIL in high school, I have previous experience writing lesson plans. Since Varsity Tennis during senior year con licted with after-school math club meetings, I was not able to show up in person to help my teammates prepare for UIL Number Sense.

Therefore, I wrote lesson plans that could be understood without my being at math club in person. Mr. Fred Mueller is both math club sponsor and UIL Academic coordinator. Thus, Mr. Mueller has been an integral part of my extracurricular success in UIL Academics, Although my extracurricular experiences in Choir and Academic UIL did not directly contribute to my top eleven standing, they have prepared me for my future career. I will enter the UNT School of Music in the fall as a music education major.

(photos by Chandler Elsbecker, Cynthia Pantaleon, or given with courtesy by their respective owners)

24 / SENIORS

Yasmeen Alshara Being in the top 11 students for the class of 2014 feels great. It is satisfying to know that all of my hard work has culminated to this point. I can honestly say I have gotten to this point through a lot of hard work and self motivation. My parents allowed me to choose my own path and this is the one I chose. My four years at Denton high with my fellow students have been rewarding and I am grateful for all of the teachers I have had along the way that have all played a role in me being one of the top 11 students. DHS Class of 2014, we made it!

Emily Fu I am honored to be one of the top students of the class of 2014. The past four years have been a combination of dedication, persistence, self-discipline and occasionally, frustration. Throughout all of this, my extracurricular activities have been crucial in providing an outlet from mere academics and in allowing me to develop not only as a student, but a well-rounded individual. Playing violin in the orchestra, hitting balls in tennis, and serving in the community have given me the con idence and self-motivation essential to succeeding in school and beyond. Along the way, my family, friends, teachers, counselors, and coaches have all been inspiring in luences. My mother, especially, has always been encouraging and sel less and my sister Rebecca is the person I turn to for constructive criticism and a good laugh. I will always be grateful for my time as a Bronco and look forward to my future as a Longhorn. Go Broncos and Hook’em Horns!

Omar Akram Given that my parents came from a third-world country and that my family used to live in the Bronx, New York, one of the most deprived places in America, I had no right to ever assume I could be successful in life. Yet somehow, I made it to the top 11 of the Denton High School class of 2014, and I could not have done it without those who have inspired me along the way. I am forever indebted to my supportive parents, who always pushed me out of my comfort zone but never steered me the wrong way; to my superb teachers, especially Mr. Mueller and Señora Hall, who always encouraged me to aspire for more and never limited my potential; and to my role model, Kanye West, who taught me to embrace my imperfections, because “everything I’m not makes me everything I am.” From the Bronx to the Broncos, I will always appreciate those who have inspired me to achieve greatness.

SENIORS / 25

John Carmona I feel like all of the students in the top 11 are genuinely good people, we are all kind and willing to help others. Even though that is true, we are still very competitive with each other. This competition helped me get to where I am, I was driven to succeed by it and by my own competitiveness. I got to this point mostly by doing my work and making sure that I understood all the concepts covered in all my classes. I realize that sounds way too simple to be true, but it is. If you just put in the time to do the work and understand it all, it is really quite easy to make your way into the top 11. I would say that Ms. Phillips and Mr. Mueller helped me the most in my time at Denton High. Ms. Phillips has assisted me to get over some of my fears, and Mr. Mueller has helped me greatly in mathematics and has in luenced some of my decisions for my future.

Alexander Herring After 4 long years, high school graduation has inally come around and it is an honor to be in the top 11 students of my class. Denton High has provided me with a great high school experience, and I can’t wait to move on to bigger and better things. I would like to thank my supportive parents and my teacher, Mrs. Phillips, for always being there for me. I will always appreciate the things that they have taught me over the years.

Zachary Farmer First of all, shout out to my boys Michael Migaud and Diego Gonzales. Sencondly, its hard to believe that highschool is already over; I’m excited top go to college but it’s hard to leave everything I’ve done here behind, especially my teammates. Making it to the top 11 in our class is an honor, and I want to thank all of the teachers and staff who helped me achieve this. I have no doubt that this school has prepared me for my approaching tenure at A&M, and I have no doubt that this school is capable of preparing anyone for their futures.

26 / SENIORS

Neel Shroff It is an honor to be in the top 11 of the Bronco class of 2014. Setting goals and competing with peers that have set similar goals has helped me reach the position that I am in today. People ask me for the secret to my success. I just tell them it’s not complicated, it’s simple: I stayed true. I came up, that’s all me. For real. Of course, I appreciate those who would always come thru for me, from my parents to my teachers. It was not easy keeping my grades up; sometimes, I had way too much on my mental, especially when it felt like I had 99 problems of calculus homework every night. To all of the people who told me I would fail in life: I love the way you lie. To all of the people who supported me: thank you for making me harder, better, faster, stronger. Top 11, its been a long four years; we made it.

Truett Ide I must admit, I’ve never really been one for such pomp and circumstance, but I’m grateful for having my work recognized at the end of it all. Even though it may be my name listed, there are so many other people whose efforts made my dreams a reality. I will never forget what my friends, family, teachers, and of course Denton High School, have done for me these past years. That being said, I hope my future can honor everyones’ efforts to help me get to this point and show the depth of my gratitude.

Jacob Audirsch I feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment being at the top of my class; it has made me realize that hard work is not fruitless. The road to this point has been a bumpy one with lots of late nights, stressful weekends, and long essays. However, despite the work, when I was done nothing was better than the high from weight being lifted off my shoulders.

This work and completion is what drove my work ethic, as well as understanding a balance. Finding a good balance of fun and work, that not only kept me busy, but kept me sane.

The Horseshoe would like to congratulate not only the Top 11, but also the entire graduating class for their accomplishments. For coverage of the big day, head to dhshorseshoe.com.

27 / SENIORS when needed.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Jesus Christ.

Brittany Han Activities: Tennis 1-4, Orchestra 1, FFA 1, 4.

Future plans: Attend Collin County Community College or start working as a pharmacy tech.

In 10 years I see myself: Working as a gaming designer + going to school.

Marcus Harris Activities: Vice President of Mr. Schenck’s animation 1 class.

Future plans: NCTC. Favorite memory: The time I wore reindeer antlers while singing 12 Days of Christmas.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother always helped me do things that I couldn’t do before.

Sumer Hawamdeh Activities: Orchestra 1-2, Class Of icers 2.

Future plans: Attend UNT and major in biochem.

In 10 years I see myself: Living in Cuba.

Alexander Herring Activities: Interact Club 2, Key Club 3-4, Latin Club 2-4.

Future plans: UT Austin.

Favorite memory: Time spent with friends.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Phillips for being a great teacher and a great person.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My friend Varada for helping me through the last several years and for showing me new ways of looking at the world.

Kirsten Holmes Activities: Varsity Soccer 1-4, Cross Country 1-2, NHS 4, Spanish Honor Society 2-4, Class Of icer 2, Water Polo 4, Club Soccer 1-4.

Future plans: Attend Texas Tech University and major in biology.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mrs. Hughes for

keeping us IB kids organized and on top of everything.

In 10 years I see myself: Married, having graduated medical school, and starting a family.

Katelyn Howard Activities: Cheer 1-2, Cosmetology 3-4.

Future plans: UNT - major in business administration.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Solomon for proving to me that teachers can really make a difference.

In 10 years I see myself: Married with 2.5 children.

Shelby Howell Activities: Varsity Cross Country 1-4, Varsity Track and Field 1-4.

Future plans: Attend TWU - major in kinesiology for physical therapy.

Favorite memory: Going to Friday night football games then waking up before the sun comes up to leave for a cross country meet the next morning.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Matous - he has been there before freshman year, when he saw my potential and made me work hard and to strive to be the best.

In 10 years I see myself: Being a physical therapist and being the irst in my family to have a doctorate degree.

Kyle Hubbert Activities: Football 1-4, Dodgeball 2-4, Weight lifting 1-4.

What is the one thing/favorite memory you will always remember about your time at DHS: Playing football with my boys.

If you could thank one person on the campus, who would it be and why: I would have 2 people, and they would be Coach Lawerence and Coach Nelson for making me choose the right decisions and making me a better football player.

Where do you see yourself in ten years: Still in the Navy, married to my high school sweetheart.

Jordan Hudspeth Activities: FFA 1-3, Basketball

1-4, Track 1-4, Volleyball 1, FCA 1-4, StuCo 2, IB 3-4, Orchestra 1-2, I am Second 4.

Future plans: Midwestern State University - major in criminal justice.

Favorite memory: My teammates calling me Forrest Gump after my knee brace fell off during a basketball game.

In 10 years I see myself: Dallas police of icer + Air Force reserves.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My grandmother, Dr. Hudspeth, who has been there for me whenever I need her. She has been through so many trials and tribulations but still managed to remain a strong Christian woman and get her PhD. Truett Ide Activities: Band/jazz band 2-4, Class of icer 4, Tennis 1-3, NHS 4.

Future Plans: Attend UT, Baylor, Vanderbilt - major in music and biomedical engineering.

Favorite memory: Playing in the jazz band at the Texas Tech jazz festival.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Woolery, for always guiding me and getting me back when I needed it.

In 10 years I see myself: As a professional musician and counselor in Airmen of Note.

Noor Jebbeh Activities: Interact Club, Chess Club, FCA. Future plans: NCTC then UTA. In 10 years I see myself: Working and having a master degree in engineering.

Emily Johnson Activities: Choir 3-4, ASL Club 3-4.

Future plans: Attend DBU and major in psychology and study child development.

Favorite memory: Getting to go to Washington, D.C. with ASL. If you could thank one person on campus: Jamie Covey for showing me that some teachers still care for their students and encouraging me to work hard.

In 10 years I see myself: hopefully married and working in family services.

Mark Johnson Activities: Baseball 1-4, Football 1.

Future plans: I plan to go to college and play baseball.

Favorite memory: Going to Houston senior year.

In 10 years I see myself: Playing for a Major League baseball team.

Shawn Joss Activities: Tennis 1-4, Boy Scouts 1-4, Chess Club 1-4, Art Club 1.

Future plans: Attend UTD and major in animation or psychology and possibly minor in marketing and business.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Redding because he has done so much for me and is very underappreciated.

Tyler Joss Activities: Tennis 1-4, Art 1-2, Chess 1-4.

Future plans: NCTC. In 10 years I see myself: Working as a computer tech.

Dennis Lang Activities: Orchestra, Swimming, Water polo, NHS, Interact Club, PAC. Future plans: Attend the University of Alabama and major in electrical engineering.

Favorite memory: Spending time with friends at lunch.

If you could thank one person on campus: I would like to thank Mr. Mueller for being such a good mentor and teacher.

In 10 years I see myself: With a stable job Most in luential person in my life: My father because he has imparted a lot of wisdom to me.

Stephanie Leiva Activities: Soccer 4.

Future plans: Attend Collins and major in RN nursing and working a part-time job.

Favorite memory: Starting DHS for my irst time and making

28 / SENIORS friends instantly.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Bush for making English very fun and putting up with all of our crap.

In 10 years I see myself: Already having my own place and job.

Christian Luke Activities: German Club 1-2, NHS 3-4, StuCo 2-4, IB 3-4.

Future plans: Attend UNT and major in architectural engineering.

Favorite memory: StuCo State Conference.

If you could thank one person on campus: Bush and Phillips because Student Council has made me into the person I am today.

In 10 years I see myself: Working in the engineering ield with the hope of managing my own company.

Kyndall Maddoux Activities: Choir 3-4, ASL Club 4, Signing Broncos 4.

Future plans: Basics at NCTC, UNT major in either music performance/something I can work with children.

Favorite memory: Choir and Colorado trip.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Covey because she has been so caring and extremely supportive of all her students and works above and beyond her students.

In 10 years I see myself: As chief engineer on a ship.

Tyaileyhana Marcellous Activities: Fillies 4.

Future plans: United States Marine Corps, then major in psychology.

Favorite memory: The great friends I made in Fillies while I was in it.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach D because her Anatomy class always pepped me up.

In 10 years I see myself: Hopefully married, working a good job in Denton.

Tristan Martin Activities: ROTC 1-4, Class Of-

icers 3.

Future plans: Texas A&M Galveston for a Marine Engineer Degree + Licensing.

Favorite memory: Operation Fuego with ROTC. If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Grindle for showing mercy.

In 10 years I see myself: As chief engineer on a ship.

Azlhy Martins Activities: Volleyball 1, Orchestra 1, Soccer 1-2, 4, LULAC Club 4, Interact Club 4, ASL Club 4.

Future plans: Attend Jacksonville College and play soccer for 2 years, then join the navy for 4 years, then go to UNT so I can major in homicide investigation.

If you could thank one person on campus: Carlos Galvan because he always pushed me to do better.

Cory McAllister Future plans: Collin County Community, major in business.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mrs. McEuin because during her last years here as counselor, she kept me on track.

In 10 years I see myself: In a S550 Benz.

Daija McCall Activities: JROTC 2, Elite Dance 3-4, Fillies 3-4, Fillies Follies 2-4, Film 3-4.

Future plans: UNT TESJL teacher and international business.

Favorite memory: Making it into Fillies on my irst try.

If you could thank one person on campus: Rosin because he is the coolest guy and he brightens my day.

In 10 years I see myself: Owning my own bakery.

Sarah McLaughlin Activities: Band 1-3, Body Art Performance 3, Fillies Follies 1-3.

Future plans: Attend TWU for IT computer security.

Favorite memory: Helping throw Zane Morganroth in a trash can before school junior

year.

If you could thank one person on campus: Thaggard for not killing me sophomore year.

Danica McMahon Activities: Soccer 1-3, Golf 3-4, Student Council 4, HOSA: 2-3.

Future plans: Midwestern State University and major in Exercise Physiology.

Favorite memory: My time on the golf team.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Coach Lisa. She really taught me to go after what I want and that I’m capable to do it. I love her.

In 10 years I see myself: Practicing physical therapy somewhere in Texas with a family.

Jamie Morgan Activities: Tennis 1, Choir 1-4, IB 3-4.

Future plans: McMurry University - major in music education.

Favorite memory: Mrs. Jobe’s 5th block classes.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mark Baker because he encouraged me to chase after my passions.

Katie Morrison Activities: Art Club 3-4, Key Club 3-4, Swimming 2.

Future plans: Attend UNT and major in studio art.

Favorite memory: Being in IB how rigorous and worth it is.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Rosin for all his support advice and his witty, free personality.

In 10 years I see myself: Single, no kids, and working my butt off.

Manuel Munoz Activities: PALS, LULAC. Future plans: I plan to go to NCTC and major in secondary education when I transfer to UNT. If you could thank one person on campus: I would thank Mr. Sanchez for giving me the opportunity to be involved in his organization in and out of school.

In 10 years I see myself: I see myself teaching in an elemen-

tary school.

Zac Muthiani Activities: Football 1-4, Basketball 1-4, Track 1-4, FCA 2-4.

Future plans: I will attend UNT and major in business inance .

Favorite memory: Playing with my brother on the football team.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Lawrence because he’s always been there for me and served as my wisdom and motivation.

In 10 years I see myself: Having a successful business job with a healthy family.

Adriana Negrete Activities: HOSA 1-4, Multicultural Club 2, FCCLA 2.

Future plans: Attend TWU and major in nursing.

Favorite memory: The friendships I’ve made.

In 10 years I see myself: Living a great life as a CRNA. Most inϔluential person in my life: My mom - she’s a great support system and always believing in me.

Chyanne Nichols Activities: FFA 1-4.

Future plans: Attend NCTC to start basics, then transfer to Tarleton to study the reproductive system in animals, embryo transfer, ect.

Favorite memory: Everything I did in FFA. If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. McClendon for always helping me through any problem and making bad days better.

In 10 years I see myself: Working at an equine breeding facility.

Maya Nixon Activities: PALS 3-4, Class Of icer 1-4, PAC 3-4, Key Club 1-3, Interact Club 1-3, Yoga Club 4.

Future plans: Attend the University of San Francisco.

Favorite memory: IB experiences.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Sanchez for being a great teacher.

29 / SENIORS Miles O’Keefe Future plans: Continue working as a software engineer.

In 10 years I see myself: Stacking dollar to the perfect height.

The most inϔluential person in my life: Me. Cynthia Pantaleon Activities: Yearbook 3, Bowling 3, Newspaper 4.

Future plans: NCTC Radiology program for associate’s degree.

Move to Los Angeles to work on photography Favorite memory: Every single time I’m in Room 207, something interesting always happens.

If you could thank one person on campus: The janitors - for cleaning poop off the walls.

In 10 years I see myself: I see myself in Los Angeles working for fashion magazines.

Anna Passey Activities: Chorale 3-4, Soccer 3, NHS 4, FHS 4.

Future plans: University of Texas at Austin studying anthropology - I plan to become a translator.

Favorite memory: The IB program.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Hughes for her dedication to the IB program and the students she mentors.

In 10 years I see myself: Living abroad, successful and happy.

Cody Patterson Activities: Basketball 1-3.

Future Plans: Oklahoma State University and major in kinesiology/exercise science.

Favorite memory: Basketball.

If you could thank one person on campus: All of my teachers for being chill and laid-back.

In 10 years I see myself: In California working as a physical therapist.

Emma Pattison Activities: Newspaper 1, Art Club 1, Yearbook 2-4.

Future Plans: I will attend the University of North Texas and major in Communication Design/minor in Journalism.

Favorite memory: Every crazy moment in the journalism room.

If you could thank one person on campus: I would like to thank Mrs. Gabriel for being patient and lexible with me making me laugh, learning my most challenging subject, and illing my life with acronyms.

In 10 years I see myself: I see myself living in New York living the Mad Men life.

Kacey Perez Activities: Color Guard 2-3, Fillies 3-4.

Future plans: Go to Texas State, major in creative writing.

Favorite memory: Seeing my friends when they found out they made Fillies too.

In 10 years I see myself: Teaching English somewhere in Europe.

Amber Phillips Activities: Volleyball 1-4, Soccer 2-4, Track 1, French Honor Society 3, National Honor Society 4.

Future plans: Attend Texas A&M and study psychology.

Favorite memory: My time as a DHS player - I made life-long friends and wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.

If you could thank one person on campus: I would thank Madame O’Hearn for all the love and support she has given me the last four years.

In 10 years I see myself: Being either a child psychologist or pediatrician.

Isabel Pineda Activities: Color guard 9-12, Multicultural club 10, HOSA 10.

Future Plans: Attend University of Dallas, double majoring in biology and nursing.

What is your favorite memory at DHS: All the friendships I formed.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Capps for being an amazing teacher and for being understanding.

In 10 years I see myself: as a CRNA.

Alexander Plese Activities: Orchestra 1, Golf 1-3, Yearbook 3-4, Straight-Up G ∞.

Future plans: UNT with computer science major, minor in denial of adulthood.

Favorite memory: Foreign exchange student and interim life coach Javier Gerona.

If you could thank one person on campus: Howard Palmer for his uncanny inability to catch me going off-campus.

In 10 years I see myself: In a lean-to in the Arctic Tundra.

Most inϔluential person in my life: Javier Gerona Baselga - the man who taught me to love again.

Austin Pugh Activities: Yearbook 2-4, Newspaper 3-4.

Future plans: Go to UNT or NMMI, major in law enforcement, then collect anime stuff until I die.

Favorite memory: Running on to the ield during the half-time show in my freshmen year to take pictures.

In 10 years I see myself: In a dark room lit only by a computer screen.

The most inϔluential person in my life: Lelouch from Code Geass (anime).

Izac Ramirez Activities: Tennis 1-4, key club 3.

Future plans: NCTC to get the basics done.

Favorite memory: Playing tennis in my freshman year If you could thank one person on campus: Miss Glisson for telling me I should be in advanced math.

In 10 years I see myself: Teaching my dream class.

Tasnya Rasheed Activities: Yearbook 3-4, StuCo 4, Bowling 3-4, NSHS 2-4.

Future plans: Attend Texas Woman’s University and major in Chemistry to become a Pharmacist.

Favorite memory: Everyone always had different perspectives of having an awesome brownie

friend like me! (since there are few here) If you could thank one person on the campus: Coach D; she is always energetic while teaching and I appreciate her for helping each student!

In 10 years I see myself: As a pharmacist.

Davida Rios Activities: Orchestra 1, Art 1-4, German Club 1-4.

Future plans: Either Pratt Institute, Hunter College, or University of Texas at Tyler.

Favorite memory: Going to homecoming with my best friend, Anthony.

If you could thank one person on campus: Frau Dieckman because she is dedicated to giving students an excellent education.

In 10 years I see myself: In Europe traveling for work.

George Roberson Activities: Newspaper (the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done) 1-4, UIL 1-4, Zen Club 4, BPA 3, Tennis 1, Orchestra 1.

Future plans: Attending the University of Missouri to major in journalism.

Favorite memory: I will always remember my friends. I’ve had the privledge of meeting and befriending so many incredible people over my time here at DHS. I really don’t know how I’ll manage not seeing them as often next year.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Solomon for both pushing and supporting me.

In 10 years I see myself: Working my way up the ranks at one of the major national news outlets.

Most inϔluential person in my life: My mother. Don’t tell her I said this, but I love her.

Bobbie Rowland Activities: Golf 1-2, Track 2, Cosmetology 3-4, Musical 3.

Future plans: Planning on taking extra beauty classes like make up, hair extensions, coloring, and hair cutting to expand my knowledge of cosmetology.

30 / SENIORS Favorite memory: Always having a person there for me both emotionally and physically.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Paramore because he’s an amazing teacher and was always there to talk to.

In 10 years I see myself: as an assistant for a plastic surgeon.

Chloe Rowland Future plans: UNT basics.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Ford – he’s so kind.

Allie Shelton Activities: Softball 1-4, Fillies 3-4, Orchestra 1, Bowling 1-2, PAC 1-2.

Future plans: I am attending Texas Tech University to major in animal science.

Favorite memory: Fillies Of icer Camp.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Coach Silva because she was always there to support me and cheer me on. I love you!

In 10 years I see myself: Living in Arizona with my husband and pursuing my career. I still don’t know what that is yet. I just want to be happy and successful. Oh, and I’ll have a few dogs.

Chloe Smith Activities: Drum line 1-3, Jazz Band 1-2, StuCo 3-4, PAC 4, Yearbook 3.

Future plans: Attend University of Arkansas and study business.

Favorite memory: Getting to attend the games with band.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mr. Woolery - he always believed and supported me in everything- even after I left band.

In 10 years I see myself: Working at a large company.

Most inϔluential person in your life: My aunt Greta. She taught me that I should show my true self and embrace everything I had to offer.

Reagan Souder Activities: Cross-Country 1, French, PALS 3-4.

Future plans: Start at NCTC,

then go to UNT to double major in physiology and writing.

Favorite memory: When my boyfriend came and asked me to prom.

In 10 years I see myself: Hopefully as a psychiatrist.

Taylor Sorrells Activities: Softball 9-11, Basketball 9, Volleyball 9, Spanish Honor Society 11-12, National Honor Society 11-12, FFA 1012.

Future plans: Tarleton State University and major in pre-vet medicine.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Mueller for being a good teacher and always being there for his students.

In 10 years I see myself: Working toward opening my own vet practice.

Simone Surrat Activites: Art Club 11, PALS 12 Future plans: Paul Mitchell for cosmetology.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Rosin for giving me a safe place.

In 10 years I see myself: Owning my own salon.

Mary Tucker Activities: Thespian 1-3, Hosa 2, FCCLA 4.

Future plans: UNT - pre physician’s assistant.

If you could thank one person on campus: Thomas Stratton - he never judged me for my illness and did his best to understand.

In 10 years I see myself: As a physician’s assistant.

Rachel Villarreal Activities: Art Club 1-2, LULAC 2-4, NHS 3-4, SHS 2-4, Chess 1-4, PALS 3-4.

Future plans: UNT, criminal justice then law school.

Favorite memory: Meeting my best friend freshman year.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Mr. Rosin for helping make me an artist.

In 10 years I see myself: Working as a juvenile lawyer in San Antonio.

Theresa Walker Activities: Choir 1-3, Art 3-4.

Future plans: I plan to get a steady job while producing my 3 year work in progress visual novel, Butter ly Effect. Being a voice actress would be nice, too.

Favorite memory: The time I wore my horse mask to school.

Speci ically when I put it on at lunch while Mr. Ford high- ived me in a purple morph suit and gold wig.

If you could thank one person on campus: De initely Madame Wendy O’Hearn. She is not only a great teacher, but a wonderful person who has helped me tremendously. I hope our friendship continues after graduation.

In 10 years I see myself: As a successful author.

Taylor Watson Future plans: NCTC irst 2 years, then transfer to UNT for socialwork and counselling.

If you could thank one person on campus: Ms. Solomon for always checking on me to see if I’m doing okay.

In 10 years I see myself: Working at the step home I grew up in.

Isaac Warriner Activities: Class President 1112, StuCo President 12, Spanish National Honor Society 12, IB 11-12.

Future plans: University of North Texas.

Favorite memory: Being President.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mrs. Hughes for all the hard work she has done.

In 10 years I see myself: Medical School, yo.

Kelsey Wilson Future plans: Cosmetology.

If you could thank one person on the campus: Tivis for being a great teacher and being so sweet.

In 10 years I see myself: Doing hair, married, and having a family.

Lindsay Wilson Activities: Soccer 1-4, Football Gridiron Club 3-4.

Future plans: Attend Stephen F. Austin State University.

Favorite memory: When I scored 2 goals during my irst varsity game junior year.

If you could thank one person on campus: Coach Rocky Monk because he made my senior soccer season the best one I’ve had and made me strive to be better on the ield.

Brett Lane Vaughn Activities: Choir 2-4, Honor Guard 4.

Future plans: To attend NCTC, to get my basics, and then transfer over to UNT. Favorite memory: Fillies Follies and Mr. DHS both are very memorable.

If you could thank one person on campus: Mr. Baker because he has taught me leadership and helped me grow as a person.

In 10 years I see myself: Successful, graduated from college.

Lore Yessuff Activities: StuCo 3, JV Track 3.

Future plans: Attend Collin County Community College then major in radio, tv, ilm, and journalism.

Favorite memory: I won’t know until I look back and remember.

If you could thank one person on campus: Maya Nixon because she’s my gorgeous homie and soul sister.

In 10 years I see myself: Working at a groovy culture magazine/publication and directing music videos.

Leaving the

herd

Teachers reflect on Bronco memories

NEWS / 31 Tanya Schwoch

Dennis Krishka

Position: Orchestra director.

Years spent at DHS: Four.

Going from here: To pursue a career in music therapy and counseling.

Special memory: Watching my students have fun and work as a team at the group dynamix lock-in.

Message to the students: Never be afraid to pursue your dreams.

Message to the teachers: Denton High School has the best staff on the face of the planet. You guys are awesome!

Words of wisdom: Your mind is the most powerful tool you possess, use it to do good and make the world a better place.

Now versus then: A lot has changed since I first started teaching. Technology has advanced from floppy disks to flash drives, Vinyl Records to iPods, small communities to global villages, drive-in movies to MegaPlexes that include restaurants, and cars have gone from V8 to 240 volts.

Position: High School 101, Health, and P.E. teacher, and head girls basketball coach.

Years spent at DHS: Eight.

Going from here: The Alpine Golf Course in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin.

Special memory: Winning the district championship with a team of eight girls my first year at Denton.

Message to the students: Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.

Message to the teachers: When teaching becomes a job, it’s time to do something else.

Words of wisdom: We are so busy trying to reach the end that we forget about how great the journey is. Take time to smell the roses.

Now versus then: Technology: are we really better off ?

Sarah Myles Position: Freshman and senior English teacher.

Years spent at DHS: Two. Going from here: Not sure yet, likely Birdville ISD. Special memory: Watching my freshmen as they got upset at the end of Romeo and Juliet, especially my A3 class.

Message to the students: To my seniors, I’ll miss you and I believe in you. To my freshmen, you all are my favorite pumpkin-heads. Get good grades, learn a lot, and be sweet to each other.

Message to the teachers: You are very talented. Don’t let the negative bring you down because you guys have so much to offer.

Now versus then: I’ve only been here two years, so I don’t really have a “then” to compare to.

Melinda Jobe-Polvado Position: AP Government, Dual Credit Government, Government, and IB History teacher, and cross country coach.

Years spent at DHS: Two. Going from here: Still asking “what’s going on in the world.” Going into the pet sitting business with my husband as a professional pet exerciser.

Special memory: Pre-dawn runs with cross country or anytime a student tells me about voting for the first time.

Message to the students: Never settle for low expectations that either others have of you or you have of yourself.

Message to the teachers: Students will rise to your expectations - especially if they have to pass the class in order to graduate!

Words of wisdom: Just love what you do!

Now versus then: Students are the same as they were back in the day - and as I was in high school - they will always take the easiest path. But we all learn eventually that there are no short cuts to much of anything.

Janis Wohlgemuth Position: Sophomore English teacher and senior class sponsor.

Years spent at DHS: 20.

Going from here: Retirement, will probably work with preschool children at my church next fall.

Special memory: All the many years of sponsoring, especially class sponsoring, which I’ve done numerous times over the years. I still am in touch with a number of my ex-students from previous years, especially between 2004 to 2010.

Message to the students: “Knowledge will bring you the opportunity to make a difference,” Claire Fagin said. You may not care about your future now, but you will later. Make good decisions.

Message to the teachers: Take care of yourself first. Teaching becomes more challenging every year, and if you do not make your emotional and physical health a priority, you will become overwhelmed by the tasks of teaching.

Now versus then: Then: The biggest issue was students wearing flip flops to school. Now: The biggest issue in the classroom is constant use of cellphones and earbuds.