The Stang

In the News School News 2-- Get the inside

scoop from the students who stood for 27 hours and took a stand against slavery.

FineArts /Entertainment

4-5-- YEEEEHAW! This edition of The Stang will give you an inside look on this years popular events that took place during the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

Feature 6-7-- Springtime is here! Get a closer look on Spring Fashion. Also, check out this month’s tweets from all over campus. If you have a great tweet to share, let the Stang know.

Editorial 8-9-- Turn to these pages to read the

Community 3-- Flip to this page for more

information on why the Pope resigned.

Also, read more about the Friendship House.

opinions of your very own Stang Staff. All of your answers on how to have a great Spring Break trip are found here.

Sports 10-11-- What’s

happening around HC? The Baseball, Softball, and Track teams report on the beginning of the season.

Back Page 12-- See what’s happening with the guys and gals of the Codes. The girls tell you what not to do on Social Media and the guys are just chatting.

the

Stang

March 2013

Houston Christian High School 2700 W Sam Houston Pkwy N Houston, Texas 77043

Volume12 Edition 6

Missions Emphasis Week or Missions Emphasis Life?

MEW keeps students mindful of serving others by: Gianna Tiedemann, Managing Editor

Here’s a guessing game: what comes during the second semester, in the third quarter, lasts one week, has an amazing speaker, great worship, and is centered around serving others?

If you guessed Missions Emphasis Week (MEW), then you’re correct! This year, MEW occurred during the third week of February and was set up a tad differently from years past.

Students and faculty alike had the privilege of listening to Pastor Chris Seay (who is also the father of freshman, Hanna Seay) preach on the topic of whether Christians are called to be cool or to be nice, loving, and just. He also talked about how everyday needs to be a “mission day” if we are going to live missional lives.

“Chris Seay was really inspirational and I loved listening to his message about how I can serve others more,” said junior Erica Swain.

In addition, students were able to “Seay” (if you will) more as students watched, listened, and worshipped to Robbie Seay Band.

The band has come for Missions and Spiritual Emphasis Weeks before this year, but they brought many new songs to the table this time around.

They sang songs off their new album called “Rich and Poor” (which made its debut on January 5th, 2013) such as “Raise my Voice” and other songs of their older albums such as “Song of Hope.”

When asked about what he thought of the band, Junior Cody Reeter, said that he looked forward to having the same band that came to MEW last year, come this year. In addition, he also said that his favorite song was “Raise My Voice.”

Just like last year, Community Service Day took place at the Houston Food Bank, but unlike last year, it did not take place on a Friday. Because SPC playoffs took place on the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of MEW, community service day at the Food Bank occurred on Wednesday.

Students and faculty began the day driving to Ecclesia, and upon arrival were in for a shock. Last year when students went to Ecclesia, it was merely an empty room that still needed major restoration and remodeling. This year, everyone saw the once run-down looking building transformed into a beautiful place of worship with eclectic looking furniture, pictures hanging on the walls, prayer tables, and even

a SmileBooth for photos with friends. At Ecclesia, students worshipped for about twenty minutes, heard the history of Ecclesia from Hanna Seay, and then got to pray for those who are involved in human trafficking.

Ecclesia is conveniently located right by I-10, the highway that runs through Houston where much of the trafficking takes place.

After a strong fifteen minutes of prayer, students headed over to the Food Bank where students sorted and packaged food for people all over Houston.

Altogether, students provided over 6,000 meals to the city of Houston.

Sarah Helm, a senior who had been to the Food Bank before, said, “I really liked how we worked together to get something really big accomplished. It felt really good to help people out.”

Overall, Community Service Day and MEW was a success and filled with attitudes of servanthood. The Food Bank has been the location of community service day for the past few years, will it change next year or will it stay the same? Will Robbie Seay Band and Chris Seay be back to take part in this missions filled week? Next year, you will find out, but until then, continue to strive for a missional life and continue to serve others well.

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March 2013

Community/School

What do YOU stand for?

Over 100 students and many faculty members take a “Stand” for freedom.

by Gianna Tiedemann, Managing Editor

27HOURS Have you ever wanted to be a part of something bigger than yourself? Have you ever wanted to give to a cause but did not know how?

This month, many students fulfilled this common desire by being a part of the Stand for Freedom movement on March 6th and 7th.

What is this movement? Who does this movement help? The Stand for Freedom movement was started by International Justice Mission (IJM), an organization that seeks to rescue and bring justice to those who are involved in human trafficking. Currently, there are about 27 million slaves in the world who are involved in some sort of human trafficking, primarily through labor and sex slavery. IJM started Stand for Freedom movement in order to remember these 27 million.

Unlike any other movement, this race does not involve running, walking, jumping, or anything else that you could possibly think of. It simply involves standing; standing for 27 hours to remember the 27 million.

Senior, Kelsey Deberry12, first heard about the Stand for Freedom movement when she attended the Passion movement this past January.

Kelsey has always been interested in ways to end human trafficking, and when she heard about this, she thought it would be the perfect idea to bring to our school. She talked with Dean, Dr. Councill, Lisa, and Mike about the movement, and all agreed it would be a great school wide movement for students to participate in.

27MILLION

On March 6th, over 100 students began the Stand for Freedom at 12:15 P.M. after students and faculty stood with them in chapel and prayed over the event. Afterwards, students carried on with the normal events of a school day, going to classes, sports practices, and homework, all while standing. At around six o’clock that night, participants stood outside the Kempwood entrance of the school with cardboard signs that read, “I Stand for Freedom” on them. As the night went on, students and faculty (who stayed in two hour shifts) went on prayer walks, watched documentaries, visited a prayer room that was located in the McNair gym, and even tried to sleep while standing for the 27 million. The next day, March 7th, students stood through classes until the event ended at 3:15 P.M. Senior, Natalie Simoes12, who participated said, “It was a great way to remember the 27 million and it really humbled me to understand how much these slaves go through while I was standing.”

Stand for Freedom was easy for some, while for others it was not. Yet, these tired, worn out students stood and took part in something bigger than themselves. You didn’t get the chance to participate this year or were maybe unsure about the process? Well, it’s unknown if it will happen again next year, but you can always donate to IJM or any other organization, such as Love 146 and Polaris Project. For more information go to www. ijm.org.

THE POWER OF PRAYER. Students and faculty who participated in Stand For Freedom gathered around the Founder’s Tree in the courtyard to pray for the long day and night of standing ahead of them. Prayer was constant throughout this movement

NHS requires more than just grades Officers illustrate the organization’s four pillars of success at this year’s induction ceremony

bySamantha Moore, Stang Staff

visible in our school.

The society focuses on four traits: scholarship, leadership, service and character.

Scholarship is “a commitment to learning,” claims Meg Goode12,who is this year’s NHS President.

Students with scholarship are aware of the benefits of hard work in their studies and are willing to sacrifice personal time for academic efforts.

Scholarship is the NHS. Many sophomores, some juniors, and some seniors first trait looked for in were all honored for their academic success and service NHS candidates. It is at the NHS induction ceremony. a foundational quality in which a person’s On February 8th, 35 students dedication and drive is displayed through were inducted in the National Honor academic achievements. Meg refers to Society, an organization of the highest Proverbs 19:2; “It is not good to have academic and personal achievement for zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty high school students around the country. and miss the way.” Biblical principles are Selected based on scholarship and charimplemented into the Houston Christian acter traits observed by current teachchapter of NHS, as they display the qualiers, each of these 35 students has been ties expected of members. recognized as a true asset to the leadership Leadership is an integral trait

searched for in the NHS selection process.

One’s ability to “yield one’s personal interests for the interest of others,” says Liz Constantinou12, is a sacrifice holding great amounts of respect. Members are constantly placed in positions of leadership. Their dedication to projects and organizations is necessary for the success of the specified activity.

Service is a primary standard in NHS. Kelsey DeBerry12 states that “willingness to work for the benefit of those in need, without monetary compensation or without recognition, is the quality we seek in our membership.” Service is an aspect of the National Honor Society that is not to be overlooked. Members are required to attain 70 service points through tutoring and other service projects each year.

Proverbs 10:9 reads, “The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.” Karina Giron12 quoted A.W. Tozer in her speech at the ceremony. He defines character as “the excellence of moral beings.” Character is the key to respect, from yourself and others. Character is an essential quality searched for when selecting members for the National Honor Society. Students who display “respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship”

are students who display good character.

The National Honor Society is a made up of students dedicated to attaining these four qualities. They are loyal to their commitments, their membership being one of them. Through their recitation of the NHS pledge, each inductee has promised to “be true to the principles for which it stands: to hold as fundamental and worthy an untarnished character, to maintain a high scholastic standing, to be a leader worthy of leading, and to give of [himself/ herself] freely in service to others.”

News

Pope Benedict XVI resigns The head of the Catholic Church steps down as leader

by Michael Vaughan, Stang Staff

One July 4th, quite some time ago, a historic moment took place that affected lives all over the world. However, this moment was not the ratification of the Declaration of Independence. In fact, this was hundreds of years before, and Christopher Columbus had not yet discovered America.

The year was 1415, and a man named Gregory XII decided to resign from his position of leadership. This was the last time that a pope of the Roman Catholic Church resigned. Until February 28, that is. Many are shocked at the news of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, and there is no doubt that the biggest question is “Why?”

For those who are less than educated on papal tradition (myself included), it is tradition for a pope to hold office until death. Though it has not happened in nearly six hundred years, as mentioned, Benedict is not the first to resign. He will be the tenth pope to abdicate his power, and will be given the title of “Pontiff Emeritus.”

In this day and age, we have a way of knowing just about anything we want to. And so, our curiosity forces us

to ask the question of why.

Why is the pope resigning?

The chief reason that the Vatican has shared, and likely all they will share, is that the pope’s health is too much of an issue for him to continue.

Despite their statement, many are speculating that it has to do with something beyond his health. He is indeed advancing in age and his strength may be failing, but this has most certainly happened with every pope that has held office until death. Many who speculate other reasons assume that Benedict simply cannot deal with the pressure of corruption and scandal within the church.

Sophomore Andrew Faulk10 said, “I think it’s a shame he’s giving up.” Many people agree with Andrew, but the pope claims it is for the good of the church. Emma Hennessey11 offered a more candid explanation of the pope’s resignation, saying, “I don’t know the

pope, I don’t know why he’s resigning.”

While nobody really seems to understand why he’s stepping down, Tbo Desadier10 offers a comical explanation: “The Vatican was struck by lightning a few weeks ago, and I think the lightning was the Holy Spirit telling him to get out of office.” Whatever his reasoning, he’s just ensured that we’ve all witnessed history.

by Matt Scott, Stang Staff

TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading.

It started out in 1984, standing for Technology, Entertainment, and Design.

Since then its scope has become ever broader with different programs within TED. On February 23, 2012, at the University of Houston, the TEDx program had a event for students all around Houston. The TEDx program gives communities, organizations and

about all the things they liked and disliked about learning and where they created their own ideal learning and teaching model. Jordan went on to say that she thought “the group overall did really well and they got a lot of good feedback from other participants and professors at U of H.” John’s favorite part was to “combine all the likes from different classes (models) and get rid of his dislikes.”

When asked about her favorite part, Jordan said it was, “the opportunity to step outside of her comfort zone and learn something new about myself while getting to be a part of this global event.”

Jordan, Madison, and John were congratulated by students and teachers all over campus. Even AP teacher Mr. Eddie Carson came to support his students at the presentation.

Hope Johnson sings her way to success

by Matt Yochum, Stang Staff Senior Hope Johnson, who is known for her skills on the tennis team as well as her ability to sing, is trying out something new. At the end of April last year, Hope auditioned with more than 200 other juniors for the Houston Grand Opera High School Voice Studio. Here’s the catch though, they were competing for eight spots. The way these auditions worked is throughout the first audition, they could sing whatever song they wanted.

This first audition would weed out most of the contestants and leave fifty for the next audition. At this point, the contestants were asked to sing two songs; one English song chosen by the studio and one song in another language. After being questioned, all the final fifty students had left to do was wait and see if they made the elite eight spots in this select group of singers.

On Hope’s birthday, which was less than a week after her second session of auditions, she got her call back and was told she made the spot. She was a part of a group of three girls and five guys, who are all from different schools. This gave Hope and the rest of her group the opportunity to get to meet new people. With the callback, Hope was expected to show up for weekly voice lessons, and once a month she is required attend master classes, a specialized class where Hope sings and works with a professional. She has worked with people such as professor at Oklahoma City University, Jeffery Picon, Patrick Carfizzi, who is Mustafã in Italian Girl in Algiers, and Melody Moore, who plays Julie in Show Boat, and many others. The Houston Grand Opera’s intentions for Hope and the seven others “is to prepare [the singers] for

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Savannah makes new friends

by Connor Kelley, Stang Staff

Students are now teachers in TEDx event individuals the opportunity to encourage dialogue through TED-like experiences at the local level.

Seniors, Madison Deluca12, Jordan Zeal12, and John Rasplicka12 participated at the event and spoke about learning methods. PAL Director and AP English III teacher, Mrs. Susan Perry, found the opportunity and approached Madison and Jordan about participating.

As Jordan and Madison discussed the idea, they thought it would be a good idea to have John join. John said that at the event they talked about a method called “I do, You do, We do”. This is where a teacher gives the students a syllabus, then the students work together as a group, and at the end come together as a class with the teacher to discuss what they have learned that day. The three of them talked

The Stang

college auditions and further guide [them] in [their] dream of becoming professional opera singers.” Right now Hope is in the middle of college auditions.

Now with all this work, you would think that the opera would reward Hope for her hard work. Hope is given two tickets to every opera that the Houston Grand Opera holds. For someone like Hope, this is a dream come true. If you were to ask Hope which Opera has been her favorite this year she would tell you that Don Giovanni is her favorite. As Hope gets ready for her graduation recital in May, where she will be competing for scholarship money, she is also getting ready to be an opera singer, which has always been her dream.

You have heard about it in chapel, but what really is the Friendship House? The Friendship House is a home that will house twelve orphaned boys in Zambia, Africa. It will be in the Tree of Life Children’s Village; where there are already 23 other houses housing over 250 rescued children of all ages. Family Legacy Missions International gives Americans the chance to raise the money for the houses and each one has been built by an American who had been impacted by the children of Zambia.

HC’ very own Savannah Head has been a huge catalyst in raising funds for the Friendship House. Through her hard work and by the grace of God, she was able to raise $100,000 in total to build this amazing place for the children of Zambia. Without Savannah, twelve orphans would be without a home.

In the harsh conditions of Zambia, without places like the Friendship House they would most likely die at a young age or resort to drugs and crime to support themselves.

Many of the children that get the opportunity to live at houses like this would normally never have anyone to support them or be able to get an education, but they receive all of this while living in these places. Zambia has the highest orphan rate per capita in the world, that’s why places like these are so vital. There are millions of children with no family, no education, and no medical attention available to them. Houses like the Friendship House are on a mission to solve problems like this.

Savannah is very excited about the building of the house and had this to say, “Ever since I first visited Zambia, I have been on a mission to make a difference. We are so blessed here in America and we can become numb to the realities of third world countries. There are many children with no family, education, or medical attention. And many times they must resort to horrible things to support themselves. Places like the Friendship House solve problems like this for twelve young boys and girls. They are supported and given an education. This will make a huge difference in the community of Zambia. I am so excited to see how God is working over there!”

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March 2013

Fine Arts

Eat, drink, and be healthy Trying to get fit for summer? Trying all the crazy detox drinks? Think again.

by Alexa Reinhart, Copy Editor Drinking disgusting bitter tasting drinks that will “shed ten pounds off your weight in 10 days,” taking diet pills, and trying ridiculous diets? Many people believe that any of these will help you drop the weight fast before an event, in this case, summer. Of course everyone has a goal that you would like to achieve by summer, but participating in the attempts above will not help you achieve it, at least not in the long term.

Now, there are probably some of you out there that think that I am lying to you by saying they do not work because some of them do, but there

is a catch. Yes, you may lose the weight while you are on that diet, but I can assure you that the second you stop and you eat a real meal, it will be all gone.

This happens because most of the weight that is lost is water weight, which can be gained back extremely quick. Also, since you were potentially starving your body (even if you weren’t hungry, you were still most likely starving your body of proper nutrients), your body has trained itself to store fat quicker because it was deprived of it earlier.

The healthiest way to lose the weight or tone your muscles before summer is to eat

Doxa congrats Congrats to Doxa Dance Team

Each year the Doxa seniors are able to choreograph their own dance and are in charge of their own costumes, music, lighting etc. This piece is then submitted to the Houston Choreographers: Generation Next adjudication committee to be reviewed and potentially selected for this esteemed concert. Young choreographers all across Houston submit their student led work in hopes to be chosen.

Hannah Rae and Christina Farmer both choreographed separate dance works on their fellow dancers, Jessica Fronckiewicz, Morgan Kanaly, and Caroline Taylor.

Both of these pieces were chosen to be in the Generation Next Concert this year! The performance is on Sunday March 24th at 3:00 at the Jewish Community Center of Houston. These girls will be in preparation for this very prestigious honor. Please congratulate both Hannah and Christina for their outstanding choreography!

This is our third year in a row to have a piece chosen for this performance and our first time to have BOTH of our submissions selected. Way to go Doxa!

healthy and work out, but most importantly: have a nutritious diet. Of course lifting weights and cardio are extremely vital, but it all starts with eating the right foods. For many people, this may be tough.

I believe that the best way to start eating healthy is to cut out fried food, fast food, soda, and excessive sweets. That may seem a little extreme, but it is the best way to kick start the next stage of gaining muscle and burning fat. I suggest that you buy most of your food that is found on the perimeter of your grocery store. All of the unhealthy stuff is found in between the isles (for the most part), but the

vegetables, fruit, meat, yogurt, and others are found along the perimeter of the store.

Regarding exercise, I will admit that I am not the exercise guru. I am currently learning more and more about fitness everyday, so I cannot tell you what would be the best exercise route to go, but I can share some information that I have acquired from others.

It is important to have both cardio and strength training. Classes like zumba, aerobics, or any other high-energy fitness class are a couple of thing that you can do that are also great cardio and super fun. Now, of course those

classes are probably for more females than males, so guys, playing a game of pickup basketball, football, or soccer are all great highenergy cardio workout, along with running around your neighborhood. No matter what you do, it is important that you do some kind of physical activity.

All in all,

remember that if you want to lose the weight (and keep it off), the millions of weight loss lies that you hear all the time are not the way to go. To keep the weight off in a healthy way, you have to eat a healthy diet and workout.

Get started now because summer is just around the corner…

Monthly Tweets

by Spencer Traver, Stang Staff

Students Junior Savannah Head (@SavannahSHead) – “I trust in You because You are the most constant thing in my life.#Godyouarealwaysthere” Senior Brooke Fritcher (@brookiefritcher) – “Going to the rodeo tonight made me so excited for all of the concerts to come #RODEOHOUSTON’13” Junior Lauren Lewellen (@LaurenLew8763) – “Honked at someone for the first time today.”

Sophomore Haley Morris (@haleyadelle1) – “Appreciate what you have now, before it’s gone.”

Faculty/Staff Senor Sam (@senorsamtx) – “Guys, you can’t let other people tell you who you are. You have to decide that for yourself. Believe in yourself! #senorsam” Alumni Baylor University Freshman Paige Adams (@ paigeyadamz) – “God never ceases to amaze me.

I am so thankful for what is happening in my life! #Learningtotrust” Popular Houston Christian’s Stand for Freedom Account (@hchsSTAND) – “9 days, 3 hours, & 26 minutes until #hchsSTANDS! Our team is preparing to make this a memorable event in honor of the 27 million in slavery.”

Famous Tweeter Hood Jesus (@HoodJesusYo) – “Quit yo sub tweetin and go settle yo problems wit dat homie face to face!!! Matthew 18:15-17” Passion Leader Louie Giglio (@louiegiglio) – “Jesus has already done the work, but by grace through faith we now participate in the process of shifting into His promises.”

Christian Author/Pastor Max Lucado (@ MaxLucado) – “Spend quiet time with God. At the end of the day, thank him for the good parts. Ask Him about the hard parts. Seek His mercy, His strength.”

Entertainment

Safe Haven is a safe choice Once again, Nicholas Sparks woos the audience with this romantic movie, but doesn’t wow

by Ashley Richards, Junior Editor

A NEW LOVE STORY TO FALL IN LOVE WITH. Safe Haven has been a great success so far in theaters. This love story is a romantic movie for all to see.

This Valentine’s day, the biggest hit was Safe Haven. This classic love story had a somewhat untraditional twist. The romance and thrill makes Nicholas Sparks’ new movie a great hit. Safe Haven was one of the best romance movies I have seen in a long time. The past few Nicholas Sparks movies were not too great, but it’s hard to live up to the Notebook.

The storyline was really intricate with a lot of thrillers and questions that were left unanswered; it wasn’t just a sappy, romantic chick-flick.

I will try to not spoil the thrilling parts for you, but the basic gist of the story is that Katie, Julianne Hough, is running away from a violent past and she finds refuge in a tiny town. She falls in love with Alex, Josh Duhamel, and his kids Lexie and

Josh.

While Alex and his kids are trying to overcome the death of their mother, Katie helps them find the love that they have been missing.

Although it does sound like all the rest of Nicholas Sparks’ novels, but Katie’s past is what makes this movie different.

Boys will NOT be bored in this movie because it is set up like a murder mystery.

So girls, if you want to see a romantic movie on date night, Safe Haven is a great choice because your man won’t be bored the entire time.

Of course, the romantic parts of the movie were my favorite parts, but unfortunately there were not very many mushygushy scenes. Julianne and Josh did an amazing job acting together; you almost want them to be together in real life-- if you are not hoping to save Josh for yourself!

Opening on February 14th, the movie made about 21 thousand dollars. Many young women that were looking for a single ladies night out for Valentines, headed to this movie including some Houston Christian girls.

Sophomore, Adrianna Barton10, said this about her time at the movies, “It was so fun to go see this movie with all my girl friends. We had the best Valentine’s Day and I loved the movie so much. I thought it was amazing. I would definitely go back and see it again.”

Safe Haven was a great movie and I definitely recommend it for boys and girls, especially for a date night movie.

The acting was great and the plot was fantastic.

Safe Haven is definitely a safe choice if you are looking for a romantic movie.

The drama department follows the yellow brick road to two Tommy Tune nominations

by Amanda Brown, Stang Staff

Each year around springtime, the Houston Christian Drama Department chooses a special musical to perform for an audience ranging from children to grandparents.

This year Director Bobby Linhart and the cast chose to perform the Wizard of Oz, a timeless classic.

To make this show spectacular, everyone involved spent days on end making costumes, painting the set, and practicing lines. In addition, this year there were some cool new effects such as the projection of Oz’s face onto a sheet onstage and the flying scenes. Cristi Keeter11, who was a flying monkey, said that “flying was such a cool experi-

ence. At first, it was scary but once I got used to it I had such a good time.”

Imani Dafffin11 played the Wicked Witch of the West and also got to be a part of the flying. She said that her “favorite part of the play was flying in the Munchkin land scene and Tinman scene. But also my scenes in the castle were also SOO much fun and intense!” After all of the green makeup and dark costumes, you could barely recognize Imani from your seat.

Collin McGrath10 was the Wizard of Oz and was the perfect person to play this part. His energy and enthusiasm blossomed onstage and He said his “favorite part of the show

was getting to work with everyone in the cast and any scene I was in. I don’t have favorite number because I like most, if not all, of the songs in the musical.”

Dorothy, the Lion, the Tinman and the Scarecrow (Arianna Morgan12, Brendan Ehrenstrom12, Ian Hopper11, and Andrew Duna11) also did a fantastic job and embraced their characters with enthusiasm. They each played a huge part in making this show what it was and contributed to the show with their song and dance.

Overall, this musical was fantastic and anyone who saw it would have to agree. The costumes, the set, and the people

that worked together all contributed to the success of this musical.

Congratulations to the cast and crew who recently found out that they have been nominated for two Tommy Tune Awards this year: Best Musical Direction and Best Costume Design. The awards ceremony will be held on April 16 in downtown Houston at the TUTS Theater.

The Stang

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Chaplain’s Corner

by Miachel Vaughn, Chaplain

Greetings fellow students, I hope you are all splendid. Despite starting in the cheesiest way possible, I sincerely hope you really are splendid. Rather than bring you up to speed on all the things that will be happening in the next few months, I would like to offer a little thanks and encouragement (because you are eventually going to find out about those happenings anyway). First off, it’s been both an honor and a privilege to be able to serve the student body as chaplain this year. I have been given so much to be thankful for in the way I have been treated and supported. Though it may seem like it shouldn’t be this way, I have no doubt in my mind that others have blessed me more than I have blessed anyone this year. That statement is truly a testament to the culture of edification and love that exists on this campus. I am constantly blown away when I receive words of encouragement or a simple, “I’m praying for you.”

These words are what keep Courtney and I going and we have certainly been spurred on towards love and good deeds as it says in Hebrews 10. I am always amazed with God when I go into something with the intent to make an impact, but I leave being the one impacted. This is exactly what my chaplaincy has been like, and I am amazed with Him yet again.

I know that Gianna has covered this on the front page, but I would like to briefly say how proud I was on community service day. We conducted ourselves well and worked extremely hard at the food bank, but it was really the time at Ecclesia that left me speechless. During the time of prayer, I have never seen such sincerity, maturity, and unity among our students. The Holy Spirit was moving in that time under the freeway because our collective voices crying out to God were heard. It was a beautiful sight to look around and see students from different grades and groups coming together in prayer. Well done.

Lastly, I’d like to give a word of encouragement as we are rounding the last turn going into the final stretch of this school year. If there is one word I can encourage you with it is this: persevere. I know the pull of complacency and the desire to simply go into cruise control, and I am as vulnerable to it as the rest of you. But especially to the seniors, I urge you all to fight the good fight, and finish the course that is marked out for you. If you do so, there will certainly be reward.

The Wicked Witch of the West soars high above the rest.

The flight crew worked hard to wow the audience with this special feature.

The Oz leads gather together to sing one last song before returning to Kansas.

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March 2013

Feature

Spring time brings new styles Patterns, colors, and accessories create fun new outfits for spring.

by Ashley Richards, Junior Editor

Now that springtime is rolling around, a whole new wave of fashion trends are setting in. Say goodbye to your leggings and Ugg boots and welcome bright colors and exciting prints to your closet.

Hint of Mint: The spring look that we all have been storing in our closets, awaiting the inevitable warm Texas temperatures, are our bright colored flip flops, but something we might not have been storing are mint basics. From jeans to sundresses, mint is the hottest color for spring/summer of 2013. Mint is being shown as a basic, like denim. You can wear mint with virtually any color or

country-chic look in time for the Luke Bryan concert.

Accessorize for Added Flare: One accessory every girl always forgets is her lip-gloss.

Nude lips are in for this year.

Overdo your eyes, but underdo your lips. Nude lips add an edgy look to your makeup, and it is

pattern and it adds a springy flair to your casual get-up.

Loco for Lace: We all started collecting crocheted tops and lace skirts and dresses last summer; unfortunately, we had to put them away at the start of fall, just as they were fast becoming our favorites. However, this spring lace is coming back with a twist. Pink lace, blue lace, mint lace, and sparkled lace are all making their way into shops and boutiques near you. Lace is a recommended look for Rodeo season; pair a feminine lace skirt with your favorite pair of cowboy boots and you will have

Mint Jeans:

an easy look for all events. Add a pair of gladiator sandals (yes, they are making a comeback, so the fifty pairs you bought two years ago were NOT a waste) for a casual look with your favorite pair of jean shorts. Top off your outfit with a versatile handbag that can hold your sunscreen and your date night lip-gloss. A bright colored bag is a necessity for your closet because it adds to a fun splash of color to your outfit without distracting with a loud pattern. If you want to keep using your oversized leather bag from fall and winter, tie a brightly colored scarf on the

As the cold weather turns warm, dates can move outdoors

Where to find these looks at a great price!

If you are wondering where to find these great looks for a reasonable price, here are a list of places to look.

strap, and you have transformed your favorite winter bag into a fresh spring accessory.

This spring has some of the most exciting trends, and thankfully some of the items we already own. Be bold with colors, patterns, and accessories this spring; have fun with your outfits this season, because this is the spring to do it.

Soak up the sun on a date

Obsessed?

Forever 21 alwayas has great looks for a reasonable price. Mint jeans are something that might not live to see the end of summer, so do not over spend on these!

Nude Lips

Look away from the Chanel make up counter and hop on over to wallgreeens. Revlon Nude Lustre is a great nude lipgloss and it will not make a dent in your wallet.

Bags

Target always has cute bathing suits, but if you are not willing to spend a ridiculous amount on a Tory Burch bag, go to Target and raid their bag section for a new oversized, bright tote.

Picnic Love

by Alexa Reinhart, Copy Editor The frigid, dry, and cold air has left us, and the warmer, but still cool breeze is finally here. Just kidding, even our winter is warm. Anyways, the point is that winter is the past, and springtime is fast approaching. With the warmer temperatures, blossoming flowers, spring sports, and more, new opportunities for spring come along too. One of these exciting opportunities is new date ideas. During the winter, it is nearly impossible to have a fun outdoor date without having three layers on, Starbucks in hand, and cold noses. So with this new season, it is time for some exciting dates.

One example of a fun date for the spring is the zoo or arboretum. The animals will be out and about enjoying the shade during the day, so a nice stroll through the zoo looking at your favorite animals

is a perfect daytime activity.

Now, the arboretum may not be for everyone, but you can also drag your boyfriend/date/ crush to eat lunch in the café and walk around looking at all of the flowers and other garden sculptures. Another fun day date would be a picnic at Hermann Park or any other park near you.

Picnics are extremely fun, and with nice weather, is a perfect way to spend your day outside.

Of course you have to bring a blanket, your food, drinks, and maybe a Frisbee to toss around.

If you are a nature-loving couple, or like to take walks, Hershey Park is full of many hiking trails that you can walk along, or Memorial Park is also a great place to take an afternoon walk and find a great picnic spot for after. Do either of y’all have a dog? A trip to the dog park is light and casual date that is perfect for this time of year.

These are all great dates to go on during the afternoon around Houston, but there are dates that are an “all day” type of date that are found a little farther than around the corner.

Spending the day riding roller coasters, strolling in the little shops, eating fresh seafood, and enjoying the sun at Kemah in Galveston is a perfect idea of a date. Of course this is fairly expensive, so this might be for a special date, or with a guy you have been dating for a while.

If roller coasters are not your thing, spending the day under an umbrella with homemade sandwiches, music, and sun is a great alternative. Of course you will get sandy, but it is a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and have some outdoor fun. Bringing a volleyball, football, or Frisbee are all perfect for the beach scene. If you are not feeling the long amount of

one-on-one time these dates entail, invite another couple or just a group of your friends, this way you could put together teams for beach volleyball or another activity.

There is no denying that the springtime has great weather

for fun, active outdoor dates.

Whether you go to Kemah or just a stroll through the park, these spring dates are incomparable to winter dates. So girls grab a guy, or guys grab a lady, and let your inner nature love come out.

Spring has Sprung

Sweet and Savory Springtime is upon us Adorable cookies and treats carry on the springtime theme

by Rachel Driver, Editor

Spring is a special season of the year. The flowers are blooming, the trees are growing leaves, and the cold weather of winter disappears. Driving through a neighborhood, you’ll find children playing and laughing, and families enjoying possibly the best time of the year. Along with Springtime, comes the fantastic holiday known as Easter. With a holiday this great, how can the spring not be amazing? The fun crafts and activities that occur when Easter comes are so fun for all of the little kids, and children. As fun as painting and dying eggs, and rummaging around the front yard for plastic egg looking containers full of candy is, it may not be the most enjoyable thing for the adults, or the “too-cool” teens.

So what can teens and adults enjoy during this wonderful time of year? Well, Springtime sweets

of course.

Decorative cookies are all the rage this year. Here are some wonderful decoration ideas for how you can make your typical sugar cookies perfect for the spring: Faberge inspired eggs and bunnies, french cornmeal cookies, bunny-sugar cookies, easter egg cookies, birds nest cookies, Peter Rabbit with a lamb and a glittering box of eggs, dragonfly toppers, April showers, bees, tulips, ladybugs, and umbrellas.

Here is a fun cooking craft to do with friends and family: For the Best Ever Butter Cookies follow this recipe! Once you have added a little bit of your own springtime flare, they will be a hit guaranteed. These cookies take about an hour prep time.

Ingredients For the cookies: 1 cup Butter 1 cup sugar 1 Egg 2 tablespoons orange juice 1 tablespoon vanilla 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder For the frosting: 3 cups powdered sugar 1/3 cup butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 to 2 tablespoons milk Food color, if desired

Directions: Combine 1 cup softened butter, sugar and egg in large bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy. Add orange juice and 1 tablespoon vanilla.

Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Add flour and baking powder; beat at low speed until well mixed.

Divide dough into thirds. Shape each third into a ball; flatten slightly. Wrap each in plastic food wrap; refrigerate 2 to 3 hours or until firm.

Heat oven to 400°F. Roll out dough, one-third at a time, on lightly floured surface (keeping remaining dough refrigerated), to 1/8- to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut with 3-inch cookie cutters. Place 1 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 6-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Let stand 1 minute on cookie sheet; remove to cooling rack. Cool completely.

Combine powdered sugar, 1/3 cup butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla in small bowl. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often and gradually adding enough milk for desired spreading consistency.

Tint with food color, if desired.

Frost and decorate cooled cookies as desired. Nutrition facts: Calories: 150 Fat: 7g Cholesterol: 25mg Sodium: 70mg Carbohydrates: 21g Dietary Fiber: 0g Protein: 1g

Old Town Springs combines shopping and fun

Old Town Spring is a great way to spend a spring day.

by Matt Yochum, Stang Staff

entrance to town and is open Thursday through Sunday.

The Civil War Museum is located at Thyme Square on Noble Street and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday.

You can find Old Town

History and shopping lovers Spring north of Houston and outside Beltway 8. Many of should visit a little area in Harris the original buildings, some County called Old Town Spring. over a hundred years old, now Known for its eclectic shops this area is a great place for a date, or house places to buy antiques, collectibles, clothing, and gifts. just a day for shopping.

The population in the Old Town

Old Town Spring hosts Spring area started growing in six major festivals each year the early 19th century when including the popular Texas the Spanish and French came Crawfish and Music Festival. to trade with the local Akosia Shoppers can stroll along treeIndians. Back then, the town’s lined streets or relax in the name, “Old Town Spring,” is gazebos and benches throughout said to have originated after one the town. Browse through over 150 shops - boutiques, museums, of the worst winters in Texas history when a group of tired galleries, restaurants and antique shops. History lovers can wander railroad workers were so happy at the approach of spring that through two museums. they named their new camp

The Spring Historical “Camp Spring.”

Museum is filled with

The small town grew memorabilia about the early consistently until the early 20th days of Spring and the culture of century. At one time the town that era. It is located at the west

had as many as 5 saloons and a gambling hall. The town thrived on the booming railroad business in South Texas and resulting industrialization.

After the Depression, Prohibition and a relocation of the railroad headquarters, the small town slowly declined in population until Houston’s Oil boom in the 1970s and 1980s brought merchants back to the area to make the town what it is today. This town is falsely rumored to be known for being a robbery victim of Bonnie and Clyde. Though the bank building still has bullet holes from several robberies in the 1920s and 1930s.

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What did you do on Spring Break?

Dexter Robinson- went to Florida with Cody Corey the Coffee Dude- laughed at my fiancé while she goes to work and slept in late Chase Harris- went to Colorado to snowboard Jaela Dejean- went with Dexter to the beach Shelby Barhorst- went to my lakehouse in South Carolina Kathleen Burt- hung out in Houston Emma Hennessey- went to Sea World to see some sharks Christi Harrison- went to the Florida Keys Mr. Malouf- went to Padre and Austin Mr. Rodden- road trip to Colorado Mr. Davis- moved into my new house Lauren Lewellen- went skiing in Colorado Jennifer Johnson- went skiing in Utah Alex Duck- watched Happy Tree Friends Forrest Frank- played golf Danie McVaugh- went to Mexico Kaitlyn Hovermale- went to Port O’Connor with family Claudia Waters- went to Florida with my grandma Kristin Milton- went to Florida to see my grandparents Becca Doucet- went to the Houston Rodeo Mrs. Kirkpatrick- graded and planned Mr. Mellor- was in Mr. Kelley’s wedding Ashley Richards- went on college visits and shopping Connor Kelley- went to Mexico Gianna Tiedemann- had a Staycation!!!

Alexa Reinhart- Rodeod all day every day!

Mrs. McCurdy- Chilled in my house Matt Scott- went to Florida with the LAX team Samantha Moore- Rodeod!

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Opinions

March 2013

The question on everyone’s mind for this Spring Break-Surf or Snow?

Pros and cons of taking a beach vacation or hitting the slopes

By Rachel Driver, Editor-in-Chief Stang Staff

This spring break went way too fast for all the students, and I just have one question for y’all: sand or snow?

All good vacations take place either on the sandy beaches under the sun or up on the mountain tops. Vacations at either of these types of destinations are going to be destined for success. Depending on your personality, or more so, your parents personality, you probably went to the destination that seemed most fun, or matched your interest.

If you hate the cold weather, cannot stand feeling a little chilly, and do not like the idea of being bundled up with five layers of down feathers and water resistant clothing, then taking a vacation in Zermatt, Switzerland in the heart of winter will not be enjoyable for you. I, on the other hand, think these sounds like Heaven. Waking up early in the morning, piling on different outerwear to stay warm and dry, putting “toasty toes” in the bottom of your boots, stepping outside and seeing your own breath when you

breathe, and feeling the sun burn your cheeks underneath your goggles are all somewhat of a fantastic dream to me.

In case you have yet to guess my answer to the big question, “Surf or Snow?” I prefer the snow. I love the snow.

My perfect vacation consists of going somewhere with white skies, and fresh powder. My dad is a big fan of the snowy mountain vacations. Given his fascination, and being his daughter, I was put in my first ski boots when I was around five years old. The tiny little sticks attached to my feet intrigued me. Ever since, I have become slightly addicted to vacations near the snow.

When I turned around ten, eleven years old, I switched to snowboarding. I have not skied since the switch; I refuse to. I thoroughly enjoy snowboarding and am always excited when the talk of another Driver family vacation arises.

Not every trip we go on is a snowy one because my sister actually prefers the

beach. Rebecca prefers the sandy shores, the tanning, the laying out, and the water activities. I do not know what it is about the beach that kind of irritates me. I just do not enjoy it like I enjoy the snow. On the beach, I always feel dirty, and can never seem to escape from the sand. I like being tan, yes. I like the water, yes. But I do not like the beach, and I prefer chlorine over salt water. My point is, I like the snow. A lot. I like snowboarding. A lot.

Everyone has their personal reasons for why they prefer what they do.

I think my reasons for why I (and the rest of you out there) think the snow is better are more reasonable, and logical. Another reason why the snow is better, as opposed to laying on the beach, is that while you’re having such an amazing time experiencing the nature around you, you are also getting a great workout. You do not burn calories face down in your towel lying in the sand.

Overall, and yes, I realize I am biased, I think snow is the proper answer to the big question.

What makes Alexa feel guilty?

Humane Society commercials, homeless people, and being late makes me feel guilty

By Alexa Reinhart, Copy Editor

This month, I will be informing all the readers about what makes me feel guilty. If you know me at all, then you probably know that I have really guilty conscience. I even get guilt whenever I do something petty. But, there are a few things that make me feel really guilty: Humane Society commercials, homeless people, and being late.

When Sarah McLaughlin’s song, “Arms of the Angel” blasts through the television speakers, everyone knows what

STANG 2012-2013

will first display on the screen: a picture of a cute little white dog with a depressing look on its face and a missing leg. There are basically four or five seconds, if that much time, before this picture pops up on your screen and sends you spiraling into immediate guilt. I can no longer watch this commercial, and I must say that I have gotten pretty good at grabbing my remote promptly and changing the station to whatever comes to mind. But, the few times that I have seen this commercial, I

Editor-in-Chief-- Rachel Driver Junior Editor-- Ashley Richards Managing Editor-- Gianna Tiedemann Copy Editor-- Alexa Reinhart Stang Staff Amanda Brown, Stephen Consoli, Ryan Hooker, Connor Kelley, Samantha Moore, Matt Scott, Spencer Traver, Michael Vaughan, Matt Yochum Advisor--Heidi McCurdy

The Stang is published 8 times per year online at www.houstonchristian.org, and is free to the student body, faculty and staff. Advertising is available to businesses, parents and students, but

The Stang reserves the right to refuse advertisement based on appropriateness for HC Students.

For advertising information please contact Heidi McCurdy at 713-580-6044 or email at hmccurdy@houstonchristian.org.

The Stang is a student run newspaper and the views and opinions of The Stang do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the faculty, staff and Board of Houston Christian High School.

Letters to the Editor: Please email your comments to hmccurdy@houstonchristian.org.

The Stang reserves the right to refuse or edit inappropriate content of comments.

Mission Statement: The mission of The Stang is to inform, entertain and encourage the readers by provising insight through school, community and global affairs, in order to raise questions and provide answers.

To obtain the truth, which is the basis of our paper, we will incorporate research from a wide variety of sources. Although we write to entertain, we will balance our humor with real information about the world around us. In all we do, we promise to uphold our Christian values by writing with quality and integrity

want to immediately drive to the Humane Society and adopt all of the puppies and become a dog lady…well maybe not that extreme. Nonetheless, I am sure these commercials do their job of inspiring people to donate to the Humane Society, but they are definitely depressing and make me feel extremely guilty for not giving money towards the sweet, lonely animals that are brought in.

Another thing that makes me feel guilty is seeing homeless people on the side of the road asking for money. I very well realize that most of these people are in fact not homeless, but that chance does not alter how my guilt affects me. I feel terrible that my pantry is filled with enough food to last for a month during a hurricane and that I have too much clothes and shoes that I actually need, while there is someone on the side of the street with a cardboard sign, wearing the same dirty, raggedy clothes for three days straight, possibly without a shower, place to sleep, and not enough nutritious food to sustain their body. It makes me sick to my stomach when I think about other people living in such terrible, dehumanizing situations. I also feel guilty whenever I do not have spare change, a water bottle, or a snack in my car to give. I understand that

many people do not give money because they believe that their donation could possibly go to buying drugs, alcohol, or the such. However, we, as Christians, are commanded to give to the needy, even if they spent it in the wrong way.

Lastly, being late to a meeting, class, practice, or even something as small as a dinner, are all things that makes me feel extremely guilty. I am the type of person that always arrives a few minutes early just to be safe. But, of course I am human and I am late occasionally. I feel really guilty when I am late because the people that are waiting on me are counting on me to be on time. So when I am late, it is almost as if I am saying that my time is more valuable than that person’s time, and it is just a simple lack of respect. I also get really stressed out when I am running late because I feel like I am letting other people down, which I hate doing. Most people do not feel guilty for being late, but being late, or at least not being early, is definitely one of the biggest things that makes me feel guilty.

All in all, I feel guilty in a lot of situations, but just a few of them are during the Humane Society commercials, seeing homeless people, and being late.

What makes you feel guilty? I am sure that a lot of you can relate to me, I mean come on, how could the cute kitten with a missing ear, or a starving white lab not make you upset and guilty?

Opinions

The Stang

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Stephen’s Sports Report: James Harden By: Stephen Consoli, Stang Staff After just over half a season as the go-to man for the Houston Rockets, James Harden and stardom have made a quick connection. The former Sixth Man of the Year has lead the playoff hungry Rockets to a winning record, and put them in position to get a playoff berth this season. He snagged himself his first AllStar selection as well. In this short period of time as a rocket, his performance has earned him his name in the discussion of the best shooting guard in the NBA. When the Rockets traded to get Harden, I’m not sure they expected him to be the player he has been this season. Of course, with the contract he was given, James, was expected to be a star, but for him to come in and accept the role and be as great as he has been this fast, I can’t be sure the Rockets saw this coming. I can’t be sure anyone in the league saw this coming. So where does James Harden rank among shooting guards in the NBA? Currently, James Harden is sitting at number two in the league in scoring from the shooting guard position.

He is second only to Kobe Bryant. Kobe who is averaging 27.3 points per game is third in the league. James is averaging 26.2 per game and is fifth in the league.

Dwyane Wade is third in the regards of shooting guards with 21.7 per game, and that is also good for eighth in the league.

After Wade is a far off fourth in Demar Derozan at 17.7 and then O.J. Mayo at 17.4. To add to Harden’s scoring, he is leading all shooting guards in assists per game at 5.7. Kobe is second and D-Wade is third with 5.6 and 5.0 respectively.

Looking at rebounds, Kobe is first with 5.5 rebounds per game. Wade is fourth

at 5.1 and James is fifth with 4.8. James Harden also leads shooting guards in steals per game with nearly two per game at 1.90. D-Wade is second with 1.65.

Kobe falls to sixth in steals with 1.33 per game. I can continue to throw out stats and I could try to determine the best of the three with those, but I don’t think you can conclude who is the best shooting guard in the NBA solely by stats. There are much more factors that go into a question with this kind of depth. However, regardless of any stat you can give me, in my opinion, Dwyane Wade is the best shooting guard in the NBA. There is just a tad bit of bias in that answer though. D-Wade is far and away my favorite player, but nonetheless, his play speaks for itself. Dwyane Wade plays with the best player in the world, Lebron James. LBJ does it all. He plays the point-forward and can score the basketball at will, thus taking away from Dwyane’s opportunities to do his own thing. Another factor you have to look at regarding Dwyane and his performance this year is the fact that he just had knee surgery this past offseason. Knee surgery is a difficult setback to come back from, and even more so when your knees have been an issue throughout your career.

Incredibly, even with these two huge factors that would hurt anyone’s game, Dwyane continues to produce and average 22, 5, and 5. I would rank James Harden second in the league when it comes to shooting guards. With just over half a season to look at though, it is hard to make this decision. Conversely, if James continues to play at such a high level, the decision will become very easy, and no one will think twice about considering

him any but a superstar in this league.

James is also leading his Rockets to a better record than Kobe and his Lakers.

This is saying a lot considering Kobe cannot figure out how to win with the best center in the game and the best passer in the game. He actually continually makes Dwight Howard worse, but that is another topic, for another day. Kobe is a great player, but I think he is just a little bit past his prime. To average 27 points a game past your prime though, you have to be a superstar, and that is exactly what Kobe is. Kobe Bryant has the best basketball IQ in the game today, but he has a reputation for straying from it and looking for his own offense. On the contrary, Harden’s IQ is growing as I type this and he enjoys facilitating and creating offense for his teammates. His ceiling is through the roof and he is one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.

When you look at the careers of these three great players, I think Kobe will have the most accolades and best stats. In fact, there will be very few in the history of the game who ever touch what Kobe has accomplished, but I believe that right now he ranks third when it comes to shooting guards in today’s league. James Harden has his best years ahead of him, and right now, he is one of the most fun to watch and dynamic players we have in the game. In reality, Dwyane Wade is the best player to ever play the game of basketball and far better than these two ever were, are, or ever will be. Nah, I’m kidding, but he is the best in the game today.

Remember, this is just my opinion. Shoot me an email and let me know what you think, I’d love to talk about it or discuss any other sports topic you have. And if you have a topic for me next month, I’d love to hear some.

Lent emulates the Christian version of “New Year’s Resolutions” Why Lent should be correctly observed and shared by Christians

By Spencer Traver, Stang Staff

Previously, I wrote an article in the January stating that New Year’s resolutions are important and worth our time. With an increased level of motivation, goal setting can bring purpose to a stagnant area of someones life. In the same way, Lent is a time for Christians to observe a season of renewal and redemption, bringing a fresh breath of life into our dry bones.

For those who are unaware, Lent is a 40-day time period intended for praying and fasting as the observance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection nears with Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter ahead.

In modern culture, Lent has been mistaken as a 40-day time period where one attempts to be “sin-free” in a certain aspect of their life. Following the observance of Lent, the individual returns to the old way, if they made it 40 days in the first place. If this is the case,

what is the point of Lent? The problem is that we have made the observance of the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of our Savior about us. This is the exact reason why the message behind Easter is blurred and obscured. I promise you, God did not intend for us to celebrate bunnies, candy, and color-coated eggs.

He intended for us to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, the son of Man. Passionate prayer and fasting is not for the half-hearted or lukewarm. It takes commitment to follow through with the observance of Lent, just as it does for making New Year’s resolutions.

Please do not misunderstand me; I think this can be an ingenious concept for Christians. However, I do believe that we obscure the meaning and purpose. Lent is not about us; it is all about Him. With that in mind, our actions during this season of prayerful

fasting need to be about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. By no means does our fasting need to be from food.

For example, Neil Kerrigan9 said, “For Lent, I am giving up my sarcasm towards other people.” Another student, Amanda Brock11 said, “A bunch of musical girls gave up negativity for Lent. We are focusing on having a positive and uplifting attitude all the time.” Likewise, Stoetzer Gray9 shared, “I decided to give up cussing for Lent. I am trying to glorify God more with my words than before.” Sarcasm, negativity, and swearing are just three of an endless list of possibilities for what can be given up for Lent. If you have not picked what you will give up for Lent, consider addressing these: eating habits, drinking habits, finance habits, spiritual habits, verbal habits, and organizational habits.

Lent is not a fad, trend, or fashion. It is to be a serious observational time in which you are in constant communication with the Lord in prayer over certain areas of your life. While I do not discourage sharing what you have given up for Lent with others, I do challenge you to question your motives. Are they for pure, godly accountability? I pray that you will grow abundantly in your relationship with the Lord during this season of Lent. There is power in the prayer of God’s people. Use it to your advantage; it is His gift to you.

If you are looking for something to pray for, I ask that you would pray that I would submerge myself in Scripture, prayer, and worship during this season of Lent and thereafter. I encourage you to observe this season of Lent and to set goals to create better habits for yourself.

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March 2013

Sports

All-Star Game presents action packed weekend in Houston Houston had stars shining bright during NBA All-star Weekend

by Connor Kelley Stang Staff

The 2013 NBA All-Star Game was the 62nd annual NBA AllStar Game. This year’s starters are not unusual names to the NBA All-Star Game. For the West, Chris Paul and Kobe Bryant are at the guard position and Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, and Dwight Howard are the three frontcourt men. At the guard position, Rajon Rondo and Dwayne Wade are starting for the East and the three frontcourt players were LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Kevin Durant. The least number of times voted in the NBA All-Star Game from this year’s starting line-up is Blake Griffin, his third time being voted into the All-Star Game. The leading vote recipient of the East was LeBron James with 1,583,646 votes. While Kobe Bryant topped the voting ballots with 1,591,437 votes. For the West, the city of Los Angeles is sending four players to the NBA All-Star Game and also are in the starting lineup. Two of the players are from the Lakers and two from the Clippers. The Boston Celtics are sending two players to start for the first time since 1984, when Larry Bird and Robert Parish started for the East.

The weekend started on Thursday and went on until Sunday.

All-Star Weekend was packed with lots of action and excitement. NBA All-Star Jam Session was wall-to-wall basketball fun for all ages. Starting on Thursday, February 14, 2013, fans could shoot, slam, dribble and drive all day. They competed against their friends in skills challenges and collect free autographs from NBA Players and Legends. Young fans could take their shot on hoops that are the perfect size for kids’ slam dunks, threepointers, and jump shots.

Then on Friday, February 15, 2013, the Sprint NBA All-Star Celebrity Game took place before the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge. There were some of the hottest celebrities along with some of your favorite NBA Legends take their skills to the court for a fun and entertaining basketball game. The Celebrity Game was a fun game that had a lot of famous actors, singers, and many more playing against each other in a friendly match. The West team had former Rockets Clyde Drexler and Dikembe Mutombo, plus WNBA star Maya Moore, while the East had the WNBA’s Tamika Catchings and former

Spurs, Sean Elliott and Bruce Bowen. The East team even had the fastest human in the world, Olympic champion, Usain Bolt.

Even the Secretary of Education, Anre Duncan, played in the game. However, Kevin Hart took most of the fans attention with his crazy, hilarious antics. The game ended up 58-38 giving the West the victory, led by head coach James Harden.

Harden said after the game, “It was good fun, filled with laughter, a few antics and even a bit of decent, even intense at times, basketball action.” Kevin Hart won the MVP despite only having five points.

The Rising Stars Challenge is a game between the rookies and sophomores of the NBA to see who has the better class of players and it allowed the players of the winning team to have the bragging rights for that year. This year they had a “draft” between Team Shaq and Team Chuck, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. This game was just full of offense and Team Chuck had 90 points in only the first half. They made a new record ending up with 163 points in one game. By a fan vote, Kenneth Faried a rookie with the Denver Nuggets received the MVP and ended up with 40 points and 10 rebounds.

On Saturday, February 16, 2013, the D-League All-Star Game takes place that afternoon and after that the Sears Shooting Stars, Taco Bell Skills Challenge, Foot Locker Three-Point Contest, and Sprite Slam Dunk Contest take place throughout the night. In the Sears Shooting Stars, Team Bosh beat out team Westbrook to give the East a victory in the shootout. Team Bosh had Chris Bosh, Dominique Wilkins, and Swin Cash, and finished with a time of 1:29 minutes. Then in the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, Damian Lillard controlled the event beating Jrue Holliday in the finals with a time of only 29.8 seconds. Other players were stars like Brandon Knight, Jeremy Lin, Tony Parker, and Jeff Teague.

In the Foot Locker Three-Point Contest,

Kyrie Irving dominated the contest only missing one shot in the first round. He beat out Matt Bonner by three shots in the finals. Other competitors were Ryan Anderson, Steve Novak, Stephen Curry, and Paul George. Finally in the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest, Terrance Ross only got one point deducted in the first round and received a 58 percent fan vote to win in the final round. Ross competed against Jeremy Evans in the finals and Eric Bledsoe, Kenneth Faried, Gerald Green, and James White also competed. Rookie Kenneth Faried said, “All-Star is a great experience to be apart off, especially as a rookie.”

Finally on Sunday, February 17, 2013, the NBA All-Star Game presented

by Kia takes place that night after the Sprite Pregame Concert. The West beat out the East with a 143-138 victory in a very offensive game. Before the game Kevin Durant said, “I am determined to repeat as MVP in the All-Star Game.

Kevin Durant joins Kobe Bryant as the only players to score at least 30 points in the NBA All-Star Game three times.

Durant mark is impressive; he did it in three consecutive All-Star Games.

However, it was not enough to win MVP as Chris Paul won with 20 points and 15 assists.

The HC bad news bears bring the heat H.C. softball will surprise the SPC

by Connor Kelley, Stang Staff The softball team has started their season with a bang. After winning their first two games, the softball team is looking forward to a pretty successful season, but with only six people on their first day of practice, they were off to a shaky start.

With their first season in the SPC the softball team already has a winning season. By taking out their first two opponents (Kipp and the Woodlands Christian Academy) they are off to a positive start. But even though they are playing well, that does not mean that everything is perfect for the Mustang Softball team. The softball team is having to recruit girls in the hallway and because of their lack of players, they are already fighting odds to have a successful season.

Sophomore, Cassidy Kelley said “We have to talk to girls in the hallway to try and get them to play. But, it is really fun.

We are going to be like the Bad News Bears. We are underdogs, but I think we are going to win it all.”

When the softball team was asked to describe their team, Jennifer Johnson11 said, “We are a huge mix of girls, but we all get along really well. I am really happy I decided to play this year.

We really need some more girls and I do not think you will regret it.” The softball team practices every day after school and are getting brand new uniforms.

The team started the week of their first game with only nine players, but you need eleven on the field to play

a game. Now they have a total of thirteen players, allowing for the team to have some substitute players to come in if needed.

Despite their lack of experience, this young team will surprise many people with how well they play. With their great, talented pitcher, Caitlin Clarke9 who is an amazing pitcher and will lead the mustangs to the SPC championship, which is wide open for the taking. These girls have a lot of heart and already in the early part of the season have faced a lot of adversity. This will bring the team close together and push them to the SPC championship.

STAR PITCHER CAITLIN CLARKE brings the heat against her opponents. She has been almost unhittable from the mound in their first few games.

Sports

Mustangs prepare for inaugural SPC season The baseball team gets a fresh start for the 2013 season

by Spencer Traver Stang Staff

The baseball team seeks to capitalize on new beginnings this season.

With a new set of seniors, new coaching staff, new field, and new conference (SPC), the baseball players seek to rise to new levels.

Led by head coach Emrick Jagneaux, the varsity squad began its season off to a great start by beating Woodlands Christian 10-0, following a strong outing in the Alief tournament.

With a new season, there are new expectations for the team, as well as the individual players. Devon Wilson_11 said, “I plan to be a leader on the field as the shortstop and do whatever I have to do to win an SPC championship and prove that we are not in a rebuilding stage.”

The seniors of the team are in a position of leadership to direct the program towards success in its first year of SPC play. This group of ballplayers consists of Ramsey Al-Azem, Cullen Cosco, Gavin Vanderhider, Charlie Zenker, and Derek Devine. Representing the seniors, Gavin Vanderhider_12 said, “I believe that we have a strong team this season. I look forward to each practice and game putting my best foot forward to help our team come out with a win.”

Likewise, Cullen Cosco_12 said, “The addition of young talent as well as a new coaching staff in a new conference is a great way to start the season. Coach Jag has implemented a discipline and structure that we haven’t experienced in

years, and he has brought more out of our potential as players. We have been working hard this whole year and believe we have a great shot at winning the SPC championship.”

The baseball team faces tough opponents this season in the Houston area, such as St. Pius, Episcopal, and Kinkaid. The Houston area is known for great prospective baseball talent. Major League alumni include Homer Bailey, Jay Bruce, Scott Kazmir, and James Loney. Last season, Houston Christian baseball had 6 players move on to play college baseball at schools such as Texas Christian University, Pepperdine University and Texas-Wesleyan University. Hopefully, this year’s team will prove to have similar talent.

So, make sure to come out and support your men’s lacrosse team. Got heem! Take a trip to the diamond and root on your JV and varsity baseball teams this season (then go visit the lacrosse game and cheer them on too).

Track and Field lines up to start HC track and field team kicks off their season with an SPC championship as their goal

by Stephen Consoli, Stang Staff The Houston Christian track team is back and better than ever. With an SPC Championship in sight, the Mustangs aren’t willing to settle for anything less.

They are an exciting group of athletes who love to compete. This year, the senior class is very impressive and star studded with first year athletes.

Led by Jihad Elhajj, the year’s talent has no ceiling and will compete at the highest level. There is also a large cast of freshman athletes who will be competing at the varsity level this year.

Freshman, Landon Malouf, is an all around athlete with skills in high jump, long jump, and both hurdle races.

Senior, Jacob Farris, has taken the young Landon under his wing and is teaching him the ways of a pro hurdler. Jacob took first place in both hurdle races at the

Maverick Relays at St. Johns.

First year athlete and senior, Ernie Mercado, has already broken a school record in long jump and doesn’t look like he plans on stopping there.

Another first year athlete and senior, Matt Yochum, is excited about competing in the 400 and high jump.

One of the biggest anticipations this season is, junior stud, Jaela Dejean. Jaela did not get to compete her sophomore year because of an unfortunate ACL injury. She won state her FRESHMAN year in long jump, and the team is excited to have her back this season. Juniors, Mark Spangenberg, Harrison Cromwell, and Hamilton Paret anchor the men’s sprinting. Mark competes in the 300m hurdles as well.

Cameron Duffy is the best long distance runner on the team and is bringing sophomore, Jacob Ehrenstrom, along with him.

How can this be a track and field article without mentioning Amie Leitko?

Amie continues to be Amie as she breaks records and competes to get first at every meet she attends. This year’s track team is very exciting and full of energy. They are a lot of fun to watch and be around.

Everyone on the team gets along and they are always making jokes and having their own fun. Come out and support your Mustang track team as they compete with their eyes set on an SPC Championship in their first year in the conference. I know they would love the support of their fellow classmates.

The Stang

11

HC left mark on the SPC championships

by Matt Scott, Stang Staff Another trip was made for the Mustangs competing in the SPC winter sports. On February 14, HC men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, and the swim/dive teams loaded on buses to make the road trip up to Dallas to compete in the 2013 SPC playoffs. The men’s basketball program entered the playoffs with a 29-8 record and will compete in the top, Division I bracket with the number four seed. The women’s basketball team also was in the Division I bracket as the number three seed with a 27-6 record. For soccer, both the men’s and ladies teams competed in the Division II bracket. Last but not least, the HC swim and dive team competed in an all day meet on Saturday.

The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams started off with a bang in the new SPC division.

The team came out by breaking five school records, and one new league record. Diver and Senior, Ricky Wolfe, started the meet with not only breaking the school record with his score of 307.70. But also a new SPC conference record by ten points, which stood since 2005. For swimming, Forrest Frank was a huge contributor to the boys overall finish at fifth. While Kaylee Taff, Victoria Baltazar and Caroline Mitchell lead the girls to their thirteenth spot.

The men’s soccer team defeated Casady in dramatic fashion in their opening game of the tournament.

Senior, Keith Crawford scored midway through the game but because of a own goal by Senior, Connor Pryor, which he later said, “ I didn’t really mean to do it but hey…. it made the game more interesting”. The Mustangs were forced to overtime where it was scoreless. This led to a penalty shootout where, Senior goalie, Patrick Mulvey came up with a big save that lead the Mustangs to victory.

The boys would eventually finish the tournament in fourth. The ladies soccer team secured their first SPC against Oklahoma City Casady 3-0.

The women’s basketball team defeated their first opponent, Hockaday, 64-45. With key players, Miranda Rogers, who had six 3-pointers and a fourteen point, six rebound effort from Alexa Reinhart. The team would go on to capture fourth place in the SPC. The boys basketball beat their first opponent, All Saints Episcopal, with a score of 94-71. Junior John Clarke led the way with nineteen points. Senior, Ryan Leiss, went on later to say, “I’m proud of teammates even though we came up short, and I couldn’t ask for a better high school ending season!”

The Mustangs would come up short against local rival, St. Johns (54-48) in the semi’s and Kinkaid (66-61) to finish fourth in the tournament.

Congratulations to all HC athletes!

March 2013

The Back Page

The Stang

Girl Code & Guy Code

12

What not to do on social media

by Gianna Tiedemann and Alexa Reinhart, Managing Editor & Copy Editor 1. Don’t post five pictures in a row from the same event on Instagram.

AR: Personally, I find it annoying to see five or so pictures that one person posts from the same event, but with different people. Facebook is for uploading multiple pictures from an event, but on Instagram, it is best to just upload your favorite picture from that night. If you care about getting likes, you probably will not get as many if you post so many from the same night...I know it’s great to upload a picture with every one of your million of best friends, but please don’t do it on Insta.

GT: Seriously, I want to see a million different pictures.

If you’re just using your Instagram to edit the filters on your photos, please buy another app to do so. Now, I know this may seem strange coming from someone who has 694 pictures on instagram, but I try to post different photos from different events and only Instagram at least twice per week. But seriously, refrain from multiple posts.

2. Don’t make obvious subtweets.

GT: For those of you who don’t know what subtweeting is, it is directly referring to a particular person without mentioning their name or directly mentioning them in the tweet. For example, you and your boyfriend just broke up and you’re mad at him but don’t know how to tell him, you decide to subtweet him by tweeting, “you said you weren’t just another fish in the sea #youreanidiot.”

This is subtweeting and most of all, it’s obvious! Not only is this completely immature, but it just creates drama and is really annoying to everyone who follows you.

AR: I completely agree...I just think it is unnecessary and if you have a problem with someone, don’t subtweet about them, just go talk to them. Subtweeting is #lame.

3. Don’t use Twitter as your diary.

AR: Ladies, I can understand if you get upset about a break-up, fight with friends, or anything of the sort, but using Twitter to release your anger or feelings is

probably not the best idea. You are just begging for attention and it is not even a good kind of attention either. Just stick to writing down your feelings in your cute pink journal.

GT: I couldn’t agree more Alexa. Ladies, yes we are sympathetic of your current problem, but when you start incessantly tweeting about the issue or calling people out via Twitter, nobody wants to see that. Plus, you may regret what you post and anyone can take your post and use it against you, so be careful what you post. It may get you into trouble some day.

4. Don’t post inappropriate Facebook pictures.

GT: Ladies, let’s keep it classy. By putting up pictures of you tanning in your bikini, holding a red solo cup, or even posting pictures where your eyes look all blurry and bright or there is a random blurred out image in your hand, you’re not fooling anyone. If you put up bikini pictures, you’re obviously going to attract those creepy guys on Facebook that find you randomly. It’s a breeding ground for weirdos and child predators. Oh and the whole red solo cup thing or the blurred out image in your hand, seriously?? Why would you put that on Facebook especially if you’re friends with your friend’s moms, other TEACHERS, YOUTH GROUP LEADERS?!

WHY?! We all know what you are doing. Even if it’s not a drink in your cup, it still looks sketchy. Plus, sororities don’t want to see how hard you partied last night or how great you look in that one outfit, they want to see you as a person, not the junk in your trunk.

AR: I completely agree. About the sororities, members of sororities are assigned certain girls to look up on Facebook and look at their pictures, posts, and friend’s posts on their wall; so if you want to get a bid from any sorority, clean up your Facebook STAT. You may think I am being extreme, but this is no joke. Most sororities will not want you as a member if you have inappropriate pictures or posts. They also look at what your friends post on your wall...so clean up your language, pictures, and everything else not only for sororities, but just because you should.

5. If you accepted a friend request from some random dude named Muhammed, don’t be surprised when he messages you and comments on your pictures.

AR: It gets pretty annoying to hear girls complain about a random guy who keeps messaging them or commenting on all of their pictures. You accepted them as your friend, so it is your problem they are trying to contact you...I mean hello, duh. Also, just avoid accepting people you don’t know. I can understand if it is like a cute guy that you have heard about from a friend, but if you have absolutely NO idea who he is, just hit ignore. Whatcha think, G? GT: Honestly, I don’t even know why you would accept him in the first place if you don’t even know him. That’s ridiculous. What if he’s a serial killer, child predator, pedophile, or sex offender? That’s creepy! Yes, you can always delete or block him, but he still has seen your pictures/ wall posts and could probably find a way to get around how you blocked him or unfriended him.

AR: Quick thought, make your Facebook private. Like Gianna said, there are tons of creepers out there...it’s better to be safe than sorry.

What guys want girls to know

by Stephen Consoli and Matt Scott, Stang Staff Topic #1: Flirting Matt: Honestly, I don’t think I’m that big of a flirt. Yes, I know I won the award of the biggest flirt in the senior class, but let’s be realistic here, there are bigger flirts than me, but I just happened to win and now I have to live with it. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing that I won, I’m just saying I should have came in 3rd, maybe 4th.

Anyway, flirting can be a good thing. I like to think of it as being nice. Maybe sometimes overly nice, but hey there’s nothing wrong with that!

Stephen: Alright Matty, you want to be realistic? I’m just going to throw it out there, you’re a pretty big flirt. At the same time though, you don’t deserve to be voted the biggest flirt of senior class. There are other people that flirt with a ton of people that just don’t have as much game as you, sir, and have to settle... for sophomores. And because of this, they aren’t recognized as flirty just because they can’t really pull it off. Although, there are others that have fallen off the flirty list because they are stuck chasing a girl that they can’t completely hold down and it is hurting their pride. Now they won’t stop until they can tie her down and really call her theirs. That’s alright though, maybe one day they will finally get her. I hope they have fun following her to college though.

Matt: Yeah, you have a point, I guess I am. But you don’t have much room to talk, and you know what I’m talking about. You have been in some trouble because

of flirting. And it’s okay because I have been in just as much trouble. I think there are some people that go unnoticed for flirting because they are overly attached to a girl. Flirting turns into a very bad thing when you have a relationship with a girl that is just as crazy as you are. When you are single, it’s really not that big of deal, but once you take it out of that context, it can turn ugly.

Stephen: Yeah, once you take away the phrase “in a relationship” everything changes, and I’m not going to lie, it is really hard. For some people, flirting just happens naturally and it is very difficult to control.

Especially when, in your mind, you are just being nice.

So I guess what I’m trying to say is, flirts will be flirts, so let’em work.

Topic #2: Dating into college Stephen: Seniors, this one’s for you. We are about 5 months from the next chapter of our life and we are about to jump from being in a class of 120, to a class of 500-9000 or more depending on where you go. First, you have to think about where you and your significant other are going to school. It may be a little bit easier if you are going to the same college, but at the same time, there are so many other factors that go into it. Going to different colleges, that’s a completely different monster. Now, I can’t really talk from experience because obviously, I’m not in college, nor have I been

in college, but I am trying to look at it from a realistic perspective. It is going to be very very difficult to stay in a relationship with someone from high school while you are meeting so many new people around you every day. It is most definitely not impossible, and if you feel like you can do it, then more power to you.

Matt: Okay, I’m going to put it this way... Houston Christian is like a household fish tank. College is like the Gulf of Mexico. So I do not understand why someone would want to carry a “high school sweetheart” to college. Especially if both agree they are not going to get married. I agree with Stephen, I am not in college, but from a realistic standpoint, do not miss the opportunity to meet new people when you are carrying on a relationship started in high school.

Stephen: I just see it as such a big transition coming from Houston Christian. The amount of people that you will see in college compared to high school will almost just be overwhelming. It is something that will probably take a little while to get used to.

Matt: So what we’re trying to say is that college is going to be awesome and the opportunities of meeting someone more compatible to you is more likely. So go in without being tied down.