KP TIMES
Issue 3, Vol. 2 s December 2014 Kingwood Park High School s 4015 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood, TX 77339
Shattered cell phone screens have interesting stories behind them, page 7.
With the girls golf team ranked No. 1 in the State and the boys swim team vying for another title, sports are heating up. Pages 10-13.
Freshmen find philanthropy
Pages 2-3
WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO DO... Dec. 12-13 P Choir Pop Show (7 p.m.) Dec. 17-19 P Finals Week (Early release at 11:25 p.m.) Wednesday: 1st, 2nd and 5th Thursday: 3rd and 6th Friday: 4th and 7th
Jayce Green9 sits with a group of third graders to take turns reading a book about dinosaurs. Green was in a Den that was assigned Hidden Hollow Elementary during the Day of Service. Photo by Joshlyn Thomas.
Dec. 22- Jan. 2 P Winter Break. Jan. 3 P Pig Roast benefitting the Robotics team at the CATE Center (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.) Jan. 5 P Teacher Workday. P Student holiday. Jan. 13 P Talent Show tryouts in the auditorium. (3 p.m.) Jan. 14 P Talent Show tryouts in the auditorium. (3 p.m.) Jan. 19 P No school in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Jan. 23 P Talent Show in the auditorium. (7 p.m.) Jan. 28 P Parent Night for incoming freshmen. Jan. 29 P Be the Change Day. Feb. 3 P Parent Night for 9th-11th graders.
2 December 2014
Kamryn Goolsby9 and Laney Grant9 receive hugs from the entire third grade class they worked with at Hidden Hollow during the Day of Service on Nov. 18. The freshmen helped the students write stories. They also read Thanksgiving books to them in preparation for the holiday season. Photo by Joshlyn Thomas.
Avery Harlan12 tries to sneak a peek at the cards of a student she played three rounds of cards with during the Day of Service. Photo by Joshlyn Thomas.
KPARK earns high ranking on website Special activities like Day of Service and Be the Change were cited for reasons that KPARK was listed among the top 14 high schools in Texas.
tion center for those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder rehabilitation) and Hidden Hollow Elementary School. They tidied up facilities and read to children. Another opportunity KPARK offers is Be the Change, which is a day where students get together and learn things about By Orianne Elliott each other that they did not know before. It is a way for stuStaff Reporter dents to be more tolerant and accepting of others. “The main goal of the day is for people to learn that every According to the Texas Education Agency, there are more student has a story, many like each others, and hopefully talk than 10,000 schools in Texas. Recently, Kingwood Park was to people they have never talked to before,” Johnson said. one that made it onto the “14 Best High Since KPARK has opened, it has been Schools in Texas” article on citydescribed. known for the engagement between The Rankings com. teachers and students. Students and facThe list of the top 14 high schools in Texas, The article cited the student leadership aculty have worked hard to keep up the esaccording to citydescribed.com. tivities and the family-like atmosphere pushed sence of the school since it first opened in KPARK past thousands of other schools and 1. School for the Talented and Gifted in Dallas 2008. onto this list. KPARK remains a “school of choice” 2. Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s “One of the KPARK Student Advisory mem- Leadership School in Dallas. in the district, which means it allows 100 bers, Josiah Carroll11, e-mailed me about (the 3. Carnegie Vanguard High School in Houston students per grade level to transfer in rankings),” superintendent Dr. Guy Sconzo 4. School of Science and Engineering Magnet from outside of the KPARK attendance said. “If it weren’t for him, I don’t know when in Dallas zone. I would have found out about it. I vividly re- 5. Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health This year with more than 1,700 stumember reading Josiah’s e-mail and thinking Professions in Houston dents, the maximum number of students 6. Westlake Academy in Westlake WOW and feeling so excited and proud! At 7. YES Prep North Central in Houston was reached and a waiting list of students the same time, I really was not at all surprised.” 8. Kingwood Park High School wanting to transfer was created. The The link to the article was posted on Face- 9. North Hills Preparatory in Irving amount of transfer students wishing to book, which got more than 6,000 shares, and 10. The Science Academy of South Texas in attend KPARK has gradually increased eventually reached associate principal Brian Mercedes every year, showing that the word of the 11. Eastwood Academy High School in Johnson via email. school is traveling around. “The opportunities, such as Day of Service, Houston Sconzo said maintaining that excellence that we offer here definitely make us unlike 12. IDEA Frontier College Preparatory in is on both the students and faculty each Brownsville other traditional schools, it’s the thing that 13. KIPP Houston High School in Houston year. makes us KPARK,” Johnson said. “The challenge is that as new students 14. YES Prep, Southwest Campus in Houston The Day of Service is a yearly event in which and new staff join the Kingwood Park freshmen and Panther Pals have the opportufamily, it will continue to be a literally evnity to leave the campus and serve the community. This year, eryday job of working at keeping everything the KPARK way,” students went to locations such as Camp Hope (a rehabilita- he said.
BRIEFLY SPEAKING
Journalist earns Superior rating at national convention
With classmates helping her, Heather Dezell11 stands on a ladder as she paints a picnic table that is propped on its side. Dezell, a Panther Pal, joined freshmen dens during the Day of Service at the Village Learning Center. Those helping her with the painting included Anna Elise Carroll9, Sarea Crouch9 and Rebecca Lewallen11. Photo by Amanda Haney.
At her first national convention, Joshlyn Thomas12 took home the highest honor. Thomas participated in the Review Writing competition at the JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention in Washington, D.C., in November. She was in a room packed with students from across the nation. They listed to a musician perform and then wrote a review of his songs within 45 minutes. Her review earned her a Superior rating and a medal. “I don’t like doing things on a competitive level but receiving that award helped me gain confidence on my writing,” Thomas said. “Hopefully, I can go on to become good enough to become a music writer.” At the state convention in San Antonio in October, Tori Gatling11 and Amber Dalton12 won honors for their photography. Dalton won a Superior rating for one of her images she captured during an on-site competition. Gatling earned an Excellent rating.
Robotics team caps fall season with first-place finish
Marisa Chapa9 paints a table during the Day of Service at The Village Learning Center. Photo by Amanda Haney.
Math teacher Michael Williams works with a saw while leading a den at Camp Hope for the Day of Service activities on Nov. 18. Williams’ group worked on cleaning up and fixing items around the facilities at Camp Hope. Photo by Orianne Elliott.
Skylar Williams9, Emily Willburn9 and Abbie Wolfe9 help out at the Humble Area Assistance Ministries during the day dedicated to service activities. HAAM provides food for those who need it. Photo by Kaetlyn Luna.
The district Robotics team won First Place Alliance at the Robot Remix hosted by World Champion Team Texas Torque on Nov. 8. More than 30 teams from across the country and Mexico competed. “Our 2014 robot, Gary (named after SpongeBob’s pet snail because it kind of looks like a snail), is a 100 lb remote controlled robot with the ability to catch a human thrown game ball, throw it to another robot, score in the low goal, and play defensive positions,” sponsor Kathleen Goerner said. Students involved in the robot competition included Nicholas McHenry12, Jacob Ary11, George Cerro10, Matt McNeely12, Cole Anderson11, Brendan Levine12, Brandon Liscano11 and Trae Floyd11. The new season will start in January when the team will be assigned the new rules and begin creating their robot for the upcoming year. Any interested students are encouraged to contact Goerner for more information.
PTSA announces campus award winners for Reflections
During the Day of Service, Dillan English9 picks up trash at Camp Hope. A number of freshmen dens participated in cleaning up the facilities around the center that helps those suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. “I feel like it was a very good experience and I’m very glad I got to help out,” English said. Photo by Orianne Elliott.
Three students had their PTSA Reflections entries advance to the Humble ISD Council of PTAs for the next level of judging. The 2014 theme was “The World Would Be a Better Place If.....” Sarah Bennett11 advanced for her Visual Arts entry entitled “Laughing.” Tori Gatling11 advanced in Photography for her photo “Taking Clean Water To The World.” She also advanced in the Literature category with a short story titled “Friends Make A Difference.” “I have done this every year,” Gatling said. “Last year, I advanced to State in literature and received an award of merit. I’m hoping to go to State again this year.” Rachel Clarke12 advanced in Photography for a photo called “Into the Sea.” December 2014
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HUMANS OF KPARK
Part III in a series that shares the stories of staff members and students.
The doctor Assistant principal Amy Wallace has no idea what’s next. For now, she is just going to enjoy having earned her doctorate degree in education. She is excited to see what the future holds. “I’m hoping to see what God does with [my degree], kind of be open to see what happens,” said Wallace, who was a counselor and a therapist prior to becoming an assistant principal. Trying to get a doctorate and maintain a home life as well as a job, proved to be a bit difficult. Wallace pulled through the three-year process with positivity and strength from her family and friends. Her love of school and education motivated her through the years. “At times, especially when you’re writing your dissertation, you just think ‘I’m never going to be finished with this’ or you know, ‘I’m not equipped to do this,” Wallace said.
“I’m actually a first generationcollege student for my family, so I was the first person in my family to even get a bachelor’s degree or go to college. I’m also a product of poverty, so just being able to get through that initially was a big step for me; and it’s just been something that I’ve always wanted to do to kind of prove it to myself.”
Wallace said she believes she is where she is meant to be, but having the degree is good if she should ever need it. She loves her job, her kids and what she does. “I tell my kids your education is something no one can take from you,” Wallace said. “People can steal from you, they can mistreat you but they can’t take that away. If I ever need it, it’s there.” - Rachel Dams
4 December 2014
The traveler Jaafar Abdulzahra , an Iraqian, is a laid-back kind of guy. Just a year ago Jaafar, his mom, and 28-year-old brother moved to Kingwood. Like most teenagers, Abdulzahra was not at all happy to move. But he had to because his mother wanted him to get a better education. “It’s different here, I miss my friends,” said Abdulzahra, who is shy when it comes to speaking English. To learn English, Jaafar listened to Eminem each chance he got. 11
“It’s a really easy language, I’m taking French now,” he said.
Abdulzahra isn’t a big fan of Texas because it’s too hot for his liking. He’d much rather stick with peace, quiet, relaxation and call it a day. As for the future Abdulzahra doesn’t know what he’d like to pursue. “I want to make money, but I don’t want to do anything” he said and then chuckled. - Hannah Harden
Contemporary dancer Kaylee Woest10 is a quiet high school student during the day, but at night she is a dedicated performer.
“I like how I can express myself to an audience without speaking because I hate speaking in front of people,” she said.
Fame seeker Marques Redman12 plans on going to a performing arts school so that he can study acting and improv. He then wants to move to London because he is fond of the culture. Redman has always wanted to be famous and make a change in the world, and acting is how he hopes to complete these goals. He said that he hopes to show those who belittled him that he is more than good enough and will achieve his goals. When he becomes
famous, he said he hopes to speak at schools to help students pull through what he described as the “tough years.” After attaining stardom, Redman plans to go to middle schools and high schools as a motivational speaker. He wants to tell kids, “Be who you are” and not to let others beat them down.
“Life gets better and high school is not the end,” Redman said.
- Rachel Dams
Woest enjoys contemporary-style dance best. Her competition team is called Kingwood Jazz and Company. She spends an average of 20 hours during the week at Rowland Ballard and 14 hours on Saturdays. Woest sacrifices social activities and her studying time to be a more successful dancer. She usually does her homework in the car. “I want to be a dancer when I grow up, but I plan on going to college as a back-up plan in case dancing doesn’t work out,” Woest said. - Krystal Hinojosa
What’s your style?
Going along with this year’s Humans of KPARK series, we decided to kick off the style section in the magazine with individual profiles of a few people we thought had a unique sense of personal fashion.
Victor Rodriguez12
Jermaine Oppong10
Q: How would you describe your style? A: I would describe my style as polished and ever-changing. Q: Where do you shop? A: My favorite stores at are Topman, Macy’s, Ralph Lauren, Asos and Uniqlo. Q: What inspires your sense of style? A: Music actually inspires my style a lot. Sometimes I’ll be listening to a cool rock song and I’ll feel like wearing a dark, monochromatic outfit. I also heard this quote from somewhere and it went something like, “If you are what you wear, then dress for what you want.” That’s kind of been my mantra for many of my clothing choices. Q: What is your “go-to” outfit? A: Probably something simple. A solid color t-shirt with dark on light washed jeans with some cool shoes. Or maybe a button down with shorts or jeans. Q: Who is your style icon? A: I have so many. The first would be Coco Chanel. She dared to change what fashion was in her time and she had great confidence in herself. I also really like James Dean. He had such a simple, iconic style. And Hubert de Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent. They always looked polished and sophisticated and I appreciate the effort to always look presentable. The Kennedy brothers were very preppy, but not in a grandfatherly way. Marc Jacobs is very daring in his choice of clothing and I have a fascination with people taking risks. There are a lot more but I think that’s a good list. Q: What is the most expensive item in your wardrobe? A: I recently just got a coat for a trip to New York City. That was a good chunk of change and now I have no use for it with this Texas weather. Many of my blazers were expensive. I also have these sunglasses that I got that were a bit ridiculously priced for sunglasses. Q: How has your style progressed over the years? A: My style became very preppy in the past few years. Right now I’m trying to grow up and refine the preppy aesthetic into something more sophisticated and urbane. Q: What is the most embarrassing item in your wardrobe? A: Oh God. . . my name tag for school. Q: What item do you by most of? A: I own 12 pairs of shoes but I don’t wear them equally. Q: If you could go back to any time period to live because of the style then, what would you choose and why? A: I wish I could go back to so many different time periods. I’d probably go back to anywhere between the ‘20s and ‘60s. Men’s fashion didn’t
Q: How would you describe your style? A: Suave Q: What inspires your sense of style? A: The music I listen to. I listen to a lot of rap music. Kyle is my favorite. Q: What is your “go-to” outfit choice? A: A nice Polo button up, swagged out John Lennon glasses, cuffed pants and loafers. Q: Who is your style icon? A: Myself and my friends Q: What is the most expensive item in your wardrobe? A: Hood by Air long sleeve sweatshirt. I paid $300. Q: How has your style progressed over the years? A: It keeps getting more creative. Q: What is the most embarrassing item in your wardrobe? A: Flood pants/high waters. Q: What item do you buy most of? A: I buy mostly shoes. Shoes are the best item in a outfit. Q: What time period inspires your sense of style most? A: ‘80s and ’90s Q: What is your advice to others who would like to adopt a similar style as you? A: Don’t copy us, make your own style. Q: What do you think the biggest style mistake is someone can make right now? A: Trying to cuff like us. Q: What is your favorite season to dress in and why? A: Winter, because of the jackets. Q: Are there any trends that you dislike right now? A: American Flag Chubbies. Q: Do you have favorite brands/designers? A: Polo. Q: How would you describe your closet? A: Unique, creative. - Anna Emerson
Katelyn Parker12 Q: How would you describe your style? A: Classy and simple Q: When do you pick out your outfit? A: I think about it the night before, in my mind I put it together, then in the morning I see if it works. Q: Where do you shop? A: Lucky Brand, Gap, J. Crew and Made Well Q: How has your style evolved over the years? A: It has changed so much. I didn’t know anything last year… It’s come a long way since freshman year. Q: How long does it take to get ready? A: 30-45 minutes Q: What’s the most embarrassing clothing item you own? A: The Sperry boots. Q: What time period do you base your clothing? A: Up to date. I travel a lot. - Bianca Brown
drastically change and people seemed to be very sophisticated in what they wore. Very elegant. Q: What is your advice to others who would like to adopt a similar style to you? A: I’d say to have confidence. It’s not about what you wear but how you feel. It’s always important to be presentable at any time. You never know what could happen or who could be there. I’d also say to Google a certain look and copy if you must until you get the confidence to put you own mark of your personality into what you wear. Q: What do you think is the biggest style mistake a person can make right now? A: A bootcut jean. Or an ostentatious logo on your clothes. Chubbies. Short shorts were in the ‘70s. There’s a reason they went out of style. - Amanda Haney
Melanie Hunt
ART TEACHER Q: Who inspires your wardrobe? A: Audrey Hepburn Q: How would you describe your style? A: Based on budget. I would dress much more stylish if I had more money. Q: When do you pick out your outfit? A: After my makeup is finished. I do my make up, then I pick out an outfit according to the way it looks. Q: Where do you shop? A: Dillards, Macy’s, Nordstrom and Marshalls. Q: How has your style evolved over the years? A: I used to dress like everyone else then I realized that those clothes weren’t me. I started buying clothes for my figure. Q: In what time period do you base your clothing? A: I roll with the style but represent the ‘80s. - Bianca Brown
December 2014
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As FFA grows, more animals being raised, leaders being developed FFA participants recently decorated their barn and opened it up to community members for their popular Santa’s Farm evening. By Rachel Dams Staff Reporter FFA continues to grow with a record number of 135 students this year. On Dec. 5, FFA students hosted their annual Santa’s Farm, where they decorate the FFA barns and open them to the public. FFA is not only about animals. There are many more aspects to the program that often go unnoticed. “We are first and foremost a leadership organization,” FFA sponsor Kevin McCarty said. “We do the same things STUCO does, we do the same things that AVID does. We’re a lot of those organizations warped together. We have speaking competitions that we do with these kids, we do judging competitions… where they can apply critical thinking skills and evaluations of some type of an agricultural commodity.” Many students do not know of the long lasting lessons taught within the FFA family. Though the students may struggle, they always have each other to rely on. “I used to be like really shy and when I joined FFA I thought I wasn’t going to get over my shyness and now, I mean I can’t get up in front of a large group of people, but with my FFA group it’s basically a family, so I can talk in front of them and stuff and I won’t get scared or anything,” said Brylie Wright12. This program does more than teach kids to care for animals; it shows them what it’s like to become a part of a community and to assume responsibility. For Breiana Jackson9, her parents work hard to help make sure she can afford to raise her pig. “Mom has two jobs and Dad has a manufacturing job,” Jackson said. “They work hard because even though it’s my pig, it’s our project.” For some kids, it gives them a companion who is always by their side. “[My goat named Cheese] follows me around like a dog,” Jayce Green9
6 December 2014
Santa’s Farm has become an annual tradition for the FFA students at Kingwood High School and Kingwood Park. On Dec. 5, the students opened their barns up to the public and had treats. The animal stalls were decorated for Christmas and had lights strewn throughout the stalls. Photo by Orianne Elliott.
said. “I don’t need a leash to walk him; if I stop, he stops. It’s fun to have an animal that you get to take care of.” For others, it is an activity; one that they enjoy doing but don’t always get too attached. “For many people it is [difficult to get rid of animals],” Jamie Wade12 said. “I don’t really get attached to my animals because most of the time we only have them for four months and I usually have more than one animal at a time. So I’m so focused on everything I own that I don’t really get too attached to one animal.” There are challenges, but the kids pull through together. “It’s pretty difficult on my school work because during shows we miss a whole week of school,” Wright said. “I have to go back to school and get a whole week’s worth of work and so it’s very time consuming.”
While the animals were pretty oblivious to the action, students welcomed community members to their barns. (Left) Jacob Fisher10 and Emily Neff11 hang out under the Christmas lights with Gibby, the goat Neff is raising.
iShattered
Behind every cracked cell phone screen is a unique story.
The phone that won’t die “Basically, the front of the screen completely cracked at Texas Roadhouse when I dropped it on the floor two months ago. I had taken the case off because I didn’t like it. The home button popped up when I later dropped it down a flight of stairs. We had Fields of Faith at Turner Stadium in October. I was with my church group and it slipped out of my hand and dropped step by step by step down all of the stairs in the stands. It just slipped. Now, the back is all cracked too. I have no idea what happened. I put it in the OtterBox case and I dropped it. But I never knew it was cracked until I looked through the back of the case and saw the Apple looked especially shiny. I took the case off and was surprised when it was broken too. I duct taped the home button so it’s attached now. I change the colors often. And amazingly, the phone still works after all of this.” Elisabeth Barkley12
p ter disas school tri msy p i r t u a l l c Schoo Philly on as being e 400
s in .Iw it lik “I wa I was 13 ropped ped it, d p when ay. I had ime I dro e.’ And n t d that The last e, it is do en I . d . s Th u e ’ . tim said, ‘D t’s fine done i itely ff , d n o i fi k N e ‘ a d , ped o was s like I wa it up. It ter, I jum fell out a d e l picke months my phon round I g A few case and d hit the it up, I ir d n e a a t k t s a ke pic 9 y poc re I even m ove f D o o b f e e ” l . b it Ca knew hattered s e v a h
Staircase folly “It was the day after my first practice and my legs were sore. I was going up the stairs when I tripped on the last step. Of course, my phone was in my hand so I crushed it when I tried to break my fall.” Kayley Plair9
Water never helps “So it fell off a table in the football locker room during fifth period and it cracked. Then water fell on it; it doesn’t work anymore. I’m going to get it fixed since I’ve only had it about two months. Sometimes the screen changes colors because of the water damage. But it doesn’t work at all.” Gabriel Rybinski10
Bad Luck “While I was watching TV, my mom attempted to throw me my phone because I was too lazy to get up and get it. She missed and ended up throwing it at a wall, shattering it.” Chris Luck10
Oops, I did it again
“I literally took my phone case off for five seconds and I dropped it face down on the hardwood floor in my house and it shattered. I have bad luck when it comes to phones. Kaetlyn Luna10
December 2014
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POP SHOW On Friday and Saturday night, the choir will perform their Pop Show in the Auditorium at 7 p.m. ACT ONE We Need a Little Christmas - Everyone Under the Mistletoe - Breiana Jackson (Friday) White Christmas - Josella Lane (Saturday) Skinny Love - Marissa Cano (both) You and I - Eva Cornell (Friday) Open Up the Heavens - Emily Folse (Saturday) Eva Cornell12 sings during fifth period choir. The students were preparing for the Pop Show, which will take place tonight and tomorrow night in the Auditorium. Photo by Orianne Elliott.
Little Saint Nick - Men
Senior songstress spreads her wings
Hometown Glory - Maggie Mueller (both)
To Make You Feel My Love - Karah Womack (both) Almost Lover - Jada Inman (Friday) Die Alone - Avery & Nina Arntsen It’s Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas - Cantare/ Bel Canto Women
By Joshlyn Thomas Staff Reporter
“She also knows her strengths as a singer. I think she is working to expand her confidence - singing in front of others. I don’t care what anyone says, singing in front of As an employee at Taco Bell, she has been deemed by your friends is the most difficult thing you can do.” her friends as “The Burrito Whisperer.” She is a self proCornell admitted she does get a little stage fright. claimed pun master with dreams of that skill someday “I do get nervous but it all goes away when I start singhelping her become a cast member of Saturday Night ing,” said Cornell. “Much like Beyoncé, I have a stage Live, and her talents don’t stop there. persona like Sasha Fierce.” Senior Eva Cornell’s singing voice makes In tonight’s big Pop Show in the her a triple threat, as she is Soprano 1 in Performing Arts Center, Corthe varsity women’s choir, ARIOSO. nell will perform with her friend “I’ve been in choir since 5th grade. But Summer Smith, who call’s CorI’ve been singing forever,” said Cornell nell “a colorful character.” while putting her hand over heart. The duo will be performing Choir director Benjamin Fahnders has the Christmas classic, “I Want a been teaching Cornell for two and a half Hippopotamus For Christmas” years and describes her as “hilarious and while wearing hippo costumes. very dedicated.” “When we tried out for Pop “Eva has a marvelous, rich tone,” said Show, Mr. Fahnders gave us a Fahnders. “She also knows her strengths standing ovation,” said Smith. as a singer, and picks repertoire for her Cornell and Smith are seniors own voice very well.” this year and they will be very Cornell describes her singing style as missed by their fellow choral “soft” and cites Ingrid Michaelson as one friends. of her many musical influences. “We have an awesome choir “My voice is kind of like me, if that because of students like Eva,” - choir director Benjamin Fahnders makes sense,” said Cornell. Fahnders said. “She is always She is an avid music lover, who loves lispushing herself to be better, and tening to Bastille, All Time Low, Fall Out Boy, My Chem- as a result the organization benefits She will certainly be ical Romance, Queen, and McFly (to name a few). Her missed when she graduates.” diverse taste in music has helped her pick songs that norCornell plans to become a counselor, news anchor, psymally wouldn’t be part of the typical choral performance. chiatrist or cast member on SNL after college. Many people, including her choir director, admire her To any students who wanted to be in choir or any of for being a bit off-the-wall with her song choices. the other fine arts, Cornell says they should follow their “As a performer, I would describe Eva as bold,” Fahn- dreams too. ders said. “She always picks music that is a little removed “Do you what you want to do,” said Cornell. “Don’t from the mainstream but sounds wonderful. It takes guts do something just because your friends are. Just enjoy to not pick a crazy popular song. yourself.”
“We have an awesome choir because of students like Eva. She is always pushing herself to be better, and as a result the organization benefits.”
8 December 2014
Carols - Madrigal Singers I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas - Eva Cornell/ Summer Smith (both) Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Silver Bells Baby, It’s Cold Outside - Lexi Clidienst/Jacob McMaster (both) Stuck Like Glue - Kristen Meaux (Friday) Wait For Me - Emma Hardy (Saturday) White Winter Hymnal - Rhiannon O’Brien/Julia Rivera/Helena Vassiliades (both) Nutcracker Jingles- ARIOSO ACT TWO Radioactive - Everyone (soloist TBD) Feelin’ Good - Victoria Becker (Friday) Riptide - Helena Vassiliades (Saturday) Then - Nathanael Wilkinson (Friday) Do You Hear What I Hear? - Kayla Conley (Saturday) Grown Up Christmas List - Silver Bells (soloist TBD) Chanukah song - Katlin Stanley (both) So This Love - Laura Walker (Friday) Not About Angels - Stephanie Carnes (Saturday) Royals - ARIOSO Flowers in Your Hair - Lynn Brandon (Friday) Please Come Home For Christmas - Austin Havis (Saturday) Silent Night - All women Senior Slideshow Somewhere in My Memory - Everyone
The year was packed with new artists making their way into the mainstream music scene. This is a breakdown of when these popular songs first hit the airwaves.
Jade Pelligrin12 showcases a few of her favorite vinyl records from her collection. Vinyl is making a comeback with many young music collectors. Photo by Joshlyn Thomas.
Vinyl making quiet comeback By Joshlyn Thomas Staff Reporter Since the advent of digital downloads and having access to millions of songs at their fingertips, people sometimes take the luxury of being able to have all their favorite songs in a solitary place for granted. Some would argue that the sound of the subtle crackle of a needle being placed on a revolving 12-inch wax disk before the music starts is unparalleled. In recent years, vinyl records are making a strong comeback. Records aren’t just for seniors over 60 but seniors in high school, as more young listeners are trading the MP3 for the LP. Jade Pellegrin12 has been collecting records since her freshman year after being “interested her whole life.” She listens to music digitally, as well as on CDs and cassettes. She says that vinyl is “underappreciated” and often times it is forgotten that it paved the way for advancements in audio technology. Among her collection, Pellegrin shared that some of her favorites include the Grease soundtrack, Soft Cell’s Tainted Love, and Corey Hart’s 1984 single “Sunglasses at Night.” She even has Barbra Streisand’s 1969 release What About Today?, which according to Pellegrin “plays like it’s brand new” after buying it at an antique shop. Ruairi O’Brien12 has been a collector since his junior year after buying his first record Obsidian by Baths. His growing collection spawned from his love for making music
of his own in his project, ODAE (listen on soundcloud.com/odae, ruairiobrien.bandcamp.com). “I wanted a turntable to make samples for my music production,” O’Brien said. “I ended up getting a lot of records.” O’Brien’s record collection is the convergence of analogue and digital meeting each other in his music, as he orders his LPs online with the exception of the latest addition to his assemblage, CLPPNG by Clipping. One of his favorite O’BRIEN is Feels by Animal Collective. “I got that one signed by Panda Bear [founding member of Animal Collective] when I saw him at Fitzgerald’s,” O’Brien said. He revealed that some of the records he would like to add to his growing collection are Body Riddle by Clark and Government Plates by Death Grips, which was released on Record Day last April. He admits that listening to music on his computer is more convenient. O’Brien said listening to music on vinyl isn’t really about the improved quality of sound many audiophiles crave. “It’s not a matter of it sounding better,” O’Brien said. “I just like the presence of a physical thing, having something to hold in your hands. It feels a bit more direct to listen to music on vinyl because of the analogue nature of it, but that’s just me.” December 2014
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Leonard’s lighthearted approach lifts his game, his team By John Carl Boudreaux Special Contributor Marshall Leonard11 is not only the number one player on the golf team, he’s also looked upon as a leader by his teammates. “He’s a real leader, knows how to pump us up and keep us chill,” said Trae Martinez10. Leonard started playing golf when he was 3 after his dad gave him a set of Snoopy children’s golf clubs. It all just escalated from there. “My dad worked at golf courses and I kind of just grew up around it,” Leonard said. Leonard said his commitment to the game comes from the feeling of knowing that he can always come back and get better. He’s on the range every day trying to improve. “Golf just kind of took over, it became what I wanted to do every day,” Leonard said. Leonard is always lifting the spirits of teammates. People like to be around him. “He keeps it light and helps the kids see that golf is not as serious as you make it out to be sometimes,” said coach Angela Chancellor. Leonard hopes to one day play college golf and possibly turn pro. “I’d say the main goal would to play it in the future, but I’m going to have fun while doing it,” said Leonard.
With his junior season underway, Marshall Leonard11 is ready to lead the Panthers as the top boys golfer. Leonard started playing golf when he was 3 years old and hopes to play professionally when he’s older. Photo by John Carl Boudreaux.
Top-ranked girls team ready for challenge By Kylee Wing Special Contributor
Tori Gatling11 tees off at the fourth hole during a nine-hole scramble at Oakhurst Golf Course in November. The girls and boys teams practice together on the course three times a week. Gatling is currently ranked No. 23 in the state for girls. Hanna Alberto11 is ranked No. 5, Ariana Saenz10 is ranked No. 12 and Lexi Brooks12 is No. 27. The girls team overall is ranked No. 1 in the 5-A. Photo by Kylee Wing.
10 December 2014
Golf coach Angela Chancellor has always known golf was difficult, which made her appreciate it and want to help young golfers. Now it is finally paying off. The girls team has reached the State tournament twice, and they are currently ranked No. 1 in 5-A. “Golf was the hardest thing I ever tried to do,” Chancellor said. “I really had to work at it. A professional golfer took a little extra time and mentored me, and now I just want to give that back to someone.” Chancellor is very positive and motivational. She has taught her golfers many things that can help them beyond even the golf course. “She taught me it’s not always easy working with the people you have to work with because you won’t always get along,” Tori Gatling11 said. “She teaches you to overcome the adversity you’re faced with.” The golf team has a goal to go to the state championships this year. To do this, they practice three days a week on the course and one day to work out at school. That does not count the time golfers put in on their own. “I want to break 80 at a tournament by practicing around the clock to better improve
Before a practice at Oakhurst Golf Course, Trae Martinez10 draws a name from coach Angela Chancellor. The girls and boys were about to play a nine-hole scramble. Photo by Ashley Villagomez.
my game,” said Trae Martinez10, one of the varsity boy golfers. The boys and girls bond during practice and team dinners. They also spend time practicing together on their own. Every year the team is different, and this year’s team is very hard working. The girls are consistent with their scores and are ranked No. 1 in State. The boys have improved as a team about 20 shots from last year. “It’s great to have that ranking, but it only matters after the State championships,” Chancellor said.
Crowe goes his own way
Senior swimmer looks to finish strong as team eyes shot at State title. Along the way, he will find a little fun too. By Kat Smith Staff Contributor
Swimmer Matt Crowe11 has an intriguing way about him that catches your attention. Maybe it’s the way he tells his stories or maybe it’s the way he acts. “He’s a force of nature,” Tate Stevens9 said. Crowe doesn’t do things for attention, he does it for the sake of being Matt Crowe. He is always looking for the next person to mess with. One of Crowe’s stories is from last year, he wore plaid PJ pants for a whole month. He did it to be comfortable not to attract attention. “[When you get caught] why do people ask ‘what were you thinking?’” he said. “Obviously I was thinking I was going to get away with it and not have to explain it.” Crowe also said he skipped part of school for a whole month freshman year before anyone noticed. “I’d walk home or walk around school,” he said. “I’d get out of the school by saying I needed to go to my
Matt Crowe12 has excelled on the swim team while also finding time for fun. He plans to swim at Wayland Baptist University next year. The boys team is ranked among the top teams in the State and hopes to win another State title this year. Photo by Sarah Martell.
car, and they believed me.” Crowe has been swimming for 12 years and plans on swimming through college at Wayland Baptist University. His affinity for swimming depends on the mood of the coach, and his favorite person on the swim team here is Sam Poulin. “I played baseball when I was younger but I was always that kid in the outfield chasing dragonflies,
I haven’t done much other than swim,” Crowe said. Crowe’s younger sister Sarah10 is on the swim team and often hangs out with her brother. They share the same friends, and she said it’s never dull at home because she’s always making sure he doesn’t get into trouble. “He’s a lovable kid, he just requires a lot more attention,” Sarah Crowe said.
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Wrestlers ready for senior seasons Years wrestling: 4 Other Activities: ROTC Goal for this season: Win state, region and district Biggest fear for this season: Injuries Krystal Rowell mainly knees College attending: Lyon College Dream Job: Marine and Physical Therapy with a side of massage therapy to fall back on Dream place to live: Country
Years wrestling: 3 Other Activities: ROTC , used to play football Goal for this season: Go to state Biggest fear for this Sullivan Tarrant season: Injuries College attending: A&M College Station hopefully Dream Job: Air Force Pilot Dream place to live: Jamaican Islands
Years wrestling: 5 years combined Year wrestling for KPARK: First year Goal for this season: Make it to reginal College attending: Nathan Kerscher None. Joining the Marines Dream Job: Infantry Dream place to live: Bahamas
Years wrestling: 4 Other Activities: Social Club, Best Buddies and basketball Goal for this season: Passing my classes Biggest fear for this Justin Patton season: Leaving my friends College attending: Lone Star Dream Job: Being a coach Dream place to live: A mansion
Girls look to improve, reach playoffs By Sydney Woodward Staff Reporter
The basketball season is well underway with girls’ coach LeighAnn Wolfe leading the program for the first year. Wolfe coached junior varsity basketball and was an assistant varsity softball coach at Kingwood High School before moving to KPARK. “She’s a really good coach,” point guard Gabrielle Alvarez12 said. “She’s really aggressive but always has a bright side to every situation.” The season started off with the team winning their season open against Magnolia West on Nov. 11. In the Toast of The Coast Tournament, the team finished with a record of 2-2. Five of the 11 girls returned from last year’s team. The team has three starters back from last year’s squad.
12 December 2014
Boys Basketball home games Dec. 15 - vs. Dalton Jan. 2 - vs. Porter Jan. 9 - vs. Barbers Hill Jan. 13 - vs. Humble Jan. 23 - vs. Crosby Jan. 30 - vs. New Caney Girls Basketball home games Dec. 13 - vs. Crosby Dec. 19 - vs. New Caney Jan. 2 - vs. CE King Jan. 16 - vs. Galena Park Jan. 27 - vs. Dayton Feb. 3 - vs. Porter Wrestling Dec. 13 - Park Quad (Kingwood, Huntsville, Willis) Dec. 19 - Humble ISD Duals @Summer Creek Jan. 2/3 - Cy-Fair Classic (@ The Berry Center) Jan. 7 - @ Huntsville Jan. 10 - @George Ranch Classic Jan. 14 - vs Houston Jeff Davis Jan. 16/17 - @ Hurricane Classic Jan. 21 - @ Humble Jan. 28 - @ Bryan Quad (vs Bryan, Rudder, Humble)
“Most people think we are just inexperienced kids playing basketball but really we are a strong team,” shooting guard Awa McCarter12 said. “We get underestimated a lot, but I truly believe that we are strong.” The girls are working hard this season to bring the team closer together. “We hope to come together as a team and eventually advance to playoffs,” said Wolfe, who played basketball at Southwestern University. The team plays Crosby at home tonight at 7:30 p.m. It is Teacher Appreciation Night. “We are really working hard and really have come together this season,” shooting guard Tavia Marshall12 said. “I want to help my team as much as possible and finish the season off like I actually Gabrielle Alvarez12 looks to pass as an Humble defender closes in on her. The contributed something to the team.” Panthers fell to their district rivals, 38-27, on Dec. 2. Photo by Kaetlyn Luna.
Shooting guard Seth Mattson12 drives baseline in an 42-38 victory against Katy on Nov. 18. Photo by Danny Pineda.
Young team carries high expectations By Chris Luck Special Contributor This season could turn out to be somewhat of a rebuilding one for the young boys basketball team, according to coach Justin Burleson. But that doesn’t stop them from going into this season confident. “I think we’ve got a chance to be pretty solid,” Burleson said. “We are a little young, so early on we have to grow up; but I think overall we have a chance to be pretty good.” If anybody knows what is good it is the third year coach of the Panthers, who has not missed the playoffs since being named head coach in 2012. “I have a good relationship with the coaches, they make us work hard, and push us in everything we do,” shooting guard Colton Killian10 said. This season’s schedule will be a challenge as the Panthers face off against teams like C.E King, Crosby
and New Caney, which are all predicted to make it to the playoffs. “It’s always fun,” Burleson said of the difficult schedule. “Our district is going to be really hard, but it’s fun to play teams that are always competitive. We try to schedule non-district games and tournaments in order to get us prepared for the games that matter, which are the district games.” Michael Maraffa12 said he knows the new 5-A alignment is competitive, yet he has no doubt that by the end of the season the varsity basketball team will be ready for playoffs. He is counting on support from the student section to be cheering the team on at every game. “We play better when more students are on our side,” said Maraffa, who leads the team with 24 assists and is also ranked third on the team in scoring and fourth in rebounds. “It is more fun to play too.” * Ariana Purcell contributed to this story.
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Guard Ethan Powell drives into the paint against a Katy defender on Nov. 18. The Panthers won 42-38. The team’s next home game is Dec. 15 against Dalton. Photo by Danny Pineda.
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EDITOR’S CORNER — ORIANNE ELLIOTT
Honor thy selfie, honor thy self
When you’re at Starbucks and you order your first red cup Caramel Brulee of the season, what do you do? Take a selfie. When you’re in front of the one and only White House, what do you do? Take a selfie. No matter where you are, selfies are always available and ready to be taken. It only takes about five seconds to whip out your phone, pout those lips and snap a picture. This is often followed by the what I like to call post-selfie: an incredibly blurry and unflattering picture of your chin(s) and/or feet. Now, your selfie may be completely different to that description. It may even not include your face. But whatever it may be, every single one of them is important. Many people overlook selfies, call people who take them “narcissistic” or “annoying.” But little do they know, selfies are revolutionary. As of December 2014, there have been more than 195 million pictures uploaded with the hashtag #selfie onto Instagram, and that’s not counting the photos that went untagged. That’s 195 million photos of people who thought “I look pretty nice today” and were confident enough to show the world. All of those pictures may mean nothing to you, but for the person who uploaded it, it could mean absolutely everything. There’s so much work behind a selfie that goes unnoticed.I don’t know about you, but when I take a selfie, I don’t just take one. I take about 50. I then go through every single one of them until I find the perfect shot; it may not be much different to the others, but that one piece of hair
that moved about an inch makes all the difference to me. Now you know, behind that selfie on Instagram was an entire mini photoshoot held in my very own room. This is why selfies are so important. Whether it’s a duckface or a suggestive close up, posting a selfie is a way of shouting to the world “I KNOW THAT I LOOK PRETTY AND I’M BLESSING YOUR EYES WITH THIS IMAGE OF MY BEAUTIFUL FACE.” What else is better than self confidence? Why should people be put down for thinking that they look nice? You can’t tell yourself that getting 100 likes on a selfie on Instagram isn’t fulfilling in any way. I know when I get a lot of likes on a selfie, I’m pretty chuffed with myself. By liking that-one-girl-you-talked-to-forlike-5-seconds’ selfie on Facebook, it may give her the little push of confidence that she needs; one little thumbs up has so much power. The art of the selfie is one that should be handled with care. If people keep calling the person behind (and in front) of the camera vain, eventually they will stop taking selfies and they will join in the name calling. This vicious circle of hate is one not to be played with. As it makes its way around, we will be selfieless; the only posts on your Facebook feed will be those annoying pages you liked in seventh grade and depressing song lyrics. None of us want that. So you go and take that selfie and post it on every social networking site possible. Take that selfie and rub your confidence in the haters’ faces. Nothing is more empowering than feeling good about yourself.
Allow your personal style to showcase personality By Amanda Haney Special Contributor Personal style is one of the most prominent forms of self-expression. How you present yourself on the surface may not be nearly as important as your character, but it certainly dictates your first impression. We don’t get the opportunity to build personal relationships with every person we pass in the hallway, so first impressions are often times all most people are left with. It is important that we portray ourselves in a positive way and that we allow ourselves to build a positive self-image of ourselves that is obvious to other people. This is not to say that there are specific acceptable fashion guidelines or any set image that we should model ourselves after. In fact,
it’s just the opposite. It is most important to dress in whatever makes you feel most confident, because all trends and impressions aside, style is absolutely personal. You should always dress for yourself. If you feel best in a killer pair of heels, you should wear them. If you love the way you feel in a great pair of flats, you should rock them. If you love the way you feel in a great pair of sweatpants, wear them. The most important thing to remember when getting dressed in the morning is to never dress for other people. This is an impossible feat because people can tell when you feel uncomfortable in an outfit, but most importantly, dressing for other people gives you a lower sense of self-image. Your style is a tool to bring out the best version of who you are on the inside. Use it wisely!
Make halls PDA-free By Amber Dalton Staff Reporter As I walk down the hallways, couples are everywhere. Couples standing against the walls or in the outcoves of the stairs hiding from teachers. They hug with their arms wrapped around each others’ waists, looking at each other as if they are and won’t see each other for a few months. Hello, you will see each other next period. When it becomes impossible to walk from one class to another without seeing at least two make-out sessions, we have a problem. I understand that you deeply care for each other and want to show your affection for each other. You do not, however, need to show it in the halls at school. Hold hands or just give the quick hug and release. There are plenty of other hours in the day. It can wait. We are in high school. It’s a time of our lives where we want to have fun and have an amazing relationship like in the movies. Others don’t want to see it though. Just be courteous and save it for later.
KP T I M ES
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Kaetlyn Luna, Amanda Haney, Sarah Martell, Hannah Harden, Krystal Hinojosa, Wahid Hakeem, Bianca Brown, Anna Emerson, John Carl Boudreaux, Kylee Wing, Kat Smith, Chris Luck, Ariana Purcell. ADVISER: Megan Ortiz PRINCIPAL: Lisa Drabing ON THE COVER: Bruce Yeager9 hauls boxes of food for HAAM during the Day of Service activities on Nov. 18. Photo by Kaetlyn Luna.
Kingwood Park High School 4015 Woodland Hills Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 281.641.6600 December 2014 Issue 3, Vol. 2
STAFF Orianne Elliott, Editor Sydney Woodward Amber Dalton Rachel Dams Joshlyn Thomas KP Times serves as a public forum for Kingwood Park High School and is distributed free to all students and staff.
December 2014
15
K-Park
THIS IS
not your typical class.
Be in control of how much you do. and gain college
Earn an academic letter jacket,
scholarship notice.
and Become a sports reporter, photographer or graphic designer, and get your work published in the award-winning newspaper & yearbook & online.
PUBLICATIONS
Work, play, TRAVEL. Be a part of a
student-run program.
Going Places
Students move out of their seats and beyond their classroom to cover what’s going on at K-Park as well as in our community. National and world events will be covered as they impact our lives. The students have already traveled to conventions in San Antonio and Washington, D.C. The sessions and competitions outside of school provide invaluable lessons and fun.
Awards
KP TIMES
Issue 2, Vol. 2 s October 2014 Kingwood Park High School s 4015 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood, TX 77339
Graduation is moved to an arena much closer to home, page 2.
Best Buddies knows how to throw a Halloween party, page 6.
Tennis and cross country have won District titles. Each look to conquer Regionals next, page 10.
Arguably the most haunted site in the nation, the Alamo sits in the heart of San Antonio. More than 1,000 people are buried on the property and many others died there. Photo by Orianne Elliott.
Newspaper Yearbook write design web photo edit social create audio video
Contact
ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK Texas has a rich history of haunted stories. The Alamo is full of them and so are spots much closer to home, pages 4-5.
Megan Ortiz, adviser megan.ortiz@humble.k12.tx.us 281-641-6696
LOVE SPORTS? NEW Sports Journalism class beginning! Email Mrs. Ortiz to make sure your name is added to the class. Limited spots available!!
Courses Be in on all the action and help create history by joining the journalism department! l In Journalism/Photojournalism you’ll learn what it takes to write award-winning news, feature and sports stories. Every article you write will be submitted for possible inclusion in the newspaper and yearbook. Also, photograph school events, pep rallies and classes as you learn the skills needed to work digital SLR cameras. l NEW CLASS! In *Sports Journalism, you will learn the ins and outs of being a sports journalist. Be on the sidelines writing, tweeting, taking photos and creating videos about all the action. l Successful completion of either intro course opens the door for you to apply to either the newspaper, yearbook, photo staff or web staff the following year.
Students will have opportunities to submit their published stories, photos and designs for a number of state and national competitions. Scholarship opportunities often accompany the awards. Students will also participate in on-site competitions at state and national conventions as well.
Meeting People
In journalism you’ll meet everyone from sports team captains and student council members to artists and those in bands. You’ll be the first to find out what’s going on in our school and get to interview the powers behind the decisions that affect all our lives. You’ll also have the chance to meet and talk with famous people. Who knows where this will all lead you?
Skills
If you’re into writing or designing, there’s a place for you. Want to be a sports reporter or a movie reviewer? There’s a place for you. If you’re into photography or want to work in business advertising, there’s a place for you. Learn skills that matter now and help later.
Tori Gatling11 works to prepare her photos for a competition during the state conference in San Antonio in October. She earned an Excellent rating in the competition.