Orianne Elliott Portfolio 2015 by KP Times

ELLIOTT PORTFOLIO 2015

orianne.elliott@gmail.com | 832-493-9947 | 5711 Redwood River Dr. Kingwood, TX

Dear Mrs. Lynne, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m excited to be writing to you to apply for the photo and writing internship advertised at Nylon, specicallly on the website. After reading the feature on Haim, which happened to be one of my favourite bands, I was sold. My attention was immediately pulled towar4ds Nylon magazine, specifically the music side, as I was able to read about my favourite musicians as well as discover newly found artists. I have been editor-in-chief of the KPTimes at Kingwood Park High School for two years running, and I could apply the mounds of information I have learned through having that position well at a publication like Nylon. After being in journalism for seven years, and being on staff for three I have been able to interview and shoot countless people, including Disney star Allie Deberry, which later landed me a first place award in the journalism state competition for entertainment writing. The skills I have been able to acquire through the KPTimes, specifically writing and photography , would fit perfectly in Nylon magazine, and it would be a pleasure to work with a top orgaanization like yours. Yours sincerely, Orianne Elliott

orianne.elliott@gmail.com | 832-493-9947 | 5711 Redwood River Dr. Kingwood, TX

Education • Completed four years at Kingwood Park High School • Graduation date: May 23, 2015 • Relevant high school studies: AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature, Advanced Foreign LanguageAmerican Sign Language, Advanced Journalism- Newsmagazine 2012-2015 Awards, Honors, and Memberships • • • • • •

Interscholastic League of Press Conference 2015 First place in Entertainment Feature writing Second place in Opinion Writing portfolio Honorable mention for Personal Column Honorable mention for In-Depth News/Feature package Tops in Texas for Print Newspaper Entertainment Feature

Kingwood Park • Journalism @ honors night ?? • Photographer of the year 2015 Memberships • Quill and Scroll - International Honor Society for High School Journalists Experience • • • •

Intro to Journalism class 2011 Newsmagazine staff 2012-2015, Editor-in-chief 2013-2015 Attended TAJE Fall Fiesta conference Attended NSPA National High school journalism convention

SELF EVALUATION

I was first introduced into the world of journalism in 6th grade. I had to pick two electives, and I had one spare so I decided to try something new. Little did I know, I would be on yearbook staff the next two years and on the newsmagazine staff in high school. I have to credit a lot of my interest in the subject to a teacher who is very dear to me, Brianne Gonzales. She is the person who kept pushing me to achieve more in the years she taught me. Being in newsmagazine especially this year has taught me an incredible amount of things. I have been able to stretch out of my comfort zone and improve my writing skills drastically. By writing a sports story and another over a Disney star, I was able to venture out and write about things I had never previously thought I would. Through magazine and helping with yearbook, I have also been able to practice and improve on my photography skills. The only sports I had previously shot were swim, softball, and basketball. But, by once again venturing out over my comfort level, I have had the opportunity to shoot many football games, pep rallys, and countless other events. Newsmagazine is one of the most, if not the most, valuable class I have taken in high school. Being able to work alongside a previous Houston Chronicle staff member, Megan Ortiz, is an irreplacable experience which will definitely work to benefit me in my future. Getting to work on design, photography, and writing, has given me a head start into college and future job opportunities. The most valuable thing I have learned through this course is the importance of interviews. In previous years, I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really like to talk to strangers about anything let alone personal topics, but over the course of this year I have come to enjoy learning about other people and seeing behind what they show at school. The awardness of interviews, atleast on my behalf, is no longer present. Getting people to open up to you is a hard task, but it is one that is enjoyable. I hope to be able to use everything I have learned in newsmagazine over the years in jobs in the future.

REFLECTION #1

My most significant piece of work that was published this year was definitely the article I wrote over Disney star Allie Deberry. After getting the idea to feature a “Where are they now” kind of spread, we searched for past panthers who are now off to bigger and better things. We discovered Allie Deberry, who set out to become an actress and achieved her goal by starring on Disney’s A.N.T. Farm, and found she was a perfect candidate. The most difficult part of writing the article was not the actual writing, but interviewing Deberry and her mother. Since Allie is an actress, she travels a lot and at the time she happened to be in Jamaica working on a Disney cruise. Her mother, however, was available and I was able to interview her before I interviewed Deberry. But after Deberry arrived, I was able to interview her and later meet and shoot her at a meet-and-greet premiere of a new movie she starred in. After getting both of the interviews, the story just kind of falled in place itself. I did have some troubles transitioning to and from certain things, but aside from that it was overall an easier article to write. I think this is my most significant peice of work because it was such an interesting topic to write about. Getting to write about someone famous who went to the same school as you shows the endless possibilities of what can result from high school. This article did win me first place at state in entertainment writing, and I made it into Tops in Texas. Achieving both of those places definitely influenced my decision in choosing my best work. Getting recognition from and organization like UIL is a great accomplishment in my eyes. which definitely sets in stone which article is my best from this year. The answers Deberry gave me from her interview made the article what it is. Without her an her mothers cooperation it would not have the spunk it has, and I don’t think it would have recieved all of the recognition it did. Allie Deberry, a former student at Kingwood Park, takes a selfie using the duckface with A.N.T. Farm fans at the premiere of The Adventures of Peppa and Paula. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

Allie Deberry poses for a photo with fans Amy Fennie and Erika Uhrenholdt12 at the premiere of her new movie The Adventures of Peppa and Paula at the Deerbrook Mall. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

Former student rises to fame N

Story by Orianne Elliott s Editor-in-Chief

ot long ago, Allie Deberry was lining up for movie dates with her “I get followed around a lot which is OK except when fans follow me into friends. Now, her friends are lining up to see Deberry on the big the bathroom,” Deberry said. “I don’t especially like that.” screen. The former panther has starred in countless productions She is active on both Instagram and a verified Twitter account. They each since the age of 4, including the Disney show A.N.T. Farm. have more than 135,000 followers. Deberry does not like to consider herself Deberry joined the A.N.T. Farm cast in 2011, her last year at KPARK. a celebrity but accepts the compliment with grace because it shows her work Having to balance both her acting and high school career simultaneously, is well known. she left to be home schooled on set and managed to graduate a year earlier On Jan. 15, Deberry hosted a meet and greet at AMC Deerbrook movie than planned. theater for one of her latest movies The Adventures of Peppa and Paula. “Leaving KP early was something I hated to do, but I felt like it was necThere she took pictures with fans and met up with family and friends. essary for me personally,” Deberry said. “It’s amazing that people are so supportive of me and After auditioning for Disney once before and not want to come and see what I’ve been hard at work on,” landing any roles, Deberry felt discouraged. But not long Deberry said. after, she scored the role on A.N.T. Farm and was on the Deberry also attended the premiere of a new faithcast for all three seasons. based film, Pass the Light, at Carmike Theatres on Feb. 7. “We all got very close being together for three years,” “It was wonderful seeing her film and achieve a long Deberry said of the A.N.T. Farm cast. “I remember ridtime dream,” Cindy Deberry said. “I do not feel it has ing bikes around the Disney lot and hanging out with changed her but helped her in her acting craft and other Disney kids.” allowed her to meet many new people and have new Deberry started modeling at age 4, doing commercials opportunities.” for stores and restaurants such as Dillard’s and RainforIn addition to visiting home and taking vacations with est Café. Her mother Cindy Deberry encouraged her to family, Deberry has had the opportunity to travel around be in front of the camera after being such an outgoing the world and meet well known actors. While acting and child. traveling abroad she has also been working towards a “Growing up she’d always have me take pictures of her degree online through the University of Houston. She is and act out scenes from television shows she had been interested in the communications and marketing field. watching,” Cindy Deberry said. “I guess I saw her eager“Often times I will work all day or all night then leave -Allie Deberry ness to be in front of the camera early on.” set and have tons of work to do and also more scripts to In her younger years, she was inspired by TV shows read and study,” Deberry said. “But I honestly just feel such as Lizzie McGuire and Even Stevens. Hilary Duff grateful that I can work and do what I love and also be was her main obsession, and it was Duff who inspired given a chance to further my education.” Deberry to strive for stardom. She encourages future actors and actresses to stay “I wanted to be on TV like the actors I saw, and I especially wanted to focused and determined to achieve their dream. draw the Mickey Mouse ears on Disney Channel like every other kid!” she “It’s not as glamorous as people assume, but be willing to put in the work said. to make your dreams a reality,” Deberry said. “Don’t be discouraged, everyAs she grew older, she transitioned from modeling into acting. Her first thing takes time! movie was The Way She Moves in 2001, where she starred as a flower girl. “There is tons of competition in this industry and often times you may not While her movie count grew, so did her fan base. She was soon being folget a role for the silliest of reasons. You just have to have tough skin and a lowed around by eager fans asking for autographs. strong belief in yourself and your abilities!”

“It’s amazing that people are so supportive of me and want to come and see what I’ve been hard at work on.”

February 2015

There was actually another photo that was taken a few seconds later than this one that depicted more emotion, but I was unable to find it. These pictures are some of my favourites I have taken this year, because you can see how much the person in the picture, Sterling, gets into the games and tries to get the crowd loud and hype. The lighting turned out perfectly, and the depth of field keeps the focus on him rather than anyone else in the crowd. I think another thing that draws the eye to him is his white shirt, since there is no other white at the forefront of the picture it draws you further into him.

This photo is my favourite poSed photo I have ever taken. Lauren Brooks and I were on the hunt for a unique place to take a portrait to go along with her article about starting her own band. As Kingwood Park is a very square, boring, grey building it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t easy to find a place with some obscure lighting or background. We ended up finding a hallway with a light that would be above her head that would be used to cast spooky shadows. The thing that mostly captures my interest is definitely the shadows that are casted from the lone bulb. The article that was written about her was very rock-nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;-roll, so the photo paired with it well.

I was asked to take a friend and her friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior pictures at a park, which resulted in countless mosquito bites, but also very aesthetically pleasing pictures. The sun was just setting as I took this, which is what illuminates her hair and what seems to be behind her head. That is what makes this photo one of my favourites, the lighting and how warm the picture looks. I told her to just close her eyes and tilt her head back as she sat on the bridge and it turned out perfectly.

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WRITING

CORNER — ORIANNE ELLIOTT hallsCORNER s ORIANNE ELLIOTT Fall EDITOR’S Out Boy makes Rodeo debut MakeEDITOR’S

Honor thy selfie, honor thy self

PDA-free

British invasion

say the least. Rodeo is expanding their horiSince the 2015 RODEOHOUSTON zons in terms of entertainment. Performers Entertainer announced oninch makes By Amber Dalton When you’re at Starbucks and Lineup you orderhas been that moved about an all the like Fall Out Boy with alternative roots are JanuaryBrulee 13, there a lot oftobuzz. Staff Reporter your first red cup Caramel of thehas been difference me. Now you know, behind finally getting some recognition at an event Band Perry, Blake that Shelton, Luke season, what do you The do? Take a selfie. selfie on Instagram was an entire mini When I was first told I was leaving England to move to As I walk down the hallWhen you’re in front of are the one and the returning photoshoot held in for my verythat own gets room.so much mainstream attention. Bryan among favorites Texas, I expected to see everyone riding around on horses, ways, couples are everyonly White House,all what do you do? Take This is why selfies are so important. Since 2001, the quartet continues to the country fans: nothing really out of cacti and leaving tumbleweeds behind. Little did where. dodging Couples standing a selfie. Whether it’s a duckface or aevolve suggestive as their music has become more the ordinary, in terms of close Texas taste. know, was in for a rude awakening: the only cactus I againstIthe wallsIor in the No matter where you are, selfies are up, posting a selfie is a way of shoutmature and pop driven in recent years. Theyoutcoves of theever stairshear hiding would of is the record store always available andWait… ready to is bethat... taken. Fall It ing to the world “I KNOW THAT I LOOK stillYOUR possess a sound all their own, even from teachers. They hug Out Boy perfoming only takes about five seconds to whip out on PRETTY AND I’M BLESSING downtown. while they challenge themselves and exwith their arms wrapped your phone, pout March those lips8?and a EYES WITH THIS IMAGE OF MY BEAUMysnap favorite One thing that still holds true is a each others’ waists, picture. This is often followed by the from what I theTIFUL FACE.” What else is periment better than with self new sounds that stray away aroundwell-known pop punk band looking at each other saying as if “everything is biglike to call post-selfie: an incredibly blurry confidence? Why should people be put from their rock roots to embrace electronic Midwest? It can’t be. Texas. Yes, everything is most they areger andinwon’t see” each and unflattering picture of your chin(s) down for thinking that theybleeps look nice? and bloops. With powerhouse lead other for I thought I had definitely quadrupled in size in Texas. a few months. and/or feet. You can’t tell yourself that getting 100 vocalist and rhythm guitarist Patrick Stump,Hello, you from middle willable see each Being to eat at a restaurant and Now, your selfie graduated may be completely diflikes on a selfie on Instagram isn’t fulfilling bassist and lyricist Pete Wentz, guitarist Joe other next period. school It--may youeven know, ferent to that description. not afterin any way. I know when I get a lot of likes be full before you even get to your When it becomes imposTrohman and drummer Andy Hurley, Fall include your face. surviving But whatever it may be, on a selfie, I’m pretty chuffed with myself. their 3-year main meal is proof. And don’t even sible to walk from one class every single one ofhiatus, them iswhich important. liking that-one-girl-you-talked-to-forleft me ByBY get me started on hair bumps. Not JOSHLYN THOMAS Out Boy never fails to deliver. to another without seeing Many people overlook selfies, call people like-5-seconds’ selfie on Facebook, Theirit may live show, featuring favorites missing them until they give her the little push of confidence is everything at least only two make-out ses- in Texas bigger, who take them “narcissistic” or “annoythat Theft Autumn/ Where Is Your came backselfies out are of no- she needs; one little thumbs“Grand sions, we a problem. buthave Texas itself is Ialmost three times bigger than England. ing.” But little do they know, up has so Boy”, “Thnks fr th Mmrs”, “I Don’t Care”, understand thatdrive you deeply where in 2013 with Save much the Rock and Roll revolutionary. As of December 2014, power. I could around the whole of England multiple times and everyone’s favorite “Sugar, We’re Gocare for each other andget outside of the Texas border. there have been more than I195 million with open The art of the selfie is one that should be (which welcomed arms.) before I even want to show your affection ing Down” and the anthem adopted by pictures uploaded with the hashtag #selfie handled with care. If people keep callThey kicked off 2015 by releasing their AfterYou being other. do here not, for six years I have definitely been onto Instagram, and that’s not counting ing the person behind (and sports in front)coliseums of “My Songs Know What for each“Americanized. new LP American Beauty/American Psycho When on the phone to family back home, however, need to show it”in the photos that went untagged. That’s 195 the camera vain, eventually You they Did will stop in the Dark (Light ‘Em Up)”, is on Jan.who 20,thought featuring an and anthem I have to make sure not to say “off of ” or “ya’ll.” I even like the halls at school. million photos of people “I “Centuries”, taking selfies they will join in the sure to be complemented by pyrotechnics Hold Hersheys madeand forwere belting out in your hands or just give chocolate now. What has happened to me? Am look pretty nice today” confident namebedroom, calling. Thisifvicious circle of hate is and a shower and release. not a stadium. enough to show the world. All of those one not to be played with. As it makes its of confetti and beach balls. the quick I…hug American? There are plenty of other Hopefully new songs like “Fourth of July” pictures may mean nothing to you, but for they’ll way around, we will be selfieless; the only They also announced be co-headLuckily enough, I still have some British in me. As I walk the day. It can wait. the person who uploaded it, it could postsHoodie on your Allen Facebook feedand will“Irresistible” be those are added to their already hours ininto lining with Wiz mean Khalifa and H.E.B. I automatically gravitate towards the tiny selecWe are in high school. It’s absolutely everything. annoying pages you liked ininfectiously seventh gradecatchy set. on their Boys of Zummerand Tour. It’s also tion British a time of ouroflives wherefoods we in the foreign aisle. I still prefer tea There’s so much work behind a selfie that depressing song lyrics. None of us Whether you’re going to see them performwant toover the 10th sophomore havecoffee, fun andand haveI still don’t understand American football. goes unnoticed.I don’t knowanniversary about you, of their want that. newand tunes release From Tree, but when I take a selfie, I don’t justUnder take the Cork So you gowhich and take that selfie post or it just bathe in the nostalgia of an amazing Butrelationship not all of itlike is as bad as it seems. I do love a good old the good old days of the early 2000s when in the movies. Others don’t one. I take about 50. I thencertified go through on every social site possible. is now double platinum withnetworking over cup of sweet tea and a handful of McDonald’s fries. Being want to see it though. Just “Dance, Dance” was your flip phone’s ringevery single one of2.7 them until I copies find thesold inTake and rub million the that US selfie and over 3 your confidence in able toand drive in almost any direction for five minutes and save it for perfect shot; it may not be much different the haters’ faces. Nothing istone, more empowtheir performance will be one of the be courteous million copies worldwide. later. find some kind of fast food restaurant is handy (and, at to the others, but that one piece of hair ering than feeling good about yourself. many acts to catch at Rodeo this year. It’s really refreshing to see the Chicago times, not so handy). Also, the fact that I live in Queen B’s On that note, “Believers never die.” comeback kids in a lineup so… twangy, to place of birth is pretty amazing. Amazing enough to cancel out all of the negative aspects of Houston. At times of Kingwood Park HighI School doubt say “Beyonce could have stood here once.” It gives By Amanda Haney it’s just the opposite. It is most important 4015 Woodland Hills Drive Special Contributor to dress in whatever makes you feel most meTX 77339 hope. EDITOR’S CORNER — ORIANNE ELLIOTT Kingwood, confident, because all trends and impresAfter a while of living in America, my parents and I have 281.641.6600 sions aside, style is absolutely personal. You Personal style is one of the most promiDecember 2014 to find a certain formula to deal with how conversacome T I M ES nent forms of self-expression. How you should always dress for yourself. If you feel Issue 3, Vol. 2 tions with strangers often go. besttointhink a killer pairjust of some heels, kind you shouldtry a little harder or just stay home and present yourself isonhere the once surface mayAsnot you’re Halloween again. a be going SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Kaetlyn herSTAFF Stranger: [Some kind of generic introduction.] Wing lived a way that those who knew wear them. If you So love thepick way youin feelsuch in a out nearly as around important yourofcharacter, butKylee it of Riff Raff wannabe. you up hand candy. child, thisastime year, youBy Luna, Amanda Haney, Sarah Martell, Orianne Elliott, Editor certainly impression. great pairofof flats, paint you should rock them. If only Me: [Insert a standard reply.] Special Contributor came to know Christ through her.Hinojosa, Not is Hannah blackface completely unwoulddictates dress upyour and first go parading a container brown and cover Harden, Krystal Sydney Woodward youcrevice love the way you in a great of We don’t the get the opportunity but an issueadvantage that many around streets, collectingtoasbuild much every of your nowfeel swaggerful Stranger: Where are you from? Wahid Hakeem, Biancanot Brown, Anna Bothpair ofacceptable, these teens took of lifeAmber Dalton wear personal with every we self.sweatpants, Emerson, John CarlofBoudreaux, candyrelationships as your pillowcase posAndtwo you’re ready!them. Happy Halpeople notice is the issue people In thecould pastperson month I’ve lost friends. while they were here. They knew whoKylee they Rachel DamsMe: England. Wing, Kat Smith, Chris Luck, Ariana passsibly in the hallway, first impressions are loween! The most important thing to remember wearing other culture’s sacred attire as handle. But so now you’re in high Stranger: Wow! What are you doing here? Joshlyn Thomas Each loss and each funeral teaches me the were and knew what they wanted do. Purcell. when getting the morning isa costume. For example, this is to often timesand all guess most people with. I’m sorry to saydressed this, butinno. Not widely school what? Itare canleft still be It Me:asI amoved Meganwe Ortizcan’t see heartbreaking knowing lesson: Lifeinisa just toonever short. to dress for people.It’s This is seen an in NativeADVISER: is important that wesame portray ourselves KP Times serves public here in middle school. American costumes, fun. happy Halloween, butother sad Halloween, Lisa Drabing knowing Cool! My friend/cousin/grandad/fish was born in/ positive andyou thatstill we allow impossible feat because people cansmiles, tellwhich whenbut Jacob Paul Silva,tobetter known wretched as “Jake, ”Halloween. their it’sPRINCIPAL: heartwarming forum forStranger: Kingwood Park usually as much fringe Butway maybe have noourselves idea an incredibly 9 hauls ONinclude THE COVER: Bruce Yeager build a positive ofaway ourselves you feel uncomfortable outfit, but stayed/studied/visited/flew over London (big number) years High School and is distribsmiling down Jan.that 29 from bacterial what to dressself-image up passed as. You’re running It shouldn’t have meningito be said, in butanitthey’re is as one can wear and a feathered headboxesat of us. food for HAAM during the is obvious to other people. most importantly, dressing forIt’s other people uted free to all students ago. Day of Servicebut activities on Nov.it18. about time when blackface dress. These costumes are extremely out of time to pull outAs that glue Isabella tis. forhotKobi Pickett, she wearing passed hard losing someone, when This notget to say that there specific ac- should givesbeyou a lower sense of self-image. Your andMe: staff.Nice. Photo by Kaetlyn Luna. what gunisand to crafting, so are you automatically deemed as offensive the Native American culhappens it makestoyou think about away Jan. 11think in a tragic accident. ceptable fashion orrelevant any set image unacceptable style is a tool to bring the of best version ture.ofThey take something which hashave of people thatguidelines are socially in that smartout mind This is followed by a cringe-worthy impersonation of a Jake was in junior varsity theater at Kingcould happen tomorrow if you even that we should model ourselves after. In fact, who you are on the inside. Use it wisely! yours. a great significance in that culture and that you could easily imitate. Like 2 British accent. One thing you need to understand: your tomorrow. wood High School and wanted to continue Chainz. He’s still socially relevant, Yes, 2 Chainz may be your idol or use it as an accessory, which is also accent December is just2014 as15 entertaining to Brits as the Brits’ is to you. setasan example for us here. They his passion for theatrics throughout the’ but dressingThey ‘Man Crush Monday, up both known cultural appropriation. right? I don’t think anyone can actually hear how embarrassing showed usLet’s what young can acduration life. Jake also had made a color differs as someone whose skin notsomeone try to comeso across as someWith Mr. Chainz in mind,of youhis head they sound. I also think they don’t understand that there inwho suchis aracially shortinsensitive amount and of time. and yours he made that that cancomplish one full on down to Partycommitment City and pick upto God,from is something be are actually other accents than the cockney one you heard easilyhe pulled of stereotypes, but instead as someone two (and only two) goldthrough chains, a everything clear did.off with a little out-of-A lesson we can learn from them is to find radicalthe costume, great you shiny grill and some pantswho that are thinking, not brown faceon Oliver. Not every British person talks like Oliver Twist. who youwith are,amake mosthaving of thea time Kobi, attendedthe-box Memorial High on Halloween. extra saggy. But wait, you’reexpressed not dark who paint. do have to resorthave to andtime To sum it all up, British people are just like you. Just School, sheBut wasif you by photograshoot for the stars in everything enough to be 2 Chainz. People are just painting yourself, you should probably without the nice teeth and bald eagles. phy, art and athletics; and just like Jake she you do.

Allow your personal style to showcase personality

ThinkRecent twice before you put onus that deaths remind lifecostume is short

Problems: Height of doors in bathrooms should be updated 14

Y KYLEE WING

not seem like a big deal. It’s just a or. It opens. It locks. It’s not cov-

February 2015

The problem is in the commons area upstairs and downstairs and in the bathroom near the Student Council room. At any other bathroom, the stalls are big enough for us and have no gaps

school that has undergone a major redesign since its original days. There are more kids and they are older and often taller than I, making it even more uncomfortable for them.

WRITING

Peculiar pets populate Kingwood By Orianne Elliott Editor-in-Chief

Cats and dogs are old news. A trend that has recently spiked is owning unique pets. Amanda Aleman11 purchased her now 5-year-old chinchilla at Animal Arc in Kingwood. Along with her chinchilla named Arty, Aleman also has two other companions: a cat and a dog. “I first saw a chinchilla in a book about wild animals when I was in elementary school, and I was sold,” Aleman said. “I immediately started saving up for one, since they are not cheap.” Chinchillas do not require much special equipment, as they are known to be self-caring animals. They do require a dust bath, as their hair is too dense to be bathed in water. Other than the dust, regular chinchilla food and hay is needed, along with chew toys as their teeth grow rapidly. “Everyone always assumes that because it’s a rodent, they are scary and gross,” Aleman said. “But in reality, they are the most docile creatures I have ever came in contact with.” Chinchillas are known for their extremely soft coat, and as a defense mechanism when scared, they immediately shed their fur. Not aware of this, it came as a surprise when Arty shed his fur and caused Aleman to panic and assume the worst. "The hair just immediately came off in little clumps and took forever to grow back," Aleman said. "I thought he was dying." However, after two years of owning Arty, he is still alive and well. As a cousin of the chinchilla, guinea

Carrye Pieper’s12 yellow naped parrot, Rocket, models for the camera while balancing on a branch inside of his cage. Photo courtesy of Carrye Pieper. Arty, a 5-year-old chincilla, pokes his head through his cage to get closer to his owner Amanda Aleman11. Photo courtesy of Amanda Aleman.

pigs are a more popular choice of ro- equipment. dent. Senior Sarah Clarke has owned Clarke said the noises guinea pigs two, Nova and Speedy, since the begin- make are both "cute and annoying" at ning of January. the same time. The sound is known as "They're such easy pets to take care a “wheek,” and can sometimes be misof, I would recomtaken as barking. mend it for any"When they one," Clarke said. make the noises “Even though With both just a it's so adorable," few months old, Clarke said. "They they don’t really Clarke has had the sound like Tribopportunity to exbles from Star understand what perience how to Trek" raise them from you’re saying, it sure Clarke received pup to pig. the two from a "Except for not feels like they are family friend who allowing them to had a litter and listening.” eat certain foods, could not keep like any other anithem. Most guinmal, you just kind ea pigs can cost - Carrye Pieper12 anywhere from of let them do their said of her parrots $10-$50. thing," Clarke said. "They're really not Not all unique difficult pets at all." pets are as easy Like chinchillas, guinea pigs can- to find. Senior Carrye Piper owns two not be bathed in anything other than parrots, one which flew first class to dust as it is detrimental to their health. Kingwood from Washington. Therefore, except for dust baths, guinPieper's parrots, one yellow naped ea pigs also do not need any special amazon, Rocket, and one double yel-

8425 West Road

low headed amazon, Sunny, are like a part of her family. “They are both very dear to me, almost as if they are true brothers and sisters,” Piper said. “They’re a real hoot.” Pieper rescued Rocket 8 years ago from a bird rescue shelter in Washington. He came into Piper’s hands after he was almost smuggled to the Middle East to be sold for meat. “It broke my heart when I first heard his story from a family friend,” Pieper said. “I was in tears and we were immediately taken.” After adopting Rocket, he flew first class from Washington to the Pipers’ home in Kingwood where he later met Pieper’s other bird, Sunny. Sunny has only celebrated two birthdays with Pieper so far, and is 35 years old, while Rocket is 16. “They’re special nuggets,” Pieper said. To pass time, the parrots enjoy chasing Pieper and her family around the house, along with pestering her dogs. Rocket enjoys singing opera while dinner is being cooked, while Sunny finds pleasure in squawking. "They just enjoy being around people and talking nonsense all the time," Pieper said. "They’re like two old men." Some of Rockets’ famous quotes are "I love you” and "Whatcha' doing sweetie." He also likes to do animal impersonations and sing opera. Sunny has less of a vocabulary and enjoys saying "Hello" and simply squawking. "Having pets that you are able to actually talk to and be back is one of the best aspects," Pieper said. "Even though they don't really understand what you're saying, it sure feels like they're really listening."

WRITING

Allie Deberry, a former student at Kingwood Park, takes a selfie using the duckface with A.N.T. Farm fans at the premiere of The Adventures of Peppa and Paula. Photo by Orianne Elliott. Allie Deberry poses for a photo with fans Amy Fennie and Erika Uhrenholdt12 at the premiere of her new movie The Adventures of Peppa and Paula at the Deerbrook Mall. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

Former student rises to fame N

Story by Orianne Elliott s Editor-in-Chief

“It’s amazing that people are so supportive of me and want to come and see what I’ve been hard at work on.”

February 2015

everyone getting good enough times to go to State. Q: What is the best race you ever swam and what made it so good? A: Last year. i don’t remember the meet, but everyone on the team was cheering me on. Q: Who is your favorite swimmer and why? A: Coach (Mark Babich). He’s gone through all the crap he put us through. Q: What do you think most people don’t

can hear, but what you can see. Q: Describe your best moment in the pool. A: Finishing race, because you’re tired but you see a good time and it’s satisfying Q: Describe your favorite moment with your team so far. A: Everytime I go to practice. Hanging out with my teammates. - Krystal Hinojosa

Olympian. Q: What do you think most people don’t realize about swimming? A: It’s really cruel because you’ll be training really hard for months and you don’t really get a chance to swim fast until the end of the season once for a minute. Q: What’s the coolest part about being a part of your team? A: They’re kind of the only people who understand swimming. You talk to them differently

WRITING

Q: Describe your best moment in the pool. A: When we play games, especially gutterball. It’s really hard and competitive, but you have a lot more fun. Q: Describe your favorite moment with your team so far. A: At the end of every meet and practice, we sing the alma mater and do our swim cheer and it’s awesome. We’re like family. - Emma Waller

Saenz stays focused, relies on faith as challenges arise By Orianne Elliott Editor-In-Chief Ariana Saenz, a member of the golf team, has a compelling story behind her swing. While some long-time dreams have been coming true on the golf course, Saenz has struggled off the course to cope with her mother’s battle with breast cancer. Maria Saenz was diagnosed with cancer on her birthday Feb. 10, 2014. “I was really shocked, it came out of nowhere,” Maria Saenz said. “I had my faith in God that he would pull us through this.” Maria Saenz went for her usual routine mamogram expecting nothing unusual but was taken aback when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Luckily enough, it was found during the early stages and was about

to be acted upon straight away. fall just before Maria Saenz under“The entire experience was dev- went surgery. astating and shocking,” Maria Saenz After months of treatment and sursaid. “As a mother all I could think gery, Maria Saenz was recently told about was would I be able to see my she is cancer free. Although a chalgirls grow up and continue to be a lenging experience, the Saenz family was able to strengthen their relationpart of their lives.” Saenz started playing golf at age 3, ship as a family and are now closer and her parents have been there for than ever. According to golf coach Angela each of her tournaments. Even with the medical issues going on this past Chancellor, Ariana is an “all-Ameryear, they joined her earlier this fall ican kid, full of honor and integrity.” Maria Saenz can’t wait to see what’s when she played in a special event at Pebble Beach, one of the most re- still ahead for her daughter. nowned golf courses in the world. “As her mother, I have so many She spent six days at the course things to be proud of for Ariana,” with other juniors and learning from Maria Saenz said. “Ariana has always golf pro Esteban Toledo. She com- stood steadfast on her faith and bepeted against 81 other competitors, lief and never doubted that I would and met a number of celebrities and be healed. Tears of joy cannot be contained knowing that Ariana is so pro golfers at the event. Part V in a series that It was an unforgettable event for strong and faithful.” the stories the Saenz family thatshares happened to of staff

S OF KPARK

members and students.

International Intellect

To Ethan Payne12, academics come easy. Having a photographic memory makes learning school work incredibly simple, which makes for an almost painless high school career. “I don’t have to study much, I just have to have one lookover at something and I’m good to go,” Payne said. Having a photographic memory doesn’t come as easy to Payne as most people think. In order to truly embed something in his brain, he first has to read it over once or twice.

“People think that having a photographic memory means that you remember everything you see, but that’s wrong,” Payne said. “You remember the things you pay attention to.”

With the help of his eidetic memory, Payne has been able to win many awards including the national award in HOSA

Military Minded As an avid member of ROTC, it comes as no surprise

Photo by Orianne Elliott

and two state awards in UIL, all for spelling and vocab. After high school Payne plans to study English and Modern language with a major scholarship at Trinity in San Antonio, which will put his memory to the test. After pursuing a doctorate, he aspires to become either a professor or translator so he can travel around the world. Payne has been in both Spanish and French honor societies for two years, which will help him be able to communicate in other countries. “I like writing and learning about other foreign languages because I find them really interesting,” Payne said. “Just knowing that you can communicate with so many other people by using different languages is a really cool concept.” -Orianne Elliott

After earning a berth in a special event at Pebble Beach, Ariana Saenz spent six days on the famous course learning and competing. Photo courtesy of Angela Chancellor. October 2014

PHOTOGRAPHY

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.

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.

KP TIM ES

Issue 5, Vol. 2 s March 2015 Kingwood Park High School s 4015 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood, TX 77339

Librarian Ruth Parrish recently returned from Portugal - her latest of many journeys, page 7.

Students with body modifications Horseback riding allows talk about their experiences under students to enjoy their passion, the needle, Page 6. Page 10.

LIFT OFF Organizations prepare for next year and spring sports competitions heat up.

PHOTOGRAPHY 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.

Robotics team caps fall season with first-place finish

eacher takes home top honor

s English IV and Writing us Teacher of the Year.

yn Thomas Reporter

tion to teaching English, Deirdre educating students and creating nce for each of them. thing else but teach kids how to l said. “I think all kids have that be awoken.” eacher of the Year honor after from her students and being She was left speechless after the

’s so emotional and it means so

lish department for her entire ht everything from AP to English is a new class which focuses on n writing techniques. glish IV and gets to experience teaching every morning in first

er students and she likes to relate her teaching,” Langford said. “All t’s probably why she got Teacher run a class. From what I’ve seen, nd she respects us.” voking environment in her class, themselves. man year when I had her, and she angford said. “You felt rewarded er class and it’s and good feeling. she pushes you as well in it, and t’s definitely not a boring class.” raise Himel for the attention she ng. English academic lead teacher el for providing a personalized her pupils. specific needs of her students,” scores and figure need help in the

is inspired by the

n expert teacher,” myself a question nts I ask myself,

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.

KP TIM ES

Marisa Chapa9 paints a table during the Day of Service at The Village Learning Center. Photo by Amanda Haney. Issue 6, Vol. 2 s May 2015 Kingwood Park High School s 4015 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood, TX 77339

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 On Friday and ball, throw it to another robot, score in the low goal, and play choir will perfo defensive positions,” sponsor Kathleen Goerner said. in the Auditoriu Students involved in the robot competition included Nicholas McHenry12, Jacob Ary11, George Cerro10, Matt McNeely12, A We Need a Little Christm Cole Anderson11, Brendan Levine12, Brandon Liscano11 and As the school year comes to an teacher The softball, baseball and track 11 Mark Ruffin will TraeMath Floyd . s replacie Dr. Amy Wallace as an teams all worked to make a splash end, seniors prepare for what’ Under the Mistletoe - B The newyear,season whenpages the18-21. team willahead, be pages 6-7. AP next page 2.will start ininJanuary the postseason, White Christmas - Jose assigned the new rules and begin creating their robot for the upcoming year. Any interested students are encouraged to Skinny Love - Marissa C contact Goerner for more information.

POP

G LDEN GIRLS HUMANS OF KPARK

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.

PTSA announces campus award winners for Reflections

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.

You and I - Eva Cornell Open Up the Heavens -

Three students had their PTSA Reflections entries advance Little Saint Nick - Men to the Humble ISD Council of PTAs for the next level of Part III inWould a series judging. The 2014 theme was “The World Be a that Better To Make You Feel My Lo shares the stories of staff Place If.....” members andentry students. Sarah Bennett11 advanced for her Visual Arts entitled Almost Lover - Jada Inm The girls golf team won its first “Laughing.” Die Alone - Avery & Nin 11 Gatling advanced in Photography for her photo StateTori Championship in school It’s Beginning To Look a “Taking Water To The World.” She also advanced in the historyClean by 36 strokes. Bel Canto Women Literature category with a short story titled “Friends Make A Difference.” Hanna Alberto Hometown Glory - Mag “I have done this every year,” Gatling said. “Last year, I advanced to State in literature and received an award of merit. Carols - Madrigal Singe I’m hoping to go to State again this year.” 12 Rachelalso Clarkeknows advanced Photographyasforaasinger. photo called “She herinstrengths I think she is I Want a Hippopotamu Summer Smith (both) “Into the Sea.” working to expand her confidence - singing in front of

Senior songstress spreads her wings Tori Gatling

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.

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 By Joshlyn Thomas those suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. “I feel Staff Reporter like it was a very good experience and I’m very glad I got to help out,” English said. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

others. I don’t care what anyone says, singing in front of Santa Claus is Coming t As an employee at Taco Bell, she has been deemed by your friends is the most difficult thing you can do.” December 2014 3 Baby, It’s Cold Outside 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 sing- McMaster (both) The doctor helping her become a cast member of Saturday Night ing,” said Cornell. “Much like Beyoncé, I have a stage Stuck Like Glue - Kriste Assistant principal Amy Wallace Live, and her talents don’tThe stoptraveler there. persona like Sasha Fierce.” Wait For Me - Emma Ha has no idea what’s next. For now, she Senior Eva Cornell’s singing voice makes In tonight’s big Pop Show in the 11 is just going to enjoy having earned Jaafar Iraqian, her aAbdulzahra triple threat,, an as she is Soprano “It’s 1 in a really easy language, I’m Performing Arts Center, Cor- White Winter Hymnal her doctorate degree in education. She is athe laid-back of guy.choir, Just aARIOSO. year taking French now,” he said. varsitykind women’s nell will perform with her friend Rivera/Helena Vassiliad is excited to see what the future holds. ago Jaafar, his mom, and 28-year-old isn’t a big fan of Texas “I’ve been in choir since 5th grade.Abdulzahra But Summer Smith, who call’s Cor“I’m hoping to see what God does brother moved to Kingwood. because it’s too hot for his liking. Nutcracker Jingles- ARI I’ve been singing forever,” said Cornell nell “a colorful character.” with [my degree], kind of be open to Like most teenagers, Abdulzahra while putting her hand over heart. He’d much rather stick with peace, The duo will be performing see what happens,” said Wallace, who A was not at all happy to move. But he quiet, relaxation and call it a day. director Benjamin has the Christmas classic, “I Want a Radioactive - Everyone was a counselor and a therapist prior had toChoir because his mother wantedFahndersAs for the future Abdulzahra Cornell for two and a half Hippopotamus For Christmas” (soloist TBD) to becoming an assistant principal. himbeen to getteaching a better education. doesn’t know what he’d like to years and describes hermyas “hilarious and while wearing hippo costumes. Trying to get a doctorate and “It’s different here, I miss pursue. very” dedicated. ” “When we tried out for Pop Feelin’ Good - Victoria B maintain a home life as well as a job, friends, said Abdulzahra, who is shy “I want to make money, but I don’t hastoa speaking marvelous, rich tone,want ” saidto do anything” he said and Show, Fahnders Part III inMr. a series that gave us a Riptide - Helena Vassili proved to be a bit difficult. Wallace when “Eva it comes English. Coach Jason Watson, Ariana Saenz, Hanna Alberto, Gabby Segura, Lexi Brooks, Tori Gatling,coach Angela Chancellor Fahnders. “SheJaafar also knows standing ovation, said Smith. learn listenedher to strengths Veteran Englishpulled teacherthrough Dee Dee the Himelthree-year works withprocess students during To fifth periodEnglish, in her then chuckled. shares the stories of”staff Then - Nathanael Wilki singer, and picks Cornell and Smith are seniors Do You Hear What I Hea classroom nearwith the library. Himel and was named the campus’ Teacher ofEminem theas Year.a She will go positivity strength from her each chance he got.repertoire for her - Hannah Harden members and students. on to competefamily for the district’ s Secondary Teacher Year. Photo by Orianne Elliott. very well.” own voice this year and they will be very and friends. Her loveofoftheschool and education motivated her through Cornell describes her singing style as missed by their fellow choral Grown Up Christmas Lis (soloist TBD) the years. “soft” and cites Ingrid Michaelson as one friends. Himel tries incorporate and contemporary methods “Atto times, especiallyclassic when you’re of her many musical influences. “We have an awesome choir Chanukah song - Katlin in her lessons as your she isdissertation, a firm believer in basic foundations but is kind of like me, if that writing you just “My voice - choir director Benjamin Fahnders because of students like Eva,” thinkthem ‘I’m never going to be finished complements with modern twists. makes sense,” said Cornell. Fahnders said. “She is always So This Love - Laura Wa withsay this’that or you know, ‘I’m not of traditional She “I would it is a mixture old isschool an avid music lover, who loves lispushing herself to be better, and Not About Angels - Step Contemporary dancer equipped to do this, ” Wallace said. said. “I really and new, fun engaging activities, ” Himel teningbelieve to Bastille, All Time Low, Fall Out Boy, My Chem- as a result the organization benefits She will certainly be “I’mofactually a first and generationRoyals - ARIOSO icalwrite Romance, graduates. ” in the basics good sound grammar. You can’t well Queen, and McFly (to name a few). Her missed when she 10 Kaylee Woest is a quiet high college student my family, so I and diverse taste in music has helped her pick songs that norCornell plans to become counselor, newsbut anchor, psyunless for you’re well-trained constructing school studenta during the day, at Flowers in Your Hair - L was the first personwritten in my family wouldn’t be part of the typical choral performance. chiatrist or cast member SNL after college. correctly sentences andmally paragraphs. night she is aon dedicated performer. Please Come Home For to even get bachelor’s people, including her choir director, admire her To any students who wanted to be in choir or any of Buta then, take itdegree to the or next level. Many Get creative, “I like how I can express (Saturday) go to college. I’m also a product for being a bit off-the-wall with her song choices. the other fine arts, Cornell says they should follow their have fun with writing.” myself to an audience without “Asstudents a performer, I would describe Eva as bold,” Fahn- dreams too. speaking because I hate speakof poverty,The so just beingunderstands able to that some Silent Night - All wome teacher said. “She “Do you what you want to do,” said Cornell. “Don’t get through thatnot initially a might feel aswas strongly aboutders rhetoric as always picks music that is a little removed ing in front of people,” she said. the mainstream but sounds wonderful. It takes guts do something Woest just because your friends are. Just enjoy Senior Slideshow big step for and justemphasizes been sheme; does butit’sshe thefrom importance enjoys contemporary-style to not Himel pick a crazy popular song. yourself.” dance best. Her competition team is something I’veskills. alwaysAs wanted Assistant principal Amy Wallace of that these an avid writer, Cosmetology student Courtney Wallrath12 Somewhere in My Mem Fame seeker has no idea next. now, to dowhat’s to kind ofFor prove it she to myself. ” about anything called Kingwood Comencourages students to write spends most ofJazz her and school day off campus at the

“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.”

HUMANS OF KPARKHUMANS

“I think all kids have that sparkThe doctor in them, it just

The traveler

High School Cosmetologist

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. FFA participants recently “They work hard because even decorated their barn and though it’s my pig, it’s our project.” opened it up to community For some kids, it gives them a companion who always by their side. members for istheir popular “[My goat named Cheese] follows Santa’ s Farm evening. me around like a dog,” Jayce Green9

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. In the spirit of Halloween, Best Buddies held a “For many people it is [difficult to 12 Trunk or Treat for students and members of the get rid of animals],” Jamie Wade said. “I don’t really get attached to community Oct. 24. The club members dressed up my animals because most of the While the animals were pretty time we only have them for four and played games. They also had snacks and candy oblivious to the action, students welcomed community members months and I usually have more to pass out. to their barns. (Left) Jacob than one animal at a time. So I’m so Fisher10 and Emily Neff11 hang focused on everything I own that I out under the Christmas lights don’t really get too attached to one with Gibby, the goat Neff is animal.” raising. There are challenges, but the kids pull through together. “It’s pretty difficult on my school Snow White, otherwise known as teache 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.”

Trunk or Treat

PHOTOGRAPHY

ws, more animals being raised, leaders being developed

tly nd unity ular

As FFA grows, more animals being raised, leaders being developed

with a redents this

nts hosted m, where barns and

t animals. ects to the oticed. ost a leadA sponsor We do the we do the oes. We’re ns warped g competie kids, we … where king skills ype of an

By Rachel Dams Staff Reporter

6FFADecember 2014 continues to grow with a re-

cord 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 areformany Santa’s Farm has become an annual tradition the more aspects to the FFA students at Kingwood Highprogram School and Kingwood that often go unnoticed. ll Park. On Dec. 5, the students opened their barns are first and foremost a leadnow of the up to the public and had treats. The“We animal stalls tor ership organization,” FFA sponsor ht within were decorated for Christmas and had lights strewn McCarty said. “We do the e students throughout the stalls. Photo byKevin Orianne Elliott. ws each same things STUCO does, we do the have eachyear sm class is same things that AVID does. We’re y shy and lot oftothose walkorganizations warped This coursesaid. “I don’t need aa leash ht I wasn’thighhim; if I stop, he stops. together. We to have speaking competiIt’s fun eryday yness and have an animal that tions you get to we takedo with these kids, we that behind the in front of care of.” do judging competitions… where t with my For others, it is an activity; one that critical thinking skills they can apply rsfamily, this class, so ”they enjoy doing but always of some type of an Santa’s Farm has become an annual tradition for the anddon’t evaluations FFA students at Kingwood High School and Kingwood and stuffsaid.get too attached. Ortiz agricultural commodity.” anything, ” “For many people it isMany [difficult to do not know of the Park. On Dec. 5, the students opened their barns lly on sports students up to the public and had treats. The animal stalls Jamie Wade12 lasting lessons taught within were decorated for Christmas and had lights strewn vitiesthan outsideget rid of animals],”long more said. “I don’t really get attached to FFA family. Though the students throughout the stalls. Photo by Orianne Elliott. ssionalsitandmy animals becausethemost nimals; of the While the animals were pretty struggle, they always have each o become Minute Maidtime we only have may them for four oblivious to the action, students other to rely on. to”assume months Houston Chronicle sportswriters thiscommunity members welcomed and I usually have Jesus moreOrtiz and Brian T. Smith talk to a group of students during lunch earlier ce. used tosobe wanting like really to theirand barns. (Left) Jacob “I don’t needthe a Astros leash to walk The two a“IQ&A students to getshy into aand career insaid. journalism. Ortiz covers one animal at held a time. SoforI’m omplete withthansemester. 10 EmilytoNeff11 hang when I joined I wasn’t er parents focused It’sand fun I own thatcovers IFFAtheI thought socceron for everything the Chronicle, while Smith Texans. Photo by Orianne him; Elliott. if I stop, he stops.Fisher ts who join undertothetake Christmas lights going totoget re she can don’t really get too attached oneover my shyness and have an animal that yououtget Gibby, the goat Neff is he Sports journalists the Astros andof.Dynamo for thewithHouston now, I mean I can’t getget up in front of care animal.” ” raising. HOW TO JOIN to auncover d Dad has nd theof personal Chronicle and will help advise students large group people, but with my There are challenges, but the kids For others, it is an activity; one that kson 1. Addpull Journalism through together. FFA group it’s basically so new es said. in the class nextdoing year.but “I don’t also have stories behind greata family, they enjoy always use even “It’s pretty difficult on my I can talkschool in front of bats them and stuff covering or Photojournalism get too attached. y, baseball players’ enjoyed (Yankees pitcher) David project.” because duringand we miss get scared or “Forgame manyin people is [difficult theI won’t childhoods of anything, Cone’s” perfect 1999,it the Astros’to to yourwork schedule in or shows em a coma whole week of school, ” Wright said Bryliesaid. Wright12. rid of animals], JamieAstros’ Wade12 gs side. Bridges. basketball six-pitchergetno-hitter and ”the heir “I have to go backsuccessful to school and get This program does more than said. “I don’t really get attached to u,e]” follows World Series season. ” players. On top of all of whole week’s worthteach of work and to so care for animals; it 2. Printayour Bridges kids my animals because most of the ce Green9 it’s very time consuming. ”they get to build on The first staffhave hasthem also for been shows them what it’s like to become schedule out and hand this, timesports we only four er, created with a group ofusually students who relationships with the a part of a community and to assume months and I have more in to your counselor. xt players on some of were in thethan introductory this responsibility. one animal classes at a time. Soyear. I’m so 3. Contact Mrs. Ortiz America’s 9 , her parents For Breiana Jackson strongest They will focused cover the teams nextI own year that for I on everything work hard to help make sure she don’t reallyyearbook get too attached to one ut in room 1504 to make teams. the can newsmagazine, and website. afford to raise her pig. a animal. ng sure your name is in “I enjoyed writing “It actually feels” more like a family than “Mom has two jobs and Dad has areother challenges, kids a the Sports Journalism feature on (former Astro) a class, noneThere of my classesbutarethelike a manufacturing job,” Jackson said. pull through together. ed that, ” said Michael Horton, who will be Darryl Kyle’s widow. It section. “They work hard because even “It’s pretty difficult on my school ld was the it’sfirst interview on the inaugural sports in though my pig, it’s our project. ” school’s work because during showsstaff we miss hem to have she granted after herkids,husband’s fall. a whole week of school,” Wright said. For some it gives them the a comothers do. panion who is always by their side. death,” said Jesus Ortiz, who covers “I have to go back to school and get “[My goat named Cheese] follows a whole week’s worth of work and so 9 me around like a dog,” Jayce Green it’s very time consuming.”

The three blind mice – Kaitlyn Brown11, Madisen Hayes9 and Jade Pellegrin12 – found games and fun during their night at Trunk or Treat on Oct. 24. Photo by Orianne Elliott.

to add new dimension to publications

ke big step, start competitions

Cheer squads for 2015-16

Rodrigo Castillo10, Jake Towsend12 and B Photo by Joshlyn Thomas.

Not feeling blue, but more like looking blue. Kobi McNutt11 and Gracia Grohn10 showed up to trick or treat dressed as the Smurfs. Photo by Orianne Elliott

What is the most embarrassing Halloween

“When I was 6, I was Mike Wazowski and my head was the eyeball and it was really embarrassing because I walked around like a big green M&M.”

- Maggie Mueller11

6 October 2014

“My most embarrassing “When I was 4, I was a cat. costume was an Ostrich I wore white sweat pants, when I was 12. It was a shirt with pink dots and embarrassing because I cat ears.” While the animals were pretty - Julia Neff 9 was an ostrich.” oblivious to the action, students - Huntercommunity Dodgen members welcomed to their barns. (Left) Jacob Fisher10 and Emily Neff11 hang out under the Christmas lights with Gibby, the goat Neff is raising. 10

“One year I w burglar from It was really e because peop of me. I was 3

-P

PHOTOGRAPHY

ulin,

g11,

ili-

e Frey,

PHOTOGRAPHY

, Chelsea Ebert12 dives ahead of the competition in a freestyle event on Jan. 9. Photo by Sarah Martell.

m to new level as sophomore

. He -disondteam

elect nasty. gside age he is

me a cts. peed ere I ame,”

oux’s ” He play niors ard. rict,” .”

Blake LeDoux10 hopes to lift his team to State in his sophomore season. Photo by Orianne Elliott. February 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY

essage at Region meet with double victory

z10 swimming freestyle at the first swim meet back from Winter Break. Foltz is best at distance. He finished in third place in the 200 IM at the Region meet. Photo Martell.

freestyle relay: Logan, Bradshaw, rey, Crowe. Medley Relay: Logan, Amoruso, Poulin, alog12. freestyle relay: Poulin, Hunter Lang11, Crowe. freestyle relay: Knapschaefer, Vassilill and Chelsea Ebert. medley relay: Janie Johnson, Layne Frey, , Knapschaefer. freestyle relay: Ebert, Sarah Crowe, siliades.

Chelsea Ebert12 dives ahead of the competition in a freestyle event on Jan. 9. Photo by Sarah Martell.

HUMANS OF KPARK

o lead team to new level as sophomore

team for the Panthers. He n to earn second team all-disonors and owned the secondbatting average on the team

Part IV in a series that shares the stories of staff members and students.

e high school, he played select l for the Kingwood Dynasty. periences playing alongside st in Kingwood for his age him become the player he is

ux always strives to become a baseball player in all aspects. rying to work on my speed ow, because I’m not where I o be in that area of my game,” x said. opening day Feb. 23, LeDoux’s is “play pitch by pitch.” He ok to put that motto into play he takes the field with seniors Velko and Jason Blanchard. ltimate goal is to win district,” Doux, “then to win State.”

High School Cosmetologist Cosmetology student Courtney Wallrath12 spends most of her school day off campus at the cosmetology center. “After high school, I’m going to go to Lone Star and get my aestheticians certification,” Wallrath said. “Other than that, I want to be a freelance artist. I already have an airbrush.” Wallrath first got into makeup in the ninth grade. “I really like Photo make-up, ” Wallrath Blake LeDoux10 hopes to lift his team to State in his sophomore season. by Orianne Elliott. said. “I see pictures online and that inspires me.” Wallrath has to learn many makeup styles to fit the customer, but she does February have a2015 favorite style.

“I prefer more drastic make-up, although a lot more people are looking for the more natural look,” Wallrath said. “It’s important for me to know that [style] as well.” Courtney is one of many students who are

ALL-AROUND ATHLETE Robert Washington12 is a well-rounded athlete. As the only boy in his home, he needed something to occupy his time. “I was straight basketball [until junior year],” Washington said. “I’ve been playing it since I was 6 years old. I can do pretty much any sport there is.”

Washington said. “My friends really helped me adapt to the game [football] and develop a sort of brotherhood, which helped me hang out with people I typically wouldn’t.” Aside from being into football, basketball, traveling and paramedics, Washington plays the drums. He began playing at his church when he

PHOTOGRAPHY

Cross country team wins District title, eyes Regional one Madison Berry Special Contributor

Cross country coach Jason Meyers could tell from the start that it was going to be a good District meet. “Every race, you had different teams on the starting line just goofing around, and you look over at Kingwood Park and every single one of them is focused, serious, ready to go,” he said. Helping lift their team to the Bi District-Area Championship, Jarod Hardy-Croskey and David Fuss have fun while dominating on the Ismael Jackson12 races to the finish in a In the spirit of Halloween, Best Buddies held a Three hours and five races meet earlier this year. The boys team won court. The tennis team is the No. 1 seed from its bi-district at today’s Regional Championships in Katy. Photo by Orianne Elliott. later, his instincts proved the District meet and will compete at ReTrunk or Treat for students and members of the spot on. Varsity boys took gionals this weekend. Photo by Stefania community Oct. 24. The club members dressed up first overall and varsity girls Mendez. snagged second. Even the s held a and played games. They also had snacks and candy to pass out. sub-varsity teams - JV girls toward the same goal, I bers of the and boys, and freshmen boys lieve we can take first place,” Amanda Haney coach,” Fuss said. “Ever since freshman year, - took first in their respective said senior Avery Johnson, essed up Special Contributor I knew it was something I wanted to do. I love races. who took second overall in nd candy tennis and I love teaching people. I’ve found that After such a positive start to the District race. David Fuss and Jarod Hardy-Croskey, both I am good at imparting knowledge and helping the championship season, exJohnson isn’t exaggerating seniors and top ranking varsity tennis players, people.” pectations are high for Satur- the team’s bond. Even on the Snow White, otherwise as teacher Tiffany Major, takesand care of her yet to bewhen eaten deadly dark apple. Photo teams by Orianne Elliott. have been good friends on and off of the tennis Hardy-Croskey is known a lighthearted, social girl’s side of the team, the day both varsity court since eighth grade. talented guy who balances two choir classes and support of their teammates will run the same course In the spirit of Halloween, Best Buddies held a They have been through ups and downs, tri- theater along with tennis. gets them through the tough again for Regionals. orgreat Treatkid,for” said students of the umphs and defeats, arguments and make ups, “Jarod isTrunk a really Bartels.and “He’smembers Because only the top three parts of the meets. community Oct. 24. The members dressed both as singles players and partners over the a super nice guy, very mannerly. And club he juggles “There was a point in the teams fromupeach district in years. That shared history gives them a com- everythingand he isplayed involved in well. ” the region will compete, this (District) race where I was games. They also had snacks and candy petitive meet “will help us a lot,” ac- like, ‘I really just want to stop. The three edge. blind mice – Kaitlyn Brown11, Madisen Hayes9 and Jade Pellegrin12 – foundHardy-Croskey has played tennis seriously Snow White, otherwise teacher Tiffany Major, takes care of her yet the to besummer deadly apple.grade Photo byand Orianne toeatenpass out. games and funhave during chemistry theirknown night at as Trunk or Treat on Oct. 24. Photo by Orianne Elliott. “They on the court, ” coach since ofdark eighth he isElliott. not- cording to one of the top var- I’m hurting, I’m done,’” FalWade Bartels said. “They jive together. Their ed by his teammates for his confidence on the sity runners Jaime Contreras. lon Spraggins said, who finpersonalities are very different, but they comple- court. “There’s going to be about ished in the the top 10 overall ment each other” “I’m a slicing God!” he exclaimed, waving an twice as many people, so the and second for the team. “But Fuss is a very headstrong and competitive play- imaginary tennis racquet through the air. course will be more congest- they’re my team. I can’t let er with a strong determination that is not limited Hardy-Croskey10 has a big,12 original personality ed, but us being of one mind, them down.” 10 Rodrigo Castillo , Jake Towsend and Brock Forbau are ready to tackle whatever comes their way as ghostbusters this season. to the tennis court but also translates to his high and hisPhoto styleby of playing Joshlyn Thomas. tennis reflects that. Snow White, otherwise known as teacher Tiffany Major, takes care of her yet to be “Jarod has a very unorthodox form, which egrin12 – found academic success. Powerpuff Girls unite! Seneca Fisher11, “David is a great all-around student athlete, ” throws off a lot of the more orthodox players Breanne Mackert11 and Heather Vance10 ianne Elliott. dress up as the famous trio to score some said Bartels. “He is an excellent student who is that he competes with and that’s what makes candy. Photo by Joshlyn Thomas very dedicated to success, and he is very reliable him so successful,” said Fuss. and dependable. He has been a role model to the Fuss knows so much about Hardy-Croskey’s other players for his dedication to tennis and an game because he has spent hundreds of hours Kayley plair example for his commitment to playing hard no with him, sharing his strategies and knowledge9 Special Contributor 11 12 The three blind mice – Kaitlyn Brown , Madisen Hayes and Jade Pellegrin – found 11 10 up game. Not feeling blue, but matter what. ” more like looking blue. Kobi McNutt and Gracia Grohn showed of the games and fun during their night at Trunk or Treat on Oct. 24. Photo by Orianne Elliott. to trick or treat dressed as the Smurfs. Photo by Orianne Elliott 10 10 Fuss Castillo has achieved the 12status of Forbau a Champ 16sto tackle “David challenges by tryingthis toseason. keep me The volleyball team earned another trip to the postseason , Jake Towsend and Brock are ready whatever comes their wayme as ghostbusters Rodrigo Photo bywhich Joshlyn Thomas. player, means he is at a higher level for mentally focused and helps me not lose my with a record of 11-5. Led in part by senior setter Delia Mohis success in competing in statewide USTA mental game,” Hardy-Croskey said. “He gets in rin, the season will continue. Powerpuff Girls unite! Seneca Fisher11,

eat

Trunk or Treat

With humor and skill, Fuss and Hardy-Croskey are

CAUSING A RACKET

Trunk or Treat

Senior setter helps team earn playoff berth again

with a number of swimmers now preparing for the State meet Feb. 2021 in Austin. Three relay teams for both the boys and girls qualified to swim at the State meet. The boys also qualified in 12 individual events. This is the first time in school history both the boys and girls have won the Region title in the same year. While the boys maintained their dominance of Regions, this was the girls’ first title since 2010. Top 3 individual finishes at the Region Meet: David Armoruso12 (2nd, 100 breaststroke) Trae Floyd12 (3rd, 100 backstroke) Sam Poulin12 (1st, 200 freestyle; 3rd, 50 freestyle; 2nd, 100 butterfly) Eric Broussard11 (3rd, 200 freestyle; 3rd, 100 freestyle) Ryan Logan10 (1st, 100 back; 2nd, 200 freestyle) John Johnson10 (3rd, 100 back) Christian Frey11 (1st, 500 freestyle; 2nd, 200 IM) Austin Bradshaw12 (2nd, 500 freestyle; 1st, 200 freestyle) Matt Crowe12 (1st, 100 freestyle; 2nd, 50 freestyle) David Johnson11 (3rd, 100 butterfly) Mario Foltz10 (3rd, 200 IM) Helena Vassiliades10 (2nd, 200 Free; 2nd 100 Free) Camilla Stephens10 (3rd, 200 Free; 2nd, 500 Free) Hannah Dezell12 (2nd, 50 Free; 3rd, 100 Free) Kara Knapschaefer12 (3rd, 50 Free) Carolyn Arredondo11 (3rd, 100 Fly) Sarah Crowe10 (3rd, 100 Back) Layne Frey12 (2nd, 100 Breast)

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mario Foltz10 swimming freestyle at the first swim meet back from Winter Break. Foltz is best at distance. He finished in third place in the 200 IM at the Region meet. Photo by Sarah Martell. Boys 400 freestyle relay: Logan, Bradshaw, Christian Frey, Crowe. Boys 200 Medley Relay: Logan, Amoruso, Poulin, Spencer Balog12. Boys 200 freestyle relay: Poulin, Hunter Lang11, Broussard, Crowe. Girls 200 freestyle relay: Knapschaefer, Vassiliades, Dezell and Chelsea Ebert. Girls 200 medley relay: Janie Johnson, Layne Frey, Arredondo, Knapschaefer. Girls 400 freestyle relay: Ebert, Sarah Crowe, Dezell, Vassiliades.

Chelsea Ebert12 dives ahead of the competition in a freestyle event on Jan. 9. Photo by Sarah Martell.

LeDoux hopes to lead team to new level as sophomore By Chris Luck Special Contributor

Be a lifeguard at Kingwood Country Club!

The baseball team is going into the season with one goal: to win State. Last year, the Panthers suffered a heartbreaking loss in 10 innings to the Brenham Cubs in the Regional Quarterfinal. In 2014, the team’s captain was a shortstop who now plays for the Baylor Bears. Jonathan Ducoff was known for his leadership and winning mentality. Now, the Panthers will look to rely on a younger but just as driven leader in sophomore Blake LeDoux. “Blake LeDoux is a great teammate, baseball player and leader,” coach Cox said. LeDoux has already gone through more than the average sophomore when it comes to baseball. His freshman year he made the

varsity team for the Panthers. He went on to earn second team all-district honors and owned the secondhighest batting average on the team at .308. Before high school, he played select baseball for the Kingwood Dynasty. His experiences playing alongside the best in Kingwood for his age helped him become the player he is today. LeDoux always strives to become a better baseball player in all aspects. “I’m trying to work on my speed right now, because I’m not where I need to be in that area of my game,” LeDoux said. With opening day Feb. 23, LeDoux’s motto is “play pitch by pitch.” He will look to put that motto into play when he takes the field with seniors Garrett Velko and Jason Blanchard. “Our ultimate goal is to win district,” said LeDoux, “then to win State.”

Blake LeDoux10 hopes to lift his team to State in his sophomore season. Photo by Orianne Elliott. February 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY

San Fern Cathedra

San Antoni

arch of a Scare

ly way to get spooked. Ghost tours are available year-round throughout Humble, San Antonio ffer a side of history not widely spoken about – a glimpse of the darker parts of history. Spirits will known on the tours and sightings of orbs and other strange things appear in photos at times. on a local ghost tour and a San Antonio ghost tour to record part of that history.

ble

Photo by Orianne Elliott

Founded in 17 oldest operatin dral in the nati and bones of th in the Alamo as during the War Indepedence h In the back of t walls in which reportedly buri closely at the w can make out s of those they b within the wal

Photo by Orianne Elliott

and contained 20 classuntil 1965 when Humble nis. He left Germany d in Humble. Years after o them, moved into nowing nothing of their the grandson’s wives ide of the building.

Menger Hotel s San Antonio

Photo by Orianne Elliott

William Menger Suite, Room 2041 s Sa

Located on the second floor of the Menger Hotel, this is one of Built in 1859, the Menger is widely regarded as the most haunted hotel in Texas. Guests rooms. One guest two months ago got out of the shower to find still stay on site, and tours are often given. It is believed to house 32 spirits, including those Photo by Orianne Elliott the foot of her bed folding her sheets. She rushed in her towel to of frequent guests like Theodore Roosevelt, who used to recruit roughriders in the hotel bar. McKay Clinic s Humble As she described the woman, it was clear to staff that it was the The most commonly seen is chamber maid Sallie White, who was killed by her husband. She is The backyard of the McKay Hospital is like walking though a heavy fog. It’s gloomy and eerie - matching maid Sallie White making another appearance. White was murd often seen by guests cleaning their rooms in the middle of the night. the devastating stories in its history. Many people died from causes that often didn’t add up. It is believed there are still sightings of her in the hotel today. “I thought was interesting when we were in the Menger mannoontiesthetotour wasindustry trying that was that patientsitwere mistreated or neglected - especially those and whoahad the oil “The aesthetic of the hotel definitely added to the spook factor torunning take athe picture on his phone. Each time he tried to focus, little orbs would shoot across the town at the time. The building remains as a historical sight today. 12 tour,” Orianne Elliott12 said. “It was so pretty, yet because it was s screen and then vanish,” Amber Dalton said. sense of sadness,” Rachel Dams12 said. “The clinic/hospital caused an overwhelming made it super creepy at the same time.”

PHOTOGRAPHY

ch of a Scare Charles Bender High s Humble

Photo by Orianne Elliott

Photo by Or

Charle Bender High School opened in 1930 and contained 20 classrooms. It served as the district’s high school until 1965 when Humble was built. One of its co-builders was C.W. Ennis. He left Germany t spooked. Ghost tours are available year-round throughout Humble, San Antonio without telling any of his relatives and settled in Humble. Years after history not widely spoken about – a glimpse of the darker parts of history. Spirits will he passed, his grandchildren, unbenounced to them, moved into he tours and sightings of orbs and other strange things appear in photos at times. McKay Clinic s Humble the house directly behind the high school. Knowing nothing of their ost tour and a San Antonio ghost tour to record part of that history. The backyard of the McKay Hospital is like walking thoug grandfather, they were shocked when one of the grandson’s wives the devastating stories in its history. Many people died fro finally realized the family name was on the side of the building. that patients were mistreated or neglected - especially tho running the town at the time. The building remains as a hi “The clinic/hospital caused an overwhelming sense of sa

Orianne Elliott

classHumble ny s after nto f their ives g.

Orianne Elliott

nted, e house

Photo by Orianne Elliott

Menger Hotel s San Antonio

Built in 1859, the Menger is widely regarded as the most haunted hotel in Texas. Guests still stay on site, and tours are often given. It is believed to house 32 spirits, including those of frequent guests like Theodore Roosevelt, who used to recruit roughriders in the hotel bar. The most commonly seen is chamber maid Sallie White, who was killed by her husband. She is often seen by guests cleaning their rooms in the middle of the night. “I thought it was interesting when we were in the Menger and a man on the tour was trying Photo by Orianne Elliott across the to take a picture on his phone. Each time he tried to focus, little orbs would shoot McKay Clinic s Humble 12 screen and ofthen vanish,” Amber said.a heavy fog. It’s gloomy and eerie - matching The backyard the McKay Hospital is likeDalton walking though the devastating stories in its history. Many people died from causes that often didn’t add up. It is believed that patients were mistreated or neglected - especially those who had no ties to the oil industry that was running the town at the time. The building remains as a historical sight today. “The clinic/hospital caused an overwhelming sense of sadness,” Rachel Dams12 said.

William Menger Suite,

Located on the second floor of the M rooms. One guest two months ago go the foot of her bed folding her sheets. As she described the woman, it was cl maid Sallie White making another app there are still sightings of her in the h “The aesthetic of the hotel definitely tour,” Orianne Elliott12 said. “It was so p made it super creepy at the same time

Bexar County Jail (now Holiday Inn Express) s San Antonio Photo by Orianne Elliott

The Holiday Inn Express is now located in the same building that housed the county jail from 1869 until the Pearson House s Humble 1960s. Prison bars remain on all of its front windows. Hangings used to take place on the third floor (currently room 304 ofinthe Thoseissentenced to hangtowere dropped throughThe a trap door secondin floor,Humble s Humble A house theHoliday midst ofInn). Humble widely believed be haunted, firstto thebank Clemente Apolinar where family view the death (inThe whatlights is now 204.) according to and ghostfriends tourscould conducted in the area. in room the house The first Humble bank mysteriously burned down after th In 1923, the last person hanged was Clemente Apolinar, who is said to have committed the most gruesome murder in San Antonio mysteriously get turned on and off, doors open and shut on their much speculation but it was never confirmed what started history when killed 14-year-old Theodore Apolinar’ almost severed during his hanging, they deemed own and evenhethe television comes on whenBernhardt. no one isAfter around. Manys head was bank because they weren’t in the oil field. Many town lead the punishment as inhumane, and started using the widely accepted electric chair instead. believe it is caused by the daughter of previous owners, who was slave work. There was little to no actual dollars circulating The hoteldisabled. is said to She still was be haunted by many of thethe people to death Ashes of those who died on site are buried in the mentally not allowed to leave houseputand she there.which was the only currency accepted in stores and at the ground below whataway is nowinside. the hotel pool. eventually passed Many believe her spirit still wanders around the house to this day.

The first bank in Humble s Humble

Photo by Orianne Elliott

The first Humble bank mysteriously burned down after the oil industry took over the town. There was