December 16 Panther Prints

Engineering students create ecosystem with aquatics lab.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 comes out just in time for holidays.

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DUNCANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL www.duncanvillepantherprints.org

December 16, 2011 DUNCANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 900 W. CAMP WISDOM DUNCANVILLE, TX 75116 VOLUME 44, ISSUE 2

Briefs

Cheerleaders debut at TCU game

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he varsity and junior varsity cheer leading squads recently performed together with other squads at a TCU game in Fort Worth.

“This was a very joyful experience and it was a fun time with the team,” sophomore varsity cheerleader said.

“Performing at a college game was cool.”

The team had to work with other girls that they barely even met prior to the final performance in the game.

Junior cheerleader Brittany Cade said performing for a college crowd was different than a Duncanville crowd.

“It was very nerve racking at first with the big crowd,” Cade said. “But when everyone started clapping, I wasn’t nervous anymore.”

Chrietzberg honored at game

In Focus: Christmas wish granted

Full Story page 8

Roll out the Red Carpet Since he suffered a brain tumor over a year ago, junior Deuntae Peagues has been through surgery after surgery and remains upbeat and an inspiration to everyone. Because of his positive attitude through all he has gone through, he was granted his Christmas wish by Macy’s Make A Wish foundation. His first shopping spree began with a grand entrance at the North Park Mall Macy’s store. (Ana Monzon photo)

Administration sends strong message about jackets

BY Tatiana Marceleno | Editor-In-Chief

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ike Chrietzberg has been to every single varsity football game since he has been principal. He’s use to the roaring crowds, the epic wins and also the emotional losses. But he will soon learn to miss those moments as principal.

Tonight marks Chrietzberg’s final home game as principal of Duncanville High School. To commemorate Chrietzberg, the Athletic Department presented him with a football signed by all the current members of the varsity football game between Duncanville and Cedar Hill.

“I was surprised, but you know I felt a great deal of pride as well,” Chrietzberg said “I’ve put a lot into Duncanville High School and this really means alot.”

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s students sport their hot pink Hollister sweaters, Coogi designed coats, and Aeropostale logo jackets, they are soon to face the policy that Principal Elijah Granger arranged to better enforce the school dress code. As they walk down the halls, little do they know that their jackets will be taken up and returned only to their parents.

“We’ve been handling this by asking students to take the jackets off and even by taking disciplinary actions of sending them home,” Granger said. “It’s mainly because of the change in weather, but right now, we’re at the point where we need to take some action to get the students to make sure they’re following the dress code.”

When students enter the building in the morning, they are immediately asked to take off their out of dress code jackets. With this warning, students are expected to follow the dress code, but if they don’t, they face the consequence of getting their jacket confiscated. After jackets are taken, parents are to come up to the office to pick up their child’s jacket.

“The main reason why we’re asking parents to come pick them up is because we want to have a conversation with them,” Granger said. “A lot of parents don’t know and they’re busy or don’t have time, so it’s just a way to communicate.”

In the past, students were given warnings and opportunities to take off non-dress code outer garments. When students refused to comply, teachers and principals were left to write referrals. The

previous main consequence was to send students home, but Granger realized that they were missing out on school curriculum.

“This effort that we’re making is to make sure that we’re all following policy and also to ensure that students are in class,” Granger said.

All sacked up As students walked in the school with out of dress code jackets administrators and hall monitors took their jackets and bagged them up . Students’ parents were the only one that could come pick up the jackets. form the main office after school was out. (Tijhan Anderson photo)

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Opinion

December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

Our Opinion

Two weeks off DHS giving NBA beginning

Late NBA start Mavericks trades Colder Weather

Leave your out of dress code jackets at home

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ou are walking through the hallway, minding your own business, it has been a little chilly outside; so you are wearing your favorite brown jacket. You know the jacket is out of dress code. But the dress code has never really been enforced for jackets, unless somebody is walking around wearing a mink fur coat. You figure you will not have any problems with administration. Wrong.

The administration is cracking down on out of dress code jackets. Any jackets that are not solid white or navy are being confiscated. The consequence is they are only returned directly to parents or guardians. Although there have been some complaints from students that have had their jackets taken up, most of the students have been compliant with the “new” rule because they knew they were wrong. These jackets have never been in dress code and this is not a No gray jackets allowed in new policy, just stronger enforcebuilding. ment of a policy that has always Jackets will be taken away if been in place.

Yes, the dress code seems unthey are worn in building. fashionable in the winter time.

Take your jackets off before Yes, it is really annoying to have entering the building. to go shopping and find a plain white or navy jacket. Yes, your out of dress code jacket probably isn’t a danger to yourself or society. But bottom line, the jacket is out of dress code and it is the administration’s job to enforce that dress code.

Principal Elijah Granger said the administration wants to send a strong message to students that being out of dress code is not an option.

He said students need to be in compliance with the policy and parents need to know what the rules are. The recent confiscation of jackets will send a message to both the student and their parents.

By confiscating the jackets the pressure is off the teachers to watch

Your Opinion

each jacket entering their classroom. It is not the job of the teacher to inspect every jacket. It is the responsibility of the students to not wear the jacket they know is out of dress code anyway. If you can not, then administration should take it away.

The dress code is what it is. We can’t change it. All we can do is follow it. By all means, if it is 15 degrees outside, wear a jacket. But then take it off while inside the building.

Editorial facts

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Staff Adviser James Rich

Principals Mike Chrietzberg Elijah Granger

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Out of Dress Code Jackets

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Editor-in-Chief: Tatiana Marceleno Managing Editor: Allie Peregory News Editor: Tijhan Anderson Features Editor: Taylor Harris Sports Editors: Julio Munoz Entertainment Editors: Maria Sifuentes, Arielle Hackney Multimedia Editor: Mimi Kang Photo Editors: Erika Torres, Ana Monzon, Chase Apperson Staff: Ini Adedokun, Cassidy Doyle, Abigail Padgett, Chrystal Rhone, Nancy Torres, Kristopher Torres, Viara Bradley, Tyra Brown, La’Christian Harbert, Alexis Champion, Taijae Douglas, Gracy Kheshtinejad, Cherokee Polk, Melanie Smith, John Davila, Olivia Davila, Issac Bivins, Romeeka Siddiqui, Anna Schoby, Leslie Perez, Tricia Virtue, Mariah Cuellar, Esther Padgett, Ariana Canchola, Caitlin Lewis, Sarah Siddiqui,

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anther Prints, the official student newspaper for Duncanville High School, is published monthly during the school term: Oct. 28, Dec. 16, Feb. 3, April 20, May 25.

All signed editorial content is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of other staff members, the adviser, or the administration. Unsigned editorials are the opinion of the staff. Letters to the editor will be accepted on a timely basis. All letters must be submitted in person in room I117. Letters may be edited for length or libelous content.

Panther Prints accepts paid advertisements at the rate of $5 per column inch. Ad deadline is 10 days prior to publication.

Panther Prints is a member of the following Associations: Interscholastic League Press Conference, National Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Quill and Scroll, Southern Interscholastic Press Association.

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PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

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Christmas is more than presents under the tree C

hristmas has lost its meaning.

I realize not everyone recognizes Christmas as the day Christ was born, but as I get older I notice people are losing the true meaning behind Christmas.

Love.

Whether someone believes that Christmas is about the love God had for His children to send a Savior, or love between friends and family, this holiday is not about us. Christmas is about showing love to people in our life and even the strangers.

By Allie Peregory The mall is a zoo a week before Christmas. It is a guarantee there will be hundreds of people practically running over each other to make sure the get their hands on the new iPhone or designer jacket or whatever item they so desperately want to have for Christmas. Moms with stress and worry lines etched on their forehead chase after their children and try to keep all of their purchases together as they make sure that every person on their list has the exact gift they asked for under the

Personal Column

sparkling Christmas tree Dec. 25.

Presents are nice. Do not get me wrong, I appreciate gifts from my loved ones. But the stress level people have during the holidays just because they want to get a present for every person in the family is ridiculous.

There are children all over America that would not even have a gift under the tree. If it weren’t for churches or other organizations that “adopt” them and bring them a present. So who are we to not only hope for, but expect a neatly wrapped item under the tree every year? Yes, we are fortunate and our families have the means of making our Christmas wish come true, but it is important that we recognize that Christmas is about being in the spirit of giving. Not getting.

My youth group recently went to a Mariott hotel where we made fleece blankets for children at various hospitals throughout the metroplex. Hotels took monetary donations through the year and gathered fleece to make blankets. Each hotel had a quota to gather ten blankets a month. Our youth group made over 25 blankets in one visit. That is 25 lives we had an impact on. No matter how small or insignificant it may seem to make 25 blankets. That is what Christmas is all about.

Christmas is about putting others before ourselves. The holiday season is not about gifts, homemade candy or that guy you want to catch under the mistletoe on New Year’s Eve.

There is always someone out there that could use some help, even if it sounds like something as silly as making a simple blanket.

This Christmas make a difference. Show some love.

The real meaning of Christmas Because of the student body at the high school writing over 1,500 letters to Santa, Macy’s Make a Wish foundation will receive over $3K to help more children like this years winner junior Deuntae Pegues who hand delivered the letters Dec. 9.

(Ana Monzon photo)

Voices from the Jungle If you could have anything for Christmas what would it be? & Why?

A new car, so I want have to depend on anyone to pick me up.

---- Terrance Crawford, 12

To Be with my family because they are more impoortant to me than anything else.

----Clarisssa Lazalde, 11

To be with my family because I do not get to be around them often.

----Alex Badillo, 10

An HP laptop so I can get my lessons done easier.

----Joann Pride, 9.

Applying to more than one university doubles stress of process

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Personal Column

By Tatiana Marceleno

never thought applying to college was a big deal. Sure, I’d just fill out the application, mail everything in a nice envelope, and get accepted. I figured the process would be a piece of cake, but boy, was I wrong. Until now, it had never crossed my mind how tedious, annoying, and stressful the whole college application process could be.

I can honestly say that the beginning of my senior year wasn’t too difficult. I knew I could handle my class work, so I began the first steps of my

college application.

In late October, I went on my first actual college visit to The University of Texas at Austin. Being on campus alone was the greatest feeling. The people, environment, and city made me feel like I was finally where I belonged. Soon after my visit to UT, I took a college tour of Texas Christian University with my parents. The experience of being on the TCU campus was amazing. Just imagining my self at either of the two schools was great, so I went home, inspired to begin my applications.

I was surprised at how simple the first steps of the applications were. Making an account, choosing which schools to

apply to, and filling in my major were the first steps to complete. The rest of the application involved filling out personal questions, applying for the university’s scholarships, and submitting essays.

For me, each section was like climbing a ladder. After completing the personal info section, I’d climb the first few steps. From here, I’d continue up the ladder onto the scholarship section. Explaining my future goals through short essays was challenging, so I would cling to these steps on the ladder for a while. An extra boost from my mom encouraged me to continue up towards the final steps.

Before reaching the top of the ladder, I had to complete the application’s essays. At this point, I was exhausted from climbing and needed a break. Procrastination of completing my essays was a real stressor in the end. Finishing my essays before the deadline kept me from reaching the top, but with my mom’s help and perseverance, I climbed those last few steps. Clicking that submit button was the most relief I had felt since beginning the two applications, and I couldn’t have been more satisfied in the end.

Looking back, I don’t think I could have finished my college applications without the help of my mom and dad. Both of my parents supported me by taking me on college tours, reading my final application essays, and helping pay for my applications fees.

Along with my parents who’ve helped me through the process are my teachers and counselors. I know I probably annoyed my counselors with so many recommendation letter requests, but their constant commitment helped me meet

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all of my college application deadlines. The reassurance I received during the most stressful times encouraged me to keep working and that my hard work would soon pay off.

I have to admit, the college application process was a killer.

I never realized the amount of time, commitment and hard work that had to be put into it. Finishing two to five essays, asking for letters of recommendation, and meeting the deadlines certainly pays off when that acceptance letter comes around. The excitement I felt when I received my acceptance from UT was unbelievable. Coming home to my family sporting their burnt orange shirts and raising their Hook ‘Em Horns high, it finally occurred to me that college is finally here.

With less than 100 days until graduation, seniors will be waiting for those final acceptance letters and making their absolute college decisions. May 31 is right around the corner, so now is definitely the time to finish applications. Whether your application experience drives you to pull your hair out or goes with ease, it will definitely pay off as you begin the next steps of your of your journey towards higher education.

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News

December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

High Hats perform in annual Adolphus holiday parade

BY Cherokee Polk | Staff Writer

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Santa’s Elves Junior lieutenant Ashleigh Martin waves to the crowd as she preceded Santa in the Adolphus holiday parade. The High Hats also performed a final dance on national television with other dancers. (Chrystal Rhone photo)

aturday morning, the streets of Downtown were swarming with shivering elves in hopes of appearing on national television much later that morning as the High Hats made their way off the busses for their annual performance in the Adolphus Holiday Parade.

“It’s great for them to be a part of something I use to be in when I was on drill team,” assistant director Tasha Evans said.

They arrived in Downtown Dallas at 5:30 am to perform at the 24th annual Adolphus-Children’s Medical Center Holiday Parade. Although the arrival time was early, those involved said it was all about those affected by the parade.

“Seeing the children happy, smiling and cheering gets me in the Christmas spirit,” sophomore Tasmia Allen said.

The High Hats usually just walk alongside Santa Claus and his float, but this year they were asked to do something different.

“We were part of the televised finale which meant we had to be at the school at 4:30 in the morning for a dress rehearsal,” director Kristi Beaty said.

Various high school drill teams came together to perform the final dance. Many teams volunteered to be in the parade to simply be a part of the cause.

“It was cool to see different dancers from different teams acting kind of professional and working with professional people because it’s a parade and you don’t normally think that that’s a professional thing, but it is,” senior squad representative Annai Guerrero said.

Rows and rows of young smiling faces lined the streets of Downtown Dallas to see popular

Dallas Cowboys players inspire sophomore class

BY Julio Munoz | Sports Editor

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owboy’s players Jon Kitna, Derrick Dockery, and Jesse Holley visited the school to talk with the sophomore class about things they could do to be successful in school and life. The players were excited to be able to contribute to the students in some way.

“This opportunity to come back to all these different schools and talk, it’s our way of giving back,” Holley said.

Kitna stressed that it is important for kids to never give up, because he was also faced with many obstacles.

“I’m a product of dreams,” Kitna said. “To me it’s never about the guy who’s the most talented, it’s about the person who’s persevered the most.”

The players talked about several things they like to be able to convey to students.

“I want to inspire kids,” Dockery said. “I think the main thing is having goals for yourself, whatever you can set your mind to, you can do it.”

Students were surprised by the appearance of the guests and applauded and cheered as they were being presented by the Cowboys chaplain, Johnathan Evans.

“It’s good people that we’re bringing,” Cowboys chaplain Johnathan Evans said. “They are coming to speak about how to get from one level to the next in life.”

Sophomore Xavier Vault said the experience was a good one and challenged them as students to become better at life.

“I thought the assembly was fun,” sophomore Xavier Vault said, “Jesse Holley really got to me, he actually got down to our level and Jon Kitna broke his message down to where we could understand it.”

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icons like Elmo, Bob the Builder, Clifford, Curious George, and American Idol winner Jordin Sparks. Many parents brought out their children to come watch the parade despite the cold weather.

“My favorite part was when little kids wanted high fives and pictures with me and other elves,” junior squad representative Lucy Russell said, “You get to see all these little kids so excited about Santa and Christmas and their little excited faces just burned into your mind with happiness.”

The younger children anticipated the sight of Santa and his elves. The highlight of the whole parade was when Santa’s float, surrounded by elves, drifted down Commerce Street bearing Santa and his big bag of toys for the kids who have been nice all year long. The Duncanville High Hats had the honor to become one of Santa’s elves for the day.

“While we were walking in it I was like ‘Oh, this is how Santa Claus feels!’ That would be awesome to feel like Santa all year round because it’s such a cheerful feeling,” Guerrero said. “You feel so good about yourself when you see all the little kids believing in something that you once believed in.”

The High Hats got to experience something that most people don’t often get to experience.

They got the chance to affect people’s lives in a positive way that was beneficial for themselves and everyone around them who experienced the parade either live, or on television.

“It was just being a part of all of that and what one city can do to make these kids happy that was memorable. It’s cool that people care that much about other people because there’s so much bad in the world that you forget that there are good people out there,” Guerrero said.

Autograph time Sophomores lined up to get Cowboys backup quaterback Jon Kitna’s autograph prior to him speaking to them about making a positive impact on their school. (Alexis Champion photo)

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

December Boys Basketball When: Dec. 20 Where: Grand Prairie Time: JV 6 p.m. Varsity 7:30 NOTE: The varsity team will also play in the Wataburger Tournament Dec. 28-30

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G-B-ball @ 9 a.m.

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B-Bball @ 6 p.m

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When: December 27-29 Where: Sandra Meadows Arena Time: 9 a.m.

Games will follow bracket with winners advancing each day.

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PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

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AP Human Geography student participate in food festival

BY Tatiana Marceleno | Editor-In-Chief

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ilhartz Elementary’s first grade class was filled with excitement as they crowded their school cafeteria. Posters, balloons, and streamers covered their lunch tables and high school students surrounded agricultural themed booths. As part of the AP Human Geography class’ curriculum, the high school students incorporated teaching their agriculture chapter to the elementary school students through a “Food Festival.”

“I really wanted to provide an experience for the high school students to teach their geography skills and I wanted to give them a real audience to get their project together for,” AP Human Geography teacher David Williams said.

As part of the Food Festival, the AP class partnered with Bilhartz to give the elementary students a better understanding of agriculture. The high school students were put into groups and given specific topics of agriculture to teach to the first graders. Given the task to teach the children about three types of markets, freshman Regan Preston felt confident that her booth appealed to the students.

“We dressed up as the different types of markets and as the kids went around our group, we

told them things that were made there and the differences between the markets,” Preston said. “After that, we played a game with them to see what they learned and remembered about our booth.”

Junior Laura Lopez admits that she enjoyed working on the project with her group and looked forward to teaching the first graders.

“Our booth presentation was really creative and I was looking forward to seeing the first grader’s reaction to it,” Lopez said. “After the kids left our booth, I think a lot of them left knowing something new about agriculture.”

Of the many goals that the class set for the project, Williams is confident and satisfied at the outcome of the Food Festival. Making the topic of agriculture better understood and getting both the elementary and high school students excited about learning the geography of agriculture was very successful.

“I told the principal of Bilhartz that it was probably one of the most rewarding days I’ve had as a teacher, just watching how well my students did in preparation and execution of their ideas, how they treated the first graders and seeing how pumped they were to go from booth to booth, I feel like they learned a lot,” Williams said. “I feel they now have a good impression of the high school and a good impression of geography as well.”

Interactive display Bilhartz elementary students were all eyes as senior Rachel Cartmell presented her display about farming to them. This project was a way for David Williams’ students from the high school to connect their lesson to something that students on the elementary level are learning. (Melanie Smith photo)

Holiday book fair serves community over break

BY Maria Sifuentes | A&E Editor

I Puppeteers Junior Rachael Roberts and senior Katherine McElroy add a puppet skit to their reading. (Chase Apperson photo)

t was just after 10 a.m. in the morning the Saturday of her Thanksgiving break and junior volunteer Elena Elliot waited patiently for the little girl to pick out a book for her to read. She read the book to her with enthusiasm.

As she read the descriptions and pointed to the colorful drawings in the book, the girl made her way up close to where she was reading. The girl quickly looked up at the book and pointed out something that was hidden in the book. Elliot smiled for the little girl’s answer was right there hidden in the book. This was just one of the many highlights of the day at the Barnes and Noble book fair.

“It was delightful to have so many volunteers,” a Barnes and Noble employee said. “Ev-

erything seemed like a success especially story time.”

The book fair, held November 26- 27 was sponsored by the PTSA, not only to help the store at Cedar Hill’s Uptown mall, but as a joint fund-raising for the high school. For the first time there was a host of student volunteers on hand to brighten the store visitor’s day. For students it was an opportunity to give back to the community while benefiting the school at the same time.

“It was just like Santa’s Workshop at the book store that day,” junior Chrystal Rhone said. “All the clubs members were helping Barnes and Noble give out Christmas cheer.”

The day started off with Spanish Story Time.

The day rocked along with various other events leading to a final reading time on Saturday.

“The crowd was small as the book fair started,” librarian Jeni Tahaney said. “But it grew as time went by.”

The crowd began to grow as other booths were set up for various activities hosted by groups from the high school. There was an arts and crafts booth run by student volunteers.

Although students were able to gain community service hours for participating in the event however they said it was more about the experience.

“I loved how doing this was putting smiles on little kid’s faces,” freshman volunteer Nia Washington said. “I was also getting community service hours, so that is a two in one special.

See BOOK FAIR PAGE 16

Cosmetology Hair-A-Thon benefits Arlington women’s shelter

Nails for the young Senior Gretchen Cardoza works diligently on a set of nails for one of the clients at the cosmetology Hair-A-Thon Dec. 3. The students hosted the event to help Safe Haven in Arlington. (Melanie Smith photo)

Tedious work Senior Sheila Ramirez works on a clients hair during the cosmetology department’s fund raiser for Safe Haven of Arlington. Students worked the event from 12-6:30 Dec. 3. (Melanie Smith Photo)

Styling for a cause Senior Joselyn Rodriguez styles hair at the Cosmetology Hari-A-Thon Dec. 14. The department raised $604.40 of which they will donate $302.20 to the Safe Haven, a battered women’s shelter in Arlington. (Melanie Smith Photo)

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December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

Engineering students create ecosystem as learning device

BY Taylor Harris | Features Editor

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etween the baseball field and the west side cafeteria sits a whole different ecosystem. Fish, plants, and about 230 gallons of water dwell in a special covered building constructed by the engineering and drafting classes.

“Our overall goal for coming out here every day is to have an ecosystem that can support itself,” engineering teacher Bart Burnett said. “We don’t have all the answers, but that’s the idea in a problem and solution class. We want to try different things out and we what works and what doesn’t.”

The project has gone through many changes and is in its final stage this year. Students began working on the project last year and returned this year to see it through the final stages of an ongoing scientific experiment.

“I saw the project being worked on last year, and it didn’t get a lot of attention so I wanted to make that happen this year,” senior Kevin Dauernheim said.

“My main goal is to take a report of this to competition under mentoring so we can teach this to other people.”

While working on the project is an every day occurrence for students, they admit there are some obstacles in crating a project of this magnitude.

“One of the hardships we had was trying to stop the leaks in the tank,” Grady said. “Of course there was a time that I thought the project wouldn’t work, but I never gave up and I never lost hope.”

The overall goal of the project is finding solutions to real world problems. Burnett said that this will be a science project that will last more than just a one hour session.

“This is a lesson that’s going to last a year,” Burnett said. “I wanted this to be a learning lesson and get the school district involved.”

Burnett said he invited other classes to get involved in the project as well. One of the classes he invited was the drafting class who helped with the overall design

of the project.

“Our job was to make the inside and outside surrounding of the tank look like the engineering department wanted it to,” senior drafting student Justin Stinnett said. “I think this project is not only going to benefit this school, but the younger schools as well because they get to see a living laboratory and how plants and animals interact.”

As soon as drafting teacher Marissa Muegge found out about the project, she quickly got her students involved.

“I thought this would be an interesting project for my students and I also thought my students would enjoy learning the science part about the project as well,” Muegge said.

Now the students are outside every day at the tank trying to achieve their ultimate goal.

“Every day we come out here and learn something new,” senior Gabriel Grady said. “Some days we see new baby fish pop up. Right now we’re in the process of trying to figure out how we can let them feed themselves and anything to make a better ecosystem.”

Burnett said he is glad to see all the students from different areas working to accomplish their goals. He said now the task is to create a lid to cover the tank in the winter months.

“I’m glad to see everyone’s enjoying it and they’re learning engineering along the way, especially how to design and maintain technology,” Burnett said.

Burnett said this is just one of many projects to come that teach real life lessons and prepare student for a real life adventures in engineering, including projects that range from the creation of a robotic arm to repairing damage in elevator shafts.

“We do not just do these projects for just the sake of building something,” Burnett said. “We do them in hopes of creating a Disney Land of learning infrastructures for students across the district from elementary to high schools. These are all part of the engineering program’s strategic plan.”

Treating the water Architecture senior Carlos Orosco observes seniors Kevin Dauernheim and Gabriele Grady as they add liquid plant food to the water in the newly designed ecosystem tank. (Ini Adedokun photo)

TAFE sets goals on winning state contest, after finishing strong in district

BY Tijhan Anderson | News Editor

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tudents from Mrs. Tyra Walker’s Texas Association of Future Educators(TAFE) will advance to the state level of competition in February after winning the regional contest this month.

“This was one of our main goals going into the year and we have accomplished it,” TAFE sponsor Tyra Walker said. “State is where we win scholarships and recognition for who we are at Duncanville.”

Every year TAFE attends the Region 10 meetings to enter competitions and participate in activities. Students who won medals in the competition include Juniors Ana Estrada, Cinthia

Vargas and senior Jasmine Allen.

“We will continue to study over the break in January for the next level,” Walker said. “The students will retest when they get to state and compete against other students from all areas across Texas.”

Walker said TAFE encourages students to learn about careers in education and assists them in exploring the teaching profession while promoting character, service and leadership skills necessary for becoming effective educators.

“We promote positive attitudes regarding all noble aspects of education,” Walker said.

“It also provides service leadership within our school and community.”

A helping hand Junior Valerie Gonzales is part of the Ready Set Teach Program that helps elementary students on a weekly basis. (Submitted photo)

Brandenberg Intermediate benefits from portable science lab

BY Allie Peregory | Managing Editor

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group of 40 students gathered around senior Kwesi Fuller at Waterview Park excited about the adventures of they day. This day their classroom would not be in the school but by the lake, giving them a chance to explore science in a real way. They ran around the lake collecting water samples, writing results then figuring out how the experiments of the day fit into their in school science and math lessons.

“With a little initiative every student can be involved and interact and be willing to take that extra step to learn more about how to better themselves and better their education,” senior Kwesi Fuller said.

The engineering classes created their portable engineering lab (PEL), so they have the capability to conduct long-term training and long-term technical training on projects where materials or facilities may not be available. Fuller was placed in charge of running the lab for a group of Brandenburg Intermediate students last month. One of the goals was to help raise science and math scores and engage the students in a real life project.

“Our goal is to get students excited about learning and to provide them with unique and interesting learning experiences,” Fuller said. “I see this as my opportunity to change lives and make a difference.”

Engineering teacher Bart Burnett said the project took weeks of planning and was completely student driven. He said the project has been a dream of the Assisting the younger High school engineering students helped Brandenberg Intermedi- students for a few years and he has watched as they ate students with their science projects using the portable science lab they created at created the lab with him just answering questions as the high school. (submitted photo) they arise.

“The detailed operation is completely run by the students. I am just there for any unforeseen emergencies,” Burnett said. “Unless they have a chance to fail, they can never succeed.”

Burnett said that the lab went off without one problem, claiming that his most difficult problem of the day was cooking 74 hot dogs for the students.

“It was so cool. It was surreal,” Burnett said. “This was one of those days that I’m glad to be a teacher.

The literal thoughts going through my head were, ‘Oh my God. They’re paying me for this?’”

The high school students worked with Mrs. Jennifer Goulding’s science classes using the portable science lab. She said that she felt the experience was very valuable for her students.

“This project engages the students in meaningful science they can use in the real world,” Goulding said.

“This gets students more excited about learning news science that we are focusing on in class.”

Laughter and smiles are seen all around as intermediate students play and dance with their engineering student teacher.

“I hope we do this more often throughout the year because it is very very fun. It is awesome!”

Brandenburg student Ori Evans said.

The day’s events ended as the intermediate students returned to the classroom, but the results of the day will continue affecting lives for years to come.

“Twenty years from now, I hope I can look back and say that Waterview Park and Duncanville High School look the way they do partially because of me,” Fuller said.

PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

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Westerman assists students with college application process

BY Tatiana Marceleno | Editor-In- Chief

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ettled in the far corner of the counseling center, he sits behind his laptop, researching colleges around the country. Posters of universities cover the walls of his office and banners hang from the ceiling. College advisor Kevin Westerman began his first year at the high school by helping seniors through the college application process and answering any questions students have about college and university life.

“The college applications and admission process is overwhelming for a 17 or 18 year old high school senior,” Westerman said. “What I try to do is basically walk them through the steps of the process and answer any questions they have along the way.”

After graduating from Texas A&M University, Westerman applied for the position as a college advisor for high school seniors. He hoped to use the opportunity to help students through their college application process and answer any questions along the way. Westerman was hired by the high school and immediately began helping and getting to know the senior class. He began offering college aid through meetings in his office and through application sessions on Thursdays in the library.

“Mr.Westerman has been really great, because he’s helped me set up a college application account and is helping me through the process,” senior Denise Chavez said. “He’s also been telling me whether I should take the SAT again and what schools I should look into.”

Getting to know the seniors he works with helps Westerman get a feel of where they should begin. Westerman said that having the opportunity to assist students is amazing, because he gets to give college guidance that he wishes he received during his application process. He also tells seniors that college is like a “clean slate” where they begin a new journey in life.

“What you did, or who you were in high school doesn’t have to translate into college,” Westerman says. “You can honestly be whoever you what to be, and to me, that’s pretty exciting.”

Starting fresh and beginning the college experience is the experience that most seniors look forward too, but the transition from high school to university may not be as expected.

Westerman stresses the importance of maintaining good grades and practicing good study habits so seniors can experience a smooth transition.

“Learn how you learn. By that I mean, get to know how you learn and study the best because I promise that your study habits in high school just will not cut it in college,”

Checking Options New college counselor Kevin Westerman assists Denise Chavez-Gama with her college plans in an after school workshop held in the library this month. (Romeeka Siddiqui photo)

Westerman said. “I made the mistake of thinking that college was just going to be high school 2.0, and I paid for it with my GPA the first semester of freshman year.”

Taking his advice, senior Melissa Reyes admits that her senior year is not the typical year to blow off. Her classes consist of career and tech classes, as well as AP courses. Meeting and speaking with Westerman about her college plans has helped her understand the importance of her senior year in preparation for next year.

“Your senior year is probably where you want to do the most because colleges will look to see if you’re slacking or taking the right classes,” Reyes said. “Talking to Mr. Westerman really helped me figure out what I want to do and what col-

leges I should be applying to.”

As the end of the first semester comes to an end, seniors continue to apply to colleges and await their letters of acceptance. Westerman continues to support seniors through the rigorous process and knows that by guiding students through a life changing course, he is making an impact on their lives.

“My main goal is to have every single graduate of DHS go on to receive some type of post-secondary education after high school,” Westerman said. “If I can just impart on the seniors the knowledge that I wish I would have had going into college, and help them in some way to achieve their goal of attending college then I think I will have been successful here at DHS.”

Students stress over college entrance requirements as deadline nears

BY Tatiana Marceleno | Editor-In-Chief

“The word I would use to describe the college application process is hectic,” Magistrado said. enior Patrick Magistrado sat at his com- “It’s definitely worth going through, but there puter, reading the questions over and over were so many times when I had to go back and again. Knowing that one click of the mouse forth for transcripts and annoy my teachers for would help determine his future, he made sure he recommendation letters.”

For senior Jasmine Robinson, the most diffiwas ready to hit the enter key. Finally satisfied, he moved the mouse over the Submit button and cult part of the application process was the essay with that one click, his college application was on portion. Robinson said the overall application was fairly simple, but when it came down to the essays, its way for approval.

“Knowing that all my hard work has finally paid she had hit her breaking point.

“I’m not good at writing essays,” Robinson off is great, but then again there’s still so much to do,” Magistrado said. “I’m looking forward to col- said. “So I have to really focus when I’m writing and get as much help as I lege, but I have to organize can.” and think about what colApplying to Baylor, leges are best for me.”

“The day you go to the mailbox Texas A&M Commerce The college application process has been a frenzy and open your acceptance letter to and Stephen F. Austin, Robinson hopes to study for Magistrado and others like him who see the your dream school makes all the in the Pre-Med program as well. Throughout most of deadlines approaching this hard work worth it all .” her application experience, month. Students admit the Robinson has received Kevin Westerman, counselor stress of writing essays, help from Westerman and asking for recommendaher cousin. Senior Jazmine tion letters and taking the Harper admits she had to complete the majority SAT or ACT has reached its boiling point. Colof the process on her own. lege adviser Kevin Westerman is helping ease the “I didn’t get as much help as I needed and tension of college for most seniors as they work wanted, but I’m glad that I didn’t because my through the process.

“Some students here at Duncanville will be first mom told me that I needed to start my new chapgeneration college students. Being a first genera- ter without her help,” Harper said. “She helped tion student is difficult and overwhelming when me in high school, so filling out my applications gathering all the information needed to navigate for college was my next step.”

Information about applying to college is chalthe college admission process,” Westerman said. lenging for students whose parents do not speak “What I do is find out what they are interested in studying, where they want to attend college and English. Westerman said he tries to accommodate walk them through the steps on how to reach parents who may speak another language and those who know nothing about the application those goals.”

Magistrado began his college applications process.

“I just try to get parents information, whether early enough for his universities early decision programs. His top colleges to study Pre-Med at that is in another language or just information include Southern Methodist University, Baylor that tells them about a college, what programs University, and Austin College. Magistrado ad- they offer or explaining to them how their son or mits that applying to these universities was a diffi- daughter can benefit from receiving a higher educult process, but he hopes it all pays off in the end. cation,” Westerman said. “I am the students’ big-

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gest fan and I want to be their advocate. So I will try to help them in any way I can.”

As other seniors struggle teaching their parents about the process, senior Rachel Cartmell said her mother has been helping her from the start. Cartmell’s mother encouraged her to attend college workshops during the summer as well as begin writing her essays at an early point.

“I am so grateful for having my mom with me through this process. If I didn’t have her, I don’t know where I would be,” Cartmell said.

Although Cartmell is grateful to her mother for help she said that others who do not have parent assistance can get through the process as well.

“Just because I had my mom help me, doesn’t mean that I couldn’t have done it myself though,” Cartmell said. “It only takes a few minutes to look up a school and apply, so it shouldn’t be an excuse if you don’t have a parent to help you.”

While Westerman said the college admissions process is tedious and sometimes difficult to navigate through, the work doesn’t go unrewarded.

“The day you go to the mailbox and open up your acceptance letter to your dream school makes all the hard work worth it all,” Westerman said.

Robinson admits she is willing to do whatever it takes to get accepted into her top choice school.

She said she wants to attend Baylor so bad that she will do whatever it takes to get accepted.

“If I don’t get into it the first time, then I’m going to apply again,” Robinson said. “Hopefully I’ll get into it the first time, but if not, I’ll call and continue asking what I can do.”

After being accepted to their colleges, the process continues as seniors begin making their final decisions. As the second semester looms ahead, Magistrado said he will now begin looking toward the future.

“The application process is almost over, so there’s nothing much you can do. You hope and pray that you get what you want,” Magistrado said. “Just imagining everything about college is so cool and it’s gratifying to know that all of the hard work has finally paid off.”

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In Focus

December 16, 2011 || PA

Special Christmas wish g Pegues conquers brain tumor, honored by Make A

BY Julio Munoz | Sports Editor

easier. His father LaDarell Pegues said the family tried to make together,” Shamlin said. “I still treat him like before. I’m still his it as easy as they could on him as he went through his battle with cousin. I don’t try to baby him a lot. It’s just still the same. He unior Deuntae Pegues is an optimistic, lively and outgoing the cancer. was better than all of us in that he knew it was going to be easy student who enjoys a good laugh as well as making others “He didn’t have to do anything basically,” Mr. Pegues said. for him.” laugh. His family and friends say they enjoy his company “All he had to do was eat, sleep, and that was it. We did everyThroughout the day Deuntae and his family were accompaand he doesn’t often let his thing for him.” nied by Kyle Miller and his wife Caty Miller, who are volunteers emotional side get to him.

Deuntae’s Make a Wish day started off in a prin- with the Make a Wish Foundation. They made sure everything Throughout his year-long “My mindset was that I was going cipal’s office. He wasn’t in trouble, he was named was perfect for him whether that included helping him pick out battle with a brain tumor, his for the Day. He took over the desk and du- items, escorting him through the mall or carrying all the shopto get through it and beat the can- Principal parents admit they have never ties for principal Keith Butcher, who has created a ping bags. seen him cry. But at the mocer. It really wasn’t hard other than special bond with Deuntae. He too conquered cancer “This was the first time my wife and I had a chance to grant ment Pegues was presented earlier in life and said he was happy to help Deuntae a wish,” Mr. Miller said. “We’ve been exposed to Make a Wish me getting small and stuff. I just sat adapt to his new life at Pace Learning Center. with a personalized Ralph over the last several years and we were looking for a chance to Lauren car collection book, there and went through it .”

“When Deuntae came in and told me about his share something like this together and we found a great opporwhich was delivered oversituation I was very sympathetic because I too have tunity to give back a little bit and bring joy to a young guy like Deuntae Pegues, junior night mail just for him, he been through cancer and chemo therapy,” Butcher Deuntae.” could no longer hold back the said. “So we had that connection right off.”

Deuntae said having his wish granted is the best thing that has tears that began rolling down Unaware of the posters, signs and crowd that was happened to him and he would have never been able to do any of his face as he sat tirelessly in his wheel chair for his final stop of gathering outside of Pace, Deuntae remained in the building un- the things he did that day without this organization. his Macy’s Make A Wish shopping spree Dec. 9. til the limo arrived. As he exited the building, he received a me“It was so amazing that I got to really be a celebrity for a day, “You mean his name is really Ralph Lauren,” Pegues said. lodic welcome by the symphonic band and everyone from Pace they’ve been taking pictures of me all day,” Deuntae said, “This is “This is so amazing.”

Learning Center. going to be the best Christmas forever, Pegues was chosen by the Macy’s Make a Wish Foundation to “All of these guys out here are nice,” it’s going to be the one day in my life receive his wish of going on a shopping spree with his family. He Deunte said. “I am telling you right now “Laughter goes a long way. He’s that I remember. I would like to say to was the first in a while to be granted a wish by the North Texas I would not be standing out here in the a Wish thank you, thank you and always been happy and that’s good Make Make A Wish foundation. cold, but they are out here for me.” thank you again. And then thank you “When they called and told me my wish had come true,” Pegin that when you go through this times three more.”

After leaving the school, the family had ues said, “I had the biggest grin on my face. I was so happy I a private meal at Razoo’s and then headed Deuntae has been tumor free for altragedy, he’s always been the strong most didn’t know what to do, so I just sat there and grinned.” to Macy’s at North Park Mall in Dallas. a year but still struggles with his one. I’ve actually never seen him cry family as they fight the disease together, The Macy’s Make a Wish Foundation grants wishes to kids Because they are the sponsor of Make ages 2-18 who are referred to Make a Wish and are currently A Wish, he was treated like a celebrity. but it’s his lively spirit and sense of hubut one time during his illness.” undergoing a life threatening condition.

When he walked in he was greeted with mor that his father said has kept this “We’re just so blessed to have an organization where we can cameras and flashes while store managers LaDarel Pegues, Deuntae’s father family going and that will continue to grant wishes of kids,” Scotty Lendry, CEO of Make a Wish North and staff applauded as they laid out a red pull them through the best and worst of Texas said. “There’s just a bunch of great kids out there, all de- carpet for him. times. serving of wishes and with Deuntae you can just see his spirit “He looked so excited and we were also “Laughter goes a long way,” Mr. Pegand it’s so great.” very excited,” Macy’s store manager Becky Brocky said. “We had ues said. “He’s always been happy and that’s good in that when Pegues was di- everyone down at the door to greet him and cheer him on, and you go through this tragedy, he’s always been the strong one. agnosed with a to be part of that was just an incredible feeling.”

I’ve actually never seen him cry but one time during his illness.”

“We are just so blessed to have brain tumor durOnce in the store, Deuntae was interviewed by television staFor his last stop of the day Deuntae was pushed into the Ralph ing his sophomore tions and then escorted to a private room where a personal styl- Lauren store in the wheel chair he had been using all day. On an organization where we can grant year. As a result of ist, Willie Williams helped him pick out all the Polo clothing he a counter was a bag full of Ralph Lauren items. After presentwishes to kids. There are just a bunch the chemo therapy wanted. ing him with various Ralf Lauren memorabilia the manager anhis motor skills “It was fun and exciting being able to pick out all sorts of stuff nounced that Deuntae was receiving a $1K deduction from his of great kids out there, all deserving were affected and for him,” Williams said. “It’s also a passion of mine as well so I shopping spree. At that point, Deuntae struggled to make out of wishes and with Deuntae, you can he was unable to think we were a great match.” what the store employee was saying. After thinking it out he While Deuntae talks about how going through the cancer quickly responded with his humorous demeanor. just see his spirit and it’s so great .” thrive educationally at the high “When you think about that, it’s like you just took off the Scotty Lendry, CEO Make A Wish school. Now he at- wasn’t too difficult, his mother remembers those days being full of worry and concern. whole thousand dollars,” Deuntae said. “Because it was only a North Texas tends Pace where “It got to the point where he wasn’t eating food so he lost thousand dollar shopping spree to begin with. Thank you. Oh he strives to keep weight and I had to learn how to become a nurse,” Deuntae’s my gosh.” upbeat and inspire his fellow classmates to conquer their situ- mother Camelia Allen said. “I was staying at the hospital with In front of him was an employee’s little girl patiently waiting ations. him during chemo treatment, so it wasn’t easy.” to present Deunte with her colorful handmade Merry Christmas “My mindset was that I was going to get through it and beat Deuntae’s wish benefited the whole family in that they were poster. With tears running down his face for the first time of the cancer,” Pegues said. “It really wasn’t hard other than me get- all happy to see him full of joy. Deuntae requested his cousin, the day, Deuntae looked at the girl’s mother and made a special ting small and stuff, I just sat there and went through it.” junior Ari’El Shamlin to be part of his special day since she has request.

Even though Pegues was strong, the support he received from been with him through his battle.

“Can I give her a hug,” Deuntae said. “You are so sweet. That his family helped ease the situation and make life just a little “I have to see him suffer and it’s really hard since we grew up was so nice of you.”

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Fast Facts from the day • Deuntae greeted outside Pace Learning Center by DHS Wind Ensemble Band.

• White Limousine picks Deuntae up in front of Pace Learning Center.

• Deuntae and family arrived at Razoos in Dallas for lunch.

• Deuntae arrived at Macy’s store at North Park Mall. He was greeted by store managers and camera crews.

• Deuntae stopped a Santa’s mailbox to deposit over 1,500 letters from DHS. • Deuntae escorted to private dressing room where he was given over $1k in clothing.

• Deuntae went to Game Stop where he received a $400 gift card to purchase games of his choosing.

• Deuntae went to Foot Locker where he was given a $400 shopping spree.

• Deuntae went to Ralph Lauren store where he was given an autographed book by Ralph Lauren and a $1k shopping spree.

• Limousine took Deuntae and his family to their house.

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Holding back the tears All day Deuntae continued to say that he wanted to cry but couldn’t because he was so happy. His last stop of the day was at the Ralph Lauren store where he was given various items as well as a $1k shopping spree. It was however when a worker’s young daughter presented him with a colorful hand made Christmas card that he began to tear up. (Ana Monzon photo)

My favorite shoe While at North Park mall one of Deuntae’s stops was at Foot Locker. When he left the store he had nearly $400 in shoes.

He had several bags. As he stopped outside the store he ask for his favorite pair of shoes to take a photo with. The shoes were green.

(Ana Monzon photo) I am full Deuntae’s first stop of the day was at Razoos restaurant. This is his favorite place to eat. He was greeted there by an entourage of waitresses and other employees. When asked if he wanted desert he just said he was ready to go shopping. (Ana Mozon photo)

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Arts & Entertainment

December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

Fashions by Mariah: Dressing for the cold weather can be easy enough for you

BY Mariah Cuellar | Staff Writer

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ant to be effortlessly stylish? Well, I’ve got all the right tips to help you attain the perfect look for this Christmas sea-

son.

Holiday party after holiday party, Christmas eve and new years, so many events and not enough outfits. So what exactly do you do? Well thank goodness for Winter’s generous need for clothing. Thanks to those dropping temperatures we love oh so much, the need for bundling up and layering is here.

The possibilities are endless with winter accessories. From silk scarves and stylish coats to wool gloves and knitted beanies, I’ve got the perfect guide for you to look absolutely flawless in just a matter of seconds.

First things first, your basic outfit (blouse and bottoms.) So what exactly are people wearing this holiday season? Easy! Though I cant tell you exactly what to wear head to toe, I can definitely give you the latest on what’s in!

Thick and lace leggings, long dressy blouses, thermals, basic tees, leg warmers, dark denim pants, and anything cheetah print and black! It doesn’t take an expert to guess these items, you get the idea, just take a look around. Comfortable is the new sexy and warm is the next big thing!

Moving on, now that you’ve got your basic outfit, your minutes away from being ready to step out onto your runway. Just a reminder, keep your outfits simple, because accessories are what’s really going to top off the look.

Second thing, let’s start off with colors and textures. With color, avoid bright neons. Summer is over guys, so unless it’s mixed in and downed by some darker hues, I wouldn’t recommend it. Though brights are out, acid tones are in! Try acid orange or even green, brick red, rich chocolate browns, creams and nudes. Though

these colors may seem a little Autumnal, the snow hasn’t fallen just yet. Animal print is so in, anything fur or wool, def in. Texture is a given, wools, crochets, and everything warm.

Last step, now time to accessorize! I know everyone has their own individuality and style so this next part will be very general.

First layers and jewelry: atop the blouse you have chosen, throw on a basic knit cardigan. For a longer dressy blouse or tunic, leave the card open and try on a long gold, silver, or black necklace. For graphic tees and long sleeves, button up about 75% of the way, and have fun with animated earrings.

Boots and jackets: Next put on a pair of boots to match the look your going for. Oxford ankle boots and a red or black blazer for a chic edge. Knee high boots and a trench coat for a fancy touch. Even snow boots and a comfy hoodie for a more relaxed look.

Scarves and bags: The color of the scarf is the highlight of your outfit. This is what I meant when I said go bold with acid tones or cheetah, even zebra print. Stripes, polka dots, even solid colors remind you of the endless possibilities. Have fun! As far as bags, try a rusty brown satchel for a casual look or a big black purse to add on to your dressiness if you go with a trench of a blazer.

Beanies and gloves: Beanies go great with everyday outfits. They’re cute and stylish and would look great with just about everything.

Many people aren’t really into gloves, but they’re angels in the cold weather. Try a pair of leather, black gloves for some sophistication. Crocheted gloves go hand in hand with the color of your beanie if that’s the route you take.

Well there you have it! It may have taken me a while to explain these steps, but in reality it’s just a matter of grab and go. With endless possibilities, getting ready has never been so quick and easy. Have fun and be you!

Interchangeable outfits Ladies can make a winter outfit out of an array of clothes in their closet. These are just a few of the selections from Mariah. To see a complete album of her winter fashion shoot visit the web at www.duncanvillepantherprints.org (Ana Monzon photos)

Merry Christmas She & Him puts new twist on old Christmas favorites. (Album Cover)

She & Him duo brings back old Christmas favorites

BY Ariel Hackney | A&E Editor

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he &Him, a duo comprised of Zoey Deschanel and M. Ward recently released their Christmas album, ‘A Very She&Him Christmas’. The album features twelve holiday classics. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to 826 National. 826 National is a nonprofit organization that provides strategic leadership, administration, and other resources to ensure the success of its network of eight writing and tutoring centers.

The album starts with Christmas Day. The song has a distinct 1950’s sound and ignores the traditional route by going for a laid back style.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas changes up the tune slightly with the electric guitar. The singing style keeps everything simple. I’ll Be Home for Christmas light sounding tune with an electric guitar and Deschanel singing like Peggy Lee. This song isn’t as melancholy as the original version sung by Bing Crosby, but it’s still a nice rendition.”Christmas Wish” has a somber sound;M.Ward leads this song with a jazzy sound and Zoey opts for background singing in this somber sounding song.

“Sleigh Ride” a Sixpence None the Richer-esque guitar intro and perfect harmonies, what could be more perfect? The beat is nice and cheery, this would be perfect to listen to on a snowy day, drinking hot chocolate and playing in the snow. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree starts with an Elvis style guitar and Deschanel’s alto voice.

This tune stays true to the classic ver-

sion of the song and makes you want to spend time around a fireplace with family and friends. Silver Bells recorded in leisure, this song borrows from Elvis Priesly’s style and is nicely done.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside a sped version and they switched the original singing parts, instead of romantic this sounds cheery and happy complete with whistling, It takes a while to get adjusted to the changed tempo, but this is still a good song.

“Blue Christmas” is already a sad song especially for a holiday as festive as Christmas, but this is made it even more sad, maybe this will be comforting to someone who recently broke up with their significant other, but this song should be banned from all Christmas albums. “Little Saint Nick” has an interesting arrangement; the ukulele adds a light feel to the song. “The Christmas Song” opts for a slower tempo and darker sound compared to the rest of the album. The guitar arrangement sets it apart from the rest of the album because it goes for a more of a laid back and less happy .

She & Him deliver well with this first Christmas album; Zoey’s singing does go borderline screeching, but when she sings on the lower registers, it sounds amazing. “A Very She & Him Christmas” is a great rendition of holiday classics that will have you and your family members rocking around the Christmas tree. You can purchase the album on iTunes or Amazon.

I give the She & Him album

Michael Buble Christmas album worth listening to over holiday break

BY Maria Sifuentes | A&E Editor

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fter his long lasting hits “Home”and “Haven’t Met You Yet”, Michael comes back for the Holidays with a Christmas album released on Oct 25. An album that brings in the smooth voice that will make the fire place scene complete. There are days when I just wish we all could go back to the times when just soft music was a big hit. Not the current music we listen that old people call “noise.” And that is just what I look for in Michael Buble, His voice that makes you feel all warm inside and when he speaks those creative lyrics. The album “Michael Buble Christmas” has many strong points here, but the ones that I notice the most are his voice(of course) and the soft instrumentals in the back. This album really made me excited for the Holidays.

The album had began with “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas.”A high soft swift of the violins and small drops of sound from the harp. Then Buble arrives out with his voice deep and soft. He sings in a sort of way that make

me want to sing along with him. Then his voice pitches a little higher and creates a hopping sound that will make you want to dance. Then my favorite song when it came to his vocals was “White Christmas.” His voice was fun in this song. Also it was the ragged lazy sound in his voice that would make hearts throb. And a bonus came out of no where. It featured Shania Twain, which was a good choice. Her voice with his was the perfect combination of bold and soft. She would blast with her soprano pitched voice and he would kindly tag along with her softly watching her ever step. It was like fire and ice to a wonderful classic Christmas song.

Instrumentals made the background music. It is also the small pieces that keep the album together. The most memorable songs that had wonderful instrumentals were, “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Jingle Bells Ft. the Puppin Sisters.” “Jingle Bells” was the one song that took me by surprise. I was expecting something with just bells. Once I heard those small fast beats from the drums, I just knew I was going to be given something wonderfully new. The drums made Buble and the

Sisters’ voices steady while the saxaphone and horns blasted loudly in short notes to keep them spontaneous. Then Holly Jolly came in with tip taps from the piano that sounded like people dancing. The drums again played the back bone in the song. Then the popping beats from the guitar kept it cheery as ever. These little things were music that I noticed and simply loved.

This album was something. I honestly didn’t know what to expect since I had never heard from Buble until recently.

And I was impressed. He had made many classics an even bigger hit on my Christmas Songs list. Whether it was as fun and cheery as “Christmas(Please Come Home)” or as soft and beautiful as “All I Want For Christmas” I loved Micheal Buble to the end of every rerun I play. This album will keep you happy and loving the Holidays until it comes back again. This soundtrack is in stores now.

I give Buble’s album

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PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

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Coach Timothy Holloway goes beyond basic substitute expectations

BY Julio Munoz | Sports Editor

tute and this district is the right district for me.”

For substitutes to be more effective than When students walk into the classroom just babysitting, Holloway said it’s important and see a substitute teacher in their class they for them to get as comfortable as possible prepare themselves for worksheets, a list of with the students. directions and maybe even a movie. They “I feel like every student has a right to do not expect much conversation or inter- know who their substitute teacher is. This action from the substitute. But occasionally gives us an opportunity to make an impact,” there are substitutes who have interesting Holloway said. “I feel every substitute should backgrounds and can offer students all sorts tell students a little about themselves.” of advice and stories. Coach Timothy Wayne Academics have always been a priority to Holloway is one of those substitutes at the Holloway and he stresses his consistence in school that is on the campus for more than his grades throughout school while particijust an easy day at work. pating in other activities.

Coach Holloway has been involved with “In middle school I played quarter back football his whole life. He started as a play- and was an A and B student, I was also in the er in high school and moved on to coach at honor roll in high school while being a stuseveral levels. He has coached kids, pro sumdent athlete,” Holloway mer camps for The said. “When I was in the Dallas Cowboys, classroom I did not play.”

“I have a good report with the kids Pittsburgh Steelers wasn’t albecause I understand the aspiration waysSubstituting and Jacksonville in Holloway’s plans, Jaguars as well as and motivation that I can instill in but certain instabilities at starring on radio, college level pushed them to be a better person, student the television and in him too expand his intermovies. Now that and athlete.” est. he is substituting “I was mainly preCoach Timothy Holloway, substitute at the school, he is pared to work on a coloptimistic about lege level,” Holloway transferring some said. “Instead, I have been able to work in the of the values he has learned to the students he Duncanville district and this is best for me encounters at various schools in the district. right now.”

“I have a good report with kids because Holloway’s immediate future goals all inI understand the aspiration and motivation volve continuing to help students both acathat I can instill in them to be a better person, demically and athletically. student and athlete,” Holloway said.

“I hope to continue substituting and coach Aside from substituting, Holloway is the arena football. If I’d get an opportunity to quarterback/wide receiver coach for the coach in the district I would welcome the opNorth Texas Jaguars in the American 8 Man portunity,” Holloway said. “I hope to coach Football League. in the district and hope to retire in this school “Most people would call it semi-pro foot- district, as far as Duncanville is concerned.” ball, but it’s like arena football on a football Holloway credits all of his awards and acfield instead,” Holloway said. complishments, such as coach of the year at Prior to becoming a substitute in the dis- Texas College, as well as his ability to help trict, Holloway was looking for a place where students to those most close to him. he could contribute in an educational aspect.

“I credit any success to God, my girlfriend “I was looking for stability, yet quality,” Tracy and my mother,” Holloway said. “Even Holloway said. “I needed to be in the right though my mother Laura Holloway is no lonschool district where I can be a good substi- ger with me she is still disciplining me.”

Making an Impact Substitute Coach Timothy Holloway is a frequent fixture in the classrooms at the high school.

When he gets a chance to substitute he establishes a report with the students by telling them about himself first then delivering the lesson left for him by their regular teacher. (Ini Adedokun Photo) Camp coach During the summer, Coach Holloway works with younger players at Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers pro camps. During the Spring he coaches American 8 Man Football for the North Texas Jaguars. (Submitted Photo)

Bolton, Davenport sign college letters of intent, part ways

BY Taylor Harris | Features Editor

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Parting Ways Senior Pantherettes Empress Davenport(above) and Morgan Bolten will be parting ways this fall as they move on to play for the University of Texas and Arkansas Little Rock. (Olivia Davila Photos)

etting a steal is a typical thing on the court for the Pantherettes. Senior point guard Morgan Bolton dribbles looking to the right for her wing girl, senior Empress Davenport, anxiously waiting for the alley oop. With perfect timing, Davenport catches the pass from Bolton and approaches the goal as she dumps the ball in for the easy layup. This particular duo has been making crowds stand on their feet, opponents angry, and their coaches proud since they started playing together at the age of 12. Now, the two are splitting up heading to seperate universities as they both signed full athletic scholarships this month.

“I think it’s a big accomplishment that I’ve been able to get a full ride,”Bolton said. “Plus the fact that I’ve had a teammate for over 6 or 7 years that’s pushed me to be competitive is a bonus.”

Bolton is headed to University of Arkansas at Little Rock while Davenport will stay in state at the University of Texas at Austin. Throughout the years, the two say they have practiced everyday for hours together. They said that this has paid off on and off the court since they are both in the top ten percent in their graduating class.

“This is something I’ve been working hard for since I could remember so it’s more of a feeling of success rather than a surprise,” Davenport said. “Even back when I was like 11 or 12 playing basketball I knew I could make this happen.”

Coach Cathy Self-Morgan said the girls have definitely worked there way up to be top players.

“I’m real proud of the girls because they both deserve this,” Self-Morgan said. “They’re definitely going to be a huge loss because I’ve gotten so used to them as players and people. They both know what I’m thinking before I say it and know how to transfer things I want to say to the other girls on the court.”

While achieving this honor is something that both girls have looked forward to since middle school, their parents say they are proud of them as well.

“Morgan understands the correlation between hard work and success,” Morgan’s father Terrell Bolton said.

“After one of her games we had to drive her to a State Park in Pittsburg, Texas so she could participate in her AP Biology class activities. We’re glad she takes basketball and her education seriously.”

Little Rock Arkansas coach Alicia Cash remembers coaching the girls at Byrd Middle School before she moved to the college level. She said she knew then that both girls were destined for success on the college level.

“It didn’t take long for me to figure out who could play at that level. I knew they were going to be two special young ladies,” Cash said. “I always kept up with Duncanville and when the time came around to start recruiting I started telling Morgan about our university and program and things just fell into place.”

Cash said she is happy for the girls as they enter a new arena to play next fall.

“They have a chance to play at the next level and that is very special for me to see,” Cash said. “I wish Empress the best of luck at the University of Texas and Morgan will be up here at UALR with me!”

When her daughter heads to college, Empress’ mother Carrie Jackson wants to make sure there is something her daughter never forgets.

“I want her to remember to stay strong no matter what she faces out there in the real world,” Jackson said. “She’s a great basketball player, a great student and a wonderful daughter. As long as she keeps God first I already know she’ll be successful.”

For the first time in over eight years the girls will be hundreds of miles apart. This is something that Morgan admits makes it tough.

“It’s bitter sweet because Empress will not be on the court with me anymore, but we are both moving on to better opportunities, ” Morgan said. “This is what we’ve both been working for ever since we first picked up a basketball so I’m ready to start on it.”

For now, they have the rest of their senior year to make memories, and Empress admits they both are focused on the same goal.

“State is definitely the number one thing on the list for us,” Empress said. “Winning state would definitely be an honor, plus it would add to the legacy we are leaving here when we graduate.”

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Sports

December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

Pantherettes post 15-1 record, enter district ranked #2 in State

BY John Davila | Staff Writer

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ith a 15-1 start to their season, the Pantherettes not only won their first district game 72-21 against Mansfield Legacy but posted wins against DeSoto and recently claimed the championship trophy at the McDonald’s Classic in Pasadena, Texas, ranking them #2 in the state polls early in the season.

“I’m pleased with the start of the season,” head coach Cathy Self-Morgan said. “We had a good start and we continue to get better every game.”

The team this year hasn’t had to worry about trying to find a leader for the team. Instead everyone is stepping up and doing their part to contribute to the success of the team.

“There are seven or eight kids that really get it done,” Self-Morgan said. “On different nights different ones stand up and do a great job.”

For veteran varsity player senior Empress Davenport, who recently committed to the University of Texas at Austin, she couldn’t be more excited for this year’s success of the team.

“It’s going to be a tough season,” Davenport said. “Every team in our district is good enough to beat each other.”

The team hasn’t even began district play yet and the stretch to keeping an undefeated record is on the horizon. The team is not concentrated on perfection, but they are focused on their upcoming district play with one expectation in mind.

“My expectation is that we will win district,” Self-Morgan said.

District 5-5A Girls Standings

Up for two Senior Alisha Spearman pushes to the basket against a Denton Ryan defender during a recent non district game. The team went on to win the game 82-28. They are now at 15-1 on the season and ranked number two in the state headed into the holiday tournaments. (Olivia Davila photo)

Girls junior varsity team heads into week two of district at 12-6 “They’re the same since October 1st, I expect my girls to get better and learn from their errors,” Villarreal said.

They girls have been successful at most of the aspects of he JV girl’s basketball team will head into tonight’s the game, but have still struggled on arguably the most imdistrict matchup against Cedar Hill with a 12-6 record portant part of the game. They need to learn how to play deafter a starting district with a win against Mansfield fense together and be able to communicate more.

Legacy Tuesday.

“We have to work on our defense “It was a good win, everyone did their in order to help us win,” Davis said. part like we’ve been doing this season,” Team Quick Facts The team is also paying close attensophomore Adrianna Davis said.

Next Game: Dec. 20 tion to figuring out the other team’s The district season just started and Opponent: Grand Prairie type of play, from offense to defense. they have plenty of games ahead of They are making sure they are ready When: 6 p.m Sandra Meadows Arena them. Coach Nicole Villarreal can see for anything. that her team has the potential to be dis“We want to be as ready as we can trict champs, but they will have to fight. for our opponent,” Villarreal said.

“I definitely see my team as a contender for district This Friday the team will face-off against cross-town rival champs, it will be a fight but my girls have the ability,” VilCedar Hill.

They are hoping for the best and plan to play hard larreal said.

The coaching staff has had the same expectations since to ensure a win.

“We’re going to play as a team and work hard, and clean day one. They expect the team to work hard every practice up every detail,” Davis said. and harder during games.

BY John Davila | Staff Writer

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Pushing through traffic Freshman Tedrika Allen hits the lane looking for the basket against DeSoto in a Pantherette win against DeSoto. . (Olivia Davila photo)

Young Panthers need to work together to remain top contender in tough district

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eeing the boy’s varsity basketball team play the first few minutes of the season opener against Lewisville was like watching 2 yearold children run loose on the playground after a sugar dose. Wild passes, crazy fouls and random air balls were all the crowd saw in the first quarter.

No doubt they all wanted to be there and were playing hard. There were obviously five individual guys all working hard on

BY Taylor Harris the court trying to put together some team chemistry to start the season. It was obvious however, that the team had little to no chemistry playing together this early in the season.

Freshman Matthew McQuaid and senior Keric Wynn boxed out for rebounds and gave everything in their defensive efforts. However, as the first quarter ended with the score of 11-6, Lewisville was leading the Panthers. Although the team was getting a strong performance from McQuaid and Wynn, the defense was the main ingredient missing on the court.

During the second quarter, McQuaid stepped up the defense with a rebound after a missed shot from Lewisville. The Panthers were starting to look good until they attempted a couple of points from outside the paint for three. Not one of them seemed to make the net swish. Junior Jerami Grace did manage to shake Lewisville’s defense up and put a couple of shots in.

Toward halftime, the Panthers were at their prime. They managed to get within 10, with sophomore Devonte Bailey

Sports Column

and Wynn adding a few points to the board. 6’8 sophomore Omar Sherman brought the crowd to their feet seconds before halftime with a block. As the buzzer sounded the Panthers left for the locker room trailing 20-32.

Whatever Coach Eric McDade said to the team in the locker room worked as the team came out looking for the win in the third. Sherman put two points on the board quickly with an assist from senior Alfred Peterson. Peterson was able to glide through the paint for an open shot himself. Wynn again was definitely the enforcer on defense.

The quick run by the Panthers led the Lewisville coach to call a timeout with 5:47 seconds in the third. At this point the Panthers were cutting the lead at 26-32.

This unfortunately was about as close as they were going to get to the Farmers. Although spurts of potential appeared on the floor the Panthers were unable to hold on and get their first win. Sherman cleared a basket while being triple teamed.

Meanwhile, Grace and Bailey threw in a few more baskets after a fast break.

However, the defense became sloppy again giving up more points to the Farmers. The third quarter ended sour with the Panthers in miscommunication, throwing the ball out of bounds and Lewisville remaining on top.

At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the boys were beginning to show that they were fourth quarter players. Grace put up two shorts in a row and Wynn blocked a shot with no foul call. After back-to-back timeouts from Duncanville and Lewisville, it was finally a close game with Grace’s shot the top of the key for three changing the score to 42-29 with Lewisville still in the lead.

Unfortunately, during the last two minutes of the game, the team went home and five individual players were bouncing a ball on the court. There was an ounce of hope for the team after Sherman put up two points, but once the Panthers made an unnecessary foul the score sat at 52-63 with 15 seconds left in the game. The fans stayed to the end and cheered the team as they played to the finish leaving hope going into

the holiday tournament trail.

Looking back at the game, 11 points was not a total loss.

However just simply looking at the way the team played there is still room for improvement both offensively and defensively.

Change is a part of life and this is no different in basketball. However, the team didn’t handle the change well Tuesday night against Lewisville. We’ll give them the benefit of the doubt. They graduated nine seniors, have two returning players and one returning starter. It was a rough game, but the Panthers do have potential, and if they put in the work necessary, the remaining games in the season could put them in the win column quite often.

District 5-5A Boys Standings

PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

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Panthers looking to find rhythm as they head into district slow, and I know I’m going to work on my rebounding, plus getting back on defense,” sophomore Devontae Bailey said. “South Grand Praieading into next weeks first district rie is probably going to be a tough team to play game against Grand Prairie, the Pan- because they have all of their returning seniors thers are looking to return to the win and they’re a tough team, but I know we can pull column after a 48-69 loss to South Oak Cliff out.”

Tuesday night.

With only two returning varsity players, lead“Our goal is to simply go in district as an ership is a key concept for the team this year. overall better team than we are now,” senior Bri“I know need to improve on being more voan Hampton said. “We want our conference re- cal, since I’m a leader on the team,” senior Keric cord to be good so we going to have to work on Wynn said. “We scrimmage a lot in practice, but defense a lot and bonding together as a team.” our coaches always tells us to stay humble and The Panthers are now sitting at 7-8 with one stay hungry.” of their home losses coming against state ranked Not only is freshman Matthew McQuaid at a DeSoto 50-67. new school, but he’s a new ad“At first we played dition on the varsity squad as Panther Quick Facts as a team, and then well.

Record: 7-8 we kind of broke “It definitely feels good to Next Game: Grand Prairie down fourth quarbe a freshman playing on varDisrirct begins : Dec. 20 ter,” sophomore sity,” McQuaid said. “I work Omar Sherman said. hard on shooting, especially “Our coach told us my three’s so I’m looking to see my hard work that we need to work on being more involved pay off this season.” on the court, and not letting the team get easy Still, not having varsity experience has not shots on us.” deterred the players from achieving the highest Although it takes a whole team to make the goal. magic happen on the court, each player has their “We want to play consistently all the way to individual goals they know will help the overall state,” senior Alfred Peterson said. “We got a lot team. of new additions on the team, so I think our sea“My spin move is kind of weak cause it’s kind son is going to go hard.”

BY Taylor Harris | Features Editor

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JV Panthers off to 12-2 start

BY Taylor Harris | Features Editor

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he junior varsity boys basketball team will head into district play next week with an 12-2 record after defeating South Oak Cliff Tuesday night and winning the Duncanville junior varsity tournament.

“We’ve gotten off to a real good start, ” junior varsity coach Corey Chism said. “ It’s really early in the season so we have a few kinks we got to work out. Right now we need to work on finishing games and that will just come with time.”

With this year’s team being comprised of eight sophomores, two freshman and five juniors, the team is working together to build on their good start of the season.

“We’re having a good season because our team’s chemistry is pretty good this year,” sophomore DJ Wallace said.

As far as new additions to the team, freshman Chris Smith is the only freshman on JV squad.

He admits being on the junior varsity team is much different from what he experienced on the court in middle school.

“We run a lot more than in middle school, but I’ve always played select ball so it’s not that big of a transition for me,” Smith said. “We’re being very productive as a team, and I’m working on being a complete guard.”

Chism said there is one specific thing that makes this team special.

“One thing I like about this team so far is that they always know how to pull out and find ways to win,” Chism said. “Now that we are allowed to have more practice time it should get better and I expect to see a lot of improvement from them. ” The upperclassmen on the team set their goals high as they look to lead the team throughout the season.

“As a junior, I think we play an important role as leaders on the team because we have more upperclassmen than underclassmen,” junior Demond Lee said.

Junior Shakir Gary said there is no question what their biggest game of the year will be.

“Cedar Hill tops the list for the biggest game,” Gary said. “They’re our rivals so we know we’re already going to play hard that game.”

Driving to the rim Sophomore Nathan Joubert drives past a host of Desoto defenders to make his way to the basket. The team went on to win their game against the cross town rivals on the way to a 12-2 record. (Abigail Padgett photo)

Defending the basketSophomore Omar Sherman goes up against a tough Lewisville shooter during the teams home opener. The Panthers lost their first game against the Farmers. The team has since worked on developing the young talent as they look to face Grand Prairie next week to open district play. (Abigail Padgett photo)

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Arts & Entertainment

December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

Battlefront Modern Warfare 3 extends the second game in the series with a few additions. The game picks up where its predecessor left off. (Game Screen shot)

Modern Warfare 3 closes game trilogy

BY Tijhan Anderson | News Editor

didn’t have any major issues to complain about. Great story, great ending, greater combat!

The multi player is pretty similar to that of Modern Warodern Warfare 3 is the most recent installment of fare 2. A few changes to perks, new weapons and death streaks. the highly acclaimed Call of Duty Modern Warfare But the most important change, which is of course the funnest series, and it comes back with a dramatic close to the thing about the multi player of this game and its predecessors, series. However, a much more appropriate title for this game is of course, wait for it…that’s right. Killstreaks! The develwould be Modern Warfare 2.5. It’s more of an expansion to its opers really revamped the killstreaks with the addition of the predecessor, just adding in slightassault, support and specialist classes to choose ly different content, barely allowfrom. Plus the addition of new killstreaks such Game Quick Facts ing it to be called a new game. But as the Osprey gunner and the Reaper drone. don’t let my revamped title make Price: $60 And of course, keeping the classics such as the it seem as if the game is not as Number of Disc: 1 predator missile, and the all time greatest killgreat as you’ve heard. Just because streak ever..the care package. And with server Key Features: Closes Trilogy its more like an expansion than improvements and a slightly different party a new game does not take away system, lagging out of a game and getting frusfrom its awesomeness. trated as the game skips around for five minutes before shutThe campaign picks up where Modern Warfare 2 left off, ting down, is a rarity. So although multi player gameplay is and instantly drops you into the action. You play as a much quite similar, its still extremely fun, and will definitely keep larger array of characters in this installment and utilize many you from doing your research paper. different gadgets and weapon attachments. The story takes you All in all, Modern Warfare 2.5..I mean 3, is a great installto many major cities throughout the world, where you can wit- ment and definitely worth its 60 dollar price tag. So run out to ness their beauty, and destruction. It also seems the developers your nearest Gamestop or Walmart or Target or wherever you realized how fun controlling predator missiles and AC-130s feel like contributing your well earned cash to the video game are, because they added many instances where you control industry, you will not regret it. such air support, and many other new toys as well. The graphics engine is mostly similar to Modern Warfare 2, which really I give this game

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Author tells new story with Firelight

BY Maria Sifuentes | A&E Editor

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ithin two days of being exactly a year from the time Sophia Jordan made her debut in young adult fiction with a beautifully created book titled Firelight, she released the heart moving sequel Vanish. With a good way top start off her experience, Jordan is a young writer who was made to create stories. Instead of bringing a vampire or werewolf romance in the picture, she tried something new by bringing an unusual choice in a shifter. Dragons. A story that has the same genre but a different mythical tale. These days most of the supernatural vampire books are too cliche that it’ll just bore you to death. I look for something new and interesting in books that I would just love to read.

Jacinda is a young girl that wants nothing more than to be free. But when she gets that chance she almost breaks the most important rule ever. A human sees her in her most weakest form. Her human form. Jacinda is a draki-descendant of dragons that shift from humans to scaly dragons. She now has to flee away from her home and adapt to another. In her new home she meets gorgeous Will, but soon realizes who he really is, a hunter that preys over her kind. Jacinda must avoid him and her urge to love him, but she starts to lose her draki fire. If she loses it then she would forever be a mortal.

Sophia Jordan has a nag for characters that just make me want to shrill. She creates these characters that bring out a story within their seams. Sophia created these character to bring out a connection between each and every one of them. And when you have theses strings connected to so many people you know that things are just going to get tangled. Drama is what this story thrives on. Sophia showed a lot of destruction in this Romeo and Juliet story. I had never seen such well written dialogue.

Getting into it, I would go from happy to angry within the next thirty minutes of reading an argument between Jacinda and her twin Tamera.

This is a story that will keep you hooked. Firelight has brought in the new topic of the year. Dragons. Yeah, maybe people will not catch on yet. But I believe that this was a great to new experience to experiment on. Sophia Jordan is the new top dog for fantasy fiction. I believe she will stay at the top until something new rolls on by. Firelight and its sequel, Vanish is in stores now.

PANTHER PRINTS || December 16, 2011

Arts & Entertainment <<

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Cavazos shares humble beginning with listeners

BY Mariah Cuellar | Staff Writer

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thick blanket of anxiousness disperses backstage as sweat builds on the face of the 25 year-old Oak Cliff native, rapper/ producer, Dustin Cavazos. The crowd patiently awaits the appearance of the young rapper, some familiar with his music and some having heard nothing of him. The young artist makes his way onto the stage looking to energize the crowd while at the same time remembers his humble beginnings.

“I remember when I wasn’t even making music, when I was just a listener” Cavazos said.

He unfolds his story as a young boy remembering the time when he loved going to concerts, a time when he was just another face in the crowd. With much thought, he remembers having visions of himself up on stage every time he attended a concert. He said he wanted to be the person everyone was listening to. He remembers his thoughts very clearly as he reminisces those days.

“Man,” Cavazos said, “I wanna do shows, I wanna make music.”

Cavazos goes on to say he hated hip hop growing up, he thought it was the dumbest form of music. So who would have guessed, that not too long after that, hip hop music would become the foundation of his career, leaving a huge imprint on the rest of his life.

His most recent performance marked what he calls his first big step. He kicked off the starting line up for Detroit rapper, Big Sean, who was debuting his “finally famous” album

in Dallas.

As Cavazos hit the stage, he wasted no time setting the tone for his first big stage appearance. With word out and social networking that he made an appearance at the concert, Cavazos was overwhelmed with an a number of friend requests, followers and positive messages.

Reflecting back on his past, its obvious of how far the young rapper had come since his initial decision to pursue music. The moment, though, wasn’t when he began to pick up the mic and rap, it was when people actually stopped to listen, when others seemed to take interest in what he was doing.

“The defining moment was when other people started taking my music seriously,” Cavazos said. “Then I knew it was time for me to get serious.”

With a indie approach to hip hop, Cavazos’ music features an ensemble of wind instruments, a couple of strings, some bass and a piano.

Cavazos admits he has come a long way. He still remembers the days when he was pressing the record button and running in the studio to put on the headphones and record his music.

Now he said he is working with a co-producer and a full band. Cavazos remains humble as he said he just wants to make a difference in people’s lives.

“I just want to impact as many people as I can in a positive way, and I know I’ll be hap- Rapping to the top Young rap artist/producer Dustin Cavazos performed on stage in Dallas as the openpy,” Cavazos said. “If I do this, I know for a ing act for Big Sean recently. He said he still remembers dreaming of being where he is at today as a young boy. (Ashlen Diaz photo) fact I’ll be happy.”

Justin Bieber not so nice under your mistletoe

Assasins Creed Revelation just in time for Christmas

BY Ariel Hackney | A&E Editor

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ustin Bieber released his first Christmas album, “Under the Mistletoe,” Nov. 1. The album includes classic Christmas songs like “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Drummer Boy” and “Silent Night” along with ”Mistletoe” and ”Only Thing I Ever Get for Christmas.” The album also features other artists including Usher, Busta Rhymes and The Band Perry. Since the release of his last album, My World 2.0, Bieber’s voice has gotten lower and sounds smoother than his hit song ‘Baby,Baby’.

“Only Thing I Ever Get For Christmas” starts the album with an upbeat, guitar led song. The song never really progresses and sounds very cliche. “Mistletoe” goes in the same direction as the previous song, very R&B influenced and is the main single for the album. This is pretty cliche and generic, but an okay listen.

For The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) Bieber works with his mentor, Usher. Justin doesn’t get past the first note without a ton of rifts and runs. Every word has something added on the end and makes the song tedious and very annoying. His voice sounds much higher, almost like a girl; maybe from too much editing. Their spin on the song is alright, but nothing to brag about. “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” sounds very similar to a Jackson 5 song; the bouncy beat and guitar as in “I Want You Back” minus great singing. Again with the extra on every single word; another classic totally butchered.”Fa La La feat.” Boyz II Men is one of the better tracks on the album. Boyz II Men add their amazing harmonies and R&B flare.

“Christmas Love” sounds like a mix of “Misteltoe” and “Only Thing I Ever Wanted For Christmas.” It’s got that acoustic sound from “Only Thing I Ever Wanted For Christmas” with that mellow sound in “Misteltoe. “Nothing really stands out about this song and it’s forgettable. “All I Want For Christmas Is You” duet Mariah Carey is the same as Mariah’s version, just with added rifts from Justin and a few change ups in the intro like the short session of ‘oh’s and ‘ah’s’ from both Justin and Mariah.

How do you mess up a holiday classic?

“Drummer Boy” feat. Busta Rhymes is your

answer. Justin tries to rap, very horribly at that, with awkward rhymes and wacky lyrics. “All I Want Is” You is the most depressing track. Holiday music is supposed to be happy, festive and uplifting. Instead this talks about Bieber doing wrong to his girl, but it doesn’t fit with this holiday themed album.

“Fa La La feat.” Boyz II Men (Deluxe Edition) is the same amazing harmonizing, but in a capella version. “Christmas Eve” is a piano led album still keeping that R&B style. Written by Chris Brown and has that distinct sound that Chris Brown has in majority of his songs. There have already been a few songs that sound like this, so this isn’t that special. “Home This Christmas” feat.

The Band Perry is a simple country tune.

The lyrics are generic, but the chorus harmonies sound nice and not overdone.

“Silent Night” keeps it simple, with the trusty piano. Compared to the overdone songs with a lot of vocal acrobatics, this song keeps it classy and nice. “Pray” (Deluxe Edition) has beautiful lyrics, but comes off as ‘Kum Ba Ya’ and ‘Heal the World’; it’s meant to touch your heart and it does.

“Someday At Christmas” (Deluxe Edition) concludes the deluxe version of the album and sounds like something that Justin recorded before he hit puberty. It fits with the song because it was originally sung by the late Michael Jackson and it’s a cute gift for the fans.

For a first holiday album, “Under the Misteltoe” wasn’t a bad attempt. Sure majority of the songs sound extremely similar to one another and some songs just didn’t fit the festive mood of the holiday; it was a decent listen. If you are a fan of Bieber and like heavily R&B influenced tracks then buy away!

I give Bieber

On top of the world Revelations concludes the Assasins Creed series as the stories of Altair and Ezio. Players are able to take control of Altair by way of their character Ezio as they collect keys throughout the game to ending the story. (Ashlen Diaz photo)

BY Julio Munoz | Sports Editor

The game play does not stray away too far from the previous games, but there are a few new features. There is an addition of a hen Assassins Creed was first in- “hook blade” which Ezio can use to zip line troduced in 2007, very little was on ropes or to propel himself to the top of known except for the unique mid- buildings. The combat is also much more agdle aged era. Players enjoyed the new unique gressive and has come a long way from the atmosphere and game play that had never defensive style of the before been carried out first game. Another inwith as much success.

Game Quick Facts teresting addition was But as the series prothe inclusion of more Price: $49.99 gressed with Assassins special combat scenes.

Where to buy: Game Stop Creed II and AssasSpecial Deal: $30 trade value by 1-12 These include a high sin’s Creed: Brotherspeed carriage chase hood, the game quickly early in the game and transformed into a mind twisting, religious mid air hand to hand combat. Players must and political story adventure. Several ques- also protect various Assassin dens they actions remained after the endings of all of the quire throughout the game by setting up a previous games, and the newest addition defense to fight off the enemies that try to to the series, Assassins Creed Revelations, take it over. promises to answer most of those questions.

Fans of the series will also notice an imRevelations is the conclusion to the sto- provement in the visuals of Revelations. ries of Altair and Ezio, the main characters Overall the game should satisfy players in tyof Assassins Creed and Assassin’s Creed II, ing up most of the loose ends. But there is respectively. The main character is Ezio and another cliffhanger at the end of this one, as players are able to take control of Altair by has become custom in the series. If you’re a collecting keys that each lead to a past mem- fan of history, puzzles, religion, and sword ory from Altair. The game once again tackles fighting action this game is definitely one of new territory in that it takes place in Con- the more interesting games out there. stantinople, an important trade city between Europe and Asia during the early 16th century.

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December 16, 2011 || PANTHER PRINTS

BOOK FAIR from page 5

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he arts and crafts table remained full the whole time.

One volunteer’s mother Tririka Haywood said that it was cool to get the kids doing something creative for less money. Other parents said they were shocked by the turn out for the day “The whole event was unexpected,” parent Aaron Sassi said. “I like how the kids were just having fun with everything.”

Parent Henry Martinez said it was pretty neat that students were contributing to the Holiday event.

“I thought that it was really good for the students,” Matinez said. “It is nice to see them getting involved with the community.”

After the craft table shut down, the Guitar Club took the stage. Gutar Club sponsor John Tahaney said he found the event to be fun and beneficial for the band.

“You want to play in as many different venues as you get,” Tahaney said. “Going out in the community to perform or volunteer shows people what you on your spare time is important for a student.

The Guitar club did more than just get exposure from a different point of view. Guitar Club president Raymond Babcock said he was just excited to help out and show people what his group can really do.

“I really wanted to do something for the school,” Babcock said.

They played for an hour with new fans and even old ones. Students who weren’t volunteering showed up to support their friends.

“I’m happy to come here and support my volunteering friends,” sophmore Gracia Caro said. “The Rock Show, Story Time and Arts and Crafts was really fun.”

While the Guitar club was performing, the Anime Club was showing off their talents as well with an art show display for visitors to stop by and admire. Sophmore Vanessa Sanchez said she was excited about presenting her artistic abilities.

“I happy I had the courage to go up and show off my work,” Sanchez said. “I felt accomplished in my work while helping in the community at the same time.”

Student Council was the only club on Sunday with one last reading time. StuCo sponsor David Womack said the kids were excited about this event.

“We wanted to help the PTSA and the Library,” Womack said. “It was also a way to get more student council members involved.”

Barnes and Noble employee Susanne Howell said the event was a win, win for everyone involved in the weekend events.

“I found this event to be beneficial to everyone,” Howell said. “It helped us by bringing in more customers and it helped raise money for the school at the same time.”

Librarian Jeni Tahaney said she was glad to see so many student volunteers show up for the event.

“I knew that this day was going to be exciting with so many volunteers,” Mrs. Tahaney said. “But the most important part was that everyone had fun.”

The icing on the cake Junior Elena Elliott interacted with a youngster as she served as a reader for the Barnes & Noble book fair held over the Thanksgiving break. Students from various organization volunteered at the event. All proceeds from the day’s sales went to help purchase books for the high school library. Elliott serves as the student council president for the junior class and represented them at the event. (Chrystal Rhone photo)

Pictures worth 1,000 words Junior Heather Hutson read animates a book at Barnes & Noble for youngsters that were present for the book fair held by the book store over the holiday break. (Chase Apperson photo)

The icing on the cake Junior Cinthia Vargas helps youngsters as they created their own art projects at the Barnes & Noble holiday book fair. The art club offered children that attended the day’s events to use their materials to create a project they could take home with them. (Chrystal Rhone photo) All painted up Senior Edith Mendez paints the face of a girl who attended the Barnes & Noble Book fair at Uptown mall in Cedar Hill.

The face painting booth was sponsored by the cosmetology department at the high school. (Tyra Brown)

Entertainment time Senior Lorena Chase sang while junior Bradley Bowden played as part of the entertainment provided by the guitar club at the Barnes & Noble holiday book fair Nov. 29 in Cedar Hill’s Uptown mall. (Ini Adedokun photo)