Edge Issue 4

Service Calls

You know that space on your college application that asks for community service?

Hawk Serve Day on April 6 8-12 will provide an opportunity to get some of that experience, and it will help those in need in the community.

“The Pleasant Grove community supports our school in a big way. I think it’s important that we give back and show support for our community,” Student Council sponsor Tiffany Beck said.

Beck said she has sent letters to the Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs, to local churches, to the local non-profit organizations and to the other PG campuses, and those groups can submit a job or project that need to be done.

Students will volunteer for teams to work on those projects. A team will be sent to work on a specific project and there may be a picnic at Spring Lake Park at the end of the day.

Just ask us

After the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary polarized the nation, questions have been raised over the security of the nation’s schools.

Options being considered by state and local governments include allowing teachers to carry firearms into school, hiring additional ‘security’ personnel, and allowing groups of volunteer parents to roam the halls and keep the peace.

Do you think teachers with a permit should be allowed to carry guns on school property?

“ “

64% said yes

If someone dangerous came in the school, teachers could protect their students.”

-laquanajones, 12

36% said no

Honestly, it seems unsafe. Security should be increased, but there are several other alternatives.”

-austinreynolds, 12

on the edge

Spring Break 2.0 One more senior privilege is gone.

With the phasing out of the TAKS tests, seniors will no longer enjoy the annual week-long holiday in the spring.

“We only have one grade testing that last week of April--just eleventh graders will be taking the TAKS test this year,” principal Bill Harp said. “Everyone else will have their regular schedule.”

There are 20-plus days of testing in April and May, and Harp said that most of the testing would be done in computer labs so that teachers would not be changing classrooms.

In any case, seniors will be at school.

“I hate that a lot,” senior Alan Oubre said. “I know that TAKS is ending and seniors are going to have to start coming to school, but it’s not fair that it’s our year.”

Living With a

pg.8-9 iAddict

pg. 7 Concert Crazy

pg. 5 Looking Back on a Legacy

dg e e

pleasant grove high school

5406 mcknight road | texarkana, tx | 75503 vol. 28 #4 | Feb. 14, 2013

Broken Heart

National Heart Month sheds light on student’s life-threatening syndrome Jordan Hearn reporter

I

t’s early morning. The sun is rising. The moon and the stars still hang in the black sky. Bailey Fenton walks out to get on his four wheeler for an all-day-long ride.

Avid four wheeler rider. Ordinary blondehaired freshman. On the outside anyway. Looking at Bailey and hearing what he does on the weekends doesn’t give away what’s going on in the inside.

Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia. Or J.E.T. Syndrome. That’s what’s on the inside.

A rapid and irregular heartbeat. J.E.T. targets the automaticity or the hearts ability to automatically keep a constant, healthy pace.

Heart beats can rise up to 300 beats per minute.

“I have a rhythm problem, basically. My heart beat is somewhat irregular and has episodes when I get up to 300 beats per minute,” “I’ll always have a Bailey, a freshman, Pacemaker and I says. “The doctors basically can’t change it. I’m ‘killed’ a part of different to an extent, my heart and but I’m not replaced it with a pacemaker.” really Before the different.” pacemakers, before the EKGs, before the surgeries, before the trips to Omaha.

“I had my first heart attack when I was six months old. I just stopped breathing.”

The doctors in Little Rock tell Bailey’s family not to worry. They don’t know what happened, but surely it wasn’t serious. Surely.

“I had been on life support for a while and then later I was on ECMO for 2 weeks which

basically beats your heart for you,”said Bailey. “I slept between my parents until I was at least two years old. They wanted to keep an eye on me at all times possible. Just in case.”

It probably wouldn’t happen again, they said.

Probably not be a big deal But it did, and it was.

“One year later, when I was 18 moths old, I had another heart attack,” Bailey said. “The doctors started to worry now. It did end up being a big deal.”

The signs had started to show before that, however. Late development. Not talking. Not walking. Something had to be wrong.

“After I had my first heart attack, I seemed off. I walked and talked really late. All of my development was really delayed.”

The doctors knew something had to be wrong.

They just didn’t know what.

“After my second heart attack and once I was diagnosed, the doctors decided what they were going to do. I was getting a pacemaker.”

It’s what keeps him alive.

It’s what keeps his heart going regularly. It’s his body’s conductor.

“In a way it’s like a car battery when I need it to regulate and keep my heart rate more constant it kicks on, but when I’m not using it really and I’m sleeping, the car turns off.”

Batteries need to be replaced though.

Trips to Omaha once a year for a check up.

Not a new thing. Why would this be any different.

That’s what he thought.

“In fifth grade I needed a new pacemaker, because mine’s lifetime wore out. I didn’t know that though. I thought we were just going to have another check up, but my parents told me when we were in Omaha that I was going to have to

have surgery to replace my old one. I understand completely why they didn’t tell me. They care about me and didn’t want me to worry. Heart surgery is a big deal especially to a fifth grader.”

After that it was all supposed to be fine.

Everything was going to be better.

It wasn’t a planned surgery this time. Or a surprise surgery. It wasn’t supposed to happen. It was a malfunction.

“It just happened. It hardly ever happens, especially since everything is so high-tech. I just got lucky.”

It was just a year after the second pacemaker had been put in. Bailey’s schedule was sleep, sleep and more sleep. “ I was really exhausted all the time. I couldn’t keep my eyes open in class. My fingers were purple and blue because I didn’t get enough oxygen to them.”

After a trip to the hospital and an over-thephone pacemaker test with his doctor, the next step was decided. They were off to Omaha the next morning.

One new pacemaker later, Bailey was back to being himself, the four-wheel-riding sixth grade boy. Back to being normal, or as normal as he can get.

“I can’t play any sports, because there wouldn’t be enough oxygen getting to my brain. I can only ride some rides at the fair or amusement parks.

Nothing too fast.”

It’s always been that way. Nothing too fast.

Nothing too exhausting. Nothing too dangerous.

You can only stop a teenage guy from doing so much.

“My parents worry about me a lot, but understandably so. They are picky about what I do, but because I can’t play sports, they let me ride four wheelers so I have some sort of normal in my life.”

The pacemakers, the surgeries, the check-ups.

They aren’t normal, but Bailey is.

“I’ll always have a pacemaker and I can’t change it. I’m only different to an extent, but I’m not really different.”

Taking Heart Sweetheart Program puts emphasis on students’ heart health Jordan Hearn

reporter Heart attack. Stroke. Pacemakers.

By-pass surgery. Not typical areas of interest for high school students.

However, for five girls, heart health was a priority for the past year.

February is National Heart Health Month, and last year the girls signed up to be a part of the Sweetheart Program.

“The Sweetheart Program was something new we started in Texarkana this past year. We had 13 girls from five area high schools learn about heart health and volunteerism,” said coordinator Brenda Dudley. “They learned CPR, how to use an AED, toured

the cath lab with Dr. Black, visited LifeNet ambulance services, including the helicopter tour, volunteered at the Heart Walk and at Wadley during the summer.”

The girls all had different reasons for joining. For Megan McCorkle it was her family. For Kailey Carr it was to volunteer and be involved in the medical community.

“After seeing the Cath Lab, I really made some changes. There’s no way I want to be in there on the table,” Kailey said.

After learning about heart health and how to take care of themselves better, some of the girls made some changes in their lives.

“During the program I decided to stop drinking sodas and I started

eating healthier because I realized how important it was with my family history,” Megan said.

Eating healthy isn’t the only thing that benefits heart health. Working out and keeping your body in shape is just as important.

“Besides the Heart Ball my favorite part was the cross fit training. We worked out across from the Perot with Joe Byrd,” said junior Kailey Carr. “It was a good wake up to call to see how out of shape I was.

Since then I’ve started working out and eating much healthier.”

All of the girls were influenced in some way. For some it was a lifestyle change. Cutting out sodas, eating a more balanced diet, and exercising regularly all contributed.

“My family has had a lot of heart problems. A couple months before I signed up my grandfather had a pacemaker put in,” said junior Megan McCorkle. “The opportunity just seemed kind of perfect and made a big difference.”

At the beginning of this year the girl’s program ended with the Heart Ball. The girl that earned the most points throughout the year was awarded a $2,000 scholarship by Wadley Auxiliary and a necklace at the Heart Ball on January 19th. Applications for next year’s Sweetheart Program will be available soon. Interested participants can email Brenda Dudley at Brenda.dudley@heart. org.

page2 news

thebottomline

events, activities, and news briefly

completed by Kenzie Floyd, Taylor Langdon, Ruth Kliewer, Elizabeth Stark

feb/mar

14

contents issue 4

Spring Pictures

It’s not just Valentine’s Day. Nope, you get another chance to smile for the nice photographer.

News

gimme 5 2 Student of the Month: January- Dustin Thomas February-Destiny McDaniel

Seniors Megan Morphis and James Gibbons were selected to move on to the All State Band competition. They will audition on Feb. 13.

Seniors Avery Borrell, Katie Brolo, Samantha Huang, Paige Rikel, and Candous McGuire were selected for the 20122013 Academic All State Volleyball team.

Blood Drive Going for Gold A Second Time Around

Features

1 4 6

Living With a Broken Heart Column Staff Editorial 21 questions with Patricia Hale

3

Got Blood One Last Time Frisbee Frenzee Follywood

7

The Times, They are A-Changin’

8

Sports Beautiful Game 14 13 The Boys’ Soccer

Students and teachers reminisce on concert experiences and how they’ve changed.

iAddict

Today’s technology takes a permanent hold on students.

Girls’ Basketball Boys’ Basketball

5

New Superintendent Search

After 34 years at PG, Mrs. Davis is retiring as Superintendent of PGISD.

Black History Month

10 Day 11 Valentine’s Survival Kit 12 The Right to Bear Opinions In the spirit of black history month, students talk about their heritage.

Students react to gun violence

15

Powerlifting Baseball

Drill Team

The Showstoppers will head out to San Antonio for competition. They will be competing with four group dances, two ensemble groups, and several solos.

4

Cheer Tryout Camp

Want to be a cheerleader?

Tryouts will be in the old gym from 4-6pm Monday to Wednesday.

Going for Gold

Ready. Set. Create.

On Feb. 25 all advanced art students are invited to enter VASE. “PG has won several gold seals, and PG also has consistently won over any other schools in Texas,” said art teacher Nina Cork.

VASE is like an art version of UIL. They compete with every school in the region and if the student gets perfect scores they move on to the state competition in April.

“My favorite part of VASE is seeing different art work from other students who think differently than we do,” said senior Katy Beth Irwin.

During VASE, teachers from around the state will have work shops for the students to introduce them to different kinds of art.

28

6

A Second Time Around After continuous hours of memorizing dance moves, singing in front of family, and practicing in high heels, Elizabeth Stark, Samantha Huang, Kristina Cox, Macall Johnson, Brenda Awuah, Lexi Zachary, and Anna Woodman competed in the Miss PGHS Pageant on Jan. 19.

The contestants’ all agreed that their introductions were the hardest part of the pageant. It didn’t matter how many times they had practiced, the words never seemed to come when the stage lights were shining and the microphone was on.

But the Mr. PGHS contestants made it look easy when it was their time to shine. Nick Cockerell, Quentin Miller, Mark Northam, Austin Reynolds, and John Altenbaumer were voted by the senior class.

Mark Northam was the winner and also collected the most money, raising over $2,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

It wasn’t senior Elizabeth Stark’s first time in the

UIL Regional Concert pageant. Last year she finished as runner-up after Katy Beth Irwin and was awarded most talented and most photogenic. She decided to participate again and was successful.

During the awards portion of the pageant, Elizabeth received the awards for Most Talented, Most Photogenic and was crowned Miss PGHS. Senior Samantha Huang was first runner up and junior Macall Johnson was second runner up. Sophomore Brenda Awuah was voted Miss Congeniality.

Elizabeth wasn’t only excited to win but also to receive the crown from her best friend. They almost didn’t know how to react when the exciting news was announced.

“Katy Beth is my best friend, so it was awesome to get the crown from her,” Elizabeth said. “It was really funny because we both wanted to give each other a hug, but we didn’t know if that was allowed. I was just really honored to be selected as Miss PGHS.”

Go to pgedgeonline.com to vote! Defense secretary Leon Panetta discussed revoking the ban on women to serve in a combat position in the United States military. Do you think women should be allowed to serve on the front lines?

Red River Pecan Plantation

To order, call 870-896-2737 237 River Road Fulton, AR 71838

GO HAWKS!

The band looks to take another Sweepstakes Trophy as they compete with their concert selections at Regionals.

11

Spring Break

Everybody is ready for a nice, week long break away from school. Start planning your spring break early that includes long nights and late mornings.

18

Drill Team Tryouts

Want to be apart of the Showstopper family?

Tryouts will be in the practice gym everyday after school from 3:45 to 5:00.

Five Pleasant Grove Locations 2802 Richmond Road - 670 N. Kings Hwy. 6424 Richmond Road - 5602 Summerhill Road 5121 Summerhill Road

Proudly supporting Hawk Nation

STARR Testing

1

The dreaded tests are getting close. Sophomores must prepare for a week packed full of testing.

Got Blood?

page3 news

HOSA’s annual blood drive reaches their goal

Frisbee Frenzee

STUCO Will Host Ultimate Frisbee Tournament

Picture warm sunshine and Frisbees flying-- the ultimate way to kick off spring break.

Student Council will be hosting its first ever Ultimate Frisbee tournament on March 8 from 1:30 to 3:30 at Hawk Stadium.

Ultimate frisbee is a fast paced event where you need to get the frisbee into the end zone to score, but once you have the frisbee in hand you cannot move and must pass it to advance it.

Students will be able to pay $3 to go outside and watch the tournament, and drinks and snacks will be for sale as well.

The freshman team will face the seniors, and the sophomores will face the juniors. The winners of those games will meet in the championship match Sign up sheets will be posted on the bulletin board for students who are interested.

“

I like Ultimate Frisbee because I’m surrounded by a bunch of my friends, and it’s also really good exercise. It’s just something fun to play on a Sunday or Wednesday night!”

Luke Bultemeier (12)

“

I started playing because it’s great cardio, and it’s also what real men do for fun. I can’t catch or throw a football, but I’m a pro at frisbee.”

Landon Young (12)

“

It all started when I was in Cross Country at the beginning of this school year. It was great exercise and the running kept me in great shape.”

Cesar Rodriguez (10)

“

Dakota Black, who graduated two years ago, got me hooked on Ultimate Frisbee. It’s tons of fun and really fun exercise.”

Caleb Smith (12)

Senior Adam Lyons donates blood during the Hero Blood Drive.

After collecting 50 units of blood in the Hero Blood Drive, HOSA earned a $500 scholarship for a senior this spring.

“Our goal was 40 units, and we got 50,” HOSA sponsor Virginia Parker said. “We’ll be working toward the $750 scholarship in our blood drive in April.”

HOSA hosted its annual second drive of the year in the library and brought in a more broad group of participants.

“HOSA actually went to the elementary and intermediate schools to talk to the kids about getting their friends and family involved in the blood drive,” Parker said. “The idea is that even though the kids can’t donate their blood, they can be heros by urging adults to participate in the drive.”

Apart from the great things the community gains from a blood drive, there are several benefits students can reap if they get involved.

Seniors are always very competitive on who is the most decked out at graduation. Through donating blood, a student can earn the coveted red honor cord to adorn their graduation gown. HOSA needed a total of 142 units to earn a $500 scholarship for a senior in the school district and had already collected 98 units in their fall blood drive.

High Expectations

Drill Team and Winterguard begin long practices for competition season

Even though football season may be over, Winterguard and Drill Team are still competing.

You may have noticed girls doing dance moves during class with their feet or waving their hands around in all directions in the hallways.

It's because competition season is here again for drill team. They will compete in San Antonio from Feb. 28Mar. 3.

After many hours of after school practices and memorizing choreography, the girls feel like this year's competition will be just as successful as last year.

"We won all three awards for technique, precision, and style last year. Also, we received the Judges Choice and GPA award,” junior Allie Taylor said. “We dominated the whole competition and brought home 15

Hooray for Follywood It’s time sign up for the annual Pleasant Grove Follies

trophies.”

Also, Winterguard season is here which also includes hours of practicing and getting ready for their competitions.

Winterguard is like Colorguard, but they not only must learn how to dance with flags but also with rifles.

“My favorite part about Winterguard is the routines with the rifles because the rifles are easy to handle,” said junior Destiny McDaniel.

The girls who are on Winterguard are Alexandra Lawson, Destiny McDaniel, Tia Farmer, Summer Baker, Rebecca Davidson, Brenda Awuah, Brittany Awuah, Ashley Iglesia, Mary Robinson, and Kristen O’Neal.

Wanna show your talent to the student class? Come sign up for the district-wide student talent show. This year’s theme is Follywood. It will be held on Friday, April 5 in the PAC. To sign up, you must go to the office, fill out the Follies form, and bring $5 to your audition which will be on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m.

Acts should be no longer than two minutes and 30 seconds long. If your act uses music, please provide it on a CD with a copy of the lyrics.

Individual and group acts are welcomed.

“For the past three years, I’ve either worked or performed at the Follies,” senior Kirsten O’Neal said. “This year I’m performing ‘Call Your Girlfriend’ by Erato with a group of friends.”

FOLLIES at a glance

What: Talent show When: April 5, 7 p.m.

Why: To raise money for prom

4012SUMMERHILLSQUARE TEXARKANA, TX 903.792-0088

where PG gets

T-shirts Hats Bags Screenprinting Promotional items Vinyl lettering Banners Signs

T-shirts

page4 opinion

For staffer, going to funerals is already a normal occurrence

Saying Goodbye One More Time Courtney Harris reporter

The pew rests against my back. Hitting all the wrong places. I focus on a small spot in the corner of the room. The wood ceiling breaking and the mosaic tiles beginning to fade with the sun.

Silence. Nobody moves, nobody makes a sound. A short, pudgy man approaches the crowd and motions us to stand. The people roll out, one by one, walking by the front of the alter.

This isn’t the first time it’s happened. It’s only been three months since my last trip to the funeral home.

And at age 16, I’ve already been to ten funerals.

No. 10. I left school early, skipping English to go home and change into the appropriate attire.

Through the years I’ve learned you don’t have to wear black to a funeral, but I still did. I drove to my church. This was the first funeral I had driven to alone. I met my mom inside and we watched the slideshow of the loving choir lady.

The people filed in, and the music played. Her favorite songs, making a tribute to her and her wonderful voice.

No. 9. I didn’t look up. I looked down at the hand attached to mine. Refusing to let go. My moms. I was sitting at a small funeral home in Atlanta, Texas, for the second time. I gained enough courage to pull the tissue away from my eyes to look towards the front of the room, seeing a man reading from a page that looked familiar. It was familiar. I had passed it every time I was at my uncle’s house, framed on a

wall. My cousin had written it when he was seven years old. Saying how much he loved him.

No. 8. I slipped into the back row. Arriving late, because I was too upset to get out of the car. I fiddled the program between my fingers.

Reading. And rereading every word on the page, thinking something would change.

I was the one of the last ones to walk out, taking my time to say goodbye for the last time.

No. 7. The pictures flashed on the slideshow at the front of the room. I sat in the second row, surrounded by family. Sobbing. My eyes pierced through the screen, or so it seemed. This was the fourth time to see it beginning to end since the last person walked out. We couldn’t let go.

We couldn’t bear to lose another piece of our family. A husband. A father. My uncle.

No. 6. The preacher began to talk. But I couldn’t pay attention. I didn’t feel the tears until I found a hand on my back, leaning over me to put a tissue in my lap. I looked back at the familiar face and smiled the best I could.

While stories about Brother Harris were being told, stories of my own played like movies in my head. The wrinkly old man, who made me fudge at Christmas, lost his thumb in an accident as a teenager, and played “I have your nose” tricks to me even though I was almost 14.

When the music started, I was shaken back into reality. Grabbed my used tissues. And left.

No. 5. A man I had known forever. Going to eat after church on Sundays and spending countless Friday nights playing games with friendly competition between our families. He was basically my second dad, as my dad was to his children. I sat with my sister, a row behind his wife and three kids. We listened to the

preacher talk about how good of a man he was, but we already knew that.

No. 4. I had never seen my uncle cry. Three hours in the car. To see my uncle cry. The town was unfamiliar. The people were unfamiliar.

And death’s latest victim was unfamiliar as well.

His name was “something Eubanks.”

An old business partner of my uncles. I counted the freckles on my arm, passing the time. Thinking about where we would go to eat before we went back home.

No. 3. This is the first time I had seen her out of nursing home. Plastic dolls with crochet dresses appeared like movies in my head when I looked at her. My fifth grade instinct was to reach to touch the dolls for the last time, but my mom grabbed my hand, pushed me through the side door, and into the crowd of intoxicating old woman perfume.

No. 2. I was guided into the large sanctuary, and down the aisle. My arm was limp, but my dad’s hand was holding it up, pushing me forward. He was holding it together as best as possible. My mom was crying. The preacher began to talk, in a low voice, naming the family.

She was survived by. . . And her youngest greatgranddaughter, Courtney.

No 1. My first trip the funeral home. It was a long way for a kindergartner to ride in the car.

I was carried in by my uncle, and placed in my mom’s lap, sleepy from the ride, but was shook awake every time I dozed off. I watched as the pall-bearers closed the casket, carrying it down the front steps out of the church. ***** Ten down. And I know there will be more to go. But. They’ll never get any easier.

staff editorial

also questioned what would happen if a fight between students escalated and one of the students took a handgun from a teacher. There are two or three districts in the state that allow teachers to carry, but that is only because of their remote location.

Hiring additional professional security also has problems, the biggest being paying for the additional personnel. Harp said that in order to pay the salaries of three more officers the district would be required to pay at least $200,000. Factor in that the school would also need to provide the officers with maintenance for their vehicles, and the price becomes higher. Harp said that under the current budget, there is no room for that added expense.

Believe it or not, under the current system, schools are remarkably safe. For all the noise made about the safety of schools, they remain remarkably safe places for students to spend

Head to Head Should athletes be banned for using performance enhancing drugs?

“I don’t like it because it doesn’t sound fair for the other people.”

What is your favorite app on your phone?

“Does the ‘Instagram’ app count?”

their day All that is truly required is to continue to work toward a safer environment through the status quo. Incidents of gun related violence at schools in Texas are already incredibly low, and the current system with minor improvements can make it even more effective.

Harp said that it takes more than administrators locking down all the doors. He mentioned an incident in a previous school where a student had been reported to have a gun on campus, and the situation was resolved without incident. Administrators can funnel all visitors through a single entrance to improve security, but the students and staff need to be sure to report possible danger at first notice.

It takes everyone working in tandem, from the administrators, to the students, staff, and community to help improve the safety and security of the building.

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day?

What do you think about schools requiring many AP credits to rank in the top ten?

“I’m going to go see ‘Safe Haven’ with my friends.”

“I think if someone wants to rank high, then they can go ahead and do what it takes.”

-alliebethhatfield, 9

“It doesn’t seem fair does it? It’s like cheating on a test.

People get in trouble for that, and it’s unhealthy.”

“The ‘Youtube’ app. I like the convenience and I watch Youtube way more than I watch T.V.”

“Some of my friends talked about having a ‘Forever Alone Party.’”

“You should work hard to rank, but I don’t think it is right to require everyone to take a bunch of AP classes and summer school classes to rank.”

“Yes, because it’s pretty much cheating.”

“The ‘T-0” app, it’s a countdown app. I like to know when something is going to happen.”

“I’m going to go watch Netflix, maybe ‘3 Days Left.’”

“I don’t really think it would make much of a difference either way.

The people who care about ranking high were going to take AP classes anyways.”

-johnaltenbaumer, 12

-codyhenry, 10

pleasant grove high school

5406 mcknight rd . texarkana, tx . 75503 phone: (903) 832-8005 . fax (903) 832-5381

Kenzie Floyd Josh Whitt Naveed Haque Editors Avery Borrell Collin Craytor Carson Craytor Natalie Thigpen Peyton Trippe Landon Young Photographers Kyle Green Jordan Hearn Ashlyn Hurst Alex Kauai Ruth Kliewer Taylor Langdon Nick Marchesani Megan McCorkle Mark Northam Curtis Zachry Reporters Courtney Harris Contributor Charla Harris Adviser Bill Harp Principal

Status quo is simply safer

The shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School sent shockwaves throughout the country, and questions about what should be done about school security have been raised ever since. Solutions range from arming teachers, to allowing volunteer parents to roam the halls, and even hiring additional security personnel.

The solution is to maintain the current practice of having a school resource officer.

This officer is obviously armed, has already received appropriate training, is provided by the police department, knows the students, and is already accounted for in the district’s budget.

This resource officer is a superior option for a number of reasons.

Armed teachers and volunteers shouldn’t have to make life or death decisions. Not to mention that having large groups of armed guards makes the school feel more like a prison than a place of learning. Principal Bill Harp

edge

Editorial policy Edge is produced by the newspaper students in the publications department of Pleasant Grove High School and are responsible for its production and content. The newspaper serves as an open forum for student expression and the discussion of issues of concern to students.

Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the student staffers and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration. Signed columns and reviews reflect the opinion of the author only.

Edge encourages and accepts letters to the editor. Letters must be signed and will be edited to eliminate obscenity and inappropriate content.

Letters may be submitted to the editor in room 603.

Edge is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference, National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

page5 feature

The Perfect Fit

Search Begins for New Superintendent Ashlyn Hurst reporter

Sophomore Madison Smith wants someone who is looking toward the future. Senior Collins Riddell wants someone who visits the campus often and cultivates relationships with the students. Freshman Emily Engstrom wants someone who does what is best for the school and its students. But one thing everyone can agree on is someone who will work towards better cafeteria food.

As Mrs. Margaret Davis’s final year at Pleasant Grove comes to a close, everyone has their own “ideal candidate,” so the district contacted the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) to organize the search for a new superintendent.

“Our process is intense. It’s not just a regular ‘take application and interview.’ We go through this search and the board spends a lot of their time,” William Smith, a TASB field representative, said. “One of the most important jobs they have is to select a good superintendent.”

Step One. Advertise the job online.

As of Friday, Feb. 8, there 37 applicants, School Board president John Tidwell said.

The cutoff date for submitting an application was Monday.

Step Two. Hold community meetings to set candidate qualifications.

Last month, a representative from the TASB visited the high school to conduct three open-discussions/meetings.

“What we try to do is get the community involved, let them have input, so that when a superintendent selected, they can support them,” Smith said.

Student council representatives and class officers had the opportunity to voice the qualities they are looking for in a new super-

What are you looking for in the next superintendent?

intendent during one of the three meetings.

“I think it’s great that the school is involving the students,” junior Gabi LaGrone said.

“I didn’t have to say much. Everyone had a lot of great ideas.”

Parents and students also have the opportunity to give their opinion through an online survey on the TASB Executive Search website.

“I took the survey in my Animation class,” junior Sarah Adams said. “I’m glad I filled out the survey, and that we have the opportunity to voice our opinions and really ‘choose’ the next superintendent.”

Step Three. Screen the applications.

“From the community discussions, we will put all the thoughts together in a report to the board, and then the board will set a list of desired qualifications and characteristics,” Smith said. “Then the candidates, when they apply online, are to write a narrative explaining why they are a good candidate addressing each of those areas.”

TASB will then send the school board a packet of applications and the board will narrow down the search to six applicants for interviews.

“After we narrow the group down to six, we will bring the top three back for additional interviews,” Tidwell said.

Finally, after reviewing the candidates’ applications and interviewing, the school board will chose the person for the job.

“I am looking for a person with the educational foundation, desire, and determination to lead this district, and that I feel confident I can entrust them with excellent facilities, an amazing staff, and our most prized possession, the students,” Tidwell said.

The school board will vote on the lone finalist March 20 and will vote to hire the new superintendent on April 11.

“Someone who forms personal relationships with students and is an all-around supporter for their activities.”

Jacob Bennett (10)

Looking Back on a Legacy Rewind 34 years. Before 9/11 and “American Idol.” There are no cell phones. No DVDs. No Facebook.

It’s 1981. Margaret Davis begins her career at Pleasant Grove. In those 34 years, much has changed at “the Grove.”

Here’s a look at the district’s changes during the reign of Mrs. Davis.

• Construction of the Performing Arts Center (PAC) and Central Services building • Renovation of all three campuses • Addition of PGMS Band Hall and PGHS Science Lab • Construction of intermediate school, high school athletic facilities, and Hawk Stadium

Senior Nick Cockerell lists what he wants in a superintendent. aborrellphoto

Texting friends “Someone who and talking toallpeople supports during practice. departments.

Chelsea Cole (10)be Everything should treated equal.”

Caitlin Gibson (11)

page6 21?s

2

What would you do if you were suddenly in your favorite horror or action film?

I’d probably be the first to die in any horror film, but I would stick with the guy who knows what he’s doing in either one.

3

What is the weirdest thing that has happened to you at soccer?

My friend kicked a soccer ball over the fence during practice and as I climbed the fence to get it, my pants got caught and ripped. Then in the middle of practice, they were so ripped, they just fell off.

lguytonphoto

5 6

Define the term “ishkabibble.”

It sounds like some sort of food, like a shishkabob or something.

7

When I say Justin you say...

I say I hate him.

If your life was a movie, what would the credits song be?

Anything by the German rapper Cro. Like the song “One Time Around the World.”

Junior Patricia Hale has lived all over the world, spending last school year in Germany, but that’s not her only connection with the international community. Her family has hosted exchange students every year since she moved here in sixth grade. Her dream job? Continuing to travel the world as a photographer.

10 11 12 13 14

What is your dream job?

I would want to be a photographer.

I could travel the world and take it all in with photographs.

What is something you would change about television?

I would change the commercials.

Some are so stupid now that you don’t want to watch them, but they are so stupid you actually can’t help but watch.

Apple or Android?

I don’t really like iPhones. I do like iPods, though. Especially the classic one. That thing is a brick and it doesn’t crack when I drop it.

What would you say is your area of expertise?

Organization. I have a good eye for colors and layouts, my mom always asks me for advice on whether or not something looks good in a room.

What do you enjoy about art?

I like art because I can be creative and there are no boundaries.

bsmithphoto

8 9

What is the most difficult thing you have done?

Moving away from my dad when my parents divorced. I had to move to Alabama where my teacher was actually a nun, and I had to adjust to speaking and writing in English.

Where would you like to live someday?

I would like to live in Italy or Germany. My mom lived in Italy once and my dad lives in Germany so either way I would be closer to family.

ahurstphoto

15

What is a class they should teach in school?

A full blown photography class, but it also wouldn’t hurt to have some variety in the sports. Things like wrestling and swimming would be nice.

21

questions Patricia Hale

with

4

If you could learn how to play an instrument what would it be?

Guitar or piano because you can sing and play at the same time. I also used to take piano lessons when I was younger. It would be cool to learn for real.

16

What is your favorite era of music?

The 60s. I grew up on music from bands like The Who, it’s what my parents would listen to.

17

What was your first cell phone and how old were you?

I can’t remember what kind of phone it was exactly, but it was a purple LG flip phone. I was maybe 12 or 13 when I got it.

18

What is your favorite genre of movie or book?

Mystery is definitely my favorite. I like trying to solve the mystery along the way.

19 20 21

The fastest way to spend a thousand dollars?

Going shopping without a list. I would just end up buying anything that looked good.

If the midnight train goes “anywhere,” where do the stairs go?

Up of course, to heaven or something like that.

Why do you think we celebrate Valentines day?

Because stores need some sort of holiday to sell stuff for while they wait for Easter.

21questions next issue:

with

1

Do you have any guilty Pleasures?

I would have to say playing board games with my family.

My favorite is Clue.

Mr. Baldwin.

page9 A&E

The Times, they are A-Changin’

Friends of Journalism Editor in Chief/Producer Jim & Laurie Booker DeAnna & Bret Craytor Gary & Jennifer Engstrom Joel & Carol Green Richard & Allison Payne Neil Peters Paul & Lynn Whitt Stacy Yates

News Anchor

Students and teachers reminisce on concert experiences and how they’ve changed Kyle Green reporter

C

amera lights flash. Girls scream at pitches only dogs can hear. Lasers stream throughout the stadium. And one girl projectile vomits.

That’s when seniors Kenzie Floyd, Emily Stouffer, and Kendall Lindsey know it’s real.

“We want Justin, we want Justin!”

The stadium echoes this phrase over and over until a dark shadow appears behind the curtains. The crowd goes berserk. As a figure rises and propels into the air wearing angel wings on his shoulders, the crowd knows who it is, and so do the three girls.

“Right when I saw his shadow, the tears started coming. It was just so overwhelming,” Emily said.

“Right when he came out he sang ‘All Around the World’. It was crazy. He looked fake, and it almost seemed like it wasn’t even real seeing him there.”

Kenzie, Emily, and Kendall have been to concerts before, but nothing like this. To them, this concert wasn’t surreal because of the venue or because of the thousands of screaming fans, it was because of the little, unique things that happened during the concert.

“Justin would do some really cool stuff here and there that you would never be able to see if you weren’t at the concert,” Lindsey said. “He would do things like little solos to finish off a song, say seductive remarks after songs, and he even recorded himself with a little camera during his songs, followed by him winking at us a ton.”

In the past 18 years, Kenzie has seen Hannah Montana, Jason Aldean, Britney Spears, and many more, and Kendall and Emily have seen David Crowder and Jason Aldean. They’ve screamed, cried and cheered at hip hop and country concerts all over the area. But they aren’t the only frequent concertgoers. Teacher Shawn Edmonds and principal Bill Harp have been going to concerts for years. And they both agree that as time has passed, music and con-

The Five Do’s and Don’ts of Concerts Do’s Don’ts 1. Sing along with every song you know. If you don’t know the song, just hum the melodies.

2. Sneak on stage and take a dive off it and crowd surf away.

Be sure to have the crowd carry you away from the cops that will be chasing you 3. Hold your cell phone/ lighter in the air during a famous song 4. Stand in front of the PA speakers during the entire concert.

5. Demand an encore with the rest of the fans.

certs have changed. At this point it’s safe to say that “My craziest experience was at a Lover Boy concert both of them not only prefer 80’s and 90’s music, but where I had really good, close seats. Two guys came also the concerts of those times. up really close to me and they started fighting,” Harp “I’ve been to all kinds of concerts like Styx, INXS, said. “The police came and the two guys escaped.

Foreigner, Police, REM, Bruce Springsteen, Chicago, The cops chased one of the guys around the stadium and much more. I used to love going to concerts, but for a good 15 minutes. It ended with the guy coming they just aren’t the same anymore,” Edmonds said. back to where I was sitting, getting surrounded by “There is so much security nowadays, you feel like the cops, jumping ten feet off one of the upper decks you are always being watched at concerts. They even onto a lower deck and right when he landed he got have to check your bags at the door. It was never like clocked by one of the cops waiting at the bottom. It this in the past--it was so much more laid back.” was pretty funny.”

Harp agreed. He’s been to a lot of the same conKenzie’s story is a little different. And it’s definitely certs as Edmonds, so his experiences are very similar. a good example of how concerts have changed from But his main concern with conthen to now. certs nowadays isn’t the security or “When Justin was singing ‘As freedom, it’s about the experience.

Long as You Love Me,’ my favorite It was crazy. He “Back in the 80’s it was a lot song, I was distracted by a young looked fake, and it different. You would go to a congirl sprinting through the aisle. almost seemed like it cert to see a band play great muRight when I turn to see what she’s wasn’t even real.” sic, that was it,” Harp said. “Nowdoing she stops and projectile vomadays it’s all about the production its, then she started running again, EmilyStouffer,12 with all of the lights, lasers, backstopped again, and projectile vomup singers and dancers, and all the ited, and she did it a third time,” special effects. It was more about Floyd said. “It was hilarious, but I the music back in the 80’s and less about a show.” felt bad for her because she was missing out on Justin The girls can agree with Harp on one thing, con- because she had to puke.” certs in this day and age are definitely shows rather Regardless of preferences or experiences the youth than just music. But there is something about a show and the adults can appreciate each others music and that makes the concert so special according to the concert choices. Although it may be harder for the girls, something that would be lacking without the youth of today to appreciate the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, special effects. adults like Harp have an easier time accepting the “When you are at a concert like Justin Bieber’s, changing times for one reason, because he was a kid it already feels like you are in a dream because he is once too.” just so famous,” Kenzie said. “But with the lights and “As an adult, I focus more on the music rather special effects, it really does make the concert a once than the production,” Harp said. “But I was a kid in a lifetime opportunity.” once too, and at that time it was all about the social When Harp and Floyd go to these concerts, they aspect and having a good time. And that’s what condon’t remember the songs that were sung, or the certs are all about, having a good time and enjoying clothes that the star wore, they remember the insane music you love.” experiences. And both parties are chock-full of those.

“

Just ask us

1. Don’t yell, “That’s my song!”

2. Don’t accept anything that is passed to you from the hippylooking fans.

3. Don’t get angry or pick fights with crowd surfers or people that bump into you. It’s a concert, you aren’t supposed to be comfortable.

4. Don’t throw inanimate objects at people or the band.

What was the best concert you’ve ever been to?

It’s the end of the world, and there is one final concert, who performs?

How much would you be willing to pay for tickets to the final concert?

“Jason Aldean in Little Rock, it was my first concert I had ever been to, it was incredible.”

“I would want Tim McGraw and Faith Hill in my concert.

Either that or Katy Perry, so then I could take my kids.”

“My top dollar would be $200, I would have to have a good week of selling chips.”

“The Eagles, I saw them in Shreveport.

It was a three and a half hour concert and it ran so smoothly. It’s pretty nuts to think that people that famous are right in front of you.”

“I would have to start out with U2, followed by Coldplay, and finish it off with Led Zepplin. It would be an incredible concert, they are all so innovative.”

“I would probably be willing to pay $1,000 to see that concert.”

“Easy, The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

It was so exciting.

I was jumping up and down so much that I had blisters all over my feet.”

“I would open with Louis Armstrong, then Queen, and then finish off with the Beatles.”

“If I had billions, I would pay billions, but in reality I would be willing to pay $50,000 to see that concert.”

-Lott

JoDeeLott, teacher

GregSchwartz, teacher

5. Don’t throw up from excitement, because other fans won’t be excited about you throwing up on them.

AdamNortham, 11

-Lott

-Lott

-Schwartz

-Schwartz

-Schwartz

-Northam

-Northam

-Northam

Chris & Debbie Alkire Joanne Caldwell Christopher & Joyce Cook Jeff & Melanie Harris Lisa & Bobby Howell Dorothy Langdon Jon & Becky Miller Malise & Dennis O’Banion Billy & Terri Parsons Doug & Debbie Trippe Sandy & Pam Wyatt Kathleen & Tom Young Dr. Matt & Cindy Young

Copy Editor Harold & Patti Baird Jane & Chuck Borrell Nita Craytor Grandpa & Grammy Davis Jim & Lisa Day Proud Granny of Madison Edmonds Cora Gann & Shelly Godwin Team Goetz – Wil, Tracy & Kosha James & Debbie Herrington Todd & Gayle Higgins Randy & Judy Kuhns Tim & Danielle Kuykendall Gary & Annell Langdon Carl & June Lewis Donna Lindsey Martha McCorkle Mary Claire O’Banion Antonio Otero Laura Pasqua Brenda Rochelle, Realtor Mark & Susan Stockstill Skip & Suzanne Stouffer Leslie & Sucky Tidwell Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Ward

Reporter Brent, Kym, Jacob & Matthew Bennett Barbara & William Carl Jason & Cheryl Clem Helen Floyd Herb & Sue Irwin Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Kososki Jackie & Sonya Laney Kim & Brent Langdon Mr. & Mrs. Royce Loomis Brian & Sylvia McElhany Nancy Hall Martin Mr. & Mrs. David Mueller Jane Pappas Mr. & Mrs. Charles Reed Rose Lynn Russell Edward Smith Mr. & Mrs. Richard Stark Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Stockstill Charles & Linda Sullivan Charles & Chris Terry Amber & Micah Tompkins Laura Waters

Thanks to these supporters of Pleasant Grove Journalism. If you would like to support our program, contact us at 903-832-8005.

iAddict

Today’s technology takes a permanent hold on students Kenzie Floyd

editor-in-chief

T

wo percent. Crap.

an option-- but that doesn’t always work.

“I’ve tried deleting my Twitter and Instagram apps multiple times before, knowing I spend too much time on them,” Sarah said. “I always end up re-downloading them hours later. Checking social networks has just become a part of my daily routine.”

Senior Sarah Hughes digs in her purse and pulls out her phone charger. She scans the classroom walls for a free outlet, finally finding one across the room. Once Sarah’s phone is plugged into the charger, she feels a wave of relief.

It’s only sixth period, and her phone is out of battery.

“My phone dies at least twice a day because I use “Please turn off cell phones.” it so much,” Sarah said. “I feel out of the loop if I don’t This simple request shown at many movie theaters check my phone and see what’s going on with everyand classrooms is becoming too much to ask. A large one. I know that sounds bad, but I can’t help it. ” Sarah isn’t the only one who’s constantly on her phone. It can be seen everywhere. In class, at lunch, at practice, walking, driving-students can be seen with their phones in hand. Only twenty eight percent of students Focused on the screen, admit to being obsessed with their phones. senior Daruis Reid plays on But is that really the case?

The problem

What’s addicting

Eighty nine percent of students have their phone with them at all times, and fifty percent of students feel anxious or insecure if they don’t. Even though students know that their phones are getting in the way of every day life, it doesn’t stop them from using them obsessively.

“I hate it when I’m with friends and they stop a conversation because they get distracted by a text or call,” senior Caleb Smith said. “After a certain point, it gets ridiculous. People miss out on human interaction just so they can play on their phone.”

ptrippephotos

his phone towards the end of class.

Talking, texting, Tweeting, Instagraming, Walking up the stairs, senior Facebooking, Ruzzleing, everything. With an Josh Breitfeller checks his entire world of technology out there, it’s hard phone between classes. for students not to get sucked in.

Junior Brooke Smith admits to being on Sophomore Weston Smith her phone 24-7. She counts on Twitter, Instalistens to music while looking gram, and texting to keep her updated. at a picture on his phone to “When I don’t check my phone, I feel like draw a sketchbook in art.

I’m behind,” Brooke said. “If I don’t have it with me at all times, I feel like something’s missing.”

WestonSmith, 10 DariusReid, 12 JoshBreitfeller, 12 Junior Liam Cork has almost 5,000 tweets.

“I just love Twitter,” Liam said. “There’s always something funny happening on there.

One time three of my friends and I planned a trip to Cabo with Justin Bieber. We stayed up until number of people don’t even consider the thought of three in the morning trying to get him to tweet us disconnecting themselves from the rest of the world back... He didn’t.” for just a 90-minute movie.

Freshman Harrison Bennefield agrees that Twitter “If I go somewhere without my phone, I feel like I’m is fun and addicting, but he doesn’t tweet near as going outside without shoes on,” Sarah said. “I always Students think they can live without their phones. much as he texts. worry if someone needs to talk to me or if I’m missing It’s not something they have to have to be happy, “I text people throughout the day just for fun,” Har- out on something going on with friends.” but they think that since they do have a phone, they rison said. “I get caught up in the conversations and Seventy two percent of students admit to missing might as well take full advantage of it. end up texting all day and all night long.”

“A lot of people make their phone a necessity out on sleep, school work, and family time because of Students love the connection that their phones the need they have to be on their phone. when it doesn’t need to be,” Caleb said. “Many provide them. Knowing that a link to the rest of the “I know I’d have better grades if I didn’t have a people have a phone addiction, they just don’t realworld is at their fingertips makes it almost impossible phone,” Brooke said. “If I’m doing homework and I get ize it. Phones have become such a big part of today’s not to become addicted. Deleting the apps is always a text, I have to text back and then I totally lose focus.” society that we don’t know where to draw the line.”

Breaking the hold

How obsessed are you?

Match the TV commercial to the correct mobile carrier.

C

B

D

AT&T Sprint T-Mobile Verizon

D

Answers: A- Sprint B- T-Mobile C- AT&T D- Verizon

A

53%

ents of stud phone r i r he

use t walking o whendriving

28%

of students

themseclvoensider obsesseds

By the numbers

89%

120 students surveyed

72%

of studen

have their ptshon with them e at all times

of stu

50% of students

feel anxious when they don’t have their phone

br dents t homeeaks fromake check work their to phon e

page10 feature “Even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream... I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” -Martin Luther King Jr.

Living the Dream

A culture of dreams. Dreams of freedom. Dreams of equality. Dreams of acceptance. In 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s dream to emphasize the study and celebration of Black History came to life. That February he introduced the first National Black History Month. In the spirit of Black History month, we talked to students about their heritage and how they celebrate.

What is your opinion about having a month to celebrate Black History?

Sophomore Kelly Cooper: I like Black History Month. But really, you don’t need a separate month to celebrate your culture. I celebrate Black History all year long.

Freshman Tevari Barker: It’s great for our culture. Sometimes people can overdo it and use it as an excuse to overreact or do something crazy.

Senior Quentin Miller: It’s good; I’ve always celebrated through my school and at my church, every Sunday in February, we have a Black History program. It’s nice to learn about your history and your background.

Senior Ania Nolen: I think it’s great. Out of 365 days, its nice to have 28 to focus on and celebrate my culture.

If you could eat dinner with anyone from Black History, who would it be?

Kelly Cooper: Martin Luther King. I would want to ask him why he would fought so hard for our rights.

Junior Jovan Wilson: Martin Luther King. I would want to ask him where he found the courage to stand and do all he did.

Freshman Vashon Williams: Rosa Parks. I would want to know what it was like to be kicked off a bus for not giving up your seat to the white man.

Sophomore Jacorey Prim: Ray Lewis. He seemed like a cool person and his motivational speeches are cool.

Ania Nolen: Rosa Parks because she made a big difference in history. I would definitely like to talk to her and ask her what made her do that, what it was like back then, and get her perspective.

Many Black Americans have left a great legacy on our country’s history. What impact do you want to have on the future?

Tevari Barker: I would like to go to the worst parts of the country and help people out of poverty.

Jovan Wilson: I want to crush stereotypes like the “ghetto” attitude and people telling me I talk white when really I’m not from here. Like most stereotypes, the stereotype is all people see.

Junior Alexis Shelton: I want to be known for doing the unthinkable, doing something no one else has done.

Junior Brenda Awuah: I want to be remembered for how I always tried my hardest or my best. I want to be a brain surgeon; I also want to find a cure for something.

Who do you look up to in Black History?

Kelly Cooper: Martin Luther King because he is the reason we are who we are today. He

Tevari Barker: Martin Luther King; he led the way for our culture to gain rights and no longer be discriminated against. He’s someone I look up to.

Vashon Williams: Martin Luther King because he was the one, mainly, who led the civil rights movement.

Alexis Shelton: I look up to Barack Obama because he doesn’t care what anyone thinks about him and says about him. Even though he is up against a lot of negatives, he still cares about everyone and does his job. He’s brave.

Quentin Miller: I would say Martin Luther King because he was a hard-fighting leader. Not only did he demand his rights, but he also fought for hem in a non-harmful way and led others to fight for their rights and equality.

Brenda Awuah: Oprah. When everyone told her that she couldn’t get to the top, she tried her best and she gave it her all, and now she is one of the most successful people.

What do you think has been the most influential event of Black History?

Vashon Williams: The March on Washington.

Jovan Wilson: When we were given the right to vote because it gave us a say and established us more as people compared to what we were before.

Alexis Shelton: I think the JFK shooting because back then, no one really fought for the African Americans, and he did. Even though he wasn’t of our descent, people respected him, and after he was killed, they worried about discrimination and their future.

Quentin Miller: I would say the March on Washington because it showed a people standing up for their rights. It’s good to see people come together and fight for their rights peacefully.

Jacorey Prim: When Barack Obama became president because he was the first black president.

Brenda Awuah: Martin Luther King’s march on Washington because they were standing up for what they believed in.

Ania Nolen: Electing the first black president because it shows how far we have come.

How do you celebrate Black History month?

Tevari Barker: I don’t really “celebrate” it, but I enjoy the time to reflect on my history and spend time with family and friends.

Alexis Shelton: I’m on a Black History Quiz Bowl team out of Little Rock, we have a Black History program at church, and my mom makes me watch “Roots” even though I’ve watched it a thousand times.

Jacorey Prim: Sometimes, I get together with my family, eat, watch t.v., and have fun.

Brenda Awuah: I don’t really do anything special. My parents talk to me about black people that have inspired them and we talk about them.

Ania Nolen: I like to stay current on Black History and learn new things, not just the history we are taught in school. I watch movies and search the internet to learn new things.

For more interviews and information about Black History Month, scan this tag or go to www.pgedgeonline.com

made it possible for us to enjoy the rights other cultures have and unified us.

You forgot to order your yearbook?

Wanda Northam, M.D. (903) 614-3937

Relax. It’s not too late.

Just $50. Go by room 603 to order.

page11 A&E

Valentine’s Day Survival Kit V

alentine’s Day can be stressful for anyone. For couples, there is the pressure to create the most romantic night.

But for those who are single, there is the need to fend off the idea that they won’t end up alone. Whatever insecurities you have are amplified. So below is a Valentine’s Day Survival Kit sure to help anyone, wether you’re spending your night with that special someone or a box of chocolates and a DVD of Gerard Butler, make this stressful day easier.

Valentines Fun Dip. Heart-shaped suckers. 3D cards.

Head to any grocery or dollar store and pick out your favorite Valentines to share with friends. The cheesier, the better.

Flowers

Chocolate

Roses are red. Violets are blue. Student Council is selling carnations for a dollar to you.

The Student Council will be passing out the flowers on Valentine’s Day. Hopefully you spread the love and sent a few to your friends.

Nothing says love like a box of chocolate. Whether you have that special someone or are trying to forget you don’t, chocolate is the answer.

Candy Hearts

Cheesy Rom-Com

No Valentine’s Day is complete without these sugary messages.

They’re classics, and let’s face it, pretty cute.

This is a Valentine’s Day must.

After a long day, there’s nothing like curling up on the couch with a cute and cliche rom-com to cheer you up.

The hard part is having to pick between all the options.

] Romantic Movies to watch on Valentine’s Day TheTop ] The Comedy

10 ] ]

]]

] ] Staff Pics DOVE

]

“It’s not quite a five, but it’s really close. I would say it’s like a party in my tummy, but it’s too chill and sweet. It’s like a friendly get together.”

STAFF RATING

The Proposal Every girl wants to hear it. So why not watch a twist on it.

“Even though it has a lot of comedy, in the end they fall in love and it’s a good balance.” -Michala Terrel, 10

The Titanic Everyone has seen it.

Everyone loves it. Why not watch it again?

“It’s the perfect love story to watch on Valentine’s Day. It’s like a modern version of Romeo and Juliet.

It’s wonderful.” -Kayla Mercer, 11

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days What better way to get a guy for Valentine’s than to educate yourself on what not to do.

“I love it because it’s so ironic because she tries to be forever alone and ends up with the guy any ways.”-Elena Thompson, 11

The Princess Bride Twue Wuv, a Dweam within a dweam “I watch the Princess Bride because it’s about wuv- twue wuv that fowwos us foweva.

It is a dweam within a dweam, and we have to tweasure our wuv.”

-Steven Smith, 11

RUSSELL STOVER

For The Dreamers

Date Night

The Notebook The Classic. The movie of all movies. Plus Ryan Gosling, nothing beats it.

“The Notebook is just a tearjerker. I hope I die that way.”

-Nina Cork, teacher

It. Scary Movies are a must.

“You want the girl scared. That way she jumps in your lap.”

-Andy Pierce, 12.

The Vow Why else would you watch it?

“Channing Tatum.” -Tia Farmer, 12

300 Let the guy pick the movie sometimes. In the end, it might not turn out too badly.

“It’s the best of both worlds.” -Greg Schwartz, teacher

“I saw The Vow with my girlfriend it was sad and depressing, and I don’t do sad and depressing.” -Seth Lemley, 11 Safe Haven- You and Josh Duhamel in the same dark theater. Who’s going to turn that down?

“It looks really good, and the guy is really cute.”-Sara Senatore, 10

HERSHEY’S “The center filling was good, but the actual chocolate wasn’t up to par with the other chocolate’s standards.”

“The chocolate was okay, but I got a caramel center. That was the deal breaker.

Not a fan.”

-Megan McCorkle

-Jordan Hearn

AVERAGE

Lovey Dovey

Lady and The Tramp You’ve seen it as a kid.

Why not be cute and watch it now?

“Everyone wants to eat spaghetti like that on Valentine’s day.”

-Katy Beth Irwin, 12

LINDT LINDOR “I found the five. It was close but the addictive quality and the cute spherical shape puts it over the edge.”

-Jordan Hearn

-Ashlyn Hurst

4.5

AVERAGE

STAFF RATING

3.3

AVERAGE

STAFF RATING

2.8

]

AVERAGE

STAFF RATING

4.9

page12

The Right to Bear

Opinions

Megan McCorkle reporter

Students and staff react to gun violence

I

t was just another normal day.

There were basketball games, theater practices, and homework assignments.

Lunch conversations and make-up quizzes.

And then someone passed by the tv in the foyer and heard the words. Saw the children filing out of the school, eyes closed. Stopped amid the people passing in the hall and listened to the reporters, the news anchors.

A shooting at an elementary school in Connecticut. Children gunned down, dead.

And within hours, people were talking about the victims, the shooter, and the weapons.

The guns.

It fueled an already heated controversy over gun control.

Almost two months later, the debate rages nationwide over limiting gun ownership, regulating firearm purchases, and interpreting the Second Amendment, and Pleasant Grove students and faculty have formed their own strong opinions about the issue.

“A gun is a tool,” senior Brett Eakin said, “In and of itself, it is neither good nor evil. It’s only when it is used to strike others that it becomes evil. Even then, it’s not the guns that commit the acts; it’s still a tool. It’s the person who decides to use it for good or evil.”

However, guns are viewed as weapons rather than tools with each passing incident, like Newton, as they play out in the media. Each incident gets hours of coverage on every network.

Footage of vigils, crime scenes, and crying witnesses fill tv screens. Press releases go viral. Rumors are spread. Conspiracy theories are created.

“It’s not so much that there is an increase in violence,” teacher Tim Baldwin said. “There is more awareness about it. You can go back into “A gun is a tool in and the ‘20s; they had the mob and the St. Valentine’s Day of itself, it is neither good Massacre. It’s been going nor evil. It’s only when it on; I just think there is a is used to strike others lot more media attention to it.” that it becomes evil.”

An article on the moth-Brett Eakin, 12 erjones.com website noted that since 1982 there have been 62 school shootings in the US. Of those, 25 have occurred after 2006. In 2012 alone, there were seven which collectively amassed 151 victims. Only in the last few years, however,have mass shootings gotten the coverage they do now.

“The more the media emphasizes it, the more people they are scaring away from guns,” junior Hannah Stephens said.

“It shouldn’t be the guns that scare people.”

But it’s not like PG students are scared of guns.

In a recent survey, 77% of students said they were pro-gun. Not surprising for a school populated with Southerners, and more specifically Texans. People here have grown up with guns. They go hunting on the weekend. They go to target practice when there’s time to spare. Owning a gun is as common as having a cell phone.

Those pro-gun students were troubled by President Obama’s gun control action plan and executive orders which were announced Jan. 16. His plan touched on background checks, gun safety and responsibility, and precautions against this type of violence at schools.

“There are certain things that could be done to curb the violence,” junior Clint Ryther said. “Taking away guns or restricting how the general public can buy or use them is not the way. Not everyone needs a gun. Only those responsible enough should have them, but in the end, bad people are still going to get guns and commit crimes no matter the defenses we have against it.”

Statistically, this is true. Of the 62 previously mentioned shootings, 49 of the killers obtained their weapons illegally. Because of this, many students feel that the solution lies not in keeping guns away from the wrong people but in protecting the possible victims.

Even though the chance of being in a mass shooting is small, Pleasant Grove students want to feel safe at their school.

While 61% of those surveyed feel safe at the high school, 21% feel like there should be more measures taken to safeguard students and faculty from attacks. So this year administrators have worked to emphasize the measures taken to protect the school.

“We’re taking the same actions as before,” principal Bill Harp said. “The biggest thing is being vigilant. The key is students and staff being vigilant. They are the first line of defense.”

There are random K-9 searches in the parking lot and buildings. All outside doors are kept locked. Officer Pete Mann has an office located on campus, and other safety precautions and conferences were held this summer.

“Two DPS officers came undercover to the school with several hidden firearms,” Harp said. “They interacted with the staff to see their reaction. It drove home the point how easy it is to get inside with guns.”

Pleasant Grove students aren’t the only ones concerned about school security. The Texas Senate held hearings on Jan.

77% 28% 61% The Stats

of students are

pro-gun

of students watched President Obama’s executive orders

of students feel

safe at school

78% 50% 37%

of students are

gun owners

of students believe of students would the positive uses of feel safer if everyone a gun outweigh the had a gun negative

28 over school safety. People from around the state testified about allowing teachers to carry concealed handguns on campus. No specific legislation has been proposed yet, but there has already been some turmoil concerning the issue.

With so many issues at hand, it’s hard to find two people who agree on the issue. But there is one thing everyone agrees on–the gun violence is a tragedy. Something needs to be done.

The problem is how.

While some at Pleasant Grove would say the solution lies in teachers having concealed handguns or having no gun restrictions at all, not everyone feels that comfortable with guns, .

While being anti-gun is a minority opinion at this school, those few students feel very strongly about the issue. Students like junior Min Kim thinks our country needs more restrictive and anti-gun laws to solve our problem.

“Two wrongs don’t make a right,” said Kim. “Giving a good guy a gun doesn’t change the fact that a bad guy has one. It doesn’t help anyone.”

In the end, it comes back to the guns. Not the shooters, but the guns.

“Guns can’t fire themselves,” Stephens said. “Without people, guns would just be a piece of metal that sits around. It takes bad people for bad things to happen.”

100 students surveyed

LA

IL

377

ccraytorphoto

NY

402

445

TX CA

1,120

Number of firearm murders in one year for each state

Raquet & Jog

3435 Richmond Road Phone: (903) 223-6010

699

Loving the Beautiful Game

page13 sports

Senior Josh Whitt spent his entire life playoff playing strictly “American” sports. Little did he know he would find his true passion somewhere else.

Senior Josh Whitt estarkphoto It all started with a jersey.

Blue and red stripes down the front and back with yellow neck and arm bands.

A yellow shield crest on the chest showing St. George’s Cross, the Catalan flag, and a soccer ball.

This is the jersey of F.C. Barcelona, and it is my first soccer jersey.

In 2007, my brother spent the summer studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain. When he came home he proudly unveiled a jersey he had bought for me. I had only vaguely heard of the team, but that didn’t matter. It was a jersey from Spain, I loved it. That day sparked the fire that eventually became my passion for soccer.

Before that, I had occasionally heard about the World Cup or David Beckham playing for LA Galaxy.

At that time I was a football/ baseball player, and I’ll admit I made fun of soccer from time to time, calling it, ‘a sport for girls’. My dad and I regularly complained when ESPN showed highlights from soccer games around the world.

I was basically against anything soccer.

In 2009, my friends Jose Rangel and David Mitchell started talking to me about playing soccer for the school. I quickly dismissed the offer and went back to playing football and baseball.

Fortunately, my friends are the persistent type. They knew that if they kept asking me to play I would eventually give in, and they were right.

Freshman year, after football season ended, I officially considered myself a soccer player. I had not yet played my first game, but I was doing everything in my power to get ready.

To be a real soccer player, I had to get the gear. I cluelessly walked into Hibbitt Sports to buy my first shin guards and cleats. I, of course, made a fool of myself when I put my shin guards on upside down and had no idea. While laughing, Jose politely tried to explain the mistake I had made.

I came a long way during that first season and became addicted. I was a starting right back despite the fact it was my first year.

That year I scored my first goal of my career. Our team was down 2-1 against Henderson. It was fairly late in the game and we had just been awarded a corner. Since I was right back that meant I got to move up a bit in case the ball came back out.

I was standing about 40 yards away from the goal when the ball was kicked in. After a second or two of the ball banging around in front of the goal the ball was cleared by the opposing team.

The ball came straight to me.

I took a few steps and readied myself to kick it back in. I was planning on just passing the ball back to my teammates but after I put the ball back in the air I realized it was getting pretty close to the goal. All of sudden, the ball was in the goal.

I had actually scored. Whether I actually meant to or not doesn’t really matter. All that matters is that it was a goal.

We went on to tie that game 2-2. We hadn’t won, but we hadn’t lost. It felt so good to have scored and I wanted to keep doing it.

Unfortunately that has been my only goal since.

I quickly realized scoring isn’t everything and I just want to play the beautiful game.

After my freshman baseball season ended, I decided that that would be the last one of my life, a decision not easily made.

The next summer, the 2010 World Cup was held in South Africa.

As a new soccer fan, I cheered on the United States as they went into the round of 16. Once they were knocked out I started rooting for Germany.

I realized I was never a true fan, I just cheered for whoever everyone else rooted for. That’s when I noticed the FC Barcelona jersey in the back of my closet. I decided to learn a little bit more about them.

The first game I really watched was when Barcelona played Arsenal FC in the Camp Nou(Barcelona’s stadium.) Barcelona won that game 3-1 and eventually went on to win the entire Champions League.

I was hooked.

After that season I became a more worldly fan.

My favorite team overall is FC Barcelona, but I also enjoy cheering on United States teams. My favorite MLS team is the Seattle Sounders. I have even began cheering for the San Antonio Scorpions, a lower level team in the NASL(North American Soccer League.)

I finally realized how big of a deal soccer is in the entire word. Sure American football has big followings in the US, but it’s nothing like the attention soccer gets. Soccer is more than just a sport to the rest of the world.

Soccer is a religion.

Soccer is their life.

And I quickly followed in the rest of the world’s footsteps.

My TV is constantly showing a soccer game. My internet search history is filled with all things soccer and when I’m not home, I’m playing soccer.

Throughout my life I have been really good at becoming very involved with something and then quickly getting bored with it. Soccer isn’t like that. I see myself living my whole life caring about soccer just as much as any “die-hard” American football fan cares about his team.

Listening to people talk bad about soccer does get pretty annoying, but I try not to let it bother me. Until I started playing I didn’t understand the amount of physical stamina and strength it takes to play the sport either.

The complaining and banter against the sport just proves their ignorance towards the beautiful game.

I’m just thankful I saw the light in the form of an FC Barcelona jersey.

Soccer season progresses, team gains experience for playoffs

1,360

Josh Whitt

Minutes

Junior Tyler Goldsmith dribbles the ball against Springhill. ccraytorphoto

co-editor

A high school soccer game consists of two 40-minute halves separated by a 5-10 minute halftime.

It isn’t easy to compete in a game of soccer.

Playing 17 games in 31 days certainly doesn’t make it any easier. However, the varsity soccer team is hoping that the tough schedule will help them out in the long run.

“The schedule built character as a team. We’ve had to play tough opponents and hopefully we will be able to win the big games in district,” junior Tyler Goldsmith said.

For the past two years the team has competed in only two tournaments in preparation of the season. This year head coach Matt Wright signed them up for a third tournament.

In the Longview and Pinetree tournament the team had a combined record of only 1-6.

The Hawks lost all three Longview games and squeaked

by Atlanta in PKs at Pinetree.

“It was the first time we played really good opponents, it

was a wake up call but we played well compared to their skill level,” Goldsmith said. “We had a lot of injuries at Pinetree. We weren’t able to play to our full ability but we still competed well.”

In the Border City Shootout the Hawks beat Atlanta 3-0, lost to Kaufman 4-0, beat Springhill 6-0 and lost to Whitehouse 2-1.

The Hawks lost to Whitehouse in the final seconds to claim fourth place overall.

“I was disappointed with the outcome. This tournament did help us see what we needed to focus on,” Goldsmith said. “We need to control the ball and pressure the teams from start to finish.”

After playing so many games the players hope that they can be in tip top shape to be a real contender in district.

The boys will start district play against the winless Liberty-Eylau Leopards this Friday.

From there they will play nine more games to hopefully gain a spot into playoffs for the sixth year in a row.

on

radar

the

Boys’ JV Basketball Head coach: Kendrick Smith Top Players: Austin Bland, Demarquise Brewster, and Logan Stahl Season In Review: “We’ve had fun,played hard, we had a couple of sophomores called up to varsity,” Smith said.

Sophomore Logan Stahl

Junior Ashlyn Hurst

Senior Jacob Rochell

Girls’ JV Basketball Head coach: JW Bramlett Record: 5-4 district, 14-8 overall Top Players: “With only playing six girls for a majority of the season, everyone was critiacl to our success,” Bramlett said.

Season in Review: “I was impressed with how hard the team worked during games and how they adjusted to certain situations,” Bramlett said.

Boys’ Varsity Golf

Girls’ Soccer

Head coach: Steve Wren Last Tournament: Feb. 10 at Pinetree Country Club Top Players: Jacob Rochelle, John-Robert Beck, Cole and Matt Fomby, Nick Quinn.

Season Expectations: “We expect to win district, finish in the top three at regionals, and see what happens at the state tournament.”

Wren said.

Sophomore Chelsea

Head coach: Andy Allen Record so far: 3-2 Top Players: “The top players are probably Jordan Hearn, Jordan Day, and Alex Smith,“ Chelsea Cole.

Season Expectations: “At this point, we hope to make a run for district champs, but ultimately want to win a playoff game,” Cole said.

Cole

Upcoming Games: Boys’ JV Basketball 2/12- @ Mt. Pleasant 2/15- Liberty-Eylau 2/19- @ Texas High

Upcoming Tournaments: Boys’ Varsity Golf 2/18- Atlanta Tournament 2/25- Northridge Tournament

Upcoming Games: Girls’ Soccer 2/15- Liberty Eylau 2/19- Texas High 2/22- Mt. Pleasant

page14 sports

The Tournament of Champions In the next few weeks the top soccer teams of Europe will face off in the knockout rounds of the Champions League. The first game will feature Italy’s Juventus F.C. against Ireland’s Celtic F.C. The rounds will span months until the final match on May 25, in London, England. Last year’s champion was Chelsea F.C. who did not make this year’s rounds. Who do you think will win the championship this year?

FC Barcelona- 74% Manchester United- 11% Real Madrid- 8% AC Milan- 7% 50 students surveyed

Q&A with Jonah Parrish

What do you like about the basketball team?

Well, the winning part. And the environment with the team is good. We get along well.

How hard was the schedule this year?

It was really difficult. The competition was a lot harder and the coaching was much better.

What position do you play?

Power forward. I’m supposed to get rebounds and keep people out of the paint.

What are the expectations for the team?

State championship. We have the talent and the drive, we just need to come together.

Ask the Fans

Would you rather watch sports in 110°F heat or 10°F cold?

Becoming a Family

After gaining their first playoff berth in six years, the varsity Lady Hawks focus on the next game, trying to keep it from being their last

Kyle Green

said. “But also I’m excited to teach these girls lessons not only on the court, but about life, so I Groups of three girls stand on each of the feel that’s where get a lot of my passion too.” four boxes and stare. Not at each other. Not at Family is important to Boston. This is no the boxes. But into the passionate eyes of coach mystery. That is why his main focus this year Jason Boston. has been about improving relationships among “Ladies, imagine that you are the structure the teammates. But there’s something else about that keeps a house up,” he says. “There are three family that makes Boston so excited about of you on each box, and you all have to stick coaching at Pleasant Grove. Something that together. If you don’t, then the house will not be truly makes him feel at home. structurally sound. This house will crumble to “I’ve been to places pretty far and pretty close the ground.” to here,” Boston said. “But now that I’m at PG, The girls know exactly what he means. It’s my dad and my sister get to come to all of the about family. And they know that if this season is home games and watch me coach the team. It’s going to better than last season, then their main pretty special and it means a lot to me.” focus will have to be relationships on the court.

Through Boston’s passion the girls have Attaining these relationships aren’t easy acgrown much closer. And although that has cording to junior Hayley Harp. But there has helped a lot, sophomore Aubrey Ashby knows been one thing that has helped her with the that there have been other things that have chemistry on and off that court, coach Boston. contributed to their success.

“When coach Boston came this year, the “We actually work out a ton this year in the team’s relationship wasn’t the best, I mean we’re weight room, and I feel it’s helped us tremengirls, what can you expect,” Harp said. “But the dously,” Ashby said. “After we work out in the passion that he has brought to us and our game weight room, we’ll do some cardio workouts. In has helped so much. The team now has chemis- general we are in much better shape than we try on and off the court.” were last year.”

Boston has lived a life full of basketball thanks A combination of passion for the game, to his parents, but that’s not the only reason why great relationships, and hard work on and off he puts so much emotion into the game. the court have brought the team to where they “As a child, I had a father who was a basketare today. A team with a winning record, and ball coach and a mom who played basketball, so a berth in the playoffs. The first appearance in I’ve had a lot of basketball in my life,” Boston playoffs since 2007. reporter

One More

SHOT

Curtis Zachry

“In past years we just couldn’t get into the playoffs, whether it was relationship problems or just playing as a team, we just couldn’t get it done,” senior Paige Rikel said. “But this year we finally put all the pieces together and now we are the first team in six years to make it to playoffs.

And it’s awesome that we did my senior year.”

The team’s season expectation was to make the playoffs. After a double over time win against Paris they have accomplished just that. But the only way to advance further into the playoffs is by doing one thing. The same thing the team has done all season. Be like Boston.

“Coach Boston has taught us so much this year, and it has definitely shown throughout the season,” Harp said. “We just need to do the three things that he has emphasized all season, be disciplined, play as a family, and show passion and a hun“We just need to do the three things ger to that he has emphasized all season, be win.” disciplined, play as a family, and show The passion and a hunger to win.” -- junior Lady Haley Harp Hawks’ game on Tuesday night against Crandall ended the playoff drought the girls had since 2007.

And although the girls’ look to advance further into the playoffs, they are very content with what they have done this season: achieved their goals, become a family, and exceeded everyone’s expectations.

Junior Corey Menah shoots a lay-up against LibertyEylau. The Hawks beat the Leopards in both meetings this season. ccraytor photo

With their ticket to the playoffs in hand, the varsity Hawks focus on the next game, trying to keep it from being their last.

reporter Win or go home.

That is about to be the way of life for the Hawks basketball team when playoffs start Feb. 19.

“The team has worked so hard this season and it went by pretty fast, probably because we have been so focused on playoffs all season,” senior Ronnie Griffin said.

The team isn’t just a bunch of players on a court–if you ask any of them they are family.

“We really have become like brothers,” Griffin said. “It really helps us during the games because we always know what each other is thinking during the game, and no matter what you know everyone on the team has your back.”

And this family knows what really matters this season–winning.

“Last year we won our first 20 games, and I think that hurt us,”

senior Dustin Thomas said.

“We lost our hunger because we didn’t know how much harder it would be in playoffs. But this season we know much it’s going to take to win and we’ll do everything it takes to get there.”

The team has gone 7-2 in district so far this season and have punched a ticket for playoffs.

“It always helps to have your spot in playoffs secured early so you can relax and just play. But that doesn’t mean we are going to let up,” Thomas said. “We’re going to go out and give everything we have every game.”

With a win Tuesday night against North Lamar the Hawks could be co-champions of the district and will have to coin flip for seeding. However, the season isn’t going to end anytime soon for the time with the playoffs just starting.

“We really are a whole different team this season, not just mentally but physically too,” Griffin said.

“The team is in a lot better shape this season compared to last year.

Also, the team is a lot better offensively, and as long as we execute our game plan we can play with anyone in the state.”

The Hawks have many goals for themselves but the biggest one they have is to protect their house.

“We really wanted to go undefeated in district but when we messed around and lost our first road game the whole team became determined to win every district

home game on our schedule,” Thomas said. “Everyone calls our gym the slaughterhouse because it’s where teams go to get slaughtered. We have amazing fans, a tough atmosphere for the other teams, and play at the top of our game.”

The team knows how important playoffs are but they aren’t looking past any game.

“We are just focusing on every game, trying to win out,” Griffin said. “We want to win district, then we’ll focus on playoffs. We are shooting high because we expect greatness out of ourselves.”

“

110°, I really don’t like being cold. It just puts me in a bad mood.”

- kendalllindsey, senior

on the edge

We support Hawk Nation!

“

You can fix being cold, but not being hot, especially by cuddling with a pretty girl.”

- jorgerodriguez, junior

Amigo Juan Mexican Restaurant 4301 Morris Lane

Unfinished Business

page15 sports

Powerlifting hasn’t been to state as often as baseball, but both sports are setting their goals high for this upcoming season. Baseball just won their second state championship in three years and powerlifting is looking to earn their first team championship in school history. Both baseball and powerlifting have a lot of big shoes to fill, but that won’t prevent them from going for the gold.

g n i s i Ra the Bar

Senior powerlifter looks to improve on last season Curtis Zachry reporter

L

ift weights, wear tight uniforms, and pop blood vessels.

Many people who look from the outside in think this is all powerlifting is but senior Collin Craytor knows that this is far from the case.

“Powerlifting is one of the most physically demanding things I have ever done,” Collin said. “I started lifting sophomore year and it challenges you everyday during the season. It is always hard on your body but you feel a sense of achievement every time you complete a big lift.”

The team is one of the smallest in the area but this isn’t stopping them from being competitive in the early season meets.

“Going into this season I didn’t know what to expect because we only had nine lifters and one senior, but the team has really impressed people so far this season,” Collin said. “The team won the Elysian Fields meet and I have finished first in the two meets we have been to.

My expectations for this season are pretty high because I made regionals last year and making it to state has been my goal ever since last season ended.”

The team has been working hard to make up for lack of experience.

“We work hard everyday, after school, and on the weekends,” Collin said. “I know how hard this team is working and how much that is going to pay off when we get later in the season. What you do now is what determines how you lift later in the season when it matters.”

Even with all the hard work and preparation sometimes the lifters, like sophomore Carson Craytor, have to do some last minute cutting to even get a chance to lift.

“You weigh in a hour before lifting starts, so if you are over your weight class you have a hour to get under,” Carson said. “Last meet my brother was one pound over and I was two, so that meant we had a hour to get rid of that weight. We had to run a mile in layers and layers of clothes, then re-weigh, and then we had to lift. It helped make the meet harder then it already was.”

The team’s hard work has many of the lifters with more than just building muscle.

“It has helped me become a lot more mentally tougher than I was,” Collin said. “I feel like when ever I’m faced with a problem if I apply myself hard enough I can overcome any obstacle.”

The team will look to overcome the other teams at the upcoming Redwater meet on Valentine’s Day.

Senior Collin Craytor gets ready for his lift. lguytonphoto Junior Neco Smith attempts to lift his weight during the squat lift. lguytonphoto Senior Cason Cordray sets up to bat against Hughes Springs. ccraytorphoto The varsity baseball team celebrates their state championship with a parade. ccraytorphoto

Stepping Up to the Plate Young players will have to contribute if the baseball Hawks expect to win another State Championship Kyle Green reporter

Coach Paul Phillips stood in the dugout and smiled. As he stood, his players sprinted to the pitching mound and created a huge dog pile right in the center of it. He had just won state for the fifth time in his coaching career. He liked the sound of that. Five rings for five fingers, a full hand of rings. The assistant coach knew he wouldn’t be coaching much longer, but he also knew that he wouldn’t let this be his last state championship.

Fast forward to the first day of baseball practice. The championship hangover is now gone, and it’s time to get back to work. Things are the way they have always been, the team has graduated some great senior athletes and some great underclassmen are coming up. But no matter what the situation is, expectations are the same. They are always the same.

“I expect to, at the very least, go to state.

But in all reality, the kids, the community, and the coaches expect to win it all, just like every year,” Phillips said. “Although we’ve

lost some great athletes, we have some great athletes coming up. They just have to buy into the program. We have a lot of young kids this season, but they are committed, and that’s all we can ask for.”

One of the kids who has bought into the program is senior Cason Cordray. He’s played on two state championship teams. He’s seen success. He has the PG mind set. But this year he’ll have to do something he hasn’t done before, lead the team.

“This team doesn’t have a whole lot of experience playing together, so it’s kind of been weird getting used to all the new faces,” Cordray said. “But we have slowly but surely become a family and we are ready to go this season. We have great chemistry, and we have more potential than last year. The seniors just have to get these underclassmen used to the PG mind set.”

Although this young team has a lot of heart, Phillips has been clear that heart isn’t the only thing that wins championships. His team has to have the talent too. This is where Phillips’ job comes into play.

“The commitment is all there for these kids, but they have some really big shoes to fill,” Phillips said. “My biggest concern is the youth, there are just so many young kids on this team.

The coaches just have to make sure we groom them into the best players they can be.”

In the end, it’s not about who did what during the season, or what kind of recognition and fame the team gets, it’s about getting that ring. And both Phillips and Cordray are very adamant about getting that next ring.

“We’ve got more depth than last year, we’ve got more potential with all of the talent here, and we’ve got seniors who know what it takes to be successful,” Cordray said. “All I’ve got to do now is give all I’ve got and get that third state ring. I’ve got two for my ring fingers, and now I need one for my pinky, so I can hit em’ with that Doctor Evil pose.”

Phillips’ perspective is a bit different than Cordray’s.

“I’ve got a full hand of rings on one hand and I don’t know how much longer I’ll be coaching,” Phillips said. “So I think it’s time to start on my other hand.”