the Dream Date Freshman boy takes senior girl on date
WarriorPost
Fired up
Arlington’s first round of Fire Academy students become certified firefighters
Martin Idol Recap Dates on a Dime
Enjoy Valentine’s without breaking the bank
Mr. MHS Timeline
Fire Academy students train to earn their certification. This year’s group will be the first to graduate from the program. photo by Bryce Gilbertson/Phoenix Yearbook
Susie Gibson•Editor-in-Chief
C
rawling through blazing hot rooms dripping with thick smoke and searching for bodies is not uncommon for a few select students. In fact, it’s become almost routine. Last year, five Martin students were given the opportunity to begin training to become firefighters through the Arlington Fire Academy. They were the first group of students in Arlington to begin this two-year program, and they will also be the first to graduate from it in June.
“The program essentially spends a year and a half preparing you for the firefighting certification test we just took in December,” senior Brent Bousquet said. “We get to go out and train and do hands-on things, but we also have so sit through hours of classes and do lots of book work.” To do well in the hands-on portion of the training, trainees must be able to handle extensive physical and mental stress well. “You walk up the stairs and you can’t see anything,” Bousquet said. “You open a door and immediately feel the heat surround you. But even with the heat and smoke
Issue No. 3 4 February 2013 Martin High School
all around you, you still have to search for victims. I look at everyone as though they were my sibling, parent, or grandparent, because to someone else, they are.” The rigorous physical exertion is not the only thing the future firefighters train for. “The hardest thing about being a firefighter is the responsibility placed on you by the community,” senior Josh Berkley said. “Something we’ve always been told is, ‘When you put on your uniform, you’re like Superman.’ People look up to you and expect you to be able to solve whatever problem they’re having.” Now that they have taken their certification test, those who passed are able to be hired by fire departments in Texas as soon as they graduate, as long as they also get their EMT certification, which they will take later in the year. “For now, we go on ride-outs on all calls dispatched to the station whether it be fire, medical, traffic, or any other emergency,” Bousquet said. “We help out with small things, but we can’t actually get in the fire or accidents since we haven’t yet been hired by the city of Arlington.” The Fire Academy students have also created lifelong relationships after working in such intense environments with each other. “These guys are like my brothers,” Bousquet said. “We’ve gone through so much together. I trust them with my life.” Sophomores interested in joining can speak to their counselor about signing up. “Being in this program gave me a huge jump start on my career and saved me a lot of money,” senior Blake Cretsinger said. “It’s been an incredible experience, and I’ve learned so many things that I will continue to use for the rest of my life.”
Idol worship
1.
Lit mag staff puts in countless hours of work to make Martin Idol a success
Rachel Hodnett • News Editor
A
new Martin Idol was crowned Jan. 24. As the show captivated the student body’s attention, the staff of The Coup literary magazine was running ragged preparing for the mammoth task of creating a singing competition for more than 400 audience members. Starting with plans at the beginning of the year, The Coup staff worked to prepare the school’s only singing competition in order to raise money for the publication of their literary magazine. “About seven years ago, the staff was looking for a way to raise money in addition to ads,” senior and The Coup Editor-in-Chief Bria Benjamin said. “American Idol was really popular back then, so boom! Martin Idol was born.” The magazine is a compilation of students’ art, photos, stories and poems and it’s published each May. While receiving works for the magazine, staffers are also preparing for auditions, which are open to the entire school. At this audition, contestants sang a cappella in front of a panel of judges. “The judges are looking for a person with a good voice and good stage presence,” Benjamin said. “They have to be comfortable in front of people. The judges also rate them on preparation and showmanship.” The judges this year were English teacher Geneice Mayeaux, band director Brad McCann and sociology teacher Pam Matthews. Teachers who expressed interest in being a judge contacted the magazine’s adviser Erin Adwell, and then the staff chose who the judges would be. “The staffers chose the judges based on their musical background and past experi-
news
3.
2.
ence,” Adwell said. “We had ten teachers express interest this year. Out of those, four judges were chosen, although one was unable to be a judge in the end.” After contestants are chosen to go on to be featured in the Martin Idol show, the contestants and staffers began to attend rehearsals to prepare. At these rehearsals, contestants learned exactly how the show is going to flow. In addition to the staff of The Coup, many other people are needed to allow the show to go on. “We have a theater person in charge of the lights,” Benjamin said. “We are so lucky to have senior Travis Baldwin help us out. The announcers are always the Editor-inChief and Creative Director, senior Susie Gibson. For DJ, we get someone who is good with music and the equipment, and someone we can trust to be professional.” The night of the show, the staff spends the evening decorating, some advertising and memorizing lines in the hours before the show. During the show, itself, all 12 contestants performed their songs, followed by an intermission, during which, the judges decide who went on to perform a second song. After that, the previous winner, senior Dylan Beckerman performed before the finalists are chosen and then preform their second songs. Finally, a winner is chosen. “The best part was hearing everyone scream at the end of a song,” first place winner, sophomore Eliana Wulfsberg said. “I hadn’t won anything related to singing before.” Wulfsberg, as this year’s winner, will sing at next year’s competition. Just as she gets ready for her next performance, the staff of The Coup gets a small break before beginning their own work for next year’s show.
4.
2
1. Seniors Dylan Taylor and Tara Shickedanz, junior Lauren Catron, sophomores Raven LeDeatte and Elianah Wulfsberg wait for the winners of Martin Idol to be announced. Seniors Bria Benjamin and Susie Gibson were the hosts of the contest. Photo by Chandler Harrell
5.
2. Senior Tara Shickedanz won third place in Martin Idol. Photo by Karsen Cinquepalmi 3. First place winner sophomore Elianah Wulfsberg sings at Martin Idol Jan. 24. “I’m usually stressed out up until I go on stage but hearing all of their support was the best part,” Wulfsberg said. Photo by Karsen Cinquepalmi 4. Junior Lauren Catron was the second place winner of the competition. Photo by Chandler Harrell 5. Senior Dylan Taylor sings with the band The Raisins during Martin Idol. Taylor was also a contestant in this year’s competition. Photo by Chandler Harrell
Exempt from exemptions
Students adjust to having to stay on campus during exam days
W
bined classes during these days. Another issue that had to be addressed was the fear that many students would simply not show up to their exempt classes. However, many attendance clerks reported that there was little difference in attendance on exam days. Anyone who skipped was still given Dhall or calls home to parents. Other high schools in the district also faced the same challenges as Martin, but they decided to handle it a little differently. “They should have set up activities in the gym for the exempt students where they would have been able to go during their exempt classes and just chill and have fun,” senior Haleigh Ickes said. Arlington High School students who were exempt had the option to either go to the gym or to the cafeteria where movies were being played and food was provided. “It feels like a punishment since we work hard to be exempt, and now it’s for nothing,” Arlington High School senior Brett Landers said.
Larissa Gonzales • Copy Editor
hether it’s waking up extra early, skipping breakfast or going to school when you’re ill, most upperclassmen make an extra effort to be exempt from their final exams. This fall AISD received clarification on a new Texas Education Agency policy that pertains to all schools in the district. The policy mandates that every student now has to be present for every single class period even if they were exempt from taking the final exam. Being exempt makes taking an exam one less thing to have to worry about and one less obstacle separating you from winter or summer break. Eight exams in two days is the last thing students want to think about, if they can help it. “The district sent us a letter saying that teachers have a set amount of time for attendance and exam days still count,” attendance clerk Nina Fink said. With more students on campus during
the fall exam days, administrators were concerned about excess noise and how well the students taking exams would be able to concentrate. “I think it was just as uncomfortable for teachers as is was for students with the increased class sizes,” assistant principal Scott Johnston said. Some teachers tried to improvise by separating the students who were exempt from the ones who were not so that they could create a quiet environment for the test takers. Anatomy and Physiology teacher Mitzi Thrutchlety and AP Biology teacher Tanya Dowdey combined classes of exempt students and non exempt students since their classes were right next to each other. Movies were shown to kids while students from both classes were taking their exams in a different room. Pre-Cal teacher Libi Kruta and Algebra II teacher Linda Somerhalder also com-
Mr. MHS by the numbers
A look behind the scenes of Martin’s spring fling Each year, almost everyone looks forward to entertainment from the boys of Martin during Mr. MHS, which will be Feb. 28. Between the different outfits and many performances, the overall production is always a fun experience. Everyone is used to seeing the final product, but most don’t know how much goes into the show. What exactly happens leading up to the final production? by Caitlyn Hopkins • Staffer & Sara Mancha • Artist -The giant posters that hang on stage are made up of nine 4x4 individual pieces and takes about two hours to put together each poster.
Public speaking teacher Michelle Fratto estimates she spends more than 50 hours working on Mr. MHS. •••
••• Mr. MHS contestants prepare for the show Feb. 28. Photo by Chandler Harrell
It takes about 19 hours to practice for the opening group dance number. ••• -Al’s Formal Wear donates about
$4,000 in tuxes for formal wear. •••
General admission tickets are
Multimedia teacher LezLee Williams estimates she spends on average, 70 hours working on Mr. MHS.
$10. Reserved Seating Tickets cost $20.
•••
Mr. MHS raises about $7,000 that is used to provide food for the senior breakfast at the end of the year.
•••
-Whatchamacallit Fashion Boutique donates around $400 in dresses for each girl who escorts the boys out on stage. •••
••• Mr. MHS has 22 contestants. 3
news
Students from Lamar High School who were exempt from their exams had to option of participating in a dodgeball tournament. “It was still a little annoying that we had to go to school, but the dodgeball tournament made it a little bit more enjoyable,” Lamar High School senior Casey Westerman said. After hearing the news that two other high schools in the district had on-campus entertainment for their exempt students, some Martin students were upset and asking why we didn’t have something to do here at Martin. “I think it’s already dumb that we had to come to school even if we were exempt because that’s a privilege that we have,” Ickes said. “I think it’s unfair that we had to sit in our classes quietly doing nothing.” For some students the change isn’t a big deal but for many said that adjusting to maintaining an almost perfect attendance record and above average grades with less incentive will be difficult.
correction& clarification In the October Warrior Post story “Spots to save” senior Conner Beene’s quote about painting his parking space was unclear and incomplete. Senior Chris Swan was the actual artist and painter of Beene’s parking spot. Swan designed and painted the spot and his signature is on the artwork. The Warrior Post staff apologizes for the inconvenience.
Faculty serve the community Abby Bishop • News Editor • Photos courtesy of faculty volunteers
Jacobs starts out the New Year volunteering
New Year’s Day comes and Maryann Jacobs, the receptionist at Martin, watches the Rose Parade pass by in front of her.
More than 40 floats pass by, but Jacobs is looking for one in particular. Every year Jacobs and her family pack up and head to California Dec. 27 to volunteer at the Rose Parade and decorate the HGTV float for New Year’s. This is not a simple task, though. She, along with 39 other volunteers, spends 10-hour days working on the float. The HGTV team makes sure everything is perfect for New Year’s Day when it is presented in the parade. Everything is decorated with live items like flowers, trees, bark, seeds and food. This year’s theme for the Rose Parade was “Oh, the Places You’ll Go,” so Jacobs and the HGTV team decorated the float with “All Paths Lead Home” as their individual
English teacher Bennett Mitchell sports a mustache in Lip Dub.
You’ve all heard of “No Shave November,” but English teacher Bennett Mitchell participated in “Movember” and decided to shave his beard but keep a mustache during the month of November in order to raise awareness for prostate cancer and other male cancer. The Movember Foundation charity, which started in Australia, has been organizing events to raise awareness since 2004. Mitchell shaved his beard and started with clean face Nov. 1. By the end of the month, he had a full mustache. “Because young people usually don’t have mustaches, the idea is that people will ask what’s going on with your mustache,”
Mitchell said. “Then, you can tell them about what you are raising awareness for.” Some of Mitchell’s friends had participated in Movember before he ever considered it. After looking it up online, he decided it was something he wanted to do as well. Mitchell hoped that with every 10 or 15 people he told, maybe one would donate to cancer research. During Movember, Mitchell would also talk to his students about prostate cancer and men’s health and shared statistics that often surprised students. Mitchell raised around $40. “I was able to contribute a bit, which was 30 or 40 dollars they didn’t have before,” Mitchell said.
For several years, ASL teacher Erika Trammell has walked with thousands of other people in the Susan G. Komen 3-day walk to end breast cancer. Each year Trammell and her family gear up for the first weekend in November when they walk and camp out for three days. “Most people do the walk in honor of a loved one who has or had breast cancer,” Trammell said. “I walk in memory of my grandmother who passed away from breast cancer.” Those who participate walk 20 miles a day for a total of 60 miles in three days. Most participants camp out each night and
enjoy the various activities that the race provides. Trammell not only walks, but she is also the captain of a crew of 10 people. She hangs up arrows and signs to show all the walkers where to go. After the walk, the team has to take all of the signs down. “My crew ends up walking it twice because we walk in the race and then we have to take all signs down afterward,” Trammell said. Leading up to the walk, each person is required to raise at least $2300 to participate. “We’ve done the walk for several years,” Trammell said. “I guess you could say it’s my family’s charity of choice.”
Receptionist Maryann Jacobs works on Rose Bowl Parade floats in California every New Years.
theme. The float was covered with different types of homes from all over the world like an igloo, birdhouse, dream home and a Mexican casa. This year, Jacobs’ float won the Grand Marshal’s award. “On the day of the parade, we are in the stands and watch all the floats pass by,” Jacobs said. “It’s very exciting when our float shows up, and we all cheer.” Decorating a float at the Rose Parade is something she does with her whole family each year. She got involved with it through the Petal Pushers, an organization that provides over 4,000 volunteers for the parade. This year was Jacobs’ fourth year to volunteer at the Rose parade and plans on going back for many years.
Mitchell shaves (sort of) for Movember
Trammell walks 60 miles to cure breast cancer
Interpreter Theresa Thomas and ASL teacher Erika Trammell walk the Komen 3-Day.
features
4
Take on the SAT
Morganne Clay • Staffer Morgan Mcksymick • Staffer
M
any people say your junior and senior year are what matter most in high school. Not only is it because of the grades you make, it also comes down to taking the SAT, which is required for college admissions. Some juniors and seniors take the SAT without any practice and do perfectly fine, but others struggle with taking the SAT because they aren’t ready. “Make sure you pace yourself well and try really hard to stay focused,” junior Sydney Cerza. “It’s really easy to get distracted.” The test contains three hours and 45 minutes of actual timed sections, which can be very tiring for the brain and very hard to maintain focus. “Study the night before, and make sure you have a calculator and watch with you on the day of the test,” junior Claire Fulkerson advised. “Eat something before you go, because food always helps with focus.” To all of the people out there that haven’t taken the SAT yet, or are stressing over taking it and getting a good score, here are a few tips that might help: 1. Make sure to be prepared and take everything you’re going to need with you, because forgetting something as easy as a calculator could put you at risk of making good scores on the math section. 2. Don’t stress too much, because if you stress yourself out enough and worry too much you won’t be able to focus. All you’ll be thinking about is making a good score, and not the actual test. 3. Eliminate the answers that make the least sense according to the question, and choose which answer flows the best. Sometimes it is better to leave a question blank if you get it wrong but it won’t hurt you if you don’t answer it. Taking the SAT can be tricky and many people struggle with reaching their goal of getting the score they need for the college they want to get into, but if you don’t get it right the first time, just remember you can always take it again, and just relax.
Favoritism
Stop wasting your time. Here are a few classes that won’t make you feel like your brain cells are slowly dying. Oscar Araujo • Online Editor In Chief
Caitlyn Hopkins • Staffer
In addition to being a foundation for Newspaper, Yearbook or Lit Mag staffs, Journalism is still a good, fun elective class. News Tips will help you keep up with what’s going on around the world, activities will teach you that there’s more to writing than what your English teacher taught you, and you’ll learn how to state your opinion without bashing the competition, unlike the 2012 elections. Journalism teaches you how to write as a journalist while teaching you other life skills, such as debating and creative-thinking improvement. “It was a new experience for me,” senior Ashley Sanchez said. “It taught me to always be truthful. It made me a better writer, a more mature writer. I love when my teacher tell us old news stories. I have never been bored in journalism.”
Coached by Jon Ivonen, the swim team has practice in the mornings for varsity, as well as in the afternoons for junior varsity at the Southeast TCC campus. Swimming season starts in the fall and carries out through the winter, but the team practices throughout the entire year. They practice for two hours, four days of the week. “I love the confidence swimming has given me,” junior Miklos Eger said. “Beating old times and pushing yourself every day makes you feel really good about yourself. It can be really hard forcing yourself to get up at 5 a.m. for a 6 o’clock practice, but there are so many benefits.The feeling you get after a race is incredible and the workouts keep you in great shape.”
AVID A.V.I.D. has four levels, one for every year of school. The point of A.V.I.D. is to help you get accepted to a university and to be ready when that time comes. During the four years of A.V.I.D. you’ll have: visits from college representatives, field trips to colleges, and everything you need and want to know about college. This class can help you obtain various scholarships and college opportunities. “It has helped me get into college,” senior Colton George said. “I definitely would not be where I am today without the help and support of A.V.I.D.”
Let go of the Legos, it’s time to use wood to build objects. Woodshop can be taken by sophomores, juniors and seniors. The class is a full year class and counts as one elective credit. You’ll learn all the basics first and by the end of the year you can get a bit creative and make your own creation. “I loved woodshop,” senior Josh Haney said. “It’s the best time I’ve ever had in a class It was really cool to be able to learn how to build so many things. It was was awesome using machinery to make sanding blocks and shelves. I’d recommend it to anyone.”
S.O.A.R. is not a class, but it can be just as rewarding. This program lets you mentor a freshman and help him or her throughout their freshman year. There’s no homework, but there are a lot of responsibilities.You have to make sure your mentee is doing well in school, making the right choices, participating in clubs and their classes, and making sure they’re doing the best they can. The program teaches you how to be responsible and how to be a good, inspiring leader. “It helped me get my grades up,” freshman Mikhail Ryan said. “From what my mentor has told me from his experience, I can make decisions that will help me in high school and in real life situations.”
Learn about emotions, behavior and thoughts. By doing several projects you will learn how to teach your dog to sit, why your mom cried last night when you said no to her, and how you can make someone be scared of a cute, white bunny. You will learn who made up what kind of psychology without drooling all over your desk like the kid in the back of your math class. “The Psychology teachers are great,” sophomore Aly Martin said. “They are really funny and come up with creative ways to make the course more fun. It’s actually really interesting. The class appeals to everyone because it covers so many topics, most of which we can easily relate to.”
The deadline for schedules is Feb. 21 for freshmen, Feb. 11 for sophomores and Feb. 4 for current juniors. 5
features
Remember627
Sophomore Trevor Mansell describes coping with the death of his brother
A
Madeline Maxwell•Staffer
feeling of numbness ran up sophomore Trevor Mansell’s spine when the doctor announced that his big brother, Tyler, had passed away. Words couldn’t describe the feelings Mansell had to cope with. Now, eight months after his loss, Trevor said that realizing his life had to go on was the toughest part.
Best friends
“Tyler always took me to hang out with his friends, even though he was six years older than me,” Mansell said. “Our age difference never mattered to him.” Tyler was much older than Trevor, but that never phased him. Tyler viewed Trevor as his equal and never excluded Trevor. “We rode motocross together, got all the ladies, and I always dressed just like him,” Mansell said. “I looked up to him, and I also saw him as a role model in my life.” Trevor’s favorite thing to do with his brother was to ride motocross. They raced each other and always fought for the first place victory, but at the end of the race no matter the outcome they celebrated. Trevor just loved the company of his brother while they both did the thing that they loved.
‘I guess he lied.’
“I was 11 years old when I found out Tyler was experimenting with different types of drugs,” Mansell said. “We told each other everything and I got really mad
saw how upset it made me, but I guess he lied.” Tyler Mansell was 21 when he passed away at the end of May 2012 after overdosing on prescription drugs. The drugs not only killed Tyler, they also changed Trevor’s life forever. “It affected my life in a way I feel like most people cannot relate to,” Mansell said. “It’s a terrible feeling that never goes away. It sucks not having a friend to hangout with, but he Tyler and Trevor Mansell pose together as chil- was seriously my dren. The two boys grew up together until Tyler best friend. We passed away last May. “I looked up to him, and always found I also saw him as a major role model in my life,” something to do Trevor Mansell said. Photo courtesy of Mansell and I miss that.” Mansell’s feelfamily. ing of sadness at him when he told me about it. He told and emptiness always seemed to linger and me he wouldn’t ever do it again because he many times he’s found that his grief con-
Sunkissed Tans
trolled his feelings and personality. “I mainly just try to get my mind off of it,” Mansell said. “I sometimes try talking to my very close friends about it, but for the most part I just keep it to myself and also with God. I pray that he is just in a better place, and happier where he is now than where he was. I trust in God that I will see him again in just a matter of time.”
Good times
Learning to accept the situation, Mansell put his trust in God which helps gets him through the days. “The saying ‘Remember 627’ has a meaning that not everyone would understand,” Mansell said. “It’s Tyler’s birthday – the six is for the month of June and the 27 is for the day. It was also his professional motocross number which always meant a lot to him. So when he died it really meant a lot to me since we both loved motocross. The saying never fails to remind me of the good times we had together.” It has been eight months since Mansell lost his brother. Though he has tougher days, he gets through it with the help of the Lord and his friends. Mansell said he thinks he has become a stronger person through these hard times and can only hope it soon will be less painful. “I miss my best friend and there is not a single day that goes by where I don’t think about him,” Mansell said.
Prespa’s Italian Restaurant Family Owned & Operated Catering & Take-Out Available
1533 S. Bowen Road
Authentic New York Style Pizza, Pasta & Subs
Pantego 76013
3100 W. Arkansas Ln. Dalworthington Grdens, TX Phone: 817.459.2775
817-548-8231 features
4720 Sublett Rd. Arlington, Tx Phone: 817.561.7540
6
www.prespas.com
Cookin’ up a storm Junior bakes sweets to relieve stress
I
in the kitchen, she is very particular on how things should be. Her ideal situation to bake would be home alone while playing her Nat King Cole record. “Baking is like therapy to me, so I like to do it on my own,” Hagman said. “I can relieve stress and ultimately make others happy.” While she usually decorates free-handed,
Mandi Woods & Hannah-Beth Floyd• Staffers
t’s a Thursday night and junior Claudia Hagman has two tests and a quiz tomorrow. But where do we find her? Baking. Hagman discovered her love of baking during a difficult time. Although her first batch of snickerdoodles wasn’t successful, now every party, event and rainy day is an excuse to pull out Scarlet, her red Kitchen Aid mixer, her batman apron, and her fa-
vorite ingredient (vanilla), to create something delicious. She enjoys baking cupcakes, pies, cookies and as she calls them, her “random creations.” Hagman makes all of her recipes from scratch and sometimes she brings cupcakes to sell at school. “It’s the look on people’s faces when they take their first bite,” Hagman said. “Being able to bring people happiness makes it all worth while.” While
Photos by Britney Henneman
she sometimes uses books to help her. “My favorite part of baking is decor ating,” she said. “I’m such a perfectionist that it sometimes turns my stress reliever into stress.” Hagman said her parents are very supportive of her love for baking. They are the first taste testers, and aren’t afraid to let her know what they think. Hagman takes inspiration from her grandmother, not only in baking, but also in her strong personality and confidence. Alongside baking, Hagman has a love of singing and playing guitar. “My dream is to own my own bakery and tea house,” Hagman said “It will be filled with antiques, art, oversized chairs and couches. And aspiring artist will have a chance at open mic night.”
4601 W. Sublett Rd Arlington, TX 76017 817-478-8000
4004 Little Road Suite #114 Arlington, Tx 76016
7
Student Special $16Full Set $18 Pedicure $10Fill
features
Mon-Sat 10am-7pm
Our kind of During this time of year romance is all around us. As we stop and enjoy that significant other we tend to forget about those few teachers whose valentine is right down the hall from them.
Jamie Gisburne • Sports Editor Brenda Chavez-Mayo • Photographer Jennifer Forsberg • Entertainment Editor
Frattos
History teacher Barney Fratto
Public Speaking teacher Michelle Fratto
How did you propose? “We were supposed to go camping but it rained that weekend so we went to a resort in Conroe, and I made three scrapbooks for her. The scrapbook was our future and I put a ring in it.”
Photography teacher Dan Regalado
How did you know she was the one? “Because her family gave me a lot of money to marry her. No, but seriously, after the first date I just couldn’t see life without her. It just clicked.”
What was your first kiss like? “It was horrible. He was so nervous that when he put his hand to my face, it was shaking so much that it was hard to move my lips.”
Wrestling coach Patrick Dunn
Regalados
What was running through your mind when you first saw her? “’Wow,’ I think you notice someone’s beauty right off the bat, then you discover their kindness.”
Dunns
Science teacher Stan Mullin
English teacher Rhonda Dunn
How did you know she was the one? “She was someone I felt comfortable around. I always tell her always and forever.”
How did you know he was the one? “I just wanted to spend time with him.”
features
8
Journalism teacher Tricia Regalado How did he propose? “We were sitting outside his apartment in August. We were sitting on these plastic chairs and he got down on one knee, at first I thought he fell, but then he asked me.”
Mullins
History teacher Carol Mullin How did you first meet? “We went to the same high school and had study hall together.”
Dates on a budget Sherilyn Morales & Sharee Rodgers • Staffers
If you’re looking to spend... $10
Freshman takes senior on his dream date Erin Hibbs • Features Editor & Emily Zerr • Staffer
U
sually being greeted by two little brothers on a first date is a recipe for disaster. But, that wasn’t the only surprise freshman Jacob Norris had for senior Bryce Gilbertson on their dream date. Dream Date’s purpose is to give a freshman boy the opportunity to take the senior girl of his dreams out. When Jacob Norris was selected for The Warrior Post Dream Date, the first girl he thought of was Gilbertson. “Bryce has done a lot for me,” Norris said. “It’s nice to be able to give back to her a little.” Norris asked Gilbertson out by delivering white roses, Gilbertson’s favorite Juicy Fruit gum, and a poem to her first period class. “He put so much thought into everything, it was so sweet,” Gilbertson said. When Gilbertson arrived at Norris’
house, she was led by three small waiters to the backyard which showcased a gazebo lit with candles. Norris had set up a table for two, complete with roses and an extravagant table scape. “No one’s ever done anything like this for me, it’s so cute,” Gilbertson said. “It’s the best date I’ve ever been on.” Norris’ two younger brothers and a friend of theirs eagerly agreed to be their waiters for the evening. When the two sat down, the three boys began their duty with enthusiasm. The meal started with bruchetta and salad. “I kept saying ‘bruchetta, bruchetta, bruchetta’ so I wouldn’t forget what it was,” nine-year-old Clayton said. The appetizer was followed by fresh pasta from Prespa’s, sparkling grape juice, and mini bundt cakes for dessert. The three boys ran back and forth from the gazebo to
the kitchen with pitchers of water, checking on them constantly. As the date continued, there was never a dull moment. The two laughed over stories and mutual interests, finding they had more in common then expected. “He kept the conversations going and we talked a lot about California, which we both love,” Gilbertson said. The two agreed that this was the best date both had ever been on. “I’m so glad I chose Bryce,” Norris said. “It was definitely worth all the work and effort.” The night came to an end as Norris’ youngest brother provided a late night show in his astronaut and ninja costumes. “I really want to be a part of his family now,” Gilbertson said. “Since we are bound to get married, I’m sure there will be many more dates.”
9
features
For most people, $10 is just enough to see a movie or grab a quick snack, but spending the day outside could be a more exciting alternative. “My date and I could go get ice cream, and then go play volleyball or go kayaking,” senior George Tichenor said.
$20
A twenty dollar bill could rent you bowling shoes or ice skates for the night, among other activities. “Joe Pool Lake has activities throughout the year,” freshman Ty Maidens said. “I went on a hayride there last October, and you can always find special events going on or rent paddle boats for about 20 bucks.”
$30
Thirty dollars is typically the price tag for a decent restaurant date, but a more creative idea can be better worth your and your date’s time and money. “Dyno Rock is a great place to go rock climbing,” sophomore Natalie Canales said. “It’s more adventurous than most dates.”
Better safe than sorry
The Warrior Post
Martin High School • Arlington, Texas
Susie Gibson Editor-in-Chief
We all need to take responsibility for our safety
Oscar Araujo Online Editor-in-Chief Larissa Gonzales Copy Editor Abby Bishop • Rachel Hodnett News Editors Kimberly Clower • Jamie Gisburne Sports Editors Karsen Cinquepalmi • Chandler Harrell Photo Editors
Jennifer Forsberg Entertainment Editor Ariel Hernandez Opinions Editor Erin Hibbs • Kayln LeFan Features Editors Emma Bruce • Ashleigh Jones Designers Sara Mancha Staff Artist Tricia Regalado • Marlene Roddy Adviser • Principal
Staffeditorial
Be yourself, not the fools you see on TV
Staffers:
Natalie Buongiorno, Meghan Cabra, Rosa Castaneda, Morganne Clay, Madeline Cope, Michaelann Durden, Katy Fitzgerald, Hannah-Beth Floyd, Tyler Forde, Rachel Hanson, Britney Henneman, Caitlyn Hopkins, Lauren House, Lizzie Kirkham, Madeline Maxwell, Brenda Mayo, Morgan McKsymick, Sarah Meo, Sherilyn Morales, Maggie O’Brian, Jarred Osterman, Justin Reichardt, Dale Rives, Sharee Rodgers, Bri Roney, Kaitlyn Rosenbaum, Thomas Rowe, Madeline Rusin, Amanda Woods, Emily Zerr The Warrior Post is the official monthly publication of Martin High School. Opinion columns don’t represent the opinion of The Warrior Post or of Martin High School. The Warrior Post will not accept advertisements for products or services not legally available to students.
We are not guaranteed the safety of being able to walk the hallways without the possibility of a gun being hidden under someone’s coat, let alone the chance of it being pulled out and opening fire. School shootings are almost becoming commonplace. And we are becoming more keen about detecting and reporting signs of shady behavior. The AISD board has considered a suggestion that teachers should be given the opportunity to be armed at all times. This, of course, is a bad idea. Anyone with a gun can automatically be considered dangerous, whether it’s a student or a teacher. As a student, we aren’t able to feel safe knowing that a teacher, who we may not know too well, has the right to bear arms. Another solution the board has suggested is for teachers to lock their doors as soon as class has started. We can agree with this idea, even though we know it will become a hassle in no time. Possibly schools should install doors that are locked from the outside only. One other way to ensure safety is having visitors buzzed in by the office before stepping foot within the school. Automatic entry is the problem,
Rachel Hanson • Staffer Jersey Shore. Teen Mom. The Hills. 16 and Pregnant. All of these familiar names of TV shows that change and mold our minds into what money-hungry producers please. Shows like this change opinions and make you think differently, but not in a good way. Put your foot down and be a leader, not a follower. On TV I only see what I shouldn’t do. Though others see it differently, teens are always trying to copy what they see. These shows encourage teens to drink underage, to be careless, and to try dangerous
opinions
things. The cast members make everything look so cool and easy that you can’t help but want to try and be like them. Producers know their target audience and how impressionable they are, yet they continue to make teen pregnancy and drinking look fun and cool. Reading books and hanging out outside are now pushed aside to watch mindless TV shows that do nothing, but show you all the things you shouldn’t do, but will do anyways. Young and impressionable kids will end up doing something outrageously stupid because some people might view it as “cool.” Though most shows recommend not to do it, they continue to push the trends and acts onto us expecting reactions, and we’re giving it to them. Be yourself and don’t give Snookie, pregnant teens on TV, or producers the satisfaction of dictating who they want you be.
10
and it’s easily prevented. Think about it. Absolutely anyone can walk in through our front doors at any moment. The possibility of students not being able to enter without a teacher or security guard’s pass has also come under consideration. IDs in general could prevent school shootings. It seems easy to identify a 20-year-old in an elementary school, but it would be difficult in a high school. However, if we actually wore our IDs, then if someone didn’t have their ID on, they would be noticed quickly. And the problem of being outrageously out of dress code is a problem as well. Imagine how many things can be hidden under a baggy coat or pants? One thing we know is that entrance and exits are going to have to be modified. Both are just much too easy for a stranger to walk in. And the stranger doesn’t have to be extremely dangerous – it could just be students from a different school. Bottom line is that we need to be on the watch for sketchy behavior. And if you feel slightly uncomfortable with something someone is saying or doing, tell a teacher or a counselor. It is so much better to have an honest hunch and tell someone, than something actually happening.
We’re so much
cooler
online
Check daily for updates, videos and extra photos and stories. Leave comments. Take a survey. Watch a lip dub. Whatever.
[thewarriorpost.com]
We love have to read
Stop killing our love of reading – let us choose our books
Trey Wise • Staffer Imagination is the drive that fuels this world. It is the cause and finish of war, the ideal that a new world can prosper from a corrupt past. It gives people the will to move on and the determination to succeed and the ability to learn from mistakes and create devices for the evolution of man. It is what separates us from the animals and makes us man instead of beast. But we neglect the muscle that creates that imagination. Some even push it away by denying the books of our time a chance to enlighten their mind. With every generation the number of readers decreases and schools are to blame. At a young age, kids love books and stories,
but as they grow older reading becomes more of a task rather then a pastime. Elementary Schools make reading a task by developing reading levels and testing students over every book read, ultimately forcing kids to pick from a selection of books provided and chosen by the school board and then grading their comprehension of the book. The extra stress and pressure overwhelms kids and causes every book read to stress the child. This makes kids read for a grade instead of loving the book. When people read for a grade, they lack the ability to be consumed by the story. Instead of understanding and becoming the main character, they are bystanders watching the action. The intense moments seem like boring pages and the relationships are just the mushy scenes. The bad outlook on reading sends kids into further grade levels with a crutch making school more difficult and more stressful when they are given a reading or writing assignment. But high school gives students a different kind of pressure. With college right around
x! eup! o t o B mak val! l remo a r e Min er hair Las The Courts of Bedford Apartment Homes 1501 Tennis Dr. Bedford, Tx 76022 Call Cody Osterman for more information 817-268-1357
the corner, every grade counts towards the future, not only excelling in grade levels but for their life as well. A student with low grades is less likely to be accepted into the college of their choice, but even if they do get accepted they might not qualify for the scholarships needed to pay for schooling. At this age, students don’t want to read and don’t have time for it. With work, school and sports, reading isn’t even a thought in their mind when it should an active part of their life. Reading actually makes people smarter by improving their analytical thinking abilities and vocabulary. With improved analytical thinking abilities people would have a better memory, be able to locate patterns faster, and complete puzzles with ease. Reading is also the best way to improve your vocabulary. By looking at the word used it forces you to focus on and learn a word you might not have seen or heard before. Then by using context clues you can get a decent ideal of how the word is used and the meaning of the word. With better analytical thinking abilities and vocabulary you will sound smarter
and look smarter. Thus making you a more intelli-
gent person. Reading is the one thing that separates man from the rest of the world. It is what strengthens the mind and preserves imagination. Because no-matter what happens to this world people will always have their stories, legends, and myths. If it can not be written it will be sung, If it can not be sung it will be voiced. Words are an unstoppable force that can control the flow of society. So we should utilize the books we have and let our kids read freely so as they grow older reading is not a task. It’s an adventure.
711 East Lamar Blvd. Suite 200 Arlington, Tx 76011 817-795-7546
Margo Dean School of Dance - Ballet starting at age 3 - Adult ballet and flamenco - Jazz for ballet dancers
817-738-7915
balletinfo@att.net
Running to the breaking point Senior Cameron Villarreal breaks school records, runs his way to all-region Tyler Forde • Staffer Coated head to toe in mud, sprinting the final meters of the race, senior Cameron Villarreal crosses the finish line of Nike Nationals. Over his four years in high school, Villarreal has sculpted himself into the greatest runner in the history of Martin High School. “I started running my freshman year, but did not realize how good I was until I had a breakout season sophomore year,” Villarreal said. Successfully breaking three school records in the 1600, 3200 and 5k, Villarreal hopes to demolish his old records this track season. “I’m working to break 4:10 for my mile run and 9:15 for the two-mile,” Villarreal said. With his goals being set, he now needs
to make them a reality. With intense training as part of a running team in Dallas, The Metroplex Striders, Villarreal runs between 70 and 80 miles a week. “His drive and determination to accomplish the lofty goals he has set for himself is amazing,“ Cameron’s father, assistant principal Juan Villarreal said. “He is running every day whether it’s snowing or 110 degrees outside.” Leading the Martin Warriors to a district championship this season, Villarreal has also been to some prestigious races this season, including Nike South Regionals, one of his best races. Placing fifth out of runners from five states, Villarreal secured a spot on the first team All-Region. “Seeing Cameron on the stage being awarded by a former Olympian, Leo Manzano, was a memory I will never forget,“ Juan Villarreal said.
After the regional race, Villarreal made his way to Nike Nationals in Portland, Oregon. Placing 81st in the nation, Villarreal has become not only the best runner in the school’s history but also in the district’s history. “Making it to Nike Nationals was by far my greatest accomplishment,” Villarreal said. “Just being there was a feat.” Between his athletic ability and his exemplary grades, Villarreal has recruiters competing to get him on their team. As of now, Villarreal has verbally committed to Texas A&M University and plans to study engineering. “I chose Texas A&M for its network and its recruiting class,” Villarreal said. “There is a lot of talent coming in there this year and I see a good future for the running program.” - Photo by Tyler Forde
First meet - Feb. 22 • James Martin Invitational - March 1 • District meet - April 10 •
sports
12
Down
to business
Football gets in shape during off-season Karsen Cinquepalmi • Photo Editor Kimberly Clower • Sports Editor Imagine constantly working 24/7 for an intense season with no break. Off-season is five months of insane lifting/running every third period. “We do fast paced lifts called circuits with light weight and a fast moving environment,” junior Sam Brinegar said. “And then we go to the track for 200 yard dashes and 500 yard sprints. Sometimes we will grind with heavy weight and low reps while running a lap every two stations.” Off-season develops the players body to physically punish the opponent. “It empowers our overall teams strength and speed which is very crucial to the success of a football team,” Brinegar said. “We want to be the best that we can be by putting our body through hell, as it helps add victories to our season. ” Ultimately it’s supposed to strengthen the players for the next season. Players in the program do off-season to show their dedication to getting stronger and faster. “No matter how bad it hurts, you’re doing it for your teammates, coaches and the future,” Brinegar said. “In the end, you’ll be glad you did it.” The coaching staff is a huge motivation for the players to accomplish their goals by working out with them.
“Our favorite part is watching kids get better, learn how to get physically stronger and get mentally tougher,” head coach Bob Wager said.” Not only is it about working out to benefit physically, but training is also about a proper diet. If you’re trying to gain weight, you need to eat lots of proteins and carbs just to gain at least one pound by the end of the week. “We follow a diet made by our trainer, Coach Lemoine. It tells us what to eat at different times of the day,” Brinegar said. For the football coaches, it’s all about making their players get the conditioning they need and maturing in an athletic way in preparation for next season. “We want to make sure we’re entering spring football in the best condition, and to be the best team in America,” Wager said. The intense workouts in off-season all pays off in the end when they’re dominating their opponents. “We put a lot of time into off season, third and seventh periods for five days a week plus our after-school lift,” Brinegar said. “All in all, we put a good amount into off season. If we put 100 percent into it, we will get it back in return. Whatever we have to do to make the team better.”
Top: During offseason training, the boys go from station to station. Coach Clifton Odom helps the boys keep their side plank to perfection. Left: Sophomore Garret Bales practices everyday in offseason. The team lifts weights before they go out on the track for a run. Photos by Karsen Cinquepalmi
Whispering Oaks Apartments 1598 Weyland Dr. North Richland Hills 76180 817-498-9944
For more information contact Elias Balderaz.
13
sports
May I 80s and 90s love stories admire you again today?
80s movies
Kaylyn LeFan•Features Editor & Maggie O’Brian•Staffer
“Just once I want my life to be like an 80’s movie.” If you find yourself conflicted on what movie to watch on Valentine’s day, whether it is with someone special or your mom, we have created a list of our top ten 80’s and 90’s love stories.
Dirty Dancing
• “The Summer Romance” In this movie about a summer romance, Frances Houseman, also known as “Baby,” falls in love with the camp’s dance instructor, Johnny Cassel. The only problem is that Baby has grown up on the higher end of the spectrum while Johnny has had to work his entire life. Baby is not supposed to have any association with Johnny whatsoever due to the fact that he is an employee while she is a guest at the camp. When Johnny’s dance partner falls ill, Baby fills in as his dance partner and they fall madly in love as he teaches her the dance routine.
16 Candles
Pretty in Pink
• “The Childhood Sweetheart” In this high school romance movie, Andie is the not-so-popular girl. She normally hangs out with her two ‘mains,’ Iona and Ducky. Ducky has had a secret crush on Andie since their childhood. Andie doesn’t realize Ducky has feelings for her, and she begins to fall for the new popular rich guy, Blane. Andie is completely oblivious of the feelings Ducky has for her, that she vents to him about Blane.
• “The Stereotype” The typical “nerd girl” in high school, the wanna-be popular, Samantha Baker likes the most popular guy in school. He is every girl’s eye-candy. Jake Ryan. In a twist in fate with her sister’s wedding, her family forgetting her sixteenth birthday, the crazy exchange student Long Duc Dong, Samantha gets swooped off her feet by Jake Ryan outside the wedding.
The Wedding Singer
Titanic
• “Ultimate Romance” Get your tissues ready, ladies. Titanic is the ultimate romance movie. If you are looking for a tear-jerker, this movie is yours. The Titanic is a boat with many passengers on board journeying across the ocean. Rose, a rich women woman who is unhappily engaged, is about to commit suicide, but is saved by the poor, cute artist, Jack. Jack and Rose have a instant connection and soon fall in love. When the ship hits a huge • iceberg, the two must find each other so they can run away from Rose’s terrible fiance, Cal. “The Taming of the Shrew” They begin their fight to stay alive on the sinkThis movie stars two sisters, Kat, the hard rocker ing ship. who is misunderstood, and Bianca, the popular, goddess of the school. Bianca and Kat live under their dad’s strict rules. Bianca is not allowed to date unless Kat dates, too. At school, Cameron catches a glimpse of Bianca in the hallway and soon realizes that he must date her. But when he finds out the dating rule their dad has placed upon them, he sets Kat up with Patrick. Cameron wants Patrick to “tame the shrew” (Kat) so he can date Bianca. Kat and Bianca don’t get along, but they begin to understand each other more and become closer.
10 Things I Hate About You
entertainment
14
My Best Friend’s Wedding
“The Envy” “Hello, there is a little green monster crawling up your back.” In this movie Julianne and Michael are best friends and promised each other if they weren’t married by the age of 30, they would marry each other. When Michael and Julianne are 30 Michael becomes engaged to a woman named Kimberly. Julianne becomes very jealous when she realizes she loves Michael and comes up with multiple mischievous plans to break them up so she can have him for herself.
90s movies
• “The Determined Fate” In this comical love story, Robbie and Julia find themselves both engaged to people who they shouldn’t be engaged with. After a few meetings, they begin to fall in love with each other, and it’s Robbie’s job to win Julia’s heart and steal her away from her fiance. In an attempt to win her over, Robbie followed Julia on a plane to Vegas, where she had planned on getting married, and he sings her a special song. •
Fall into
the Void
L
Natalie Buongiorno • Staffer
ights flashing and the audience watching, The Void gathers together on the stage. With a deep breath and a few clicking of the drumsticks, the guitars ring out and the crowd lets out a wave of applause. “The band started with a phone call that I made to Mclane,” junior Chris Huber said. “I just had a guitar lesson and I really wanted to start a band. I knew Mclane was in choir so we came up with an idea for a band.” With Mclane Ballenger as singer, Wade Girton and Huber on guitar, Hayden Hale on bass, and Christian Kenworthy on drums, a lot of different musical influences are brought into the band. “The Strokes would probably be our number one inspiration,” Huber said. “Nick Valensi, the lead guitar player for The Strokes, is my personal role model. Others include Modest Mouse, The Doors, The White Stripes and The Killers.” “A lot of music inspires me, mostly metal or jazz,” Girton said. It would be difficult not to be nervous standing in front of a huge audience, but the adrenaline kicks in and the band members have a great time on stage. “At times it feels really rushed and hectic before the show and I think everyone is usually a tiny bit nervous, but once we get up and start playing I think we all begin to feel really comfortable and we have fun with it,” Huber said. “When I’m playing the music that we wrote in front of an audience, that’s what makes it all worth it. After playing a good show, we will talk to the people who came to see us or some of the other bands, then go out to eat.” The Void was formed two years ago when they were freshmen. Over the past couple of years, they have grown and become more developed in their musical style and experience. “Since we started the band, we have gotten a new guitar player and doubled our list of original songs, a good portion of which is psychedelic influenced by groups such
as the Brian Jonestown Massacre and the Blue Angel Lounge,” Huber said. “Over the winter break, Mclane got his synthesizer which will hopefully bring a hint of electronic musical influence to our genre.” “We have become a lot tighter knit as a band and more able to play together,” Huber said. Junior Gabriel Kenworthy, Christian Kenworthy’s brother, now works with the band as their manager. He makes flyers, stickers and has even programmed a Void app for Android phones. Top: The Void plays at the Unleashed Poetry club meeting Oct. 31. “We now have Gabe Bottom: Void members Chris Huber, McLane Ballenger, Hayden Hale, Wade Girton and Christian supporting us by pro- Kenworthy Photos by Brenda Chavez-Mayo moting and organizing For them, The Void is a way to have fun said. events,” Huber said. and have a musical outlet. They are able to Although they are perfecting their music Among some of the major shows that be around friends and develop their own they have played is the Battle of the Bands and working together well as a band, they musical styles. in Dallas at The Door. Here, The Void still have embarrassing moments and ac“My favorite part about being in a band competed against bands from all over Texas cidents. would have to be creating music with my “One time I accidentally let go of my to win first place. best friends and being a part of something “The Battle of the Bands was great,” Hu- drumstick and hit somebody during a bigger than myself,” Huber said. “I also reber said. “All of the other bands there were show,” Kenworthy said. ally like being able to share the ideas that I “The most embarrassing thing that has college bands, and there was that moment have in my head and see those ideas come of uneasiness when we met the other bands happened during a show so far is that I bato life as a full song with the other guys.” before any of us had performed. I remem- sically dropped my guitar into Christian’s The Void hopes to carry on their passion ber thinking, ‘We are obviously the young- drum set after my guitar strap broke,” Hufor music after high school, even if things est band here.’ We were all certain that we ber said. change. Each band member has a different style wouldn’t move onto the next Battle of the “We all kind of know that The Void will Bands because of our lack of experience, of music, and they use this to their creative be no more after high school; that’s the bitbut a few weeks later we got an email from advantage when writing new songs. ter truth,” Huber said. “My hope is that at “Either Wade or I will come up with The Door telling us that we had advanced least two of the other band members will something on guitar and present it to the to the final round of Battle of the Bands.” end up going to the same college and play The Void doesn’t only perform at ven- other guys, and they’ll feed off of that to the same songs with different musicians, ues in Dallas, they have also performed for make a song,” Huber said. but even if that does happen, it will prob“Chris usually comes up with a skeleton Martin and at houses around Arlington. ably end up being a new band. I personally “We have performed at Martin twice for and from there we add all of our ideas until hope to remain in a band in college.” the Unleashed Poetry Club,” Kenworthy the song is finished,” Kenworthy said.
15
entertainment
Out of the box Students give the ins and outs of writing plays and having them performed Emma Bruce • Designer
waited for about two weeks until they had finished reading all of the submissions and announced the plays that were picked.” Although it feels as though the action began from scratch for the original play writers, the real action begins once the plays are actually chosen. “Being in a peer-written play is, in my
“The author is sitting in the audience watching and judging your every move,” junior Jake Oderberg said. “And nothing is worse than not living up to his or her expectations.” Oderberg recently acted in Black Box, a series of three short plays written or adapted by students, directed by students and starring students. One of the plays in this year’s series was adapted, but the other two were original. Junior Victoria Esquibell wrote one of the originals, “First Sight.” Senior Cooper Thomson was the author of the other production, “Two Guys, a Chick, and a Stiff.” “The original idea came from a joke I made In the performance of WASP, juniors Will Craig and Tripp to my friend Wright’s characters ponder what they will do with the dead about how crazy body they happened upon. The Black Box plays were student it would be to written and produced. Photo by Melody Asgari die by poisoning your own food in some random restaurant opinion, more challenging than being in a and creating a lot of suspicion,” Thomson play written and performed before,” said said. “My play went through several incar- junior Will Craig, an actor in Thomson’s nations before becoming what it was, so I play. “There is a greater responsibility on wasn’t sure how it could or would turn out.” the actors to make the decisions that will But it isn’t just as easy as getting an idea pave the way for everyone else to follow.” As suggested by the name of the series, and writing a play. The plays performed in the Black Box series are carefully selected. Black Box is performed in the Black Box “After I wrote the rough draft I had my Theater, a small room with black walls, a dad help me edit and edit and edit,” Es- black floor and a black ceiling. Despite the quibell said. “Then I submitted the scripts lack of space and privacy, set changes and to the reading committee which is com- use of props have to run just as smoothly as prised of the directors and theater students it would in a regular theater. “I had a pretty clear vision of my play that the directors choose. After that I just
entertainment
16
because I know the Black Box space so well and understand its limitations and advantages,” Esquibell said. “In writing the plays, you have to be very careful to not put too many props, people or scene changes.” Despite the limitations they have in regards to performance space, the authors of the plays still want to portray an image through their plays. “I really admire Quentin Tarantino and Martin McDonagh’s brazen and upfront crazy writing style,” Thomson said. “So that was kind of the show I was trying to make.” The Black Box series is not only a way for the authors to write and see the final product of their work, but it is also a new experience for the actors. “Looking back I would say the experience was different. A good different, but definitely different,” Oderberg said. “It was unlike any other show I had ever done and was a very memorable experience.”
Junior Victoria Esquibell in her performance of WASP Photo by Lara Kunkel