The Crimson Connection December 2018

THE CRIMSON CONNECTION volume 6 issue 2 December 2018

THE GREATEST SHOWGIRL ERIN CEARLOCK’S JOURNEY THROUGH THE STARS

ROARING WILDCATS

BEHIND THE CY WOODS OFFENSE

STILL FIGHTING

CHRONIC PAIN MAKES COLOR GUARD DIFFICULT FOR MEMBER ANDREA DYE

Photo provided by: CFISD

OF

TABLE CONTENTS 4 CASTING A VOTE The 2018 Voting Field Trip

5 THESPIANS / STUDY BREWTIFULLY LIVING WITH A DISABILITY 19 Brothers struggle with Tourette’s 6 WOODS TO THE WEST AVP goes to SXSW A FOREIGN WORLD 20 Traveling with Matthew Mori and Mckenna Lee 7 MUMS FOR LIFE Students donate mums to Life Skills and Carlton Center students

8 WORKING WILDCATS

CALLING ALL PRESIDENTS 21

Wildcat leaders coming together for a change

Working students juggle their academic and social life

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NOT YOUR AVERAGE SPORTZ TEAM All about our funniest wildcats

10 POETRY

OUT LOUD

Wildcats compete with performance poetry

11 CONTRIBUTING TO THE CURE

Students raise money to fight cancer

12 THE LIFE OF BRAEDON MADDOX 13 PAPER 14

NAPKIN

With Luke Abad

THE GREATEST SHOWGIRL Erin Cearlock’s journey through the stars

16 RUN

TO SUCCESS

How Craig Nowak dominated collegiate cross country

17 STILL

FIGHTING

Chronic pain makes color guard difficult for member Andrea Dye

18 CLARE

REILLY GOES CREW

Five time National Volleyball Champion takes on Collegiate Rowing

THE HOOPSTER 22

Catie Orwin: The only senior on the basketball team

HERE’S THE HOOK / HOW IS IT DONE? 23 BEFORE THEY WERE TEACHERS 24

Teachers who played sports professionally

FACTORS OF FOOTBALL 25 ROARING WILDCATS 26 Behind the Cy Woods offense

PARKS AND REC VS THE OFFICE 27 THEY’RE BACK / WILDCAT RUNWAY 28

HOT OR NOT?

29

How good is Zero Degrees?

THANK YOU NOTES 31 RANT IN 212 WORDS

Brandon Cheung

Erin Ellis

Kae Trusty

Victoria Cavazos

Copy Editor

Caroline Stiff

Managing Editor

Sarah Wheeler Co-Online Editor

The Crimson Connection is published five times a year and is distributed free by the Cy Woods Journalism Department. The mission of the Crimson Connection newsmagazine is to entertain and inform the Cy Woods student body on topics ranging from a local to global scale.

We aim to be an unbiased singular voice for our school and community. The editorial board consists of three print editors. The board determines stances on editorials, as well as the content of the newsmagazine. Letters, comments and concerns are welcome and encouraged, and should be sent to room 1866 at the school address.

To be printed in the paper, the letter must be signed and legible. The editor reserves the right to edit letters. The opinion of the staff does not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty of this school or this district.

Editor in Chief

FEEDBACK

Co-Online Editor

Editors

Business Manager

Instagram @CWJournalism Twitter @CWHSpress

STAFF Instagram Editor

CONNECT follow us on:

Daphne Tett

Reporters

Make your voice heard. The Crimson Connection staff wants to know your questions, concerns or comments. If you would like to contribute to the next issue of The Crimson Connection, please contact us at:

cwhsjournalism@gmail.com Cypress Woods High School 13550 Woods Spillane Blvd.

Cypress, TX 77429

Aaron Blevins

Jerah Bevill

Madison Friedhoff

Cooper Griffin

Samantha Olson

Kaitlyn Orman

Justin Paez

Ella Pulido

Paige Romig

Sara Zaki

Stand-Out Staffers Madison Friedhoff AD-SELLER OF THE ISSUE

Aaron Blevins MVP OF THE ISSUE

Sara Zaki DESIGNER OF THE ISSUE

Cooper Griffin REPORTER OF THE ISSUE

CASTING A VOTE The 2018 Voting Field Trip

BY CO-ONLINE EDITOR CAROLINE STIFF Many people would consider voting to be a fundamental part of being an American citizen. On Wednesday, Oct. 31, eligible seniors had the opportunity to exercise their right to vote by taking a field trip to Juergen’s Hall during their government or economics classes.

With the help of government teachers Leah Stephanow and Michael White, a total of 42 seniors were able to cast their votes for the first time.

This is not the only time a field trip like this has been organized. Back in 2016, students took time out of their school day to vote during the general election.

“This [was] our second voting field trip. We did one for the general election in 2016. That one went really well,” Stephanow said. “We took about 50 kids throughout the day, and they were very excited to go their first time.

They talked about how fun it was, they got really excited when we drove up to the early voting location, and there were lots of people in line. They got all excited to see people coming out to vote.”

While it was not mandatory for students to participate in this field trip, they were urged to vote if at all possible. “[The field trip was] totally optional,” Stephanow said. “Some students [had] said that they [were] not going to go because their parents want to take them for their first time, which is totally understandable. Then there are some students who would [have loved] to go, but they [were] not going to be old enough.”

For those of age, this was a special and important field trip to attend. “[This field trip was important] because a lot of young people do not go vote, and I think if we provide an opportunity for them to go, they will go,” Stephanow said. “I think young people are nervous about going their very first time because they really Senior Alyssa Barrea holding the I Voted sticker.

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don’t know what to expect, so if we can explain to them what’s going to happen when they get there and show them a video of how the voting machine works, it won’t be so scary.”

While some students may have been participating simply because the opportunity was provided for them,

some seniors had unique reasons for choosing to go with their class.

“In my class, I have two really close childhood friends in there, so I thought it would be a really cool experience to [vote] for the first time with people [whom] I grew up with from elementary school,” senior Catie Orwin said. “On top of that, it [forced] me to go out and vote.”

Despite the fact that partaking in something new can cause negative emotions, students seemed ready to finally be able to vote.

“I [was] actually super excited about going,” Orwin said. “I was talking about it with my mom last night, and I was like, ‘We’re voters, we’re adults, [and] we’re part of the American society now.’”

Although the students seemed ready and were given information about voting beforehand, that did not necessarily mean that they knew exactly what to expect going in.

“I [was] curious to see how the whole thing goes because I feel like they talk about it a lot, but then I [didn’t] have a good picture in my mind of what’s actually going to happen,” Orwin said.

“I [was] excited to see how it [was] all laid out. It always [seemed] so top secret to me.”

After returning to the bus, students were given a few questions to fill out about their experiences. “[I learned] what it is like to perform a [civic] duty,” senior Alyssa Barrera said on her paper. “[I would tell someone who is not old enough to vote] to do your research on who you would want to elect, and [I would tell a non-voter] that you should understand why we need to vote.”

While the students went inside Juergen’s Hall to vote, the teachers stayed back to let their seniors get the authentic, adult experience of voting on their own. “[One of my favorite memories from 2016 and what I was looking forward to this year was] how excited the kids were [and] just watching their faces as they were coming out of the polling place because I stay outside with the bus,” Stephanow said. “I show them where to go stand to get in line, and on the way there, I explain to them, ‘You’re going to go in and sign in. You’ll need to put your phone away, and you need to have your photo ID out.’ I don’t go in with them, so [I] just watch them come out. They were just all excited and talking about it with their friends, and [I enjoyed] seeing the big smiles on their faces.”

Voting is a crucial aspect in any democracy, and because of that, learning how to properly vote is important. This field trip was unique in the fact that the seniors did not only affect themselves by voting, but also affected other citizens by contributing to the balance of power within the United States.

Photo by: Caroline Stiff

News

PREPARING FOR THE

BY INSTAGRAM EDITOR VICTORIA CAVAZOS

TEXAS THESPIANS FESTIVAL

Competition season is rapidly approaching the Cypress Woods Theatre Company (CWTC), and the troupe is dedicating all of their time and effort into the three day event. Each year, the Texas Thespians State Festival is held in Grapevine, Texas at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center. The festival boasts hosting over 7,000 delegates as well as being one of the largest state theatre festivals in existence.

In the weeks leading up to the event, the CWTC troupe devotes hours of class time and after-school rehearsals in preparation.

Students tirelessly work to perfect their choreography, songs and scenes before boarding buses and journeying to the small Texas city.

Last year, the company performed “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” at the festival after a successful run on campus. However, this year students will be competing in different categories of performance: duet acting, dance, group acting, group musical, duet musical, costume design and more.

“Competition is a chance to express ourselves and to show the school what we are capable of. It shows how far we can go in competition,” company vice president Marcus Gray said. “It feels nice being able to show other schools what you have as well as being able to bond with them because we’re all doing the same thing.”

For the first time, freshmen are allowed to have a chance to compete in and experience competition. Students now have the ability to learn the skills and abilities necessary in order to participate in the competition as well as exposure for the future.

“I’m personally close to many of the freshmen, and they’re all really excited,” company historian Grace Womack said. “It’s great that they’re so excited going into it that they want to be a part of it.

It is different because my class and the class before mine didn’t get to compete. It’s interesting and a matter of finding the time to get all of the classes together so everyone can work [together].”

In the weeks leading up to the competition, the performers have one thing in mind: winning.

Costume designer Celeste Parker perfecting minor details on an apron design.

Photo By: Victoria Cavazos

Group musical competitors attempting to make last minute fixes to the competition piece.

Photo By: Victoria Cavazos

STUDY BREWTIFULLY The best local study spots in Cypress

BY INSTAGRAM EDITOR VICTORIA CAVAZOS

CRAFT #1 PLUM #2 L3 COFFEE COFFEE The atmosphere in this shop is tranquil and perfect for studying.

The assortment of tables and couches provides plenty of room to relax, chat or work. Decor in the shop is quite eclectic and unique, giving off a very cozy feeling. Drinks and baked goods are priced reasonably and delivered by a warm, inviting and friendly staff.

As a fan of cold-brew, I was surprised to see that the shop has nitro on tap, which gives cold-brew an even better taste.

11688 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77433

News

If you happen to be a fan of craft coffee and brews, this is the onestop shop for that. Upon arriving, I fell in love with the clean look and feel of the store. The walls, tables, chairs and light fixtures create a nice ambiance for studying, and having the ability to watch baristas make drinks is an interesting process. I ordered a hot tea that was served in a stylish mug alongside a timer that beeped whenever the teabag was done seeping. Needless to say, you are able to taste the craftsmanship in each drink as the baristas on staff clearly know what they are doing.

10615 Fry Rd, Cypress, TX 77433

#3 LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS

This shop initially drew my attention due to the company’s mission to aid communities around the world with profits. Customers have the ability to subscribe for monthly coffee, support children in Rwanda and donate towards different fundraisers and charities. Wifi in the coffee shop, however, is only given out if you make a purchase and expires after a certain amount of time, which is why it ranks lowest as a place to study for long periods of time. Nonetheless, staff is friendly, and practically everything on the menu looks and smells delicious. Their Americano coffee is a rather high quality product and pairs well with someone wanting to sit and relax for awhile. 9935 Barker Cypress Rd #130, Cypress, TX 77433

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WOODSto the WEST

BY STAFF REPORTER JERAH BEVILL

Photo provided by: Pixabay The Audio Video Production (AVP) II class made a short film that will be shown in the South

by Southwest (SXSW) film festival. This is a monumental time for AVP students.

SXSW is a music and film festival that takes place during the spring in Austin, Texas.

The short story is a horror film called “Found Footage” about kids who hear rumors about clowns that live in the woods. One kid gets mad with his friends because they told him it is not true. In the end of the short film, the boy ends up going into the woods and dies.

The Audio Video Production

AVP’s film is going to show at SXSW festival

class is in charge of doing everything that goes into creating the video.

“We are in complete control of every aspect that goes into creating a film,” junior Zachary Stickle , the director of the film, said. “We do pre-production which is scouting a location, finding people you want to interview and then you shoot and edit.”

The director of “Found Footage” had the most important task of making sure the film came out the way he wanted.

“I was the one who made sure the film came out the

way I wanted it to in my vision, so I worked with the photographer very closely to get the composition of everything,” Stickle said.

There were some challenges when making “Found Footage,” such as finding a suitable location and finding people to interview.

“Finding the right time to film, the right people to talk too, and deadlines was challenging,” junior Nancy Royal said.

There was another complication with the short film.

“Conveying the emotion of the scene was a challenge,” Stickle said.

AVP students are enthusiastic that people get to see their piece.

“It’s exciting,” Stickle said.

“I don’t do competitions that much, so I hope I’m good at it.”

Royal, who did the interviewing, had some mixed feelings about the story being in the festival, but overall is excited.

“I am nervous and excited.

Our video isn’t mediocre and it shows today,” Royal said.

Since AVP students are still editing the film, there is no clear date on when the film will be showing in the festival, but AVP students are thrilled and ready.

EARN COLLEGE CREDIT WHILE IN HIGH SCHOOL! See your counselor today to sign up for Dual Credit this spring!

LoneStar.edu/DualCredit

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#StartCloseGoFar

News

MUMS FOR LIFE Students donate mums for Life Skills and

BY ONLINE EDITOR ERIN ELLIS Carlton Center students

A special Cy Woods homecoming tradition took place back in the month of October.

Multiple Wildcat students had the opportunity of donating mums and garters to the LIFE Skills and Carlton students as a part of Mums for LIFE. This beloved tradition was started back in 2014 by Wildcat alumnus Cameron Beardmore, but was the passed down to senior Bailey Peschel once Beardmore graduated. The intention of Mums for LIFE is to give back to these students by donating a mum or garter, allowing them to participate in wearing their mum or garter the following day, just like the majority of students.

“This year, 68 total mums and garters were given to Life Skills and Carlton Center students,” Peschel, the chair of Mums for LIFE, said.

Due to the fact that so many mums and garters were donated, it was no easy task to get this event organized. Peschel was in charge, and she was responsible for all of the little things from the start to the end.

“Organizing Mums for LIFE does take time and diligence,

as I am responsible for making sure every person gets a mum, fixing the mums, transporting the mums and making sure the delivery day runs smoothly,” Peschel said.

When sixth period rolled around, it was finally time for Wildcat students to get together and go meet their LIFE Skills partners. Wildcat students made their way down to the LIFE Skills hallway and went to the respective classroom that their partner was in.

“I was filled with so much joy when I was able to give out my mum and garter to my partners,” junior Abby Fry said, “The smile on Allison, my partner’s, face filled my heart with so much happiness.”

Students spent all of sixth period with the LIFE Skills students. Between talking about homecoming, taking pictures and just engaging with the kids, students left those classrooms feeling more grateful than ever.

“Being able to deliver the mum to your partner is the best part,” Peschel said. “The experience is so special, and I think it is something every high schooler should be able to experience.

The kids are all so grateful and

loving, so to be able to give back to them feels phenomenal.”

When sixth period came to an end, the students made their way over to the Carlton Center to distribute more mums and garters during seventh period.

At the Carlton Center, things ran a bit differently than they did with the LIFE Skills students.

Cy Woods cheerleaders also made the trip over to Carlton and helped put on a pep rally for the Carlton students.

“It was so special to see all of the kids enjoying themselves and dancing along,” varsity cheerleader Isabella Silveira said. “I’m so happy that we got to experience a pep rally at the Carlton center because it was so inspiring seeing all of the kids burst with joy during our chants.”

When the cheerleaders finished their cheers, it was time for the students to give their partner their mum or garter.

The principal of Carlton stood up front on stage and would call each Carlton student’s name, and then they would run up to the front and finally get to put their mum or garter on.

“Giving my garter was so fun,” junior Cami Bird said. “It

Seniors, Brie Allen, Morgan Christenson and Maddy Pauler interact with a LIFE Skills student.

Photo by: Joel Weckerly

was so special to see the looks on all their faces when they received them and how happy it made them. Being able to experience their genuine happiness when receiving a mum leaves you with an indescribable feeling.”

Mums for LIFE is not just about giving mums and garters to these students for homecoming week. It is also about building personal relationships between two people. Another intention of Mums for LIFE is being able to connect LIFE Skills students with Wildcat students and continuing that bond for quite some time.

“Every day walking into lunch, I see Pilar and Katie, two life skills students, who greet me with a huge smile and hug,” Peschel said. “I think that shows that doing nice things for other people has a lasting impact, and I think that everyone can learn from the Life Skills kids’ happiness, positivity and gratefulness.”

Mums for LIFE allows Cy Woods students to connect and give back with Carlton and LIFE Skills students. This tradition at Cy Woods is one of a kind and brings joy to so many students on campus.

Seniors, Chandler Quave, Bailey Peschel and Catie Orwin hold up their donated mums Photo by: Bailey Peschel

Junior, Erin Ellis poses for a picture with Katie and Nina Photo by: Erin Ellis

Student Life

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Working

Wildcats

Highschool students juggling their academics and social life.

CYCLEBAR ANNFLORIAN REDER (SENIOR)

Q: Where do you work?

A:“I work at Cyclebar

in Vintage Park. It’s an indoor cycling place. What I love most about my job is that it's a fun environment, and everyone who works there loves their job. I also enjoy the people who

BY: STAFF REPORTER SAMANTHA OLSON

ASPIRE TUTOR Q:How

did you hear about this job, and what are some requirements?

A:“My

friends got me a job there, and you have to have done well in AP classes. You need to have taken a lot of them, so you’re qualified to teach them, and you need to be good BUNSRI PATEL (SENIOR) with kids and people.”

work out there. It's always so positive there.”

Q: How many hours a week do you work?

A:“I work every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for two to three hours each day. Managing my time is pretty easy. After volleyball practice, I leave straight from there and go to my job, and on Saturdays and Sundays, the hours are easy.”

Q:How did you hear about this job, and what are some requirements?

Q:How many hours a week do you work?

A:“My friend told me about this job and how fun it was, so I applied.

A:“I work about 10 hours a week. Managing my time has been a lot The requirements for this job are that you have to be 18, an athlete and harder now that I have a job and [need to] schedule my time more conscientiously.”

have worked before.”

PIPELINE MACHINERY

Q:Where do you work?

A:“I work at Pipeline

Machinery. I love my job mostly because it is a laid back environment.”

Q:How

many hours a week

do you work?

TONY BEFER (SENIOR)

A:“I work about 30 hours a week and work from one to about five

every day. I get off at a good time, so it’s not hard to manage my homework and everything.”

Q:How did you hear about this job, and what are some requirements?

A:“My dad is vice president of their sister company, and that’s how I heard about the job. To work there, you have to be forklift certified and be able to do labor work.”

Q:Do you think you should be getting paid more?

A:“I don’t mind how much I get paid but would always love more money.”

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Student Life

NOT YOUR AVERAGE SP RTZ TEAM all about our funniest Wildcats

BY STAFF REPORTER : KAITLYN ORMAN

T

he Cypress Woods Theatre Company is in full swing this year with the many productions they have planned for the school year. Along with all of that, some of the theatre arts students are also involved in our Comedy Sportz team, which is different than their productions.

“ComedySportz is an improv team where we play competitive improv games,” sophomore and team member Alyssa Whitfield said. “It’s to test your quick thinking and intelligence as well as your reflexes.”

Though being funny is an important asset to being on the team, you may need some other skills too.

“You have to be really intelligent to be in ComedySportz because sometimes you have to think of words that start with certain letters, and we always make a lot of puns,” Whitfield said.

Interestingly, it was not even the theater directors idea to make a ComedySportz team.

“ComedySportz started in 2017 due to the demand of our students wanting to experience improvisational theater in a competitive way,” ComedySportz coach Chelsa Johnson said.

Although it has only been in action for a couple of years, the team was still successful in their first year.

“Last year, we made it to the city championship, and

Student Life

we made it to the final round within that competition,” junior and team member Daniel Webb said.

Just like any other sports team, the ComedySportz team has to practice and prepare for their first competition.

“Our first match was Wednesday, Oct. 24, and it was just one against each other, where we split up into two team,” Webb said. “It was mostly just for practice for the new teammates.”

Their first real competition against another high school was on Friday, Nov. 2, at Bridgeland high school.

“To prepare, we have the Game-a-Thon at the beginning of this year where we worked with the Houston professional team, and they taught us the games we use in the competition,” Webb said.

While also being a good way to show your quick thinking and intelligence, ComedySportz has other reasons that made students want to join.

“I joined it for the fun, honestly,” Whitfield said.

“I’m also in theater, and ComedySportz is kind of a big deal to us because it’s a very exclusive team. Only about 10 kids get on the team every year.”

These students are all on the team because they are very talented, but there are still some areas they would like to improve on.

“I would like to improve on my teamwork, and I would

Photo by : Wikimedia Commons

also like to bond with some of the members on the team,” Whitfield said.

Eventually, this year’s ComedySportz city-wide competition will come, and although that is later in the school year, the directors are hoping for their students to win it all.

“Our students involved in

the ComedySportz team this year are super energetic and extremely confident, and I can see them carrying the team to the finals and bringing home the award,” Johnson said.

Competition season is not in full swing yet for these Wildcats, but they will certainly give their 212 effort at every competition, hoping to make it to the finals.

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Photo by: Daphne Tett

wildcats compete with performance poetry

BY COPY EDITOR DAPHNE TETT

“Our lives are so much more interesting than the ways that they are described from the outside. We’re so much more important to one another as individuals.”

This quote from U.S. poet laureate Tracy K. Smith could be seen hanging on walls throughout the school next to the information about the Poetry Out Loud contest that was held on Oct. 23, 2018

in the teaching theater. The competition was arranged

by English IV teacher Debra English. This was the second annual Poetry Out Loud contest hosted at this school, the first having been held last year.

“We’re hosting the contest because we had a student ask if we could have the contest here,” English said. “So we looked into it, and we decided we could.”

Senior Tyler Sprague performs his piece during the contest.

Photo by Terrie Schexnaider

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Students who enter the contest must select three poems off the Poetry Out Loud website, memorize them and present them at the contest. The competitors are judged based on accuracy and performance.

There were only three entries last year, and this year, that number was reduced to two.

“We had a lot of interest, but kids were overwhelmed by the idea of memorizing poetry,” English said.

The two students who competed in the contest this year were seniors Tyler Sprague and Kyle Homrighausen.

“I had never [performed] poetry before,” Sprague said.

“But I always liked to read it, and I like to read in general, so reading poetry and memorizing it was pretty cool.”

Both Sprague and Homrighausen are in theatre, so performing in front of people comes easily to them.

“I don’t really get nervous before performing,” Sprague said. “I come from a theatrical background, so it mostly comes naturally to me.”

While Homrighausen does get nervous before a performance, he does not let it get the best of him.

“Normally, when you first

start out, you’re going to get really nervous,” Homrighausen said. “But all of that turns into adrenaline when you start acting, so ultimately, nervousness is a good thing.”

Homrighausen first entered Poetry Out Loud because his friend, Sprague, was the one who got him into it. “[Sprague] did it last year, and he won,” Homrighausen said. “So I wanted to do it again this year and beat him.”

The winner has the opportunity to go to Austin in order to compete in the statewide Poetry Out Loud competition. Sprague, last year’s winner, represented the school at state, and he will be returning this year.

“Last year, when I went to state, I got fifth place,” Sprague said. “I hope I can do better and possibly get first.”

Despite the contest’s low turnout in previous years, there is still hope that more people will want to join in the future.

“I think [the chances of hosting another are] really good,” English said. “But I also think that we need to look into having a contest for kids to recite their own poetry because kids seem to be interested in that idea, too.”

Student Life

CO NTRIBUTIN G TO THE C U R E students raise money to fight cancer

BY BUSINESS MANAGER KAE TRUSTY With 43 children diagnosed every day, cancer is one of the biggest killers of our generation.

It comes in multiple forms, in all areas of the body, and, for the most part, comes with little to no warning. In 2017, cancer was the second leading cause of death in the United States at 598,038 victims. It is an expensive, worldwide public health catastrophe.

“It’s more common than you think,” sophomore Sophia Anagnostou said.

“People generally think cancer isn’t common, but if you do the math, approximately two kids in each class would be diagnosed under the age of 20.”

While this is a depressing statistic, it is evident that new treatments are still coming to hospitals every year. From Nov. 2016 to Oct. 2017, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 18 new cancer therapies and 13 new uses of cancer therapies. The proof is in

the facts themselves: the money sent in to assist research has provided and will continue providing treatments. Now Cy Woods has jumped in to perform their part and keep fighting for the cure.

Cy Woods had two separate fundraisers this year: a period of time to raise money for breast cancer and then to raise money for childhood cancer.

September was the month of childhood cancer awareness, and Cy Woods banded together and wore to show their support for children who are diagnosed with cancer daily.

To raise money, the cheerleading team sold red and gold wristbands to students for access to the football game against Bridgeland High School on Sept. 29, while the Crimson Cadettes helped spread the word by handing out flyers explaining how the locals could help the cause.

A total of around 2,300

dollars was donated to cancer research. In addition, junior class vice president Cami Bird started her own minifundraising event at the same football game.

“We cut out yellow ribbons and provided safety pins so people could fasten them to their shirts,” Bird said. “We then passed them out at the football game at the entrance.

We handed them the ribbons and said we were accepting donations for childhood cancer.

Afterwards, we raised around 140 dollars, and then after subtracting the cost it took to make the ribbons, we had around 100 dollars to donate.”

When asked about her personal reasons for starting the donation, she mentioned that after there was no mention of revisiting it again, she took matters into her own hands.

“Last year, the homecoming court made the ribbons, and I helped them run it, but then

they didn’t do it this year, so I wanted to take it upon myself,” Bird said. “I actually want to be a pediatric oncology nurse, and I really like helping kids. Cancer is a terrible thing, so I wanted to visit the project again. Next year, I would like to try to include breast cancer as well.”

The Gold-Out pep rally was hosted on Sept. 28, and students were able to attend knowing that they were all benefiting a common cause.

The money given to Cypress Strong was donated to support research, patient support, medical treatment and detection.

“It was so uplifting, knowing that when I was diagnosed, we didn’t have stuff like this, and now we had a pep rally dedicated towards childhood cancer awareness,” Anagnostou said. “It makes me feel loved, knowing that kids going through the same thing as me are getting helped.”

DIAGNOSTIC STATISTICS FOR KIDS 0-19 • Around 15,590 • As of January 11.42% will die

88.58% will survive Survival rate for kids 0-19 diagnosed with cancer

children 0 to 19 years old will be diagnosed with cancer, and around 1,780 will die. This is around 11.42% of all kids that are diagnosed.

1, 2015, approximately 429,000 survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer were alive in the United States.

THE LIFE OF BRAEDON MADDOX

BY STAFF REPORTER COOPER GRIFFIN

For his last year, senior Braedon Maddox decided that he wanted to try out to be a WildThing. In order to be a WildThing, you have to do multiple tasks. First, you have to get multiple signatures from certain people. You have to make an application to tell who you are and make a video that shows your creativity. Once they narrow it down to the final people, they have an audition to see how well they can run the flags and how well they respond to certain situations.

“Since I was a freshman, I wanted to be a WildThing,” Maddox said. “I developed a love for this school, and I wanted to be a leader and the voice for this school.’’

Maddox and the other WildThings have to get ready for game day. This requires them to arrive at the stadium three to four hours before the game, get all flags and put them on the bus and get them ready for the game, but the feeling they get after each game is worth it.

“The best part about being a WildThing is when we win because [of] the excitement I feel [afterwards],” Maddox said. “Putting in all the work that I do after each game makes it worth it.”

Besides being a WildThing, Maddox is the president of Student Council. In order to be a member of Student Council, you have to go through the election process where you are voted by the student body to become student body president.

“I wanted to be in student council because I wanted to

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find another place I can put my efforts in [and] develop my leadership skills,” Maddox said. “When I found Student Council in my junior year, I fell in love with it, and I ran for student body president because I wanted to further it.’’

Because he is the President of Student Council he has multiple responsibilities to do for student council.

“It’s a lot of work because I have to stay after school for a lot of things [like] organizing for certain events and [making] sure work is getting down through the week,” Maddox said. “If I want to complete my goal of completing as many projects [as] I can, helping our community and making sure we get recognized, that is what I need to do.’’

Besides being in Student Council and being a WildThing, Maddox also has three jobs: an elementary and middle school tutor for Texas Educational Consultants, a waiter and cashier at Creek Wood Grill and a pole vaulting character actor for Truly Enchanting Entertainments.

“It’s about having a routine, knowing when to do stuff for school, student council, or Wild Things,” Maddox said. “It’s also about making sure I get plenty of sleep, so I'm not stressing out all the time and knowing what I need to do each day and writing it down in my planner.’’

After high school, Maddox is planning on attending University of Texas or University of Arkansas for business and plans on doing pole vault at one of the universities.

Senior Bradeon Maddox poses after the football game was delayed by a thunderstorm. Photo by: Kae Trusty

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PAPER NAPKIN with luke abad Grade: Freshman

Clubs and Activities:

BY STAFF REPORTER KAITLYN ORMAN

Cross Country

Dishing with

Luke Abad running in Cross Country meet.

Photo Provided by : Luke Abad

How long have you been running cross country?

I started in eighth grade, so two years.

What/Who inspired you to do cross country?

We talk being the first freshman on Varsity XC. Who is your biggest supporter of you being on varsity? How do they support you?

My dad is definitely my biggest supporter. He comes to all my meets, and he’s always following me on a bike while I’m running.

Craig Nowak [inspired me] because I just saw his banner in the gym, and I decided to try to go for something like that.

Do you think you will do cross country all through high school? Why or why not?

How does it feel to be the first freshman on the varsity team?

What is the last thing you wrote on a paper napkin?

It feels good, and I get a lot of recognition.

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Definitely [because] running is my favorite sport.

Probably the answer to a math question or something like that.

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THE GREATEST SHOWGIRL erin cearlock’s journey through the stars

BY MANAGING EDITOR BRANDON CHEUNG The clock struck 7 p.m. as the audience waited in anticipation, intensely gazing at the bright red curtain obscuring their view. Sophomore Erin Cearlock, who was seven years old at the time, took a deep breath, shook off the nerves and readied herself. Slowly, the audience came into view as the curtains began to part. Les Misérables was starting.

Through Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), Cearlock was offered the opportunity to tour on Broadway for the 25th Anniversary Tour of the famous musical, Les Misérables.

“My parents actually had me in sports when I was really little, and I sucked at them. Both of my parents played sports,” Cearlock said. “I was taken to go see Mary Poppins at the Hobby Center, and I said, ‘Mom, I want to do that. It looks really fun.’ I started doing summer camps around Houston, and I went to the Humphrey School of Musical Theatre and Dance

at TUTS downtown, which is a musical theater academy.”

She spent a year and a half on tour with the cast traveling to 55 different cities across the United States and Canada performing as Little Cosette and Young Eponine.

“Les Misérables was the show I was in for a year and a half, so I did that show about 530 times,” Cearlock said. “I think the first show I ever did was The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Some of my favorites were White Christmas at the Hobby Center, and when I lived in Washington D.C, I was Baby June in Gypsy. I actually got nominated as Supporting Actress at the D.C Theatre Awards. I also got to do Into The Woods where I was Little Red. My top favorite would definitely be Les Misérables.”

Almost every Monday, Cearlock would take a plane with her mother and fly to a different city for the Broadway tour.

“My mom traveled with me, and my dad visited every other weekend because he still

Sophomore Erin Cearlock outside of the Opera House (DC) located in Washington, D.C. Photo provided by: Erin Cearlock

worked in Houston,” Cearlock said. “I did eight shows a week, and each week, we would be in a different city. I was in San Francisco for two months, and then I was in Charleston for a week, so it just depended on how long they booked the theater for.”

Despite being so busy, Cearlock always explored each city she visited with her mother, as her family has an interest in traveling.

“We didn’t really get the chance to [travel] before the tour,” Cearlock said. “My favorite cities all have to do with some fun memory I had with my family. One of my favorite cities was Greenville, South Carolina. The theater was really nice, and it had a really cute main street with a really good bakery. I also really liked Seattle because I love rain. My third favorite would have to be Washington D.C.” Traveling across the continent to perform at 55 cities has influenced her perspective on different career paths.

“Having the opportunity to

go on tour and to see how the entire country lived differently really opened up my eyes to how big the world is,” Cearlock said. “[It showed me] how musical theater, and music in general, brings everyone together because it didn’t matter if we were in Michigan or California.

There were still a lot of people who came to see the show, and it moved them in a certain way.

I think it also impacted my career choice today: a foreign service officer for the state department. You travel around, and every two years, you go to a different country. I think [my career path] started because of [the] tour.”

In addition to the many experiences in different cities that had influenced Cearlock’s choice of career, her parents also had a huge impact on her decision to pursue public service.

“Both of my parents were FBI agents. My mom quit when she had me, and my dad retired about five years ago. Now, he basically does the same thing at another company,” Cearlock

said.

“I think it definitely so involved at Cy Woods.” because she was sent out to the to our show,” Cearlock said. affected me wanting to go Despite starting at such a well to get water,” Cearlock “Obama couldn’t come because into public service, become a young age, Cearlock never felt said. “I was running up the there were too many gunshots diplomat and represent my the pressure of performing stairs, and I tripped and hit my in [Les Misérables], so the country abroad. I’ve always alongside skilled actors and head on a ledge. I was out cold secret service was scared that had that mindset, and I think actresses. Instead, she was more for a solid 30 seconds on stage, they weren’t going to be able to that definitely came from critical of her own performance. and the show was just going tell whether it was real or not.” my parents. My dad is a “I was a little oblivious, but on behind me while I was just Despite the fact that Mandarin speaker, so I want I think as I got older, it wasn’t passed out. When I woke up, I Cearlock spent a year and a to learn Mandarin and focus necessarily pressure,” Cearlock was confused and just crawled half professionally touring on East Asia. I want to major said. “I was definitely really off stage. I had to go back out in on Broadway, she discovered in international studies and new interests during high economics and minor in East school such as marching Asian studies. I would love to band, Model UN, Key Club, do something that involves Senate and French “No one’s perfect. We messed up sometimes, but Student traveling and helping people.

Club. Currently, she enjoys I love government and public when we did, we just got better and tried to fix it band the most and plans policy, so I think working in the next time.” on continuing throughout the state department would college as well.

- Sophomore Erin Cearlock be cool, or even working “As you get older, you for the United Nations or change,” Cearlock said. “I [dealing with] international did theater for a solid half business.” nervous as I held myself to a five minutes, so they had an ice of my life, and it was some of Although Cearlock has high standard. I would beat pack on my forehead, and I was my best memories which will worked professionally as an myself up if I didn’t do as well drinking water.” always have a special place in actress, she is uncertain on as I wanted to that night. It was Despite the mishap during my heart for shaping me into whether or not she would mostly pressure for myself to do the show, Cearlock managed to who I am today. I’ve definitely partake in another Broadway well, not necessarily from other recover and learned from the moved on to band and french tour. people because everyone was so incident. horn, but I could see myself as “If I was blessed enough to supportive.”

“No one’s perfect,” Cearlock a 40-year-old doing community have a opportunity on another While on the anniversary said. “We messed up sometimes, theater wherever I live. If I Broadway show or tour, it would tour of Les Misérables, Cearlock but when we did, we just got had the opportunity to [act], I be something I would have to experienced many memorable better and tried to fix it the next would take it, but I don’t think sit down with my family to talk moments such as passing out time.”

I would do it professionally. about,” Cearlock said. “The on stage.

In addition to fainting while I loved theater, not really for hardest part [about touring] “There’s one scene where performing, Cearlock met being on the stage and being was being away from my dad. I Cosette, the character I played, former Vice President Joe in the spotlight, but because think it would be really hard for runs out of the inn, which is Biden at the Washington D.C it was a way to express myself me to leave high school because where the main scene takes show. and communicate with other I love band so much, and I am place, and I had this big bucket “Joe Biden actually came people.”

BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA: LES MISÈRABLES Began: Philadelphia, PA Jan. 4, 2011 Total Amount Grossed: $1,000,000 per week *Disclaimer: All tour dates not pictured

Ended: Las Vegas, NV Aug. 13, 2013

THE RUN

BY STAFF REPORTER COOPER GRIFFIN

Craig Nowak leading the way in the Camel City Elite invite in North Carolina.

Photo provided by: Craig Nowak

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TO SUCCESS

Silence fills the air as the gun goes off. Everybody is in a dead sprint to get to the top, the crowd is chanting their names even though they cannot hear, or think of anything else, besides the voice inside their head saying go faster.

This is what Craig Nowak, a professional runner the Asics (shoe brand) feels during every race, while he is trying not to think about the pain that he is in.

Nowak, born on April 20, 1994, started his career at Goodson Middle School, where he first showed his talent.

“I first met him in sixth grade,” middle school track coach John Griffin said. “When asked to run the mile or anything in physical education, he would be the first one done. In FitnessGram, he always asked what the record was and tried to beat it. He never ran with the crowd. He just ran hard.”

Even though Nowak was born with talent, he had to work hard every day when he was young to get where he wanted to be.

“Nowak is the first runner who had me using the word ‘fight’,” Griffin said.

“He fought himself and his pain in every run, whether it be practice or competition in a meet. He was so determined to push himself and improve daily that he was fighting his personal record and self-goals. I worked his tail off in practice, and he

would rise to the occasion in getting faster.’’

After middle school, Nowak went to Cy Woods, where he started to realize how good of a runner he was.

“Once I started winning races in high school and getting letters from colleges, it started to hit me that I could potentially do something big with it,” Nowak said.

Nowak was invited to many prestigious races around the country and won one of the best awards a runner could get: the Gatorade Runner of the Year.

“Winning that award was a huge honor,” Nowak said. “I think it helped open my eyes to wanting to do something big on the national stage.”

Not only did Nowak get a lot of success in high school, but he also got his school success of their own by winning four straight state titles. “[Nowak] put [us] on the map,” track coach Gregory Zarate said. “We had a few girls make it to state but not the boys. [Nowak] was the true beginning of the boys’ side of the program.’’

After his years in high school, he went to Oklahoma State University to continue his career, where he had to adjust and grow as a runner.

“My biggest challenges were having to adjust to training with so many guys who were just as good or better than [me],” Nowak said. “It was definitely a challenge to learn how to be smart with my training and look at the big picture rather than going all out to stay neck and

neck with that person.’’

Even though he was going against the best runners in the nation, he rose to the occasion. His team won the Big 12 conference all four years, the national championship in cross country, placed third in the nation in cross country and broke a four-minute mile in track.

Even with all the attention he gets, he makes sure he doesn't forget the people who supported him from day one.

“I have stayed extremely close with my former coaches and friends,” Nowak said. “They are by far the closest group of friends I’ve had, and it feels like we are just as close now as we were back in high school and college.”

Craig comes to Cy Woods every summer, makes an appearance for the cross country team and gives the team advice about what it takes to be a great runner.

“Every time he shows up, I feel like there is a stir of energy that results from him being here,” Zarate said.

Nowak is now running professionally for Asics (shoe brand) while living and training with a group of other professionals in Greenville, South Carolina.

“People who have made a huge difference in my career have been my parents, Coach Zarate at Cypress Woods, Coach Dave Smith at Oklahoma State and all my great friends and teammates who have pushed and believe in me since day one,” Nowak said.

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STILL FIGHTING

chronic pain makes color guard difficult for member Andrea Dye Photo by: Paige Romig

BY STAFF REPORTER PAIGE ROMIG

She sat on the sidelines, her hands numb.

All of the other girls danced and threw their flags into the air.

She could be out there, but instead, she was forced to sit and watch.

Andrea Dye, a sophomore at Cy Woods high school and brand new to the world of color guard, suffers from complex regional pain syndrome.

“I have injured my hand so many times that it affects the way the nerves in my hand respond,” Dye said. “My nerves and my brain think that there’s something wrong or that I am hurt and is sending those pain signals, even when I’m not.”

Ever since she was twelve, she has been dealing with this, yet was not diagnosed until she was almost fifteen. However, she is not in this alone.

“As a mom, seeing your kid in pain is the worst,” Stephanie Dye, Andrea’s mother, said.

Stephanie has helped Andrea through basic tasks such as writing, picking up a knife, cutting her food and opening a container. Things that most people would be able to do easily are not as easy for Dye. “My mom [supported] me and had hope for me when I didn’t have any,” Dye said.

Despite her condition, she does not let the pain in her hand stop her from doing what she loves.

“One of my friends had to take the flag out of my hand to make me sit out because I

was doing the work in tears,” Dye said.

So far, she has attended every football game and is making it through marching season. The other reason for this, besides her determination, is that prior to trying out for color guard, she did physical therapy in order to strengthen her hands so she could try out. Through the summer and end of ninth grade, as she started practice for color guard, she attended physical therapy twice a week but did not believe it would work.

After a long time, she finally finished and despite her doubts, the physical therapist said that her hand would get better and would not bother her at all anymore.

Sadly, they did not know how bad her hand already was.

“The physical therapy made it better for a little while. but it just got worse again, and this year it has spread to both of my hands instead of just my right,” Andrea said.

Her mom is currently thinking about solutions but is still curious about the diagnoses.

“I have many questions about the cause [and] if it will get better, and I worry that my daughter will have to live with the pain her whole life,” Stephanie said.

Andrea has not started yet, but in order to continue doing color guard, she will be going back on medication and returning to physical therapy. She will undergo more tests in order to ensure more problems will not arise.

Andrea Dye practices after school.

Photo by: Paige Romig

Andrea Dye watches a football game at the Berry Center.

HER COLOR GUARD JOURNEY September, 2015 - Second hand injury(torn ligament) September, 2014 - First hand injury(fractured growth plate)

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March, 2018 - First day of physical shock therapy

April, 2018 - First day of Color Guard practice September, 2018 - First Color Guard Performance

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CLARE REILLY GOES CREW

Five Time National Volleyball Champion Takes On Collegiate Rowing

BY STAFF REPORTER MADISON FRIEDHOFF PHOTO PROVIDED BY: CLARE REILLY

In March, Senior Clare Reilly, who is no stranger to the volleyball courts, was made aware of an email sent to her cross-fit coaches. Reilly had been scouted by The University of Texas at Austin for their rowing team. This came as a shock to the volleyball veteran of 6 years, having never even picked up a set of oars. It was then that her journey of overhand serves became one of many oars.

“I was contacted by a college coach really unexpectedly,” Reilly said. “It was kind of strange. They [said], ‘You’re tall and heavy, so we like you because that’s a benefit,’ and then I checked out Texas’ facilities...T he community was really kind to me when I showed up and welcomed me,

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and I could see myself there and becoming the person I wanted to become. The environment was upbeat and everyone’s attitude was amazing- I felt very uplifted. So I decided to go try it out.”

Although UT was only one among several universities that scouted Reilly before she committed, the decision to give up volleyball was not an easy one, considering It had been a part of Reilly’s life for so long.

“It’s not that I wanted to quit volleyball. I really loved it,” Reilly said. “I loved the people there. They’re like my family, but I had an opportunity come up that I couldn’t overlook because it was just very out of the blue. Because of that, I felt like it was necessary of me to go and just take it.”

But Reilly was confident and ready once she officially committed, letting go of any worries despite the challenges that came along with a new sport.

“When I verbally committed, I was almost relieved. I loved getting to know different programs with rowing but I have to admit, it was kinda stressful because I didn’t know where I was going,” Reilly said.

“Of course, having an athletic background was very helpful. I also did cross-fit for training, so I would consider myself fit, but at the same time, I wasn’t ‘rowing fit’ because that requires a lot more cardio. Having to build it for an endurance sport was really difficult. I think I’m still adapting but making progress.”

Because she is new to rowing, her work ethic is looked at by new mentors. Reilly’s coach, Mike Rosman from Parati Competitive Rowing in The Woodlands, shares how he views Reilly’s work and her decision to commit. “[I have] only been coaching Clare since late last spring, but I have rarely seen an athlete with the drive and work ethic [that] Clare has,” Rosman said. “She takes initiative to go the extra mile in her training and is a joy to coach. Her sense of humor has been a great addition to our team. In addition to focusing on her own training, she is a team player, willing to do anything I ask of her and is always open to constructive feedback. [She is] an exceptional athlete and person.”

Reilly’s mother, Susan Reilly, agrees with this statement.

She believes “rowing speaks to her [daughter’s] soul,” as she speaks on her self motivation and how proud she is of Clare for stepping out of her comfort zone and into a new path.

“She is a goal driven person who works very hard for everything that she has achieved athletically and academically,” Susan said. “It’s inspiring [to watch my daughter start this new sport]. The day Parati Competitive Rowing invited her to get in the boat and give it a try, she was hooked. It is so different from volleyball, which is loud, fast paced and requires split second decisions. Rowing is rhythmic, quiet and requires great strength and stamina.”

Along with the support from her family and coaches, Reilly still experiences surprise when thinking about the fact that she is scholarship eligible.

“It was so unexpected,” Clare said. “I admit [that] I completely underestimated the difficulty of the sport, so I was slightly frustrated at first, but making progress feels so satisfying. Just improving was so exciting for me the first time I rowed.”

Rosman is thankful towards Clare’s desire to keep improving.

“Clare came to rowing late in her high school career, but she won’t let that hold her back,” Mike said “She will be an asset to any college program fortunate enough to have her, not only for her rowing but for her positive attitude and excellent example in all things. Clare should enjoy a lot of success this coming race season. I expect that to translate into a wonderful collegiate opportunity.”

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LIVING WITH A DISABILITY a story of brothers struggling with Tourette’s

BY STAFF REPORTER JUSTIN PAEZ

T

hey were born with this disability. They did not choose this, and now, it is part of their lives forever. Brothers Thomas and Andrew Avery live with the disability known as Tourette’s.

According to a study from the Mayo Clinic, Tourette Syndrome (TS) involves uncontrollable repetitive movements or unwanted sounds, also known as tics, such as repeatedly blinking the eyes, shrugging shoulders or blurting out offensive words. Tourettes is not contagious and is passed down genetically. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 360 kids between the ages of 6-17 years of age have TS. Because of the rarity of TS, Andrew and Thomas get asked a lot about this disorder. They not only had to deal with Tourette’s, but at a young age they were also bullied for their constant uncontrollable actions.

Their tics have changed over the years. When they were younger, Andrew put his fingers in his nose, and now he jumps, while Thomas bites his cheeks.

These tics happen hourly, minutely and sometimes even less than that. For Thomas and Andrew there can be times when their tourettes are harmless, and there are times when it interferes with their learning and they need medical attention.

Thomas is the goalie for the Cy Woods soccer team, and Tourette’s can affect him during his games. It will be mid-game, but he will start to experience tics. It distracts him when he plays, and sometimes, it can be detrimental to the team.

However, he tries not to let it

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weigh him down. Sports and school can put a lot of stress on these twins and with their tics it makes it even harder. But they understand it will not go away, so they try to make things easier.

“You have to cope with it.

You can’t really think about it,” Thomas said. “It was hard to focus on [both] the game and my Tourette’s. Throughout the years, I’ve learned to overcome the urge to tic.”

Thomas’s way of calming his Tourette’s during his soccer games is taking a deep breath and not thinking about anything else besides the game.

As a goalie, Thomas must always stay focused on where the ball is. By taking that deep breath, he stays alert during games. Soccer is important to Thomas, so he will try anything to make himself better and help contribute to the team.

Tourette’s has not just been hard for Thomas and Andrew.

Their parents, Dana and Drew Avery, have also been affected by their sons’ disorder.

“It’s hard on [my parents] to know that they’ve done everything they can, but there is not much they can do to help,” Thomas said.

(From left to right) Thomas Avery and Andrew Avery.

Photo provided by: Thomas and Andrew Avery

Andrew and Thomas used to go to a Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) class, which is a therapy class at Texas A&M University where doctors helped them with their disorder. CBIT helped the twins physically and mentally control their Tourette’s.

“CBIT gave me the confidence to be able to tell people about Tourette’s and make the mental disability a more know illness,” Andrew said. “CBIT helped me learn new ways to cope with my tourettes and also to just embrace it.”

The twins are not upset at

those who have made fun of them and have a message to those who have tourettes.

“People struggling with Tourette’s shouldn’t worry about what others think,” Thomas said. “Try and turn your tics into something positive.

Don’t think that everyone is looking at you or making fun of you,” As the twins get older, their Tourette’s will weaken, but it will never go away. Andrew and Thomas will continue to overcome great obstacles, as they continue through high school.

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Mori on the Inca trail.

Lee with her host family.

BY STAFF REPORTER SARA ZAKI

Mori at Macchu Pichu.

Mori volunteering with kids.

A FOREIGN WORLD Students who traveled over the summer to learn Photos provided by: Matthew Mori

Lee playing with children.

Lee with girls from her community.

Photos provided by: McKenna Lee

Most people travel to see the scenery and take the cute pictures, while others travel because they want to experience something new and some travel for love or food, but for senior Matthew Mori and junior Mckenna Lee had something different in mind. Both students traveled this summer to learn Spanish. Although they had separate experiences, they both wanted to accomplish the same goal: to improve their Spanish.

Mori traveled to Peru over the summer. He stayed for two months with his dad.

“I’ve always had a yearning to just explore. I just wanted to get out of Cypress and see what I can learn,” Mori said.

Although he was not starting from scratch on his Spanish, he felt that four years of Spanish was not quite enough.

“I was born in Puerto Rico, and I spoke Spanish growing up there. Whenever I moved to the United States, I kind of lost that, so Spanish class basically revived that Spanish in me, but me going to Peru really solidified my fluency in Spanish,” Mori said.

Not only did he learn Spanish, but he also saw a completely opposite side of the spectrum. Unlike the United States, Peru has much more poverty. This was something Mori could not quite believe.

“It was very interesting seeing the very vast anwwd modern part of Lima, and it was very beautiful,” Mori said. “But I’d say about 15 to 25 miles outside the city, you see these slums [and] these people who are neglected by the government who are living in such sad and horrible conditions. It was hard to wrap my head around that.

It wasn’t shocking but very unusual to me.”

Although this was surprising, Mori saw the people there and despite their conditions, they were still genuine people.

“I met a lot of people from all over the world, and you don’t know anything about these people,” Mori said. “It’s the first time you’ve ever crossed paths with them and I think it’s so interesting how you could build such a strong friendship with someone that you just met in a heartbeat.

After his trip to Peru this summer, Mori accomplished his goal of learning and becoming fluent.

“My Spanish improved tenfold,” Mori said. “Before that, I was somewhat competent in the language, but I could never call myself fluent. Now, I consider myself borderline fluent and can communicate perfectly with anyone about almost anything.”

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Lee also had the same goal this summer. She went to Yucatan, Mexico over the summer. She traveled with a program called Amigos. Students who want to travel to learn choose a Latin American country and train for a year to prepare for the trip.

Because this was a different part of Mexico, the language was a little different. The way they spoke was not quite what Lee was used to.

“It was difficult at first because they have a really thick accent, and you couldn’t really understand them all the time. The kids especially talked really fast,” Lee said.

Unlike the United States, in Mexico they have much bigger families. Family is an important unit which is why they live closer together.

“Families in Mexico are bigger,’” Lee said. “Here, we are restrained to two kids, one kid or no kids at all, but there, everyone lives together. All the grandparents live with you, and everyone was super close.”

Spending six weeks in Mexico helped Lee achieve her goal of learning and improving on her language.

“My Spanish improved greatly, and I’m able to understand a lot more,” Lee said.

One aspect of the trip did surprise her. She was not expecting a small community to have many advancements in technology.

“I was surprised that they were actually really up to date with technology,” Lee said. “A lot of the kids actually had phones, [and] although it didn’t have service, they still played games on it.”

Lee saw a tight-knit community that truly valued their families and taught her important life lessons.

“I learned that not everything comes easily for everybody, and that humbled me,” Lee said. “Family is the most important aspect of your life. It’s not how much you own or who you’re going to marry or how rich you are. It’s the fact that you have a family and friends who love you.”

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BY STAFF REPORTER MADISON FRIEDHOFF

Calling All Presidents!

Wildcat Leaders Come Together For Change

It is 6:30 a.m. Friday, and a group of at least 20 students are nestled in the teaching theatre with a box of donuts and the Principal. Wide-eyed and ready to take action, they are sharing their hopes and ideas for the Model UN President future of their high school.

These students are a part of for President’s Council. Topics this year have included school The President’s Council. This safety and mental health. council is a representation of all “I highly encourage all students to be involved outside clubs and organizations at Cy of the classroom in order to be part of the total high school Woods. Each club or organization experience here at Cy Woods,” Kinninger said. “The Woods is has the opportunity to send their unique and has a calling and a purpose for its members. We president, representative, or are here to ensure a quality education for all students, but both, to each meeting. second in importance is the social and emotional development “The Council gives an of students.” opportunity for me, as the principal, to give students a voice at Cy Woods,” Principal I highly encourage all students to be Gary Kinninger said. “It is very important that I know of the involved outside of the classroom in order heartbeat of the student body and to be part of the total high school how we are serving each other experience here at Cy Woods. and our community.”

Kinniger started the council four years ago to give student GARY KINNINGER leaders an even stronger role in the school and as an attempt to connect to the awareness of all clubs and organizations at Cy Woods. Student voice, campus culture and climate and developing student leadership, are the three words that Kinninger says he would use to describe this organization, but it is the students’ words that confirm his statement.

“It allows us to hear directly from the student leadership on campus and what issues they face, and bring those issues up at the SSLAC meetings,” Erin Cearlock, member of the Superintendent’ Student Leadership Advisory Council (SSLAC) said.

The SSLACis a group of five students chosen to represent Cy Woods at meetings with the superintendent as well as representatives from all Cy Fair high schools. They discuss topics relevant to students and share ideas to take back to our campus

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“

“

Snap In Time April 16-20, 2018!

“I am so blessed to be the principal of such an outstanding student body. Our students came together, after multiple heart-felt meetings, to formulate a week of meaningful activities, events, and reflections to show respect to many nationwide school tragedies that were heavy on our hearts.”

- Mr. Kinninger (week of the ‘No Place For Hate’ movement)

21

BY STAFF REPORTER JERAH BEVILL

THE H PSTER 22

I

t’s halftime. The score is tied. The Cy Woods girls’ basketball team is going against Cy-Fair. It is the last district game of the season. The basketball team has won every single game, and they are undefeated. The girls are in the locker room frustrated and stressed. They are frantic and nervous that they are going to lose. Then Catie Orwin yells, “Can we just pray?” Orwin leads everyone into a prayer. All the girls calm down. They come out, play their best and the basketball team wins the game.

Orwin plays post on the girls’ basketball team, is the only senior, and has a lot of responsibility. She has to work on herself and be the best role model she can be for the younger basketball players. She has much authority being the oldest, and she never thought that she would see herself in this position of power.

“I feel a little pressure,” Orwin said. “I’m the leader in everything because with being the oldest, I have to take on that role. It’s also a different experience being the only older one because I had grown up with older basketball players, so it’s kind of weird.”

Orwin tries to make sure that the other players are doing their part. She wants the younger players to mature and become better players.

“Being coachable is the advice that I would give to younger basketball players,” Orwin said. “That’s why I still am here today and why coaches like me. You have to listen, and you have to learn to work to your advantages with what you’ve got. Also, have a great time and work hard.”

With a new season coming up, there are some obstacles that Orwin still needs to overcome.

“One of my biggest challenges is that I’m not that aggressive,” Orwin said. “I’m better on defense than offense.

I was also a dancer, so I’m pretty delicate. I have to focus on making smart decisions and going after it,” Orwin’s dedication and strong-willed attitude is what the coaches admire about her.

“She is a really hard worker in everything she does, and she’s not afraid to ask questions,” her former coach, Melanie Forness, said. “The things I admire about her are that she is involved in so many things like Student Council

and dance. She knows how to manage her time really well to be successful. I think some kids sign up just to put it on their resume, but not [Orwin]. If she signs up for something, she wants to be committed, and she wants to be the best. Sometimes, I don’t know how she does it either.”

Coaches also respect that Orwin is always doing the right thing and striving to become a better player. “[Orwin] is the most amazing kid ever,” head basketball coach Laqueisha Dickerson said. “I always say that if I have a daughter, I want her to be exactly like [Orwin]. She is extremely hard working. She is always doing what she is supposed to be doing and always does the right thing. She is the most vocal player that I have on the basketball team. She is definitely a leader and an extremely hard worker in basketball and in the classroom. She is a gifted kid.”

Although there were some changes this season for the basketball team, such as new coaches and players, Orwin believes that they will succeed.

“We’ve lost some great players,” Orwin said.

“I think we are going to have to learn to play to our own strengths and know that even if the odds are stacked against us, we have to push hard and do whatever we can.”

Sports

HOW IS IT DONE? color guard and band competition season

BY STAFF REPORTER PAIGE ROMIG

C

olor guard and band received all one’s for their score at University Interscholastic League regionals on Oct. 20. Then, after getting a send off from their parents on Oct. 27, they got eleventh place at UIL areas. However, this is not the end of competition season for color guard.

Winter guard is right around the corner.

Their marching show called, “School’s Out,” features classical and rock music compositions. They have a lot of props and moving parts to consider. “[The hardest part about competitions is] setting up the field and taking everything off the field,” junior Madison Miears said.

Preparation for their competitions requires a lot of time. Their summer break is cut short, and hours the average student uses to do homework after school is used for continuous practice. “We practice a few

times every week from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. then, in the summer, we practice every day,” social officer and sophomore Sydney Moon said.

A lot of work goes into creating the show and bringing the band and color guard together. Their shows tell a story, which adds to their practice for competitions.

“For UIL, we get to school, and then we’ll practice the performance with the band,” captain senior Aditi Mani said. “Then, [band director Terrance Peterman] will go over the troubled parts that we have musically or visually, and then he’ll fix those. Once he sees they’re better or more improved, we move on. Usually, after we do that, we eat, get ready [and] then load the buses.”

Recently, the Cy Woods football team came to UIL regionals to show their support, which meant a lot to the color guard and

band. “It’s scary, [and] it’s weird, but it was nice because we have to go to their stuff all the time, and it was nice to see that they came to ours,” Moon said.

In Winter guard, they do not perform with the band. Instead, they perform on their own against other color guards from other schools under the Texas Color Guard Circuit. This year, with their size doubled from last year, they have split into two teams: varsity and junior varsity.

“My favorite part about color guard is how close we are,” Mani said. ”They are like a second family to me. If I am having trouble with something, then I can talk to my teammates, and they’ll understand and help me through my situations.”

Color guards work is far from over as a whole new routine for Winter guard is coming up.

OOK E ’SscoopT HonEtheHfishing H EanRinside team T

he fishing team educates students on fishing in a variety of ways which includes fishing at competitions or practicing for those competitions. The club is one of the most popular at the school, drawing a wide variety of members all with one thing in common: their love of fishing.

“The fishing team is a group of experienced fishermen who go out once a month on a Saturday morning and just have fun, compete in the tournaments and try to catch the biggest fish,” freshman Evan Bass said.

According to Statista, recreational fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities, and in 2017, 49 million Americans participated in freshwater, saltwater and fly fishing.

“I’m just a freshman, so I haven’t won [a competition], but last year one of the guys, Brett Velviz, won an inshore tournament, and he got a big cash prize,” Bass said.

Fishing is considered an actual sport, so the members take it as seriously as an NFL player would take football, going to competitions regularly and fishing a lot on their own.

Sports

Photo By: Clker-FreeVector-Images

BY: STAFF REPORTER AARON BLEVINS

“Competitions [are held] once a month, and we don’t really practice [as a team],” Bass said. “We just have meetings once a week, and then we just go home and fish on our own.”

They are always helping each other grow, not necessarily caring who wins the competitions as long as someone from their group wins. A lot goes into fishing and there are a lot of different things you can use to gain an edge against your opponents and the teammates on the team are always there to make you better.

“You can just tell your teammates what color baits to use, what kind of baits, where to fish it and what time of day to go fish the area,” Bass said.

If anyone wants to grow as a fisherman or even just want to go have fun and try to catch something, then the fishing team is for you. They are always looking for new members to join their club the fishing team is a year round club.

Their next competition for the team is coming faster than you think. So, if you are interested be sure to meet with Associate Principal Dirk Heath on how to join.

23

BEFORE THEY WERE TEACHERS JASON WHITMORE

BY: STAFF REPORTER JUSTIN PAEZ

Whitmore coaches up a play to his players Photo Provided by: Jason Whitmore

Teachers who played professional sports

Numerous concussions, a broken finger, broken ribs, sprained ankles and surgeries are what two teachers experienced throughout their journey through professional sports. These athletes put hard work and determination in to fulfill their dreams as professional athletes.

Business teacher, football and track coach, Jason Whitmore, played football in Europe and was even on the practice squad for the Carolina Panthers. Sports left a huge impression on Whitmore’s life and has taught him many important life lessons.

“Sports teach you the concepts of working with people from multiple backgrounds for the sole purpose of accomplishing a common goal,” Whitmore said. “It teaches you about struggle, discipline, execution and how to handle winning and losing.

Sports are an analogy for life.

Throughout his career, Whitmore has learned many lessons from people such as his high school head coach, Tom Nolen at Houston Lamar high school, and George Campbell, his wide receiver coach.

However, one person in particular has positively impacted Whitwmore's life: his father, James L. Whitmore. Jason’s father taught him many lessons on the aspects of sports and life.

“His lessons, tough love at times and constant encouragement caused me to grow and become a man that others could look at with respect and a man that he could be proud of,” Jason said.

Sports will forever be with Jason, and he will continue to pass on his knowledge to future athletes and students at Cy Woods.

Photo Credit:Piotr Siedlecki

DESIREE ELLIOTT Another teacher who had experience as a professional athlete is English teacher and volleyball coach Desiree Elliott. After four years of playing college volleyball at LSU, Elliott played volleyball professionally in Switzerland.

“I got to travel throughout Europe playing some of the top teams in the world, so that was really fun,” Elliott said.

Throughout her time in professional sports and her entire life, her family: her mom, three sisters, older brother and dad have been there for her, all her life.

During her professional sports career, Elliott was short for the position she played in volleyball. There were times she was discouraged and lost hope, but she never gave up. Elliott hopes that other up-

and-coming athletes do the same. Elliott wants people to know what she has learned throughout her sports career and how she was able to be successful through it. “[It took ] a lot of dedication. I think now-a-days kids get a little discouraged or unmotivated to go far and succeed,” Elliott said. “So, Ithink dedication is really important for young athletes to make it far in the sport.”

That dedication is what Elliott used to get past her several sprained ankles and disadvantage of height in volleyball. Her willingness to fight past pain is what made her a great volleyball player.

Elliott misses playing sports and being competitive, but she will continue to give out advice as a teacher and a coach.

Elliott receives a medal.

Photo Provided by: Desiree Elliott

Photo Credit: TaniaVdb

24

Feature

FACTORS

OFFOOTBALL

BY BUSINESS MANAGER KAE TRUSTY

All photos by: Kae Trusty

Senior Maddie Rospierski throws up a c-dub during the gold out game as Cy Woods prepares to kick off.

Junior Hanna Smith cheers at the front lines during the gold out game.

Associate Principal Dirk Heath rallies the wildcats at a football game.

Senior Jordan Rocchi goes through one of her cheer routines.

Junior Isabela Guinto smiles as the big screen displays the band.

Roaring Wildcats

BY STAFF REPORTER AARON BLEVINS

Behind the Cy Woods Offense

The Wildcats offense is on fire, scoring over 40 points in four of their first six games. Led by senior quarterback Carson Danner and a committee approach at running back, the Wildcats looked rejuvenated. Their triple offense is hard for any defense to keep up with, especially when they are clicking on all cylinders.

Danner has had a quarterback (QB) rating of 119.6 through the first six games. For context, the best QB rating is 158.3, so anything over 100 is spectacular. He has had a completion percentage of 55 percent and 115.9 yards per game (Y/G).

Backup quarterback junior Jackson Jones has even gotten time in multiple games due to Danner being so dominant that they were blowing the team out.

“He’s been the biggest surprise of the year,” said Offensive Coordinator Curtis Neil. “His leadership ability, [and] all the intangibles in which Danner presents are top notch and [are things] you look for in a leader for a group of young men. His play has matched it and then some. The guys have put in a tremendous amount of effort and dedication into the position, and it’s really showing.”

Sophomore Trayse Holmes, senior Darion Morgan, senior Jake Tesch, and junior Christian Scott have all logged over 30 carries in six games for the Wildcats. Holmes has had the most carries at 61, but Tesch has the most yards with 352. Scott came shot out of a rocket for the game against Cy Park, being nominated for Texan Live Player of The Week with 78 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, 25 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown.

“Absolutely, we use multiple running backs,” Neil said.

“Even back in the spread system, we always had two or three that we used. We feel that position is a position where you need somebody fresh, and [having] more fresh legs you can play at the position is a benefit to our offense.”

The mesh that Neil has been able to make between the triple and spread offense has been incredible. When watching a Cy Woods offense, you can never tell what type of offense they might run that night, whether it’s the spread or the triple. The adjustments of blending these two offenses have helped make them into the powerhouse they have been to start the season.

“I think [that with] the changes we’ve made, we’ve incorporated some spread concepts along with the triple and tried blending it to make it mesh, [and] we’ve been successful,” Neil said. “[We’ve been] very successful with our spread concepts in years past, and transitioning over to the triple, mixing in some underline midline triple, some veer triple with gun and implementing a leverage game or some spread concepts have really blended nicely. It’s been a pleasure [because] the kids have really grasped it, and they’ve done a wonderful job executing it.”

The offense has really been the thing bolstering the Wildcats to a playoff run this year. A lot of the games they have played so far have been a shootout, and the Wildcats’ offense has been coming out on top more often than not. If the offense can play this way, the Wildcats may be a team to look out for come playoff time, even with a few stacked high schools such as Cy Ranch and Cy-Fair.

Quarterback Carson Danner. Photo by: Kae Trusty

VS

parks and recreation the office

BY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SARAH WHEELER

I think it is easy to say that “Parks and Recreation” and “The Office” are two of the greatest sitcoms ever aired, but the similar formatting and humor in both of the shows calls for a bit of competition. “Parks and Recreation” fans usually despise “The Office,” and vice versa. However, I am a huge fan of both shows, and before you ask, yes, I have seen the entirety of both series more times than I would like to admit. It is nearly impossible to declare a definite superiority between the shows, so I have broken it down into categories: comedic efficiency, character development and overall plot.

Comedic Efficiency: Part of what makes both shows so great is their unique style of comedy that was virtually nonexistent on regular television prior to the making of “The Office UK.” With that being said, it is very hard to distinguish which show has better quality of jokes, and it all comes down to what kind of humor the viewer prefers. Dry, awkward and vulgar humor is obviously present in both of the shows, but Steve Carell took awkward and vulgar humor in his character, Michael, to a whole different level. “The Office” also includes minor roles like Robert California, Todd Packer and Creed Bratton, who all also contribute to the vulgarity of the show. Meanwhile, the humor in “Parks and Recreation” is more likely to appeal to viewers who prefer relatable humor. Both shows do an excellent job of incorporating indirect jokes that might go over the viewer’s head while watching it for the first time.

Which character in The Office or Parks and Rec best resembles you?

Kyle Homrigausen, 12 Robert California (The Office) “I think the way Robert California words his sentences is what really reminds me of myself.”

Opinion

Megan Robinson, 12 Erin Hannon (The Office) “I think Erin Hannon from The Office best represents me because I’m bubbly, optimistic, and sometimes have no idea what’s going on.”

Character Development: The character development in “Parks and Recreation” is far superior to that of “The Office.”

Parks and Rec starts off with a lost April Ludgate who then grows into the determined April LudgateDwyer. In season one, Leslie Knope was in charge of the Parks and Recreation department, but as the show progressed, her ambitions and goals bring her more established positions in the Pawnee government, and her previous relationship misfortunes seemed insignificant as her love with Ben progressed.

However, my favorite character progression in the show would have to be Ron Swanson. For the majority of the show, Ron Swanson was a cold, no-nonsense, blunt carnivore, and, in my opinion, he was the last person I would expect to have married a single mom with two young and chaotic girls. However, that just illustrates how deep the character development in Parks and Recs gets.

Overall Plot: **SPOILER ALERT** The plot in “The Office” was better than “Parks and Recreation” merely because “Parks and Recreation’s” plot was too predictable. After the first few seasons, I would have never guessed that Michael would leave the show, and I definitely would not have guessed that the show would still be funny without Michael’s comics. Jim and Pam’s relationship issues late in the show were a bit of a shake up for viewers, and overall, the romance in the show was always unpredictable.

Between the awkward and tense relationship of Angela and Dwight, the manipulative love of Andy and Angela, the toxicity of Kelly and Ryan, Stanley’s affair and, of course, Michael and Holly, viewers could never guess what would happen next for their favorite Office couple.

27

They’re Back

Fashion does not have an expiration date.

BY STAFF REPORTER SAMANTHA OLSON

Out with the new, and in with old.

Only time can tell, and as the clock runs, the past seems to come right back. Every fashion statement has a date and time attached to it. The 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s called, and they want their styles back.

People of all ages are bringing back high waisted bell bottoms, Jane Stovall wearing high waisted plaid pants.

scrunchies and mom jeans.

Scrunchies can be seen on every teenage wrist or hair.

With plaid prints from the 90s, denim jackets from the 50s and skinny sunglasses, better known as “clout, goggles” from the 80s trending head to toe, everyone is thinking, “Is it really 2018?”

Most do not even recognize the statement they are bringing back until their parents tell them a joke about how that is what they used to wear. When you go into your favorite stores, notice that all the popular stores now have the high

waisted jeans on their mannequins.

They advertise what is now popular.

“Fashion is part of the daily air, and it changes all the time with all the events,” fashion blogger Diana Vreeland said. “You can even see the approaching of a revolution in clothes.

You can see and feel everything in clothes.”

Photo by: Payton Hartsell

WILDCAT RUNWAY fashionista of theQ: issue

BY STAFF REPORTER ELLA PULIDO

Looking fresh at 7:20 a.m. is an almost unattainable goal for some of us. However, junior Isabela Guinto is serving up some serious looks. This fashion guru stays true to her style when it comes to what she wears.

Q&A: An Insider Sneak Peek

Do you think your style is an active representation of your personality?

A: I truly believe it is. I never really

know what I’m doing, and that goes for my fashion sense too. I’m super laid-back, and I think my style just shows that about me.

Q: What are your fashion do’s and don’ts?

A:

I absolutely hate denim on denim. I’m not a fan of it.

Other than that, I’d say just wear whatever you want to wear if it makes you comfortable. Never try to be someone you’re not. Fashion is all about you and your diversity.

Q: What do you recommend for those who are still trying to

Q: How would you describe your Q: What would your ideal find their own unique style? style? everyday outfit consist of?

A: Wear whatever you feel A: I can’t say I have any specific confident in . It’s okay not to have style in particular. I just throw on A: Recently, I’m very into plaid. I like one specific preference. I don’t whatever I feel comfortable in, and then I’m ready to take on my day.

28

cute flannel t-shirts, some nice jeans and probably my Converses.

give much thought to it. I just do me.

Arts & Entertainment

HOT OR NOT

how good is Zero Degrees?

ae

.

BY CO-ONLINE EDITOR CAROLINE STIFF

Th

e M ilk a nd

a C e re

l su

nd

s Frie The Hot Cheetos Cheese Photo by: Caroline Stiff

Th The

Tucked away on the corner of a strip center, Zero Degrees offers a place where friends can get together and try some interesting foods and drinks. The store itself is on the small side, but does try to make up for it by adding a nice outdoor space. The only problem is that here in Texas, it is almost always too hot to think about sitting outside; the few months when the weather is tolerable and nice are the only times when this space seems applicable.

The atmosphere is on the laid-back side.

While most customers find that enjoyable, it seems to seep into the staff’s attitudes.

They are not particularly friendly and don’t seem to enjoy their jobs. As a result, their presence is often hidden from the customers.

H o ne

y BBQ Popcorn Chicken.

Zero Degrees’ food seems to be hit or miss. For example, the Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken was extremely good. It came out hot and had a great flavor to it. It was definitely a hit. However, the Hot Cheetos Cheese Fries, which seem to be a staple of the spot, are not nearly as good. The fries themselves are well made and taste great, but the addition of processed cheese takes away from their flavor. The Hot Cheeto powder on top does not add much to the dish except for its iconic flaming red color.

It also did not help the fries’ case that when the dish came out, the cheese was barely warm. A major miss.

Zero Degrees’ drinks are better in the consistency of quality. The Strawberry Bliss tea was a little on the warm side but

e Str aw B l i s s b e rr y tea.

had a fairly good strawberry flavor. They have a sundae called ‘Milk and Cereal’. It seems very intriguing, but in reality, it is just vanilla soft serve with a choice of three different cereals. It is more lackluster than the title makes it out to be, but it is very tasty for what it is.

Zero Degrees seems to cost more that what it is worth. It is not necessarily outrageously priced, but the quality of the food and drinks should be better for their prices.

Overall, the restaurant is not an instant favorite. There are some good items, but there are also just as many bad ones. It does not live up to most of the hype that it receives and in turn is not an irreplaceable eating establishment.

Salons & Spas

8611 Louetta Rd, Spring, TX 77379 Opinion

29

you can’t buy

happiness, but you can buy

a yearbook

and that’s kind of the same thing. www.balfour.com

BUY NOW because the price goes up to $85 on January 7

and save later.

T u o Y hank Y k n a h T Thank You ou Christmas, for being the one reason I am ab le to feel joy during the winter.

Note by: Brand on Cheung

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Note by: Brandon Cheung

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Thank You Notes

(Inspired by Jimmy Fallon)

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rantin 212 words

BY MANAGING EDITOR BRANDON CHEUNG

Welcome to another Rant in 212 Words. This time, we’ll be discussing the fact that it is not okay to push your standards and opinions onto other people. You should never, and I repeat, NEVER force your opinions onto someone else. This happens far too often in our generation where everyone

is opinionated, and we all feel entitled to a certain extent. Another thing I’ve noticed is that students hold themselves to an incredibly high standard, so when it comes to grades, students seem to shame each other whenever the grades they receive don’t match up to each other’s standards,

and that is not okay. I’ve experienced this too many times. Please stop telling me that my grades aren’t good enough when it all depends on perspective. My grades are good enough for me, but they don’t have to be good enough for you. Please stop pushing your high standards onto me. I understand that

the person may be “caring about my grades,” but when I have a C or B average in a K-level class, I think that I am doing just fine without the unnecessary input. The message I really want to spread is that you can have opinions, but please don’t be entitled and push them onto other people.