The Wildcatter

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Issue 4. February 24, 2012. Calallen High School.

Inside

My Superhero.

Foundation benefit’s Children’s HopeChest. MCT Canpus p. 2

Congratulations SWIMMING #Swimming Swag. The Wildcats Swim team gave it their all at their regional meet with one swimmer qualifying for state. Way to go Cats and good luck at state.

Photo By: Cameron McIntosh

Kickin’ It. Girls soccer gets the season started. p.12

Topcats Compete. Team prepares to dance their way to the top.

p.9

Pinterest

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Check out our website! www.wildcatnews.org

Prom

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To Advertise Call Advertising Editor Emily Brearton (361)-765-2960 or )Advisor Janet Simpson (361)-242-5649

Talent Show

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Online Edition of the latest news and many features not in print

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News

Friday, February 24, 2012

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PINTEREST “Pinteresting” Sensation Sweeps The Internet Nation

BY KIAH HINOJOSA

Pinterest is the new website on the rise with everyone from students, to teachers, and parents hooked.

The website is a virtual pinboard that lets you organize everything you find interesting on the world wide web. Its a simple and easier way then e-mailing them to your self, printing and putting in a binder, or bookmarking it on your computer.

“I haven’t actually seen the website but I have heard plenty of it,” junior Emily Brearton said. “People talk about it on Facebook, and at school it seems to be the new hit thing.”

This website is not based on any particular subject matter; it is very diverse. Which allows you to see a variety of everything beautiful to everyone else around the world.

“To me the main thing about Pinterest is the fact that it isn’t directly centered around one subject,” junior Cameron McIntosh said. “I look at many different things from cats to products; it’s a great way to discover interesting and creative ideas people have.”

You can follow your friends “pins” or get a live feed of what strangers are pining and repin them to your board. By leaving all pin boards public, it allows you to discover new things and get inspiration from people who might share the same interest as you.

“On Pinterest I like to follow a lot of my friends and see what they like to pin,” junior Megan Segundo said.

“I know they have the same interests that I do so it gives

MY SUPERHERO Memorial Charity Benefits Children’s HopeChest

BY ALEXANDRA TAYLOR

Batman, Superman, Spiderman – as children, many of us donned our capes and masks and cried Up, Up, and Away! Jacob Thomas Jones was no different. The vibrant toddler could often be seen running through the halls of his home chased by his sisters or parents in full superhero garb.

When Jacob passed away last summer, his family worked out of their grief to make his memory live on.

Jacob’s parents, Jason and Brea Jones created My Superhero, an organization to honor Jacob and support the charity Children’s

H o p e Chest.

“Our family began sponsoring children in Africa through Children’s Hope Chest over a year ago, simply because we felt God putting it in our hearts,” Jacob’s mother Brea Jones said.

“When Jacob began his eternal life, our family and all those who knew Jacob were beyond heartbroken. People wanted to reach out and help. Jason and I immediately thought of Hope Chest and decided that in lieu of flowers, people could donate in Jacob’s name.”

This simple act of reaching out generated enormous success, and Jacob’s family decided to further their involvement with Children’s Hope Chest.

“We were amazed by the response and wanted to help even more,” Jones said.

NEW APP. Junior, Landon Horton checks out his new Pinterest app on his Iphone.

Photo By: Taylor Schwartz

me a chance to see things that I know I would like to without having to look for it.”

Pinterest enables you to click on the pictures pinned and take you to the web site where they were found. For instance if you find a pair of shoes you like, all you have to do is click on the picture and it will take you directly to the website where they were found.

“Pinterest allows me to find cute outfits from everywhere without having “Though Jacob’s life here was much too short, he was never in need. However, many children around the world live without love and care.”

Children’s Hope Chest is a foundation that connects American Christian communities with orphan communities all over the world.

Hope Chest offers sponsorship opportunities for orphans, including sending prayers, letters, money, and volunteers overseas.

“Hope Chest is a thriving international ministry to orphans, connecting them to the life transforming power

to go through millions of websites,” junior Tate Kirby said. “ The website is addicting, I shop on it all the time.”

Pinterest is expanding its reach and now has a free app on iTunes that is rated a 4+ out of 5 by users. The Pinterest team is currently working on releasing the app for the Android users.

“Pinterest is the most addicting app that I us on my phone. I am constantly shopping on it and looking for of community-based relationships with Christians,” Hope Chest CEO Tom Davis said.

“It’s my passion to inspire others to find their place in orphan ministry and give themselves to the poor and impoverished children of the world.”

The inspiration Davis hopes for has ignited the flame of My Superhero, and has g i v e n Jacob’s supporters a perfect way to give back. So far, M y Superhero has sponsored two fund-raising events, the Marathon for Adoption and the Superhero

new creative ideas to make,” junior Rachel Kaplan said. “It shows all the good clothes and websites that most people don’t know about.”

The great thing is you can pin anything you want on your pinboard. Everyone uses it for different things; recipes you want to make for a party, the shoes from the new spring collection, your dream home ideas, even your future vehicles.

So Pinterest can easily become anything you want it to be.

“I think Pinterest is a break through website that can target all ages and genders,” junior Landon Horton said.

“And at times it satisfies curiosity or boredom.”

SCAN TO START PINNING. Scan this QR code to visit the Pinterest website.

Ball.

In addition, Jacob’s family and friends have provided money and gifts to send overseas.

The hope and fulfillment giving back has given to the Jones family is doubly sweet because it not only lets them remember and honor their own little boy, but also allows them to help countless others less fortunate than he.

“During his time here, Jacob was such a lover,” Jones said. “We miss his presence with us terribly. Many days it is very hard to think beyond our pain and loss. However, God calls us to do good and help others even when it is not the easy thing to do.”

For more information visit: www.mysuperhero.org www.hopechest.com

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NEW TEXAS STAAR EXAMS Out With TAKS And In With STAAR

BY TREVOR HURST In 2007 Texas

Senate Bill 1031 was passed laying out the process for removing the infamous TAKS test and slowly replacing it with new, more difficult STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams that will cover 12 different subject areas in high school.

“I prefer the new STAAR exams much more than the TAKS,” teacher Miriam Mckim said. “This new test will be a better challenge for serious students than the TAKS ever was.”

The STAAR exam will be in many ways very different from any of the state’s previous standardized test. The test for example will be course specific, treated more as an end of course assessment. The test will also be primarily taken on computers, creating a much different testing environment than any standard-

ized test of the past.

“Comparing the TAKS test to the new STAAR exam is like comparing apples to oranges,” administrative official Susan Walker said. “These new tests are course specific and now have a four hour time limit, whereas the TAKS was untimed.”

The STAAR exam has had a mixed response, but one thing is obvious; these tests are much more difficult than the TAKS test.

“I like the STAAR exam more than TAKS test,” junior Nick Puckett said. “Although the new test is more difficult, it pertains more to what we learned during the year, as opposed to the broad, comprehensive TAKS test.”

While many believe that a more rigorous test could only raise the bar for student achievement, it will actually backfire. A more difficult test does not help students across an entire state. Changing the way the material gets to the students would be much more beneficial to Texas students than a more

difficult standardized test.

“These new test are much more difficult than the TAKS,” junior Steven Gralinski said. “The TAKS test was really a joke, but these new tests actually might require some serious reviewing before test day.”

It is a known fact that well-structured curriculum that keeps students interested helps students learn more than any preparing for a standardized test. Many educators and students of all levels would agree.

But many districts, which have done poorly on the standardized test before, worry solely about reviewing for the test.

This constant reviewing for the STAAR exam transforms the classroom into a boring place as teachers drone on about the same material, in a desperate attempt to help their students attain the necessary knowledge they need to pass the test.

“It’s always really boring whenever we review for the STAAR exam,” freshman Erik Thomas said. “It’s so much information, it’s hard to remember it all for the test.”

Friday, February 24 2012

The success of a student or of an entire school cannot be summed up through the results of just test scores. Tests as a whole are inadequate in measuring the knowledge of students because many students can study and review for the test but after test day their brain deletes all the information they learned before test day.

“It’s really hard to remember everything you learned after you’ve taken a test,” Gralinski said. “It’s just easy to forget because you don’t use it.”

Districts that do poorly on standardized test are often labeled as unintelligent areas or state education officials come to the conclusion that the school is underfunded and in need of resources. But it is not money or any resource that improves the knowledge of an entire student population; it is discussions by teachers that actively get students involved and interested that helps students learn best and helps them retain that knowledge past test day.

“Anytime there is a change in the State Assessment Program,” Ms. Martinez said, “Schools have to monitor and adjust to

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ensure the students are being adequately prepared. However, our teachers go above and beyond and make additional adjustments where necessary.”

While many state education officials see this STAAR test as a great asset in helping prepare Texas students for college, this test will likely be as ineffective as any previous standardized test. A better curriculum plan which promotes an interest in the students would help the students of Texas public schools much better than any rigorous standardized test would. Students learn best when they are interested, not when they are threatened with a difficult exams that they must pass to graduate.

“I think school would be more interesting if they related everything to the real world,” Thomas said. “It would be better than just seeing test questions.”

If the State of Texas wants its future generation to be well educated they should do more than just put a test in place.

They should focus on creating an interest for the students in the material they teach and help the students achieve their educational goals.

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Feature

Friday, Feburary 24, 2012

A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD

Juniors and Seniors Join Together To Sail The Night of Prom

BY VICTORIA FREEMAN

From tuxedos to glittering ball gowns, prom night is always unforgettable. Prom this year is being held at The Richard M. Borchard Fair Grounds.

“The Richard M. Borchard Fair Grounds is more convenient for prom because it’s right near home,” Mrs. Beverly said, “Prom gives the kids a chance to be more creative on ideas they might be upset that it’s not exactly where they want it but we will make the best out of it and make it a great night.”

Prom is about coming

together and letting creativity come out.

“Prom gives the kids a chance to express their ideas and come together.They get so excited and learn to chose wisely according to the limits on cost,” Mrs.Deitrich said, “The only down fall about this year is I can’t use glitter but I’ll find my way to have some shine to the place. In the end it will all pay off, I can’t wait; I’m excited.”

This is seniors last year to experience the tradition of high school prom.

“This year’s prom should be fun because it’s my last year,” senior Heather Moses said, “Girls find it more complex than guys do because we have to get everything done, but when it’s done it’s worth it.”

Prom is a time to get

dressed up and w e a r something you don’t usually wear.

“Prom this year is going to be awesome because it’s my senior year, senior Jessi Heard said, “It’s exciting all the way from shopping for the dress to arriving to see all my friends at prom. I can’t wait.”

Girls take prom to a whole new level, it’s another excuse to be pampered treated like a queen.

“I’m excited to go try on a bunch of dresses with my best friends,” senior Cirah Presley said, “especially to go shopping for matching shoes.”

It’s a night to show how beautiful you are.

“I’m going stag prom night,”senior Samantha Reiter said, “I’m sticking to hanging with the girls and letting it be a fun girls night out.”

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the while others come in groups either way they are ready to have a fun night.

“I’m really excited this year,” junior Miranda Ysassi said, “I love going dress shopping with all my friends and especially since

our grade can finally go.”

The decorations will surround the room and dance floor and light up the mood to reflect the theme of the night.

“I’d rather the senior class decide the theme of the prom,” senior Kelsie Bird

COTTON EYE JOE. Amanda Geary, Robert Seward and Kinsley Emshoff, join together to do a fun line dance at the 2011 prom. Photo By: Cameron Mcintosh

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“2012”

Feature

Friday, February 24, 2012

has been proven wrong The end of the calendar of the 5,000 years cycle before. has to come but that and it has to be replaced “The Mayan calendar doesn’t mean it’s the end by a new one.

The End As We doesn’t call for that,” of the world. .

“I do not think Know It? Coach Hamilton said. “It ”No,” Coach it is going to end,”

BY SHELBY BROOKE says an age will end and Kirkpatrick said. “I Sophomore Taylor think the guy who wrote Mullins said. “And So a lot of people a new one will begin.” believe the end of the But there are so many the calendar got tired of even if it does I will be world is coming on December 21, 2012.

Honestly the end of the world is not coming in 2012 so don’t go blow all your money or do something stupid because there are no scientific facts that it is coming to an end but there are a bunch of theories.

(1) The planets will align!

(Galactic alignment) The planets will never align because of the suns gravitational pull.

300 dpi Hector Casanova illustration of emergency vehicle moving through deserted town during a bad storm; can Even if they did the be used with stories about tornadoes, windstorms, etc. The Kansas City Star 2012 change would have no effect. The tides would change predictably 1.5 chilling in heaven.” millimeters and the different theories they counting.”

The 4th dimension (the Part of this process earth’s gravitational pull all are insane.

“It’s not going to end,” most ridiculous one of is said to be causing would change a tiny bit but not enough to affect Sophomore Martin Villa all) the 4th dimension the acceleration we said.” Because if you’re theory states that on are experiencing at us.

Imagine an ant a Christian you believe 12/21/12 DNA is going the moment, and will continue to experience walking across your the world will end when to be mutated.

“It is not going to at an ever-increasing shoe. Would you really Jesus comes.”

Sophomore pace until 2012. Some notice that? Though Some even say there happen,” alignments of a few was a typo and it’s really Brandon DuPont said. say that the outcome of “It is all fake we will be this will be our ultimate planets have happened 4000 something.

“My opinion is that fine” spiritual, physical and rarely, but did you know ?

(2)The the guy who wrote the The belief of the ancient mental improvement.

“Honestly” Coach Mayan calendar, this calendar died,” Mrs. Mayans is that life really all started from Babcock said. “And works in cycles and that Campbell said. “I don’t the Mayan calendar, but nobody else could finish our current world should think anybody can come to an end because predict the end of the The Mayan calendar it.”

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world.”Scientist say that our DNA strands can be activated at a certain level of frequency because it is capable of vibrating being emitted by the universe at this very moment which we may not be aware but unconsciously affecting our daily lives. Some people will all of a sudden manifest their healing and telekinetic abilities and some will be able to communicate using their minds.

Harold camping said the world would end 5/21/11.

“I don’t think the world is going to end in 2012,” Sophomore Victoria Mathis said. ”The world has been around too long.”

The end of the world cannot be predicted it’s just a big hoax to scare people and a way to make Hollywood a million dollars from the movie 2012.

“Honestly, for me personally,” Coach Radford said. “God is in charge that is all I can say.”

But some still believe we are goners.

“Yes,” said Freshman Manual Rodriguez. “We are all going to die”

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Feature

Friday, February 24, 2012

BRIGHT NEW YEAR 2012 Brings Numerous Exciting Events

BY AMY LIU

As we enter the new year, we cannot help but look forward to the events that 2012 holds. One of the major events happening is the 2012 Olympic Games.

“It always amazes me to see the gifted athletes not only from the United States but also other countries as well,” sophomore Grace Ann Polasek said. “I have a good feeling about this however.

It should be a competitive year with hopefully a good outcome on our side.”

Some look forward to the Olympics for a break from the usual sports on TV.

“I always look forward to watching the Olympics,”

forward to watching.

“I am a sucker for watching gymnastics in the Olympics because I used to be a competitive gymnast myself,” sophomore Sarah Vance said. “When the gymnastic events are on I’m basically glued to the TV

prediction,” sophomore Michelle Veronin said.

“There is really no way to tell when the world is going to end. There will be a lot of triumphant people on December 22!”

Several point to previous predictions to denounce the credibility of the 2012 apocalypse.

“My sister was born on the day of the last supposed apocalypse,” LaRock said.

“So I honestly don’t think the world is going to end.”

Some students are planning unique ways of spending ‘the end of the world’.

“I doubt anything will happen,” Seal said. “So my friends and I will be having a party on 2012.”

hosting a triathlon in Corpus Christi, Texas, it will include biking, jogging, and swima weekly ‘Healthy Savings’ ming events. They will also on select foods they would have 25 people participate in need in order to make cer- a ‘Slimdown Showdown’ in tain healthy recipes. They are June, in San Antonio, Texas; determined to help improve the winner will get 10,000. people’s eating styles. The “The fact that they company is cutting down the are not stopping at just food prices of all their fresh pro- and getting involved with fitduce that they plan on spend- ness is great,” junior Joseph ing at least 20 million dollars Cramer said. “People that are on. They have about 150 plus unhealthy can now have the healthy recipes that they are opportunity to have a stronger sharing with their customers. and healthier life.”

“I think what HEB is HEB stores are hostdoing is great,” senior Kaila ing free health screenings and Duarte said. “It helps families fitness demonstrations, every open their minds to healthy 2nd Saturday of the month. eating, and changes their eat- In order to make things easing habits for the better.” ier for customers to find the

HEB is not only stop- products they need, they now ping at healthy eating, they have symbols on their food are promoting exercise as products, such as natural, well. In April HEB plans on

the 12th most obese state, up from 13th last year, with the adult obesity percentage of 30.1%. HEB is trying to change that, and make an impact on Texans lives. With HEB lowering their prices on select healthy foods, it is said that a family BIG SAVINGS. Sign advertising one should be able to preof HEB’s many great deals. Photo by: pare a healthy meal for Jackie Valdez. a family of four for unlactose, gluten free, natural, der $10.00. It won’t only imvegetarian, reduced calories, prove their health, it will also controlled portions. save money.

“I’m glad that they are

“I wouldn’t mind trydoing as much as they can to ing their new healthy prohelp the community and Texduce,” sophomore Mallory as in general,” junior Storm Hernandez said. “If anything Gracia said. “Since Texas is it will help save my family one of the most obese states money on great meals, and get we need something like what us healthy.”

HEB is doing here.”

Texas is now ranked

sophomore Hailey LaRock said. “It gives all sorts of people role-models to look up to. And besides who doesn’t like to watch sports other than football once in a while?”

A family member performing in an athletic event is a huge thing to look forward to.

“My cousin is going to be pole-vaulting.” sophomore Chase Gallagher said. “It would be interesting to watch perform.”

Many are excited for the venue of the event.

“I think it is pretty awesome seeing as how London will become the first city to officially host the modern Olympic Games three times,” sophomore Torie Wheeler said. “Having done so in 1908 and 1948.”

Many students have an event they especially look

HEALTHY SAVINGS HEB Starts A New Healthy Campaign

BY JACKIE VALDEZ AND XAVIER AMADOR

With the New Year comes new goals, some of those goals may include making their life and their families lives healthier than the year before.

“One of my goals this new year is to be way healthier than I was in 2011,” sophomore Sky Stiles said. “But, I don’t want to have to spend so much money on good healthy food.”

HEB is trying to help families reach those goals of healthier lives, by starting

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screen. Other interesting events are taekwondo and diving!”

Students hope that athletes participating in the events are safe.

“I hope that every athlete (horses included) will be alright and nothing bad happens,” sophomore Zoey Seal said. “Considering that I ride horses.”

Another upcoming occasion is an apocalypse predicted by the Mayans.

“The 2012 apocalypse is predicted by an intersection of religion, science and prophesies,” Wheeler said.

“Many great prophets, religious scriptures, and scientific evidence point to a possible apocalyptic event happening in the year 2012.”

Many students are skeptical of the prophecy.

Snapshot the the 2012 London Summer Games, which begin July 27 next year. Includes venue and “I honestly think it torch route maps and some facts about London is yet another inaccurate 2012. MCT 2011

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GET FIT

Students Speak About Thoughts On Fitness

BY SARAH VANCE

Nationwide, people pledged to get fit as their New Year’s resolution.

Many can’t deny that passed resolutions have fallen flat; however getting fit this year doesn’t have to. Exercise, proper diet, and sleep are key essentials to follow in order to become healthier.

“Our country suffers from obesity because people don’t find it important to stay fit,” sophomore Tori Wheeler said. “If more people were willing to give a small amount of time to exercise every day the problem would not be as bad.”

Corpus Christi is a victim of not getting enough exercise, and was even ranked as the fattest city in America

by Men’s Health Magazine.

Participating in aerobic activity, strength training, and flexibility sessions can help us turn this title around.

“I run sprints, play tennis, and work with weights and cords for exercise,” sophomore Trace Meadors said. “You will always feel great, and you will be able to perform in everyday life better.”

Not only does exercise help in short term, everyday life, it helps in the long run to keep your body functioning efficiently.

“Exercise will help keep your body functioning properly throughout life,” sophomore Hannah McNeese said.

“Being fit helps to prevent

RIDIN’ IN STYLE Students Show Off Their Cool Cars

BY RACHEL VANBUREN

The moment finally arrives when a teenager gets their first car. They have spent the time getting their license, they have passed the test at the dreaded DMV and there their new car sits. Weather it be brand new, or just new to them it opens up a whole new kind of freedom to the teenagers across America.

All young teenagers have to ask their parents for a ride every now and then; until, that is, the moment finally comes when a teenager gets his or her first car and gains freedom.

“I’m very thankful for my parents getting me my new car,” junior Miranda Ysassi said.

“I really love it, and I finally don’t

have to ask for rides.”

Cars can be fun and economical at the same time. When choosing a car many teachers look for both.

“My 2011 Camaro is a lot of fun,” counselor Cindy Bammert said. “It’s fast, has great gas mileage and handles the road very well.”

Cars can be more than transportation, they can be a hobby.

Motorcycles especially can be an exceptional kind of excitement.

“My Harley Davidson motorcycle is definitely one of my favorite toys,” substitute Colonel Kelly said. “I missed the excitement of being a Marine after having served twenty five years, so I thought that I would try to recapture a small amount of the fun with a motorcycle.”

Cars can be unique to their owner. From stickers to paint to seat covers a person has a wide variety of choices. For some representing schools or football teams is their choice, while others

disease and promotes better joint and brain functioning.”

While exercising regularly is important, fueling your body with the proper foods is just as important. Dieting is not always necessary, but just making good choices is.

“Dieting can be helpful or harmful,” McNeese said. “When done right it can work to make one healthier.

Otherwise it leads to eating disorders and weight loss.”

Some students are

Friday, February 24, 2012 taking initiative and cutting down portions and others

are changing up what they eat and choosing healthier options.

“I do not eat healthy right now,” Meadors said.

“But, I am going to start a gluten free diet soon.”

Exercising and diet are

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often thought of when people try to become healthier, but most overlook getting enough sleep. The average high-schooler needs nine to eleven hours of sleep a night, while adults only require seven to nine.

“Getting the right amount of sleep is very important to me,” sophomore Jacob Reinhard said. “But, I hardly ever get enough.”

Combining exercise, a good diet, and the right amount of sleep can lead one to becoming fit, but the most important thing to have in order to make these changes is motivation. Getting fit can be fun.

“Find any type of exercise that you think is fun,” Mcneese said. “Because if it isn’t fun for you, you won’t want to do it.”

chose a military branch.

VW beetles or sports cars, while parts of driving,” junior Cameron

“It took me only one the boys have large trucks and McIntosh said. “It is a standard, day to cover my jeep in Marine Broncos. twin turbo, fast toy on wheels, and stickers,” Kelly said. “My sons “I like having a big I also enjoy taking really good care have served two tours in Iraq, and I Bronco because it makes me feel of it, since it is one of the rarest also served for many years, so my unique,” senior Taylor Gain said. cars in Corpus.” covered jeep is only a small part of “And running over curbs and other Nothing could be more my support for the Marines.” things is really easy too.” fun than best friends having

In today’s society being Having a nice car can matching cars. It’s very ironic and “cool” is what is important to teach a teenager responsibility. makes driving even neater, the many students. A excitement of parking next to teenager’s status your best friend’s matching car, can be shown especially when it happened through the by chance. clothes they wear,

“Lauren bought her jeep the way the talk, first,” senior Kaela McLeod the sports they said. “I found my jeep to be the play, and the cars most affordable when I went they drive. car shopping, and my choice

“I like FUN CARS: Best friends, senior Kaela McLeod happened to match.” parking in the and senior Lauren Eckhardt enjoy their high school Many teenagers would front to show experience with matching cars. love to drive around town off my awesome matching their best friend and yellow Camaro,” parking next to their best friend senior Desi Castillo said. “because They have fun while driving and at school with matching cars. it’s the coolest car in the school get to show it off to all their friends, “I love having matching parking lot.” while they gain responsibility cars,” senior Lauren Eckhardt

Cars have their own and even a want to take care of said. “Everywhere we go people personality. For many teenagers, something. know us.” all it takes is a look at their car to “Having my dads 1988 get to know them. Girls drive little Mazda Rx-7 is one of my favorite

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Friday, February 24, 2012

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WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE Calallen Students Show Off Talent

BY BRITT SIMPSON

FREE STYLIN. Freshman Shabiz Griffen struts her stuff during the show Photo By: Cori Snyder

JAMMIN OUT. Sophomore Braxton Sullivan rocks out the talent show Photo By: Cori Snyder

Every year the Calallen Choir hosts a talent show in hopes that many students will audition and show enough talent to be placed in the show. This year there were loads of great acts from dancing to singing to playing instruments. Placing 1st place was The Bathmat Band, 2nd place went to Shabizz Griffin who prefromed a dance. Comming in 3rd place was the Drum Battle between Jonathon Garcia and Justin Gomez. And Honorable Mention: David Garza-Dancer and Braxton SullivanGuitar.

HEAVENLY TUNES. Junior Monica Mercardo sings her heart out.

Photo By: Cori Snyder DRUMMIN DUEL. Junior Johnathan Garcia jams out Photo By: Cori Snyder

SLAPPIN’ DABASS. Aki Weaver (right) and Jonah Ybarra (left) play “If It Means Alot To Your” by A Day To Remember.

Photo By: Cori Snyder

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TOPCAT COMPETITION Young Dancers Heading to Compete

BY RACHELLE WITTNER & JACARANDA LOPEZ

Once every spring the Calallen Topcats go to competition.

For 2012 the Topcats have a wonderful and strong team.

“I’m excited to go to competition with everyone,” sophomore Alejandra Garza said. “ And to learn new dances.”

This year the Topcats will be taking three dances- a hip hop, lyrical and a pop/kick routine.

These dances are very difficult.

In order to place the dances must be extremely good, hard and unique.

“I think this competition season is going to be great,” sophomore Mallory Hernandez said. “ We have a lot more

Friday, February 24, 2012

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During spring break the build up inside even more rewarding when we Topcats will be practicing really me throughout the got first in every category.” day,” junior Natalie There were 87 teams hard to get ready for competition.

Montelongo said. “ including Japan, and the Calallen The week after spring break is difficult choreography, and we They are released when I dance.” Topcats took three dances, hip when the girls head to Dallas to have a really strong team.” compete.

The girls were used hop, pom and kick routines.

This year they will be making “All of our hard work to easy dances during football This year the team tried a trip to Fort and practice will be worth it in season, but now that it is something new, Worth TX March the end,” junior Jezlyn Boyce competition season the tears which was a 22-25. said.

“So we can show everyone and emotions success.

Mrs. There will what we were able start to build up.

Vo o r h e e s be teams to accomplish.”

“I’m really thought it from all pumped up for would be a over the completion; its good idea to United my freshman add additional ONE STEP AT A TIME: year so I’m going people to the Sophomore Mallory Herto work hard to nandez TO DANCE: Freshman make the LIVE Photo By: Rachelle Wittner McKinnley Furney DANCE LIKE NOBODY READY FOR IT ALL. routines,” IS WATCHING: freshman Photo By: Rachelle Wintter Junior Jezlyn Boyce freshman Garcia Photo By: Jacaranda Lopez States. The Topcats are Alyssa Photo By: Jacaranda Lopez Alyssa getting so excited to see Garcia said. competition team, so she had what the other teams will “ I know our tryouts. They added six new bring on the dance floor. team can do it. We all get along members to the team.

There are quite a few new really well and we work really “ I love that we have new members on the competition hard together.” members join the competition squad that have never gone In 2008 the Calallen Topcats team; we are all one big family to compete and they are went to Daytona Beach , Florida. and we welcome anyone and looking forward to that day.

“It was a great everyone,” freshman McKinnley For new members the dances experience visiting a new state Furney said. “Our coaches are and competitions can be for competition,” assistant Coach the best and we love them very The Right Moves: The Topcats pose overwhelming.

Rhonda Voorhees said. “ It was much. I am very grateful to be a for a team picture.

“Thousands of emotions part of the team.”

Photo By: Cameron McIntosh

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Editorials

Friday, February 24, 2012

MOVIE THEATER MADNESS True Feelings Of Movie Theater Age Restrictions

BY LAYTON HART

Many movie theaters around the United States are issuing an age policy that restricts young adults from seeing movies after a certain time at night. Without a parent or legal guardian the young adult is not able to see any movie after the time issued.

Starplex Cinemas issued a policy stating that after 6 p.m. anyone under the age of sixteen must have a parent or legal guardian, twentyone years of age or older, accompany them to any show.

Century movie theaters issued a policy that after 6

p.m. viewers must be at least seventeen years of age or have a parent accompany them to view the movie. I.D.s will be checked at the theater.

Mounds theaters state that guests under the age of sixteen will not be admitted to the movie theater after 8 p.m. unless accompanied by a legal parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must be the ticket purchaser and remain with the underage guest at all times.

Guests are required to show a valid I.D. proving age after 8 p.m.

Movie theaters around the United States are going to this policy because they believe they are creating a non-disruptive environment for adults after night falls.

The theaters are trying to avoid movie goers irritation with underage teens who were dropped off by their parents. Many adults even

policy that a legal parent or guardian has to buy their movie tickets and accompany them assume that the guardians the entire time. An adult over of the young adults drop off the age of eighteen should be their children to be “baby able to purchase tickets for sat” for a few hours for a them. This allows for siblings cheap cost. I disagree with the to go to the movies with their movie theaters that promote younger siblings without their this policy and the adults that parent accompanying agree with it. For them. Cinemas should people over the at least change the time age of fourteen, that the policy takes this creates a major effect. If movie theaters hassle.

Many change the time to 8:30 young adults over p.m. or 9 p.m. then the age of fourteen the movie they are to have friends that see will most likely be are over the age over with before 11 of sixteen. These p.m., the curfew for people are forced minors under the age to tell their friends PURCHASING TICKETS. Patrons line up at the AMC Universal of seventeen. This way Citywalk Stadium 19 theatres in Los Angeles, California. After a that they cannot strong rally at the box office this summer — when ticket sales soared the minors will have attend the movie to record levels — the U.S. exhibition industry has been dampened left the movie theater because they would by unexpectedly weak ticket sales in the 2011 holiday season. (Brian by the time curfew takes van der Brug/Los Angeles Times/MCT) Photo by: MCT Campus not be allowed in. effect. Movie theaters Many young adults and cinemas should would be mortified that their or older are mature enough to reconsider their policy and legal parent/guardian had to have friends or relationships make adjustments for teens attend a movie with them so with people sixteen and older. over the age of fourteen. that they could be with their Theaters should change the

IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY New And Improved Technology In School

BY MATTHEW LEIVA

Technological advances have affected our daily lives in numerous ways.

Some schools embrace the transition from pencils and notebook paper to typing on a computer. Other schools consider this a nuisance because computers and printers can malfunction, while paper and pencil cannot.

One of the main reasons some schools are hesitant to utilize computers and

the Internet is that students easily get distracted and swayed when using the Internet. Ten years ago, the Internet was merely a fraction of what it has now become.

Today, with the simple twitch of a finger on a mouse, one can access a myriad of games, music, news, gossip, social networking sites, and other variations of cheap entertainment. This all makes for the perfect concoction of worldly pleasures that can tempt, trap, and ensnare any curious web surfer.

So, it’s easy to see why some schools reason that it is better to shield students from these distractions by keeping things simple.

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Movie theaters should lower their age policy or move the time that their policy takes effect to a later time. Cinemas should also lower the policy age to a minimum of fourteen years of age. Young adults that are fourteen years of age

Howev- incorporate technology into er, this classrooms to further edudoes not cate and prepare students for mean that students should when they get thrown into suffer by being forced to use the real world. tools and utensils that were considered “modern” back in the stone age.

Technology is changing very rapidly.

In the near future, it is very possible that pencils, paper, chalkboards, dry erase boards, and other school commodities that we consider conventional will be rendered useless and obsolete by new convenient technological innovations and HOMEWORK VIA A COMPUTER. Sophomore Mallory Harnandez utimodifications. It is lizes a computer at school to do her homework more efficiently and faster than technology. of utmost impor- without Photo By: Matthew Leiva tance that schools

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Friday, February 24, 2012

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INTERNET CENSORSHIP SOPA, PIPA, ACTA, And The Challenges Facing The Internet BY: REESE GALLAGHER

I want my Internet. Now that’s not too much to ask for from my mom, my Internet service provider, or my electricity company, but to Congressman Lamar Smith, Senator Harry Reid, and many other politicians and leaders, it is. The “war” on Internet as we know it threatens to censor, blackout, or even remove websites from the world wide web. SOPA and PIPA although postponed have caused quite a stir, and have also made way for similar bills worldwide. SOPA, the Stop Online Piracy Act, and PIPA, the Protect IP Act, both have a reasonable outer motive. To rid the possibility of “sharing”

copyrighted material on the web. Both bill’s basic provision grant the right to censor, and/or remove those sites that share music, movies, software, or anything else that is able to be uploaded to a filesharing website, and made available to the world for free. This probably makes you say, “ Go ahead! I buy my music and media anyway.”

This is most likely why so many people, or should I say voters, glance over these type of bills with no regard as to how they could affect them directly, and affect the entire Internet. Think about it though, if Pixar claimed that an international site is torrenting a copy of Finding Nemo, that company could demand that Google remove the site from its search results, or ad services to pull their ads, and financial backing for the site, or most dangerously, that site’s Internet service provider

could prevent you companies, leaving start-up Partnership Agreement imply from even visiting sites with little to no resources the same premise as SOPA, that site. Now again, to make a living.

PIPA, and the overall desire this probably still doesn’t SOPA and PIPA of “cleansing” the internet. bother you, but the possibility have both been postponed Your Internet is of entire Internet websites in Congress, showing the at risk, and we should be being shut down because of a sheer power that the people prepared to act in the future single copyright infringement actually have on legislation against similar bills that is absurd. These bills would in Congress. On January 18, threaten the freedom and grant content creators Wikipedia blacked out their innovation of the Internet, extraordinary Internet powers. entire U.S. site to protest like SOPA and PIPA did. So

The most relevant SOPA. Google and other sites as long as these bills stand reason SOPA would affect also showed their opposition without wording and revision you is its anti-circumvention by placing a banner or to specifically target the clause. This basically says discoloring their sites. The problem in an efficient and that the workarounds of SOPA motives of these bills have reasonable way, there will are nearly as bad as outright not been subdued. Many always be opposition. violating it. If your Facebook bills worldwide, such as status, or tweets, Tumblr, or ACTA, and the Trans Pacific YouTube videos show links to Pirate Bay or other unaffected sharing sites, you social networking site would be legally obligated to remove it, or face the possibility of being shut down. Self-moderating

by CANTEX CONTINUING CARE NETWORK the Internet would Melinda Garcia, PTA 1220 loop 459 require tremendous mathis, texas 78368 resources for established Rehabilitation Director

NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS Students Make Promises For The New Year

BY JOCELYN HANSEN

New Years resolutions normally don’t last very long. It is easy to resolve to do or not do something, but it is often much harder to keep.

“My New Year’s resolution is to walk across the graduation stage,” senior Katie Stamper said. “Walking with my walker and my braces on.”

Resolutions range from quitting bad habits or improving grades to eating

better and exercising more.

“I think losing weight never worked out for me,” Coach Radford said.“It is less stressful to focus on being with my family, and enjoy the important things most.”

Most resolutions are broken too soon, but those who keep them find it well worthwhile.

“My New Year’s resolution is to not swear anymore,” sophomore Brandon DuPont said.”

Many people follow the trend of trying to begin a healthier lifestyle in the new year.

“I want to be health-

ier,” teacher Mrs. Gonzales said. “Walk 20 minutes around the campus and limit my sugar.”

Psychologists research the critical ingredients for effective behavior change and success in keeping New Year’s resolutions. But, sometimes, the answer is closer than these for20030204-New-Year MCT Campus mulas.

“Rather than motto.” make a resolution, I’d Resolutions can have rather try to be good,” teach- er Mrs. Babcock said. “Treat both positive and negative others the way you want to effects on your behavior. be treated - I live on that If you stick to them, they

phone:: 361.547.3318 fax:: 361.547.3737 cell:: 361.726.5294 email:: 14rehab@cantexcc.com

generally encourage you, while, if you fail, you become discouraged.

So, it is important to make a resolution you can keep.

“My new years resolution is to become a better teacher,” Coach Kirkpatrick said.“I’m am going to be more patient with my students.”

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Sports

Friday, February 24, 2012

LET THE GAMES BEGIN Girl’s Soccer Begins With a Bang

BY EVELYN GUERRA

Cool weather, cut grass, and fresh paint outline the field, soccer season is definitely in the atmosphere.

The girls soccer teams have started the season with many ambitions, lots of training, and already some wins.

“We all have our strengths and we are learning to come together as a team nicely,” senior Andrea Perez said. “We have high hopes for the season to come.”

The ladies of the field have started this season with a good turnout for tryouts after Thanksgiving break, in the wee hours of

the morning, having set up two teams: varsity and junior varsity. Some of the girls are veterans from years past and some are new faces to the program.

“Tryouts this year weren’t hard, but they weren’t a walk in the park,” junior Ashlynn Marek said. “It was a horrible feeling having to wake up three whole hours earlier than routine.”

Coach Kirkpatrick, head of the Lady Cats, wasted no time and started the season with morning practices in the freezing weather, full of lots of ball work and a copious amount of running.

“Yes it was freezing, but luckily we managed,” senior Jennifer Garcia said.

“Practices are coming along.

We all practice together, both varsity and junior varsity, which means we are getting

the same lessons and gaining the same advantages.”

Before district even started, Coach Kirkpatrick scheduled a good amount of preseason games to get the team acquainted, playing with each other, sharpening skills and overall creating a strong team; one that’s tough to beat.

“Practices are going really well,” sophomore Brittny Merkich said. “Coach Kirkpatrick pinpoints our mistakes and corrects them along the way.”

Last year the lady cats went into playoffs. This year they plan to do the same but with better results than years past. The team hopes to end first in district, beating Flour Bluff and Kingsville.

“We all want to win district this year,” senior Kayla Muerer said. “We were so close last year; we can just

feel the title in our hands.”

The girls are working hard to achieve their goals each day. With football season over, Coach Kirkpatrick now has time to have practice when the bell rings at four; moving morning practices to the afternoon.

“I see us making progress each day, and I really cannot complain,” senior Julie Schumaker said.

“So far I think we’re playing good this start of the season.”

Each game, the team comes together to play and perform at their highest potential. They go into a game after a useful warm up and a good pep talk with the most optimistic mindsets to help gain confidence to achieve victory.

“Every game, we all pull our own weight,” senior Katie Zirbes said.

“That really helps when we out playing against a strong

team.”

If the Lady Cats continue to be consistent with their determination, practice diligently, and keep up a positive attitude, there is no doubt they will go far this season.

“I think if they continue to work hard and have successful practices,” senior Shelby Pattillo said.

“I’m confident they can pull off a winning season.”

progresses we’ll get better and better,” junior Carter Hunt said. “We’ll become beginning it’s a learning a working team and shoot for experience and as time district.”

The Coach of the JV soccer team, Coach Ward, has taught all the boys to play as best as they can.

“Despite our lack of soccer knowledge,” sophomore Cory Wittig said.

“We’ve come together as a team.”

The Boys have played three scrimmages against the JV and TALENTED JAY. Junior Jay Juarez shows us his new varsity girls and tricks. Photo By: Hunter Wilson varsity boys.

“Scrimmaging against the boys JV soccer team was a great experience,” varsity girls soccer player junior Emily Brearton said. “I have to admit they beat us but we’ll get them next time.”

The first scrimmage, the boys varsity won but the JV came back and beat them in the second scrimmage.

“At first JV soccer started off as being a joke,” varsity soccer player senior Carlo Garza said. “But they ended up beating us on a fluke play by Trevor Hurst.”

The team has learned a lot in the past few weeks of soccer.

“We all are really good athletes,” JV soccer player junior Steven Gralinski said.

“But none of us know how to play soccer.”

A NEW SQUAD EMERGES JV Boys Soccer Improving With Practice

BY HUNTER WILSON

We’re kicking in the new soccer season with some talented, experienced athletes.

Most of the boys on the JV soccer team have not played soccer before so you would guess they wouldn’t be very good.

“We’re going to win a game,” sophomore Kade Young said. “Maybe not at first, but at one point we’ll win one.”

Some of the players think they may not make it, yet

others have confidence in their team.

“I’m setting a goal this season,” junior Brandon Bristow said. “I’ll be happy if I score a goal.”

Experienced players can actually help lead the team to success.

“We still struggle with the basics,” sophomore Cade Boyd said. “But I feel that we have the ability to improve and compete at the JV level.”

As they can see, with practice they will get better.

“As we work as a team,” junior Jay Juarez said.

“We gain more skills.”

A couple of the guys say they’re doing it for the experience and others for the fun of the game.

“I think that at the

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ON THE FIELD: Senior Julie Schumaker plays center in a game versus Carrol.Photo By: Heather Moses

Sports

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DISTRICT SWIMMING BY: COLBY MANNING

The Calallen Swim and Dive Team participated in the District 31 4A meet this Saturday…the results are as follows:

In the girls 200 Medley relay Katie Campbell, Amely Cardenas, Betsy Riojas, and Dana Russell placed 4th In the boys 200 Medley relay Colby Manning, Tony LaMantia, Landon Horton, and Britton Simpson placed 4th

In the 200 Free Michelle Carmony placed 8th, Gabriel Cardenas placed 14th, and Marco Neblett placed 17th.

In the 200 IM Betsy Riojas placed 10th, Brandon Bristow placed 9th, and Tony LaMantia placed 10th

In the 50 Free Katie Campbell placed 10th, Tate

Kirby 11th, Dana Russell 14th, for the boys Jack McLaughlin came in 1st and Taylor Adame placed 6th.

In the 100 butterfly Betsy Riojas placed 5th and Colby Manning took 7th.

In the 100 freestyle Tiffany Carmony placed 7th, Tate Kirby 11th, Britton Simpson 10th, and Gabriel Cardenas 14th

In the 500 freestyle Amely Cardenas placed 7th, Richard Walker 10th, and Jack McLaughlin took 1st and set a new district record coming in with a time of 5:02.78!!

In the 200 freestyle relay Tiffany Carmony,

Michelle Carmony, Tate Kirby, and Dana Russell placed 5th In the boys 200 freestyle relay Colby Manning, Taylor Adame,

McLaughlin placed 3rd

In the 100 back Tiffany Carmony placed 12th and Marco Neblett placed 17th

In the 100 breast

Brandon Bristow, and Jack

Michelle Carmony placed 7th,

REGIONAL SWIMMING Swimmers Finish the Year Strong

BY BRITT SIMPSON & TAYLOR SCHWARTZ

The Girls 200 Medley Relay consisting of Tate Kirby Amely Cardenas Betsy Riojas and Dana Russell Placed 8th with a time of 2:20.62 The boys 200 Medley Relay of Tony LaMantia, Richard Walker, Colby Manning, and Brandon Bristow placed 4th with a time of 1:56.63 The girls 200 Freestyle Relay Tate Kirby Michelle Carmony Tiffany Carmony and Dana Russell placed 7th with a time of 2:04.83 The boys 200 freestyle Relay Brandon Bristow, Landon Horton, Taylor

Adame, and Jack McLaughlin placed 3rd with a time of 1:34.09 The girls 400 Freestyle Relay of tiffany Carmony, Betsy Riojas, Michelle Carmony, and Amely

Friday, February 24, 2012

Cardenas placed 7th with a time of 4:25.40 The boys 400 Freestyle Relay of Tony LaMantia, Landon Horton, Taylor Adame, and Colby Manning placed 4th with a time of 3:43.15 In individuals Betsy Riojas

Take Your Mark: senior Colby Manning practices his starts before the meet. Photo By: Cameron McIntosh

placed 7th with time of 1:14.19 And Jack McLaughlin placed 1st in the 50 Freestyle with a time of 22.56 and placed 1st in the 500 freestyle and broke the Region record with a time of 4:52.29. Jack McLaughlin will be advancing to the

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Richard Walker placed 7th and Colby Manning came in 8th

In the girls 400 freestyle relay Betsy Riojas, Katie Campbell, Tiffany Carmony, and Amely Cardenas placed 4th In the boys 400 freestyle relay Tony LaMantia, Taylor Adame, Landon Horton, and Jack McLaughlin placed 2nd.

In the 1 meter diving Tanner Tate placed 3rd and Sean Hiegard placed 7th Tanner Tate was also a finalist for diver of the year and Jack McLaughlin was named district swimmer of the year!!

The swimmers will compete in the Region meet Friday February 10th and Saturday February 11th at the Corpus Christi Natatorium.

state meet in Austin TX on February 24th and 25th.

Our diver Tanner Tate placed 5th overall with a score of 262.30

Flip Turn: freshman Richard Walker turns as fast as he can.

Photo By: Cameron McIntosh

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Sports

Friday February 24, 2012

DISTRICT REALIGNMENT Biennial Re-Districting Sets Up Big Season

BY SHAWN STRACENER The new district realignments by the University Interscholastic League provide a rekindled rivalry with GregoryPortland, while losing the recently growing Flour Bluff rivalry.

Sophomore Steven Weaver said.

“I do not know anyone who has gotten to the top without hard work, and that is definitely what it is going to take to continue to be successful in our new district.”

Moving into district 30 will bring even more challenges. Sophomore Connor Lowrance said. “Well, this upcoming year will be more than a challenge with the competition our district brings us but I think we have the potential to accept that challenge and overcome the obstacles in our way. This new district shall be fun.” Whith

challenges such as Port Lavaca Calhoun, Victoria East and West, as well as Beeville. TulosoMidway our district is jammed pack. Sophomore Trevor Moses said, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination, and I for one am determined to be successful in our new district, not just in Football but in every sport possible.” It also follows suit in the move to district 30. Sophomore Cody Cagle said. “Well it seems like a pretty competitive new district but Calallen is a very competitive team. We are just going to have to work hard and we’ll come out on top.” The new district will throw most sports into uncharted territory. Sophomore Sara Kneip said, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s will to win, and with our new district next year we hope to make it all possible and bring home the district title.” Certainly making for an unpredictable season.

P a l o m a Treasures in Gypsy Reign

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DISTRICT 30 DISTRICT 31

BEEVILLE JONES CC CALALLEN CC TULOSO-MIDWAY GREGORY-PORTLAND PORT LAVACA CALHOUN VICTORIA EAST VICTORIA WEST

15946 Northwest Blvd Robstown TX 78380 (361)-387-9601 Inside Gypsy Reign

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2011-2012

Calallen High School Publications Calallen High School 4001 Wildcat Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78410 361-242-5649 (Fax) 361-242-5632 www.calallen.k12.tx.us Advisor- Janet Simpson Principal- Yvonne Marquez-Neth Vice Principals- Peter Van Maren William Ball Susanna Walker Superintendent: Arturo Almendarez

Editor-in-Chief: Reese Gallagher (‘12)

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Jewelry! $10 OFF

On Any Purchase of $100 or more Bring this coupon in to the store for your discount.

ALICE CC FLOUR BLUFF CC MILLER CC MOODY CC RAY LAREDO CIGGAROA LAREDO NIXON LAREDO MARTIN

Editors: Katie Goode (‘12) Erik Reddout (‘12) Lina Young (‘12) Emily Brearton (‘13) Taylor Schwartz (‘13) Britton Simpson (‘13) Brendan Strop (‘13) Alexandra Taylor (‘13) Sarah Vance (‘14)

_______ Reporters: _____________________________

$5 OFF

On Any Purchase of $50 or more Bring this coupon in to the store for your discount.

Alli Silva (‘13) Haleigh Bauch (‘12) Hunter Wilson (‘13) Jennifer Garcia (‘12) Rachel Van Buren (‘13) Evelyn Guerra (‘12) Jackie Valdez (‘13) Katie Stamper (‘12) Jocelyn Hansen (‘14) Xavier Amador (‘13) Layton Hart (‘14) Katlyn Crisman (‘13) Jake Huffman (‘14) Victoria Freeman (‘13) Amy Liu (‘14) Cameron Gonzalez (‘13) Jacaranda Lopez (‘14) Harper Hans (‘13) Shawn Stracener (‘14) Kiah Hinojosa (‘13) Rachelle Wittner (‘14) Landon Horton (‘13) Brittny Merkich (‘14) Matthew Leiva (‘13) ____________________________________________

Editorial Policy- The Calallen High School Wildcatter invites opinions

to be expressed in letters to the editor and special contributions to the publication staff. Anonymous letters or special contributions will not be considered for publication. The editor also reserves the right to edit any letter or special contribution for the length and/or content. All material in each issue of the Wildcatter may not be reprinted or in anyway reproduced without the prior written permission from the editor.

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DUKE UNIVERSITY

DUKE

BY ALEXANDRA TAYLOR

GETTING IN

Duke University receives applications from some of the top academic achievers in the country and internationally. Academically, Duke requires the ACT test or the SAT plus two SAT subject tests for consideration of admission. Most admitted applicants are ranked in the top 10% of their class and have taken advanced placement high school classes. The college seeks individuals possessing leadership curiosity and drive. Both well-rounded applicants and defined ones may fit these requirements. Regardless of the affiliation of a student’s passion, Duke looks for students who have a passion for learning and developing as intellectuals and as people.

WHAT THEY OFFER

Duke’s undergraduate programs focus on a high level of liberal arts education in all majors. It also offers six different undergraduate schools including the main college. Within most majors, interdisciplinary study in one of the university’s many research facilities is available. Internships and opportunities outside the college include study abroad and networking opportunities for ‘life after Duke’.

CITY LIFE Duke University is located in Durham, North Carolina; the heart of the Piedmont region of the state. It lies perfectly between the mountains and the beach and is covered by pine trees and sand alike. The climate encourages plenty of outdoor activity and a long season of the farmer’s market. Durham has a thriving artistic scene with dance and theatre groups regularly touring through the city or nearby in Raleigh. Professional sports teams, like NHL hockey and AAA baseball dot the area as well. While there is plenty to do in the city, Duke is central to life in Durham.

FINANCIAL AID

STUDENT LIFE

Financial aid at Duke is need blind, and offers many options to help you pay for college.

In addition to school scholarships, loans, and grants, the school offers a work study option and outside scholarship opportunities as well. Duke also offers budgeting help on how to handle the composite cost, not just tuition, of attending.

Duke University offers so much more than the rigorous academic excellence for which it is so known.

Home to a nationally competitive Blue Devils NCAA D-1 athletic program, Duke boasts an excellent basketball program in addition to many other D-1 and intramural sports.

The university also claims a respected arts field, including the visual and performing arts. Freshman and upperclassman living on-campus is close-knit and friendly. Since few bring vehicles, there are ample transportation options. There is also a variety of meal-plan and dining options on and just off campus.

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Friday, February 24, 2012

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THE LOVE OF THE GAME

BY KATIE STAMPER

Behind The Scenes With Coach Radford

App of the Week

Coach Radford graduated high school from Kingsville High School pursuing her teaching career at Texas A&I University, before it became TAMUK. “ I loved playing tennis and wanted to become a tennis coach,” Coach Radford said. “ So I had to teach to become a coach.” She has played tennis since she was 6 and continued all the way through college. “I love the sport and it is my life.” Coach Radford said. Coach Radford enjoys watching the kids grow and progress over 4 years and see the player’s passion for the game. Within her family, coach has 2 kids, Carson who is ten and Cabell who is 4, and both are active in sports. She enjoys helping them raise pigs for the livestock show. Coach Radford is active in church and has joined the church choir. Although she sings gospel music, she enjoys a mix between country and old rock music. Her favorite color is green and she loves a combination of the classic burger and fries. Coach Radford has always enjoyed tennis and when asked if she would coach anything else but tennis she couldn’t imagine doing anything else. “Tennis has been my life,” said Coach Radford. “But if I had to choose I would want to coach a Jamaican Bobsled Team.”

Trailers

Trailers is the way to look up movie previews showtimes and photos at the touch of a button.

Adele’s Awards THE GRAMMY’S

Adele with her bevy of awards at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday, February 12, 2012.

(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/MCT)

Record Of The Year: Rolling In The Deep Album Of The Year: 21 Song Of The Year: Rolling In The Deep Best Pop Solo Performance: Someone Like You Best Pop Vocal Album: 21 Best Short Form Music Video: Rolling In The Deep