Vol. 16 Issue 6

the

Roar ause for alarm c

A&M Consolidated High School

See the AgHouse being built on page 17.

1801 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S., College Station, Texas 77840

Friday, May 13, 2011

Vol. 16 No. 6

nthis ssue news

Teen Court: Volunteers get hands-on experience with different aspects of the justice system. Page 4.

viewpoints

Ask Away: Senior Alejandra Oliva writes about the importance of asking the right questions. Page 7.

people

50 Years of Fabulous: Bengal Belles perform on stage to celebrate the organization's 50th anniversary. Page 21.

sports

Sports Review: The Roar selects some of the standout players and moments from Consol's spring season. Page 24 & 25.

health & rec

hey seniors, good luck next year!

Consol faces changes in staffing, scheduling as result of budget cuts

by

amy zhang, opinions editor dana branham, assistant editor

Ten more school days. 74 hours. 266,400 seconds. With the 2010 to 2011 school year coming to a close, many students have already filled their minds with thoughts of a fun-filled summer, with school being pushed back as a second priority. However, when August comes around, students may not find themselves returning to the same school that they will soon leave.

Over the course of the next few months, Consol will undergo many new changes in response to the state’s impending budget cuts.

“There will be less teachers and staff at the high school, which is one of the significant changes,” Superintendent Eddie Coulson said.

“The class loads will increase for the teachers, but not necessarily the class size.”

Although teachers may take on more classes next year to accommodate the larger number of students, staff members wish to maintain the school’s high standards.

“The budget cuts will not affect curriculum

savings to transportation budget by staging school start times

instruction [or] anything that we’re providing for our students,” Principal Ernest Reed said. “To maintain that is a priority of the superintendent, a priority of the school board—a priority of our administration and the staff.”

Contrary to the decisions of many school districts across Texas, College Station ISD will not be compensating for the budget cuts by firing teachers. Instead, the district will maintain a policy of attrition, where teachers who retire or leave voluntarily will just not be replaced.

“We’re looking within the district and moving people around to fill spots, so we’re going to have [fewer] employees within the system next year, but we won’t have to lay people off to do that,” Coulson said. “We’re going to have [fewer] librarians in the district, we’ll have [fewer] custodians in the district, we’ll have [fewer] teachers in the district, but we won’t have to lay anybody off to meet our budgetary reductions that we need to do.”

Librarian Denise Glockzin made the decision to transfer to the new Greens Prairie Elementary School to become a second grade teacher again, after being a high school librarian for the last 10 years of her 25-year teaching

transportation budget out of entire csisd budget

career.

“I had to think about my priorities and my goal as an educator, because we were asked to think about other positions in the district that we would be interested in doing, and for me that meant classroom teaching because all librarians have teaching certification and we have teaching experience,” Glockzin said. “As far as the change and the personal effect that has on me, my career, and my life, it means a change, obviously. Going from a librarian to a classroom teacher is a change.”

While Glockzin is willing to make the transfer, part of her wishes that these staffing reductions were not necessary.

“When we have staffing cuts, we won’t be able to support the students and school at the level that we would like to,” Glockzin said. “It’s just going to require utilizing our resources better, including staffing. I chose to be considered as a classroom teacher and I’m happy with it, [but] in an ideal world, I think I would not be making this change if our staffing did not need to change.”

see 'alarm' page 3 predicted total cuts assuming a 5% decrease in state funding

Hard of Hearing: Volume of earbuds can lead to hearing loss.

Page 29.

tolook

where

News

Viewpoints

pages 2-6

millio

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pages 7-12 page 17

Snapshots Student Life

pages 18-19

People

pages 13-16, 20-21

Sports

pages 22-26

Health & Rec

pages 27-29

Entertainment

pages 30-31

Seniors

pages 32-35

Etc.

$0.2

page 36

$2.2 mill

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$2.2 million

$74.5 million

$6.5

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$74.5 million

art by alejandra oliva

2 | news | the roar

n the news

FCCLA students qualify for the national competition

Skills USA participants excel at state event

Juniors Abigail Hedge, Nicole Albrecht and Samantha Shepard placed second in the Focus on the Children event at the state FCCLA competition in Waco. They will be competing in the national competition from July 9 to 14. Additionally, other students who competed at the state competition include junior Cesia Sanchez, Interior Design; sophomore Samantha McLeod, Life event Planning; junior Kara Slaughter Fashion Design; senior Catalena Sanchez, Interior Design; junior Kayle Strong, Interior Design; and junior Courtnie Sample, Interior Design.

Four students who participated at the state SkillsUSA in Corpus Christi contest qualified to advance to the national competition to be held in Kansas City, Missouri in June. Senior Adam Wang and junior Tyler Tesch placed first and second, respectively, in the Computer Programming competition, sophomore Joy Cope placed second in photography, and Seniors Travis Knight and Taylor Gade won the Radio Audio Production category in order to advance to nationals.

Registration begins for summer school Summer school will run from June 1 to June 30. The cost will be $100 for every half credit for modules or $150 for courses online. All payments for the first session are due by May 27. For more information, go to http://hs.csisd.org.

BPA participants compete, place at national event BPA students competed at their national competition in Washington, D.C. Senior Adam Wang received first place in C++, and senior PJ Huang received seventh place in Human Resource Management.

UIL academic students earn state medals From Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 7 students on the UIL academic team competed at State.

Students who placed were Kevin Li, fifth in science; Amy Zhang, fifth in editorial writing; and Michelle Liu, first in literary criticism.

FFA students win first place team at state championship Seniors Colton Hanson, Cole Sustaire, Jordan Harris and Matthew Telg won first place at the State FFA Agriculture Mechanics Contest and will represent the state of Texas at the National level.

Colton was the third high point individual, Cole and Jordan tied for fifth high point individual and Matthew finished twelfth.

friday, may 13, 2011

A qu ck view Juniors Chaiss Matthews, Holland Knapp and Joanna Benjamin lay out the fabric that will be used for the walls at prom at the Expo center on Friday, May 6.

The theme for this year is Arabian Nights, and the event will take place tomorrow from 8 p.m to 12 a.m. Students must bring their school ID to be admitted. PHOTO BY ABIGAYLE ENGLISH

Com ng up May 13: WIT vs FIT at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium; tickets are $5 May 14: Prom “Arabian Nights�- 8 p.m. to 12 p.m. at Expo Center May 17-19: Senior final exams (see page 30 for more details) May 25-27: Final exam week (see page 30 for more details) May 26: Senior Picnic at Olsen Field at 1:30 p.m.

May 27: Last day of school May 27: Graduation at Reed Arena at 7:30 p.m.

June 4: SAT at Consol Aug. 22: First day of school Sept. 5: No school for Labor Day holiday

the roar | news | 3

friday, may 13, 2011

‘alarm’ continued from page 1

Budget cuts lead to changes in staff, scheduling In addition to these school-wide changes, the district must also hold itself accountable for the opening of College Station High School in fall 2012. The school’s principal, Mike Martindale, said that efforts will be made to assimilate Consol freshmen next year who will become sophomores at CSHS the following year.

“We’re not establishing a school-within-a-school.

While [those students] have to make a transition, we’re hoping it’s an easy transition for them to make,” Coulson said. “They’re going from a good school, and they’re going to establish a good school. So, for their freshman year, they’ll be Tigers, and for their sophomore year [and so on], they’ll be Cougars at College Station High School.”

While the process of shifting to a district with two high schools is an unprecedented one, Martindale is optimistic about the future.

“My approach is that the opportunities that the kids will get will be identical. The same things will be offered to them as if they were at Consolidated,” Martindale said. “At the same time, we’ll be creating what we’re all about as College Station High School Cougars—embracing the new and respecting the past.”

Starting in 2012, the district will also switch to a three-tiered busing system, meaning that school would start at 7:25 a.m. for the high schools, 8:05 a.m. for the elementary schools and 8:45 a.m. for intermediate and middle schools.

“The three-tiered bussing system would mean that we are able to run a high school bus route, an elementary school bus route and then an intermediate and middle school bus route,” Coulson said. “Doing

so would require that we have fewer buses and less total numbers of drivers, which would ultimately, we anticipate, save College Station ISD in the range of $250,000 annually.”

While this change will certainly reverberate through the district, Coulson believes that its implementation will be efficient and beneficial, even if not necessarily well received.

“As a district, what we’re trying to do is balance the needs of the budget, the needs of the schools, the needs of the students involved in there and looking at what other school districts are doing in terms of meeting the needs with efficiency,” Coulson said. “This is one of the things that is out there to do. We are able to reduce $250,000 out of our budget without changing, necessarily, the staffing, the class sizes, without making a huge impact to the district other than the start times.”

According to Coulson, the quarter of a million dollars saved through this busing system will mean that some staff reductions or reductions in other areas will not need to be done. The change is still a year and a half away, meaning that the district still has time to revise its plan, if needed. However, Coulson does not anticipate that change will happen.

“We’re still a year and a half out, and we don’t know what is ultimately going to happen at the state level. If, by some miracle, school districts actually got more money rather than less money, I think a lot of things would go back on the table in terms of the reductions that we’re currently planning,” Coulson said. “From my perspective, based on the news that I’m hearing, the likelihood of that happening is very, very, very slim. But I’ll always hold out hope.”

Consol Changes Fewer teachers and staff due to attrition Increased class loads for teachers Students who are Consol freshmen next year will become College Station High School sophomores in 2012 Three-tiered busing system starting in 2012 with new start times: 7:25 a.m. for the high schools, 8:05 a.m. for the elementary schools and 8:45 a.m. for intermediate and middle schools

compiled by amy zhang art by alejandra oliva

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4 | news | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Teen court offers learning opportunities for volunteers, defendants

BY KATY MASSEY

assistant opinions editor

Silent and still, the 11 teenagers watch the defendant walk back into the room, their eyes focused on the teenager awaiting their sentencing. While the hours of community service and jury terms are announced, the members of the courtroom remain quiet, their minds filled with the potential consequences their decision has just made in the life of the defendant. Despite being adolescents, these young people are members of the City of College Station’s Teen Court, a program designed to help teenagers who commit Class C misdemeanors gain a second chance.

“One of the things that Peggy Calliham, the creator of the College Station Teen Court, saw was the need for the teens in our community to have a better solution than simply signing a ticket for an offense,” said Mike Mullen, Teen Court Coordinator. “Students who have made a mistake, made poor choices, or are just coming from a world where they may not have positive influences, have the opportunity to learn about being accountable and responsible for their actions by coming to Teen Court.”

Mullen, who has been Teen Court Coordinator for six years, feels that the program is an effective, essential part of the city government in College Station.

“Essentially, kids who end up going to Teen Court don’t end up getting in more trouble,” Mullen said. “The number of times teens repeat an offense after going to Teen Court is extremely low.”

Defendants who come to Teen Court are generally within the ages of 12 to 18 years old. The Teen Court jury hears cases for solely Class C misdemeanors, and the defendant must also plead guilty or no contest to their offense in order to participate in Teen Court.

By going to Teen Court instead of merely paying the fine for a ticket, defendants have the chance to essentially “erase” the offense from their record with anywhere from 12 to 60 hours of community service, making it possible for

them to have more opportunities to succeed in a future job or career.

“We give people an opportunity to move past [their offense],” Mullen said. “We can wipe away mistakes for those who are willing to take responsibility for their actions.”

The structure of Teen Court is fairly simple.

However, this system has not been used for all the years that Teen Court has been in place.

“During the first few years of the program, the master jury format was only used during trafficking cases and during the summer, when we had a limited number of students available,” Mullen said. “The other times, cases were actually handled with the form you see on television: students served as prosecutors, defense attorneys and a local lawyer served as a judge.”

While this court form served as a great experience for students who wanted to pursue law professions in the future, it did not focus directly on the defendants and helping them, Mullen said.

From all the cases she’s seen during the time she’s volunteered at Teen Court, Ray has gained knowledge about not only other people’s lives, but the obvious consequences that result from poor decisions.

“The reason most people choose Teen Court is to get the offense wiped off their record,” Ray said. “But what I would tell someone who had an option [to go to Teen Court] is that it is a genuinely good experience in that you get the chance to not only satisfy the legal ramifications of whatever you’ve done, but also, to kind of change people’s opinions about you. I feel like that gives people a sense of who you are and who you want to be even though you’ve made mistakes.”

“The number of times teens repeat an offense after going to Teen Court is extremely low.” teen court coordinator MIKE MULLEN

“If our purpose for existing is to help students who are interested in becoming attorneys and get practice to see how courts work, then we were doing a very good job,” Mullen said. “But if our purpose was to help make sure the juries received good information so that they could make the best decisions possible for the defendant, then I thought that we were lacking in that aspect.”

Although a large portion of Teen Court juries are comprised of former defendants who have been through the process themselves, some of the people who serve are actually volunteers. One such volunteer is senior Katie Ray, who has been volunteering at Teen Court since her sophomore year.

“I always thought I would end up there for getting a violation in speeding or something, instead of actually volunteering,” Ray said. “The first time I participated, I thought it was really interesting, and obviously, it’s a good chance for people to avoid offenses becoming permanent on their record. But it was also interesting to learn about all the offenses people can be convicted with.”

Laying Down The Law What Is Teen Court?

Teen Court is for first-time Class C misdemeanor offenders who have pleaded guilty to their offense. By going to Teen Court, these teenagers will have the offense taken off of their permanent records and will avoid paying any fines associated with the ticket.

Who presides over Teen Court?

Teen Court sessions are conducted entirely by teen volunteers and previous defendants, but they are monitored by one of the two Teen Court Coordinators.

How do you volunteer?

Volunteer applications can be completed online at: http://www.cstx.gov/.

When and where does Teen Court meet?

Teen Court meets on Tuesdays during most months of the year at the Municipal Court building located on Krenek Tap drive.

Source: http://www.cstx.gov

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the roar | news| 5

friday, may 13, 2011

Recovery from wakeboard accident results in deeper appreciation for life “I thought I was about to lose my brother, and I didn’t know why God would choose him. He hadn’t done anything assistant editor wrong. I knew some good had to come out of it,” freshman At 8:35 am. on June 12, 2010 a phone call was Blair Schaefer said.

His sister’s faith in the Lord and in her brother aided in made from a small hospital in Crockett, Texas to a father a miracle. who was away from home in Cincinnati, Ohio. A doctor Schaefer spent four days in coma, eleven days in ICU was calling to inform him that his son, freshman Logan and 28 days in rehabilitation at TIRR, in Houston, Texas, Schaefer was unresponsive, unconscious, and seizing. After where Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford’s is currently in a quick discussion between doctor and father, Logan was rehab from her brain injury. He made a remarkably quick life flighted to Tyler, Texas where doctors began to realize recovery considering the severity of his injury, but his the severity of their 14-year-old patient’s injury. Logan success didn’t come without struggle, Schaefer said.

Schaefer’s unusual accident almost a year ago still reminds “I had to learn to walk again and talk again,” Schaefer himself and others how precious life truly is. said.

“I was like a fifteen year old new born baby.”

The day started in usual camp spirits: waking up As Schaefer was frustratingly relearning the basic early, getting dressed, eating breakfast and planning for motor skills, family the exciting day ahead. Schaefer and friends were said he quickly claimed his spot hard at work to as last among his friends to go show their support out behind the boat on their “I thought I was about to lose my brother, for Logan. “Lift morning wakeboarding run and I didn’t know why God would choose Logan Up” T-shirts since the person who went last were made and sold received the most amount of time him. He hadn’t done anything wrong.” in support for his on the lake. recovery by family freshman BLAIR SCHAEFER Once in the water Schaefer friends who own said he attempted a “back-sideC.C.’s Creations and 180-mellon-grab” on his first a Facebook group was created and handed to the family to run. As he was attempting to land the jump, the wake of be updated daily to let others know of Schaefer’s day-toanother boat caused his board to cut into the water, throwing day recovery.

The local support was what the family needed him into the lake and quickly flinging his head backwards during such a wonderful, but frustrating time. resulting in whip lash. The whip lash caused a blood vessel During Schaefer’s time at TIRR, his father played a in his head to sever, and it began to leak blood into his brain. huge role in his recovery, he said.

“I didn’t know anything had happened,” Schaefer said, “He was like my life coach,” Schaefer said. “My dad “so I took two more runs.” stayed with me every day, he never left my room.”

As the blood began to accumulate in Schaefer’s head he Schaefer’s father helped him make it through one of the began to feel very sick. His head began to throb, he said, and toughest times in his life, by showing unconditional love as they reached the dock, he was only able to unzip his life during a stressful time for everyone in the Schaefer family. jacket half way down his chest before passing out.

While hard situations can sometimes tear people apart, Camp workers quickly rushed him up to the hill to they grew closer.

The strength and hope they had can only the nurses’ station from where he began his eventual be accredited to their impeccable amount of trust in the transportation to the hospital in Tyler.

Lord, said both Logan and Blair.

His twin sister Blair was with their father in Cincinnati “Through everything, it’s made us a closer family and at the time of his accident.

BY KELSEY GAINES

better people,” Blair Schaefer said.

The accident that almost killed him has given him many new opportunities and a different outlook on life, he said. “[The accident] taught me to like the little things in life and appreciate the little things given to me.” Schaefer said.

“You have to have faith and never doubt the glory of God,” Schaefer’s accident impacted his life.

“The whole story is a miracle,” Schaefer said. “It’s changed my life forever.”

Freshman Logan Schaefer poses with his wakeboard after his head injury in July. Schaefer is waiting for his doctor’s permission to get back on the water. PHOTO BY ELENA EDWARDS

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6 | news| the roar

FFA competitions offer wide range of learning experiences

friday, may 13, 2011

team’s scenario was to create the best

BY ANNE FINCH assistant editor possible sports drink for inactive young Future Farmers of America (FFA) is an organization associated with the agriculture-related courses at Consol, ranging from horticulture to food and animals.

The FFA covers not only a large percentage of the elective classes at Consol, but also provides opportunities to compete with FFA groups from other schools around the state.

Just one small area of the FFA competitions is the Food Science team, advised by faculty member Lisa Pieper, who teaches several FFA-related classes, including Food Tech.

“I like how the kids, especially with food science, are able to take and create their own ideas and apply them to the contest,” Pieper said. “[When they take my classes], the kids are training already for the team, and they don’t realize it. So when they can relate the coursework to the competition and see the validity in it, that is exciting for me.”

Senior Mariah Chambers, one of the four members of both the Food Science team as well as the Floriculture team, started her involvement in FFA by taking Pieper’s Floral Design class as a junior.

She and the other three members of the Food Science team compete by testing their food-related skills at various competitions. “[For] Food Science, they give us a scenario, and you have 60 minutes to come with marketing for it, and you go in front of judges and present that in front of them and they score you,” Chambers said.

For this year’s competition, Chambers and Pieper said, the Food Science

adults, using a worksheet with a list of possible ingredients.

“We had the scenario that it was a sports drink, but we didn’t know who it was for,” Chambers said. “We had to do tons of research on everything about sports drinks and put as much as we could in our brains because [we couldn’t] bring anything in.”

This aspect of the contest is more difficult, junior Kristen Kasper said.

“For Food Science, it’s not something you can really prepare for. You might have a few questions you can look over, but basically, once you’re there, it’s all new. You just have to think while you’re there,” she said.

Additionally, members of the Food Science competitive team have to perform a sensory evaluation where 10 out of 30 different seasonings and flavors must be identified by smell. The participants are also presented with a control and two other food items and must taste it and identify the taste that does not match the control. Another component of the competition is the identification of mistakes made in pictures of situations relating to the food industry.

Chambers stated that one of her favorite aspects of competing as part of the FFA competition team is the teamwork involved in the competitions.

“During the competitions, we’re all split up, so it’s kind like of we’re competing against each other,” she said, “So when you get back your scores, it’s kind of like ‘Yes, I beat her!’ [However], at the same time, it’s good to be competitive against each other because it brings up our overall team score, and it’s the team

score that matters, not the individual.”

Chambers added that competing together formed a bond between the four members of the Food Science team.

“A lot of us really didn’t know each other when we formed the team, but through practicing and just being together, we’ve all grown really close,” she said.

Although the FFA covers a wide variety of subjects and activities, it provides students with an opportunity to meet new people and explore new interests, while developing new skills that can be used in a competitive environment.

“To me, [FFA is about] friends, family and opportunity,” Kasper said. “These are people I love to be around. My teachers are my second parents. I’m always here. It’s just fun. It’s a great way to meet new friends and meet new people, go on trips and it’s just a bonding experience.”

Junior Paige Littlefield practices for food science competitions by identifying the spice in the vial by smell.

Littlefield and the rest of the food science team placed sixth in state. PHOTO BY RACHEL KAGLE

Raising the Stakes for State Ag Mechanics - first in area, first in state

Job Interviews - first in district, third in area

Floriculture - third in area, fifth in state

Grand Champion: Horticulture

Food Science - sixth in state

Grand & Reserve Champion: Woodworking

Horse Judging - eighth in area, thirteenth in state

Grand & Reserve Champion: Market Barrow Information provided by Sheridan Clinkscales

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the roar | viewpoints |7

friday, may 13, 2011

Questioning others imperative to future successes

In the last four years, I’ve answered a lot of questions.

Yes. No. Of course! Calcium carbonate? Square root of 2.

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic novel about the racially divided South. X equals friendship. I left it at home. I don’t know. I’m really, really sorry.

A lot of the times, I answer right. Sometimes though, just like anyone else, I answer wrong. I’ve lost good grades, good friends, trust. It happens. I’ve come to learn my own fallibility, to appreciate the fact that no, sometimes saying sorry isn’t enough or that regardless of how hard I study, I will never really understand logarithms. Learning to answer questions as rightly as possible has been my business for the last four years, and up to a certain point, I wish it hadn’t been. Because so much of the time, I wish I had been the one asking the questions.

No, I don’t want to be a teacher (not right away, at least). I do want to keep learning, though, and I think the best way to do that is to ask questions. Why? What’s your name? What do you mean? Who means the most to you? I guess I’m pretty lucky in that I got taught to ask these questions in journalism, but I still feel like Consol failed our class-not in teaching us the answers, but in learning how to ask the questions.

Without questions, we might not learn the more interesting things in school – not just how to conjugate the past participle in French, but also that one of the girls in your class spent most of her life in the United Arab Emirates. Not just how to take the second derivative of a function, but that the guy next to you just came back from Olympic shooting tryouts in Australia. Or you might know, but you might not ask about it. What was it like? Who did you meet? How did it change you?

What I have learned thus far, though, has been entirely worthwhile. I’ve told you about some of it, other parts of it I’ve kept inside myself. And in the process of learning about everyone, everything else, I’ve picked up a few tidbits about myself. So, those of you still here for more than just Monday, turn around in class today and ask that kid whose name you don’t quite remember: “What’s going on?” Give yourself a little patience to break through the initial shrugs The Roar 2010-2011 Staff Editor-in-Chief: Dini Susanto Managing Editor: Alejandra Oliva Executive Editor: Alex Hall Senior Editor: Emily Nelson Photography Editor: Becca Gamache Opinions Editor: Amy Zhang News Editor: Alina Dattagupta Features Editor: Faria Akram Sports Editor: Anna Huff Entertainment Editor: Kate Williams Assistant Opinions Editor: Katy Massey Assistant Editors: Elena Edwards, Abigayle English, Kendra Spaw, Kimmie Cessna, Anne Finch, Dana Branham, Preksha Chowdhary, Isabel Drukker, Laura Everett, Kelsey Gaines, Rachel Kagle Staff Reporter: Kirsten Bevan Artists: Morgan Murphy, Maurice Vellas Faculty Adviser: Courtney Wellmann Assistant Adviser: Mike Williams

The Roar Editorial Board Dini Susanto- Editor -in- Chief Alejandra Oliva- Managing Editor Amy Zhang- Opinions Editor

The Advanced Journalism class at A&M Consolidated High School, 1801 Harvey Mitchell Parkway South, College Station, Texas, 77840. The opinions expressed are those of the writers and are not reflective of the administrators, faculty or staff of the College Station Independent School District.

Submissions to the editors are welcomed but must be signed and should not exceed 300 words. The editor reserves the right to edit submissions in the interest of clarity and length or to not print a letter at all. Letters containing obscene or libelous material will not be considered. The Editorial Board consists of the editorin-chief, managing editor and opinions editor.

The Roar is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference (ILPC), the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA). The Roar is a winner of the CSPA Gold Crown, the ILPC Award of Distinguished Merit in 1997, 1998 and 2000-2011, the CSPA Gold Medal Award in 2003-2010, the NSPA All-American distinction and the ILPC Bronze Star in 2005 and the Silver Star in 2007-2011.

College Station Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex or handicap in providing education services.

Glynn Walker, Director of Human Resources, 1812 Welsh, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5412) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX. Catherine George, Director of Special Services, 1812 Welsh, Suite 120, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5433) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Teens must recognize dangers of cutting to save lives Over 3 million Americans are self-made victims of cutting, and it has to end.

The

behavior

is

both

physically

and

psychologically unhealthy. Not only are these cutters already enduring whatever emotional burdens they are facing, but they also go through the bodily pain of incision. Although the idea of rolling up one’s sleeve, taking a razor blade to the arm and creating an open wound may not sound appealing to most, this behavior causes either a relief via adrenaline rush for those struggling with anxiety or just pure fun for a smaller fraction who enjoy the physical feeling of cutting and bleeding.

A major long-term damage is visible scars, which can contribute to future alienation of a cutter by fellow classmates and coworkers, and sometimes, even family members. This is even more emotionally destructive for the cutters and will unintentionally encourage the behavior.

These people need help. More often than most, they just need a new outlet, whether it is a fun, new activity or someone to confide in. They, like everyone else, are people who are struggling with problems that can be solved in much healthier ways than what they’ve chosen, and they need to realize it. When people are cutting themselves, tell a trusted adult.

Take them on a bike ride or go running, as these activities also create an adrenaline rush, but a positive and productive one. Talk to them. The world offers many exciting activities, and adrenaline junkies can test their daringness differently. Strange behavior does not call for estrangement. Make a friend. Save a life.

CONTACT US

alejandraoliva

and monosyllabic answers, a little time to get over the initial awkwardness of talking to a complete stranger you’ve known all year and teach yourself to ask questions. No, it’s not for a grade, you can’t put it on your transcript or a resume, and it won’t increase your SAT score. But you will learn more, and it will certainly make life more interesting.

And those of you leaving with me in May, same applies to you. You’ll be in a new place, doing something entirely different, but I can still guarantee you that most of what you’ll learn won’t be from your professors.

If there’s one thing I could say that I did learn in high school, I would hope it would be this: everyone, even the quietest, meekest people, has a story worth asking about. Time after time, I’ve scoffed off story assignments because I thought it impossible that anyone could have any sort of passion about something as mundane as collections or baking or sidewalks, and time and time again, I’m proven completely wrong. And no, I haven’t asked nearly enough questions in my time here, haven’t talked to half of the interesting people that go here, and even though I’ve gotten decent grades in most of my classes, I haven’t even begun to learn everything that Artwork by Consol might teach me.

Maurice Vellas And with all that unfinished business on my mind, I guess the scariest part of walking across the stage in a few weeks is that I’m leaving behind all the stories I know by heart, the stories I won’t ever have time to listen to, for New York City, a city of eight million stories.

Alejandra will be majoring in political science at Columbia University in New York City this fall. If you have questions you would like to ask her, email her at the.roar. oliva@gmail.com.

If you would like for your opinions to be read, contact the editorial board by sending your letter to the editor. Review our policy for letters before submitting.

E-MAIL the.roar@ymail.com

8 | viewpoints | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Last season of competitive gymnastics sparks reflection over athletic career

“Doc Smith, so I can threaten children with newspapers.”

If you could t ra places with a de ny teacher or administrat or who would it , be and why?

-Bard Kennady, freshman “Buddy Reed, so I can be in charge of things.”

-Boyce Unger, sophomore “Mr. Hogan, because he has such cool hair!”

-Maci Greene, junior “Mrs. Jedlicka, so I could make the Physics C tests completion grades!”

-Divya Chowdhary, senior

past eight years, I’ve been all gymnast. And then, it was all over. That is how it goes for most high school athletes. For those of us who do not quite fit the bill for college athletics, this year has brought our last football game, or last baseball tournament, or in my case, my last gymnastics meet.

It has been eight years of intense workouts, frequent injuries and pointed toes. How many steps have I taken with a sprained ankle? How many hang outs have I missed with my friends due to attending practice? How many hours have I spent wishing I had gone for a gymnastics skill that I was afraid of? Now that my career has come to an end, I have no doubt I will regret some of the decisions I have made as a gymnast, decisions that, if chosen differently, might have led to me to a college team. It is hard to watch something that was such a large part of my life end so suddenly.

However, I was fully aware going into my senior season that gymnastics was almost over. I knew the meets would soon come to a stop and that once the state meet arrived, there would be no more meets to follow. Thinking of all the time and money that went into my temporary hobby makes me wonder if I could have traded gymnastics for something better. So was it worth it?

Yes. My team is my second family, my coaches are my second parents, and whether my time was well spent or wasted on this sport, I do not regret a moment.

Becca will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio this fall to major in liberal arts and communications. If you’d like to contact her, email her at the.roar.gamache@ gmail.com.

PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

beccagamache I take a swing backwards and re-grip the bar. I swing forward, take a deep breath, and then let go, flipping through the air. The landing is not perfect, a small step with a wobble, but it is a decent end to a decent uneven bar routine. I turn and salute the judge then step down from the mat. As I take off my grips, I realize I am done with competitive gymnastics. Forever.

I started the sport when I was 10 years old while also involved in multiple dance classes.

I soon began to find that flipping around was far more entertaining in comparison to the clown makeup and slickedback hair my ballet class required. From then on, I was all gymnast. For the

stick around

By MIKE WILLIAMS

“Confused?”

At what volume do you listen to your music?

41.5%

“Mr. Diem--I like how he and Mr. Martindale do the whole “Pride Rock” thing where they watch over the cafeteria. I’d feel very powerful, like Mufasa.”

-Roy Rodriguez, speech teacher

LOUD 46.6%

MEDIUM 11.9%

SOFT For more information on music volume, see page 29. 1050 students surveyed

friday, may 13, 2011

the roar | viewpoints | 9

Chaotic situation leads student to view life in different perspective

dinisusanto “Fast cars, shooting stars, until it’s Vegas everywhere we are…”

That was Elly Jackson and La Roux, along with Kanye West, warning me that it’s time to switch my car to manual mode and start speeding to work. Panicking, I smacked my cell phone and turned off the alarm.

On my right, I made out the words “Copy Corner” and managed to spot a familiar yellow double-arch, but as the needle on my speedometer slid from 35 to 50 miles per hour, I could no longer distinguish one neon light from another. Everything moved so fast. Yellow, red, white, green and bright blue alphabets fused together into streaks until I stopped noticing them. They practically disappeared, blending into my neglected peripheral vision. Usually, I focused on what was ahead of me. Despite my perfect hindsight vision, I scarcely looked into my rearview mirror; every time I took a second glance at what I’d passed, I always saw things I failed to notice before, and I loathed the reluctance that followed.

This particular time, an intricate poster on a lamp post caught my eyes, and I couldn’t decide whether I thought it was pretty or not. I liked what I saw when I observed the mosaic piece by piece, but I failed to see the picture as a whole. I stared for a while. By the time I looked up, I had already missed my turn.

To make things worse, a red beetle cut in front of me from my right, and when its brake lights signaled, “STOP!”

I stomped my foot and stubbed my toe on my brake pedal.

My Volkswagen made a nauseating noise and angrily stopped. This darn traffic! Everyone had somewhere to be. Everyone had something to do. I was drowning in the midst of a sea of cars. We had nothing in common, except for everything; despite our differing destinations, we all traveled along the same road, breaking away at different intersections, only to find ourselves back at the very same spot, retracing our paths, going back home eventually.

On top of that, we all saw the same things. We just absorbed our sights differently. While I wanted to pull out my gun app and “shoot” at the beetle just millimeters away from me, the person in the tricked-out, raised-up F350 probably was thinking about squashing the thing like a bug.

Somewhere between Southwest Parkway and George Bush Drive, I accepted that I wasn’t going to get to work on time, pulled out my phone and gave my manager an apologetic call. I ended up being really thankful for the unusually heavy traffic. In thirty minutes, I had a long-due conversation with an old friend in Fresco, Texas, ate a bag of jalapeno chips and spent the rest of the drive listening to Thom Yorke’s lyrics and watching other people in their cars. I felt sorry for a woman crying in my rearview mirror, wishing I could tell her, “whatever it is, everything will work out in the end,” and I got a nice chuckle from seeing a hot

speak out Discussion Board Each issue, students can submit responses to The Roar’s Speak Out forum. These questions will be posted on Facebook.

Question: What do you wish you had known going into high school?

Daisha Washington, senior Don’t wait until the last minute to check on your grades.

Check them often and make Pinnacle your best friend!

Halimah Jones, junior I wish I had known that even though friends say that they won’t change, they do. It’s a part of growing up.

Nathan Smith, sophomore I wish I had known that people are incredibly cool, and that despite the fact that my middle school experience was awful, life gets better.

Karen Wang, senior I wish I had believed my middle school teachers when they said high school was a lot more challenging than middle school. I was definitely unprepared for all of the homework freshman year.

Add your opinion and see more responses: Friend Roar Newspaper on Facebook. it’s fridayyyy fridayyy gotta get down on fridayyy

fraternity stud picking his nose two cars to the right. It was a nice change of pace before I proceeded succumbing to the little rainbow planner that dictated my life. This compact space gave me more freedom than the open road itself.

When life gives you traffic, bad drivers and neon lights, slow down, turn up the music and enjoy the ride.

Dini will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio to major in communications. If you’d like to contact her, email her at the.roar.susanto@gmail.com.

Artwork by Maurice Vellas

[insert creativity]

by Maurice Vellas

“Congraduations”

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10| viewpoints | the roar

}

opposing viewpoints

YES

friday, may 13, 2011

Should a curfew for teenagers be implemented in College Station?

NO

by Amy Zhang, Opinions Editor

Currently, College Station does not have a city-wide curfew for teenagers. When the scenario is examined, taking into consideration Bryan’s success with their city-wide curfew for teenagers 17 and under, implementing a curfew could actually benefit the College Station. Since the curfew’s employment, Bryan has seen a 78 percent decrease in juvenile arrests, and juvenile criminal activity has dropped 65 percent. The curfew in Bryan, enacted in 2007, prohibits any person under 17 from being out between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. If such a system was implemented in College Station, what little juvenile crime rate that we have could be significantly lessened. It’s been said by many parents that nothing worthwhile happens after 12. Indeed, what could students do after 12 that couldn’t be done sometime else? By taking the step to outlaw teenage presences on the street after midnight, College Station would be ensuring the safety of citizens, as well as protecting some of its teenagers from making unintelligent choices. Even though College Station’s juvenile crime rate is not currently at a dangerous level, it’s always better to prevent what is preventable. It is understandable that under some scenarios, curfews can provide unnecessary problems for fun-loving teenagers. However, a curfew could prevent pointless infractions, while also ensuring that parents do not need to worry. After all, there’s no shame in having a parent come with you to that latest movie premiere (they’ll probably just end up sleeping anyway). Having a curfew in place clearly wouldn’t majorly affect how College Station runs. And if you’re a student complaining—why complain, if you have nothing to hide?

by Preksha Chowdhary, Assistant Editor

The city of College Station currently does not have a curfew for teenagers. Our juvenile crime rate is not nearly at a dangerous level, and it would be simply unnecessary to violate our civil rights and assign the city responsibilities that are better left to parents. Youth are criminalized by such laws simply for being outside of their houses. In effect, this makes houses function as prisons. If kids were told to be at home earlier, it would only tempt them to sneak out at all times of the night, which in turn would cause many more problems.

In fact, a study conducted on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice found that curfew laws did not lead to a reduction in the amount of youth victimized during any hours. Limiting the freedom of mobility of an entire subset of people based on incorrect assumptions is unacceptable. The city should be focusing on preventing crime from happening in the first place instead of trying to get kids home earlier. It just gives teenagers another reason to dislike the authorities. Additionally, a report based on statistics by the Federal Bureau of Investigation states that youth are most likely to commit violent acts between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.--times when curfew laws are not in effect. If this is the case, such laws would not prevent juvenile crimes. They merely allow ineffective, age-based discrimination. People who are likely to have criminal tendencies will not mind breaking one more law. The only people who are restricted are law-abiding youth. The city-wide curfew would simply be an unnecessary restriction of freedom. And most importantly, would you not be upset if someone tried to keep you from seeing the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 midnight premiere?

student responses. The Roar surveys students to find out their opinions on the possible curfew.

Do you think there should be a curfew for teenagers in College Station?

YES 2%

NO 98% 103 students surveyed

At what time do you think the potential curfew should be?

11:00 p.m.

3% 12:00 a.m.

19%

LATER 12 AM later THAN than 12 a.m.

78% 78%

Do you think curfews are effective in reducing teen crime?

YES 12%

NO 88%

“

Student Quotes: As long as I get to see the Harry Potter premiere, it’s all right.

“

”

Nevin Blum, junior

I don’t think there are any good reasons to have a curfew. When kids come back from UIL or other tournaments, they’d get in trouble because of the curfew.

”

Giovanny Bobadilla, sophomore

the roar | viewpoints | 11

friday, may 13, 2011

Confronting obstacles provides opportunities for success

fariaakram I discovered it in a market that you can only find in a big city- a store with an eclectic mix of foreign foods, specialized drinks, and exotic desserts.

As my friends were buying food and drink items, this 3 by 4 inch square of paper caught my eye. Noticing the pretty colors of the type, a sea of blue and green and purple, and the words “dance” and “rain” (two of my favorite things) I didn’t hesitate to pay $2.99 and take home a little souvenir from my last newspaper trip. When I arrived home, I stashed it in a drawer, and forgot about it until I was looking for some old physics notes a few weeks later. I decided I might as well use it for something, and placed the card on my desk.

It’s pretty surreal how one piece of paper can affect me so much. Now, whenever I’m tired of studying for school, frustrated by certain people, or simply upset over the way things are turning out, I make sure to read my special souvenir: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain.”- Vivian GreeneThere is a definitely a difference between reading and understanding. For example, I can read a page of an economics book and understand absolutely nothing.

On the other hand, I can read a chapter of my favor-

ite novel and fully explain the literary significance of the characters’ long dialogues. And for the first time, due to actually having this card on my desk and seeing it as I do homework every day, I think I finally understood the quote.

Life isn’t perfect, of course. There are always going to be storms.

We aren’t perfect. I think that’s one of the most difficult things I’m dealing with. I don’t want to hurt anyone, and I don’t want to make any mistakes.

Which is, of course, impossible. As one of my friends put it, “We’re not all

saints.”

So storms aren’t avoidable. Especially in high school, where as students we attempt to balance so much−school, work, family, friends, and the pile often topples over (or worse, comes crashing down.) And simply anticipating the end of our problems doesn’t work. I was always the girl who did that, who quietly stood back and let life take control. I’d hide and wait out the storm, praying that everything would turn out alright.

But with that, I realized that I was missing out on a great deal in life. Hiding from your problems never solves them; standing up and taking initiative does. Facing your challenges and overcoming them, no matter how big or small, is what really gives you strength and happiness.

The quote literally speaks of dancing, which can be pretty difficult.

Getting the right moves down, timing yourself to the beat of the music, controlling your facial expressions no matter how you feel on the inside. It’s even trickier in the rain, when it’s slippery, cold and wet. You have a greater chance of falling down, of making mistakes. But its things like that that make life enjoyable. And finding success in a challenge is always a win.

Faria will be attending the University of Texas in Austin to major in journalism. If you want to contact her, email her at the.roar.akram@gmail.com Artwork by Maurice Vellas

Memories of motivational posters comfort stressing senior

alexhall Since our first day of kindergarten, advice has been given to us by the bubble letters and pastel colors of inspirational posters. Sitting impatiently at our desks in class, we read repeatedly the generic and clichéd phrases. Whether we actually appreciate this advice, is one of many dilemmas we face after receiving a diploma.

During the weeks before graduation, I have witnessed the near-death experiences of certain members of the senior class due to disappointment. College rejection letters, financial troubles and the infamous realizations concerning the “real world” has ruined too many of my peers. Inspiration is hard to find already, and watching my fellow senior classmates’ eyes stare at calendars on walls more often than their own assignments, I cringe. As I study my peers,

I realize that the reason we have faltered in our path to self-discovery is because we are ignoring the more important posters that hang on the wall beside oversized calendars.

Posters some consider as lame and petty are disregarded, because they offer advice meant for fourth graders. We believe in our own advice and our own ideas on how to be successful.

“Saving our drama for our llamas” is impossible for us as we force feed our beliefs down the throats of our peers.

“Reaching for the moon and believing that even if we miss we’ll land among the stars” would be an embarrassment, because failing at our original tasks means we ourselves are failures. Some of us, the more successful ones, don’t think “the expert in anything was once a beginner,” because we have taken it upon ourselves to believe that we must be experts first. The simplistic motivational phrases that hang now in classrooms or ones from fourth grade are pushed to the backs

of our heads, forgotten. Taking the place of these messages is now our unruly and egocentric esteem.

We call our self-centered drive “liberation for the best” and “personal

so long ago. Amidst my deepest problems, it is easier to follow simple advice. Life isn’t about making situations difficult and stressing through each and every one, but instead it is about making the best out of every situation.

As I prepare for college mentally, I realize my professors will probably not have words of encouragement posted all over the walls of their classrooms.

While this may seem discouraging to some, I find this reality a blessing because I realize I have engrained in my mind those inspirational phrases already.

Alex will be attending the University of North Texas this fall to major in photojournalism. If you’d like to contact her, email her at the.roar.hall@gmail.com.

“We believe in our own advice and our own ideas on how to be successful. ‘Saving our drama for our llamas’ is impossible for us as we force feed our beliefs down the throats of our peers.”

achievement” forgetting the original inspiring phrases posted in our elementary school classrooms. Considering ourselves invincible and wiser than our former educators, we have to cross our fingers and apply to college. But the truth is, there is more to motivation. I for one will not stand as part of a group that has allowed themselves to forget the inspirational posters of what seem

12 | viewpoints |the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Planned budget cuts threaten school’s atmosphere They also have a policy in place that only allows Texas to spend t h e same amount on public education for the next three

annahuff When I walk into Consol, instead of the depressing feelings school stereotypically brings, I often find myself with a smile. At first, I just thought it was because of the friends I get to see every day, but as my four years are coming to a close, it is a combination of things that this school has gratefully given me. Every single teacher I have had was constantly thinking of the students and trying new and innovative ways to make learning not such a tedious task. Not only the teachers, but the administration as a whole never shies away from a chance to make improvements in this school. The spotlessness is amazing to me. When I walk down the halls they are so clean that I can even see my own reflection.

All of these things make the atmosphere of Consol such any easy place for me to enjoy. This is why I was shocked when I heard about the state’s intended budget cuts.

The Texas legislators plan to spend $23 billion less than our current budget. Not only will this require an enormous amount of budget cuts, but the budget cuts for public education alone are nearly $10 million.

our taxes.

A recent protest in Austin proved budget cuts to be a significant prob-

consecutive years. Texas is the only state to have this restriction. This will make it harder for schools all over Texas to create a positive environ- Artwork by Maurice Vellas ment and provide the resources that would aid in this. It is estimated that this will also make a loss of about 300,000 jobs. Thinking of all these huge numbers, it is not something that should be taken lightly. lem While our taxes will not increase, the con- that had approximately 5,000 sequences that will hit public schools seem people worried. That protest took up like a more pressing issue than increasing almost seven blocks and the people ranged

from teachers to parents and even children.

It might seem that I am over-thinking or being irrational, but to me the importance of education outweighs a majority of other issues. From freshman year to senior year, I have learned numerous things from Consol. Without the teachers who have helped me find passion in the things I want to pursue in my future, I would be lost even trying t o

com.

process the thought of college.

Thinking about the chance of not having the same influential people available to the classes behind me makes me worry that they will not have the same chances that I have had. I appreciate the type of person Consol has molded me into and disagree with the budget cuts set in place.

Anna will be attending Texas State University this fall and majoring in mass communications. If you want to discuss budget cuts with her, you can email her at the.roar.huff@gmail.

Salvation, faith prove more powerful than darkness

emilynelson

The room is dark, and I am afraid because I cannot see.

I hear noises all around me, but cannot seem to make out what they are. It is chaos, and once again I am afraid. My heart quickens and fear grips me, churning my stomach and feasting upon my mind. I cry out in anguish and frustration, “Lord, help me!”

Lost and confused, I try to tune out the corruption around me, but am helpless. Suddenly, I hear a still small voice that calls out, “I am here, beloved. Take my hand.” I make a choice – a choice that affects all of me – a choice to listen to the call of Jesus Christ who called me near to His faithfulness.

Clinging to the hope that encompasses my Savior’s hand; I grasp it and am immediately filled with a wondrous and inexplicable joy. With awe, I glance down and notice a soft, warm glow. His radiating light becomes a part of me and I am consumed by His beacon of light. The room is

no longer dark, but is now surrounded in brilliance, and I can see.

For the two cannot exist together. Darkness is separate from light. It simply exists, and it takes no energy or effort to be dark. In contrast, light cannot be light without energy and effort.

That energy pierces and pushes forth to break the darkness.

Darkness has no power to penetrate light, but light has power to penetrate darkness. John 1:5 reads, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot extinguish it.” We are called to be that energy – the light that pushes back the darkness and shines as a light for the Lord.

The source of this light comes not from me, but solely from my Artwork by Morgan Murphy

Heavenly Father. It is my calling as his child to stand strong in the word and to love unconditionally just as

Christ loves us. Though the world is filled with brokenness, darkness, and unfulfilled purpose, Christ teaches that He has overcome the world, along with all of its sin and despair.

He offers each of us true love – a love that promises to penetrate any darkness or any situation or any person, if he/she will only accept Him.

I know that it is time for me to praise God and give Him the glory each and every day. Through every little action let mine be His, through every little word let mine be His, and through every little decision let mine be His. For this is my call, to be an example of Christ and walk in His way, sharing His story through my faith. I will let my light shine before men, that they may see and praise my Father in heaven.

Emily will be attending the Baylor University this fall to major in elementary and special education. If you’d like to discuss faith with her, you can email her at the. roar.enelson@gmail.com.

the roar | people | 13

friday, may 13, 2011

AHEAD F THE CURVE

Consol graduate shares basketball national championship victory with mom

BY KENDRA SPAW

assistant editor

Just substituted out of the basketball game against Notre Dame on Tuesday, April 5, center Karla Gilbert, a former varsity basketball player at Consol, sat tensely on the bench cheering for her team along with hundreds of fans. With only a minute and a half left in the game, point guard Tyra White made the three-point shot and everyone knew that the Texas A&M women’s basketball team had won the National Championship.

“We knew we were champs, but we couldn’t believe it was real,” Gilbert said.

Gilbert was able to play in the biggest game in college basketball as a freshman, and her mom, who was also a college basketball player, said she could not have been more proud.

“This was an experience that I was glad to share with her,” Mrs. Gilbert said. “I felt like I was playing, so I won a national championship as well.”

Gilbert’s mother can easily relate to this moment of glory because of her own past in the game of basketball.

“I was a junior college All-American basketball player, but as for winning a championship, I never went as far as Karla,” Mrs. Gilbert said.

In addition to playing college basketball, Mrs. Gilbert also spent six years of coaching at Consol, and with this knowledge she has been a large influence on Gilbert’s experience in the game.

“Ever since I can remember, my parents have been there for me, and they have been coaching me from the very beginning,” Gilbert said.

Although Mrs. Gilbert’s coaching attitude has pushed Gilbert to the limit, making her mentally tough, she is still an average and loving mother, Gilbert said.

“We talk about what we need to talk about, but other than that, it is dropped, and she’s my mom, not my coach,” Gilbert said.

Mrs. Gilbert admits to being the coach at home but does not interfere with Gilbert’s coach at Texas A&M, Gary Blair.

“He does a good job with dealing with her, so as far as basketball coaching, we just tell her to move her feet more or something but nothing that interferes with what the coach tells her,” Mrs. Gilbert said.

The coach has done a marvelous job this season getting the girls to work as a team, but their bonding goes beyond the court, Mrs. Gilbert said.

“She’s got players that push her, that make her stronger and that even off the court hang out with one another,” Mrs. Gilbert said.

Gilbert agrees that the team gets along well, but they still work hard.

“We are allowed to have fun even at the worst times,” Gilbert said. “We dance and sing and just have fun, but no matter how many games we’ve played, we have always stuck to the routine and had intense practices and never slacked off. We are still expected to practice as hard as we had any

other time.”

Since the girls are gone so much for away games, it can be hard to stay up with the school work.

“Luckily, her professors are willing to help her get caught up and stay caught up so that she can pass her classes,” Mrs. Gilbert said. “Freshman adjustment, especially as a student athlete, is extremely hard, but I cannot go anywhere without hearing from people that interact with [Karla] that say how hard of a worker she is in order to play the game.”

Gilbert handles all her responsibility with time management, yet keeping up with academics has still been a struggle, she said. Gilbert has noticed differences between high school and college.

“High school basketball and college basketball are completely different,” Gilbert said.

“In high school, you have more freedom. With college basketball, you can gain a lot of respect because it’s a lot of hard work to play Texas A&M basketball. What you can get out of it and the accomplishments are bigger now over all, so it pays off more.”

The Aggie women’s team has definitely accomplished much this year including a national title and the emotion of receiving such and honor is almost indescribable, Mrs. Gilbert said.

“That moment of all the hard work is like an adrenaline rush and all of a sudden when you’ve done it you’re like ‘oh God, thank you’ and your body goes limp,” Mrs. Gilbert said. “All of that hard work, and all the sacrifices and practices and film that they went through paid off, and now they finally can be rewarded for it.”

Gilbert plans to continue to represent both Consol and Texas A&M next season.

“Next year we hope to go back with high expectations again,” Gilbert said. “We want to try for a repeat to meet our goals.”

Karla Gilbert and her mother Nelda Gilbert share a love of basketball. Nelda Gilbert, a former Consol basketball player and later coach, cheered on her daughter Karla, a freshman at Texas A&M, as she played in the national championship on April 5 in Indianapolis. PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT

DID YOU KNOW? Career and technology teacher Nelda Gilbert and assistant principal Gwen Elder played on the basketball team together here at Consol from 1983-1986.

Elder and Gilbert have been best friends for over 25 years.

Elder was an assistant coach for nine years and Gilbert was a head coach for six years at Consol, and they both retired to spend more time with family.

Gilbert played basketball in college for Odessa Junior College and the University of North Texas.

Elder played college basketball at McLennan Community College and the University of North Alabama.

Gilbert and Elder both played in the state championship in 1986.

Compiled by Kendra Spaw

14 | people |the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Student Body President Taylor Whittlesey seeks focus on service to others

BY EMILY NELSON

One of the projects that Whittlesey has engaged the high school and community in is Project Minga. After a senior editor visit last summer with the Borlaug Institute, she had the opportunity to interact with children who live off of approxiFrom a little girl with blonde bouncy curls who loved mately 20 cents. to be unique to a young woman graduating high school with “After visiting the Scheel Center, which is a school diverse experiences, senior Taylor Whittlesey has used her for lower economic students, I just knew that God placed talents and knowledge to serve others. it upon my heart to do something to help out the people,” “As parents, your greatest joy is to see your child grow Whittlesey said. their wings and fly,” Taylor’s mother Lisa Whittlesey said.

Whittlesey will be returning to Guatemala this summer “It makes me so proud to see the young woman she has to present the money raised to the Scheel Center. become.”

“I don’t want people to think that this is a project I Whittlesey’s character is one of independence, service started,” Whittlesey said. “I want them to know that this is and passion, she said. a community helping out another community, one school “One of Taylor’s strongest strengths is that it doesn’t helping another school.” bother her to do her own thing and to be her own person,” Along with her passion for Guatemala, Whittlesey has Lisa Whittlesey said. “She does not worry about what the begun to pursue a love for music and plays the guitar and crowd is doing, but instead does things the way she knows g chilviolin as well as sings, she said. some youn Christ would have her do.” teracts with work in is y Th se t. le tt ec “I think the thing about oj Taylor Whi a service pr r fo Student Council Advia al m te music that makes it so great dren in Gua Project. sor Tiffany Rutherford views nosl’s Minga inspired Co is that God gave us two ears “When people look at me, I want them for a reason, and He gave me Whittlesey similarly.

“Taylor is one of those to see a follower of Christ and to know two ears to love and appreciate people who will take on any- that I love them and that I am somemusic,” Whittlesey said. “He’s thing, even if it is to the detri- one who wants to serve them.” given me a talent, and I am goment of her personally,” Ruthing to use it to the best of my senior TAYLOR WHITTLESEY erford said. ability to glorify him.”

The qualities that WhittleWhittlesey is also an acsey posses have helped her in the activities she has been tive member of the Brazos Valley County 4H, Student involved in.

Council, Cntral Church of Christ youth group, her band: “She has definitely grown as a leader between her [Insert Name Here] and high school choir.

Taylor Whittlesey perform freshman and senior year,” Rutherford said. “She has als in “Taylor is one of those kids that when you look at her Consolapalooza on Mar ch 25. ways been a very bubbly and caring person with a heart for credentials, like everything she can do, she paints, she’s in service and it has been fun to watch” AP classes, she’s stunningly beautiful, that when on the surWhittlesey has known Rutherford since her freshman face she is one of those people that you would love to be year in high school and has developed a special relationable to hate, but you know that after talking with her for ship, she said. two minutes, you can’t because she is genuine and she is “Ms. Rutherford is like my soul sister,” Whittlesey everything she advertises to be,” Rutherford said. said. “Her room is my safe haven and she is the only person While Whittlesey is involved in much, she too has her besides my mom who has seen me cry at school.” limits, she said.

During Whittlesey’s sophomore year she struggled “I have had so many instances where I have had to stop with body image and coping with her mother’s health, she doing school homework because there are only so many said. Rutherford was there to offer comfort. hours in the day, and if you don’t take time to have a bal- Taylor Whittlesey shows her “Ms. Rutherford is one of the people who influenced anced life, you cannot put forth your best effort,” WhittleSteer at a 4-H Competition. me when I was at a very low point in my life and inspired sey said. me to pursue helping others through servant leadership and Whittlesey’s favorite verse and life song is Proverbs for that I am forever grateful,” Whittlesey said.

27:19 that states “as water reflects a face, so does the Whittlesey’s leadership and determination has led to man’s heart reflect the man.” several projects she has started to help others in both the “When people look at me I want them to see a follower community and internationally.

Taylor W of Christ and to know that I love them and that I am somehittlesey smiles fo “Taylor is the type of person who does things behind senior pic r her tures take one who wants to serve them,” Whittlesey said. n by senio Katy Wal the scenes that others don’t see,” Lisa Whittlesey said. “She lace. r does it not for the glory, but because she wants to serve the Lord.”

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TAYLOR WHITTLESEY

The Favorites Of...

Color: Yellow

Female Artist: Mandy Moore

TV Show: One Tree Hill

Bible Verse: “As water re-

Shawn McDonald

Pocahontas

Instrument: Guitar

flects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.” Proverbs 27:29

Male Artist:

Mountain or Beach: Beach Author: Nicholas Sparks

Disney Princess:

Snack: Nutrigrain Bar

Movie: “Walk To Remember” Compiled by Emily Nelson

friday, may 13, 2011

the roar | people| 15

Getting Hooked

Anglers find relaxation, solace in outdoor recreation

By Anna Huff Sports Editor A bucket of minnows, tackle box full of lures and a freshly picked package of worms may not seem appealing to many, but for fishers, it is the perfect ingredients to make a successful day on the water.

“I started fishing as soon as I could pick up a pole,” senior English teacher Richard Wilson said.

He was taught by his father and now is passing down the tips that he learned to his children. Senior Scott Jones also learned to fish from family.

“I was taught by my dad when I was five,” senior Scott Jones said. “I love fishing because it gives me a time to think and be on my own, and it was something all the guys on my family could share and do together.”

This is where Jones learned tips such as if the wind is blowing from the west the fish are more prone to bite. Junior Ashley Weir also finds it as a way to spend time with her family.

“My family started to fish more often three years ago when we got our boat,” Weir said “ I enjoy being out on the water and the feeling I get when I’m about to reel in a fish.”

Fishing is a sport based off of strategy and tolerance. It can be described as a battle of patience. Once the tension in the line is just right, then it is time to pop the rod and reel in the fish. For Weir she believes that her pink fishing pole is what gives her luck out on the water.

“If you want to have success fishing, the ability to have persistence and being able to adapt to changes is crucial,” Wilson said.

Fishing can be a solitary sport or social, it is just flexible to your mood, Jones said. Many stories are made while out on the water fishing.

“I have had a lot of laughs and good stories from fishing,” Jones said. “anything from getting a hook caught on my leg to catching an alligator.”

Jones is not the only one with strange stories.

“My favorite memories while fishing would have to be with my dad and brother,” Wilson said. “I remember one specific time it was cold and raining outside, and somehow my brother ended up falling in the water.”

Along with going fishing because of the stories, many go as a way to be outside.

“My ideal fishing weather is sunny, but not too hot,” Weir said. “It is hard to find where the fish are sometimes so I like to be comfortable while I senior SCOTT JONES wait.”

While Weir enjoys the sun, Jones thinks differently.

“I like fishing when a storm is coming because the atmospheric pressure is low which makes the fish feed,” Jones said.

Even if fishing entails a high tolerance for patience, the soothing comfort it provides makes up for that.

“Some people hike or camp, but I fish,” Wilson said. “It is my way to be outside.”

Senior Kameron Kitchens uses fishing as a way to bond with his friends.

“It is a calming hobby to have especially with a good buddy like Scott Jones,” Kitchens said.

Jones said fishing can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

“My advice to anyone that has never fished before is to try it. You will not regret it,” Jones said.

“My advice to anyone that has never fished before is to try it.

You will not regret it.”

Senior Kameron Kitchens displays the fish that he caught on Tuesday, May 3. Kitchens believes fishing in the morning provides the best results. PHOTO BY ANNA HUFF

Fish Out of Water Crappie: Swim in large pools; versatile feeders (usually eat insects, worms and minnows) Best fishing for these in spring and fall

Large Mouth Bass:

Grow typically 4 to 6 inches Usually seek protective cover such as logs and rocks Likes quiet, calm water Best fishing in the spring

Perch: Seniors Kameron Kitchens and Scott Jones fish in the morning on Tuesday, May 3. Jones said he learned to fish from his family and has been avidly fishing since he was five years old. PHOTO BY ANNA HUFF

Source: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild

Can be caught anytime of the year Yellow Perch is the most common type in Texas Can be aggressive biters Usually use an anchor hook to catch

16 |people| the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Helpful Tips for Seniors

The Roar compiles various ways to assist seniors throught their first year of college

By Alex Hall, Executive Editor ar tire.waithange a c d

w to c side Learn shtuo ck on the

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College Dorm Room Checklist:

Buy what you need and stay on budget Mini-fridge & Microwave

For storing your caffeine supply and late-night munchies, a mini-fridge is a necessity in every colle ge dorm room.

Found in Walmart stores for $156.9

6

Laptop

This item is essential for research papers and finding your new college friends on facebook.

Found in Walmart stores for $328.00

Oversized Calendar

Learn how to

do your To avoid diggin g through a ha own laundry. your daily attire, mper when se lect learn how to pr operly wash cl ing othes.

Learn how to b

alance a chec Part of becom kboo ing an adult manage your is learning ho k. finances, so w to it is crucial to learn how for you to keep track of your finan ces.

Learn three

steps in s Pepper spray can get you on elf defense. ly so far, but ta few tips about se king a safter at night. lf-defense may help you feel a little Learn how to

rememb Awkward mom ents when you er names. fo can be avoided by learning how rget a peer ’s name rize a person’s to effectively m name. emo-

Don’t want to forget those importa nt due dates? Hang up a calendar and have a marker ready to scratch off the days till graduation.

Found in Walmart stores for $14.95 Shower Basket

Whether living in a dorm that offers community showers or honors dorms with private bathrooms, a shower bucket is every college student’s necessity for everyday cleaning and grooming.

Found in Target stores for $5.99

Door Hangers

To prevent tripping on bath robes and winte r coats, attach adhesive clothes hooks on doors or walls .

Found in Target stores for $7.99

the roar | snapshots | 17

friday, may 13, 2011

uilding

Ag Mechanics students combine nowledge : construction talents to build house

By Preksha Chowdhary, assistant editor Students in Agricultural Mechanics and Metal Fabrication, Advanced Agricultural Mechanics and Problems and Solutions in Agricultural Mechanics classes have created a fully functional lake house hammering nails, placing boards and erecting walls for six weeks to meet the request and order of a customer from Lake Limestone.

“The customer came to us with the idea that he wanted a cabin to put on his lake lot, told me the dimensions and [the project] jumpstarted,” said John Templeton, Agricultural Mechanics teacher and Project Supervisor.

The lake house has been through the framing and roofing stage and has yet to undergo electrical and plumbing settings. The Ag department started on the project with a budget of $6,000 provided by the customer for construction materials and is currently at $8,000 in expenses to account for further modifications.

“Getting a job done brings me a sense of accomplishment and it helps relieve stress,” sophomore Jordan Wren said.

These students have had safety tests throughout the school year and have demonstrated proper use of tools and understanding of terminology.

“There’s really no room for error because if one of those kids makes a mistake, they can hurt themselves or hurt somebody else,” Templeton said. “Not only do you have to pay attention to what’s going on with the project but you also have to be concerned with everyone’s safety.”

A large part of the Agricultural Mechanics students plan on going into a field related to construction or engineering. Senior Cole Sustaire works on the house throughout second, third and fourth periods and after school, if needed.

He said that he plans on becoming a mechanical engineer and has already gained basic comprehension of houses and building materials and developed an interest in construction by living on a farm and learning from his father.

Templeton has had the opportunity to work with some of these students for more than one year. Working on the house for hours a day helped create a special bond between him and his students.

“I hope they grasp the basic skills I get asked to teach kids,” Templeton said. “Simple things like doing what’s asked of you, completing a task, asking questions if need be, working and meeting time constraints and basically just being a good overall employee.”

Ag Mechanics teacher John Templeton assists sophomores Britnee Bailey and Matt Wilson in measuring the cuts for the exterior walls of the house. Templeton said his goal is to teach students the correct techniques of construction, as well as spark their interest in the subject. PHOTO BY ELIZABETH CRISP

Junior Cody McCoy and sophomore Ryan Williams assist their classmates in installing a window onto the house. The class has completed the foundation and roofing stages of the build and have begun work on plumbing and electricity.

PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

Sophomore Andrew Chambers and junior Gayla Gregory work together to cut metal panels for the exterior walls. The students have had safety tests throughout the year to demonstrate proper technique and usage of the tools. PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

Sophomore Dominic Simmons drills the final screws to install the structural support of the window. It took the students four weeks to complete the exterior stage of the house. PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

Ag Mechanics teacher John Templeton and sophomore Andrew Chambers mark the correct measurements for the R-panels of the house. Through this project, Templeton said he has built a close relationship with all of his students. PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

Ag Mechanics teacher John Templeton checks the final measurements of a window before sophomore Jordan Wren places metal panels on the exterior walls. Templeton said students are encouraged to take leadership roles within the project. PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

18 | student

life | the roar

dy San

friday, may 13

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S E U N E V LOCAL

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L L A V S O HE BRAZ

T N I E L B I ACCESS

t editor by abigayle english, assistan

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rowing up in College Station often blinds teens to all the fun activities that are available in our area. In order to make this summer memorable, The Roar decided to do some research to find out what our town has to offer teens for entertainment. So next time your friend asks, “what should we do today?” consider our suggestions.

refresh yourself by

in Lake Bryan, loc Point Road. The Station Parks services provi over 40 parks. T places to spend whether it’s playing having a picnic. Sign u join the city league kic some friendly compet more about local out visit cstx.com.

the roar | student

friday, may 13, 2011

life | 19

play

enjoy a day outdoors at

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the soul on a peaceful sightseeing drive down Rock Prairie Road, following it all the way back to Highway 6 near Peach Creek.

Embrace the artist within with a scenic photoshoot with friends or family.

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in local culture during First Fridays in downtown Bryan, just off Texas Ave. Taking place on the first Friday of each month, this event is full of music, arts, food, dancing and shows. Watch the local news at the end of every month for updates on upcoming First Friday events.

rd

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6

indulge

Gibbons Creek. This familyfriendly site offers boating, fishing, camping and has a private swimming area.

Bi

h yourself by taking a swim

Bryan, located on Sandy Road. The Bryan/College ation Parks and Recreation rvices provide the city with 40 parks. These are great to spend summer days ’s playing frisbee, golf or icnic. Sign up by June 3 to ty league kickball team for ndly competition. To learn ut local outdoor activities, H ar om.

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JJ’s Snow Cones on Briarcrest. With dozens of eclectic flavors such as Caribbean Splash and Coke Float, these low-priced cold delicacies are the perfect Boo summer treat.

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satisfy a sweet tooth craving and visit

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a new “mega game” of hide-and-go-seek, also called “search and rescue,” has emerged among local teens. To play, form two teams, and each team takes one or two people from the opposing team. After setting “territories” and boundaries, the “captives” are dropped off in a secret location. The goal is for the two teams to race to find their missing team member first. Selected drivers must try to “rescue” the captives by receiving encrypted hints of the secret location (proper nouns such as “McDonald’s” are not allowed, but the more vague “the popular restaurant” is acceptable).

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20| people | the roar

friday, may 13 , 2011

PERSONALLY PAINTED FOR YOU

Footwear designing hobby provides artistic outlet, financial benefits

BY ALINA DATTAGUPTA, NEWS EDITOR

As the multicolored fine-tip Sharpies lay out in front of her, sophomore Maddie Gaines anxiously picks up a new pair of white canvas shoes. After choosing a color, she begins to sketch fragments of a design. “[Shoe designing] it so relaxing to me,” she said. “I can kill hours on them, while being totally absorbed and entertained. The greatest part is remembering that I have a pair in my bag, ready for me to work on. It makes me all excited.”

Junior Jacob Wilson began designing shoes when he was in seventh grade at a time when he did not have enough money to buy an elaborate pair of shoes.

“I bought an inexpensive pair [of shoes] and began to draw on them with Sharpies,” he said. “From that point on I just kind of kept doing it and got good enough to where other people were requesting and paying me to do their shoes too.”

Unlike Wilson, Gaines unexpectedly came upon her hobby.

“I went to Target one time after school and saw a pair of white canvas shoes and spent the rest of the day drawing on them,” she said.

Senior Alyssa Halcombe, who used to avidly paint on shoes, feels that inspiration for the designs can be found in the most unexpected places.

“Mostly, beautiful, natural, and simple things [give me ideas],” she said. “Also, lately I’ve been experimenting with different color schemes and texture, so I might incorporate those into shoes as well.”

Wilson feels that inspiration can be found almost anywhere.

“A plethora of sources give me inspiration such as the movies I watch and the people I’m around,” he said. “However, for the most part, people generally want

something specific when they drop off their Vans, so I have guidelines to follow.”

People discovered Wilson’s hobby after he wore his shoes to school one day.

“At first they saw the shoes I had on, which were some topsiders with a realistic pit bull drawn on them,” he said. “So, one friend wanted a pair, then another, and then another. Before long all kinds of people were texting me and messaging me on Facebook asking me if I could design a pair of shoes for them if they paid me.”

Halcombe is not sure whether she will continue the

“Designing shoes has especially influenced the amount of doodles and chicken scratch on my school notes. Instead of drawing over those, I just transferred it to the shoes,” Sophomore Maddie Gaines hobby in the future.

“Honestly, I don’t know if I’ll continue painting shoes, but I would like to still paint commissioned pieces of art,” she said.

Although her orders get backed up quickly, Gaines feels that the hobby does not negatively affect her.

“It has not interfered with activities to a scale that it becomes a problem,” she said. “Since it’s pretty casual, I don’t have to have the shoes back to the person at a certain time; therefore, they don’t have to be a first priority in my life.”

For Wilson, the hobby does interfere with other activities at times.

PROSPECTIVE PAINTERS

Jacob Wilson MEDIUM: SHARPIES AND FABRIC MARKERS SHOE TYPE: ANY CANVAS SHOES (VANS &CONVERSE) CONTACT INFO: SHAKEARTIST60@YAHOO.COM COST: $25

“Balancing everything is probably the hardest part,” he said. “There’s only 24 hours in a day, and it never seems like enough to do everything.”

Halcombe feels that the reverse is true.

“Other activities interfere with decorating shoes especially now that I’m supposed to figure out what life looks like in the fall,” she said. “Also, life is beautiful, and I guess I get distracted with the glorious yet small things in life, as well as people. Another interference is AP art because it’s almost time to turn our portfolios in, so it’s time to get down to business and finish up.”

Gaines feels that the hobby has greatly influenced her schedule and schoolwork.

“I’m a lot busier now,” she said. “Also, it [designing shoes] has especially influenced the amount of doodles and chicken scratch on my school notes. Instead of drawing over those, I just transferred it to the shoes.”

Wilson feels that the hobby has helped him grow as an artist. “[Designing shoes] has really broadened my styles,” he said. “Since the orders vary so greatly, I’m constantly being challenged to try new things and expand in a lot of different areas of art.”

Halcombe’s favorite part of decorating shoes is being able to make art that represents a person.

“I love how I can make art personal for someone, something unique for someone to own that says a little bit about who they are,” she said. “I haven’t been very consistent with this lately, but, along with painting the shoes to fit the person well, I sometimes like to write a little note to them.”

Wilson’s favorite part of designing shoes is being able to make a pair uniquely unite.

“My favorite part is when I get to get creative and really tie the two shoes together,” he said. “Not literally of course, but artistically. Everyone knows that shoes come in a left and right side pair, but when I do a pair of shoes, I do my best to really make it feel like one shoe couldn’t survive without the other and that they are bonded together forever.”

Maddie Gaines

MEDIUM: FINE TIP SHARPIES SHOES TYPE: ANY WHITE CANVAS CONTACT INFO: XXVOLLEY.BABEXX@YAHOO.COM COST: $20

Alyssa Halcombe MEDIUM: ACRYLIC PAINT SHOES TYPE: ANY CANVAS OR CLOTH ESPECIALLY KEDS, CONVERSE, AND TOMS CONTACT INFO: SOCCERGURL1309@GMAIL.COM COST: $25

PHOTOS BY ALEX HALL

Semicentennial Showcase

the roar | people | 21

friday, may 13, 2011

Fiftieth anniversary of annual show exhibits Belle talent

by Faria Akram, Features Editor

1.

Titled “50 Years of Fabulous,” the Bengal Belles Spring show celebrated Consol’s 50th year of Belles with performances dedicated to the Belles of the last five decades.

“Each dance number in the show corresponded to some characteristic Belles have had in the past 50 years, such as confidence,” senior Maria Lyuksyutova said.

Planning for the 2011 show began immediately after the end of the 2010 Bengal Belle show. In addition to the dances, the Belles also invited former Belles and Belle directors to the show to be recognized for the roles they held during their time in the program. The alumnae also emceed the show through taped interviews by Scott Faulk’s Audio/Video Production students.

“Belles began in 1961, and we had one Belle from the 60s, and a couple from each of the following decades,” assistant director Jessica Diem said. “They sent in pictures and stories, and we used that to decorate the entrance into the auditorium.”

Contacting alumni from decades ago would have been a difficult feat to accomplish without present technology, Diem said.

“Facebook has been a huge help in finding old Belles,” Diem said. “There’s a Belle alumni facebook page, and we’ve messaged old Belles and directors and asked them for information on other old Belles as well.”

One former Belle is current sociology and psychology teacher Lindsay Zahn, who was a Belle from 1993 to 1996 and became assistant director in 2002.

“I loved dance and being involved in the school [during high school],” Zahn said. “ A lot of my good friends were Belles with me.”

Zahn then became Bengal Belle director in 2004, but due to the large amount of time and dedication that was a part of the job, she resigned from the position in 2007.

“I was a single mom, and it was difficult to manage Belles and everything else in my life.”

Zahn said. “I do miss the girls, and buying costumes and going on the fun trips.”

Lyuksyutova said that this year’s show was extremely meaningful to her.

“The dance technical ability has risen by 100 percent,” Lyuksyutova said. “And [as a Belle member], you give so much to the team and want everyone to do well. It really has been 50 years of fabulous, and I’m glad to be ending on that.”

Zahn states that she has high hopes for the next 50 years of Belles.

“I hope to see that in the next 50 years, the Belles continue to hold the same values and leadership skills that they have been taught in the past years,” Zahn said.

“I hope they carry themselves with confidence and selfrespect, and put everything into their school work and dance, and ultimately make good choices.”

For more photos of the show, check out The Roar Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/theroar!

2.

3.

4.

1. Senior and captain Maria Lyuksyutova performs a high kick during the last dance performance. Lyuksyutova has been on Bengal Belles since her freshman year. PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT 2. Seniors Sally Kate Humphries, Maria Lyuksyutova, Odessa Appel and Erica Ashmore perform their contest kick routine to the song “Come Fly Away with Me” by Frank Sinatra. The Belles performed the routine at both their contests this spring. PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT 3. The belle uniforms over the decades are displayed outside the auditorium.

Over the past few years, uniforms have become more streamlined. PHOTO BY FARIA AKRAM 4. Seniors Tayler Slocum and Katy Wallace perform the social officer dance dedicated to Tiger Football. Officers coordinated all parties and spirit events for Belles. PHOTO BY AMY ZHANG

22 | sports | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Athlete’s hard work pays off with district win

BY RACHEL KAGLE

assistant editor

Adrenaline rushing and heart racing, she steps onto the track and breathes deeply. She has one chance. Junior Taylor Williams sprints, jumps once, twice and a third time before soaring through the air and landing in the sand.

Williams’ main event is triple jump where she earned many prestigious awards including district champion and third place at the Texas Relays. She also participates in long jump and runs in the 100-meter hurdles.

“This year I got third place at Texas Relays in triple jump,” Williams said. “It’s really hard to get. I jumped against 35 other jumpers from all around Texas.”

After all the practice and hard work, receiving an award is a relieving feeling, Williams said.

“When I win, I feel accomplished,” Williams said. “It’s usually something I’ve worked all year for and when I get it, it’s usually a huge accomplishment.”

Williams believes that practice and working hard is the only way to achieve her goals. She continuously works to do her best and stays positive about her competitions and efforts.

“She learns and executes what you tell her,” assistant track coach Tara Moore said. “Her overall attitude is positive.

No matter what she does, she is competitive.”

Moore enjoys working with Williams because of her hard work and impressive talents.

“Taylor is a natural athlete; she’s one of a kind,” Moore said. “She has the heart, and she puts everything into it. She’ll do it all.”

Williams has been a key member of the district-winning Lady Tiger track team that sent 14 girls to the region meet in Waco May 2-3, including senior Unique King in the 4x200meter relay.

“When you win, you just feel like all your hard work is finally catching up to you,” King said. “It’s really just amazing.”

Track gives everyone involved a chance to bond, make new friends and become closer to old friends.

“I like seeing how all of the girls bond as one team,” Coach Rodney Wellmann said. “I like the idea of everyone coming together.”

Not only does track provide a time for exercise, enjoyment and time with friends, it also teaches important life lessons.

“It’s all about goal setting,” Wellmann said. “It’s something they will take with them the rest of their lives.”

Through learning life lessons, working hard and enjoying their time, the girls pull through doing what they love.

“The girls on my team are hard working and like to get their job done,” King said. “They love competing, they love running, they love winning.”

Boys Track Varsity district: Third place

State Qualifer: Henry Taylor- 200 me-

Track

ter run

Junior Taylor Williams practices her triple jump after school on April 28. Williams finished in third place at the Texas Relays on April 9. PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT

Sophomore Markea Johnson runs on April 1 at the Tiger Relays. Johnson has been in track for two years. PHOTO BY KRISTEN SCHOCKE

Regional Qualifiers: Junior Alex Caruso- High Jump Senior Tim Lott- High Jump Senior Travis Bohne- Two mile and one mile Junior Collin Beckman- Pole Vault Senior Michael McClendon- Shot put Sophmore Henry Taylor- 200 meter run

Girls Track Varsity district: First place

Junior Varsity district:

Junior Chaiss Matthews runs the mile race at the Tiger Relays on April 1. Matthews qualified for region.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN SCHOCKE

Regional Qualifiers: Taylor Williams- Triple Jump Catherine Chenault and Kaylee McCabe- Pole Vault Kaleigh Vincent- High Jump Taylor Williams, Markea Johnson, Jazz Harris,

First place

Unique King- 4X100 relay

Freshman district:

Unique King- 4X200 relay

Third place

Tori Vanhootegem, Markea Johnson, Jazz Harris, Jazz Harris- 200 meter run Amy Bingaman and Karis Jochen- 3200 meter run Chaiss Matthews and Karis Jochen- 1600 meter run Chaiss Matthews- 800 meter run

23 | sports | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

take {them} out to the ballgame

Varsity baseball team has strong season after rough beginning this year, improving their game overall.

“I think the team is closer than last year’s team.

Everybody gets along with each other,” Turton said. “We’re not all on the same grade level, but we’re all friends. [Most They’re district 12-5A champions.

They were ranked as high as third in the state this year. of us have] been playing together since we were eight or When they walk around school, their peers know that nine.”

Going into playoffs, the team as a whole has high hopes they’re varsity baseball players—particularly from the for the rest of the season. remnants of their team-spirit Mohawks.

“I see potential to be the state champions,” senior But what students might not know is that only a few weeks ago, they were huddled in a locker room, trying to Jonathan Schmitz said. “Everybody has just really bought into what the coaches are saying, and our goal is to win the explain away a streak of losses.

“Early on in the season, we weren’t playing very state championship.”

Some of the players on the team see baseball as a chance well—we were playing as a bunch of individuals,” junior Alec Paradowski said. “In our last tournament, we had a sort to socialize with friends, all reaching for a common goal.

“We know each other. We’re brothers,” Holbert said. of team meeting in the locker room before one of the games, “It’s just really fun to go out and just play baseball with a and that game we all came together and everybody was in it bunch of guys you’re really close with.” the whole time.”

Others see the benefits in playing a game that can mold Since the team meeting, the boys have a new confidence a person’s characteristics. in relying on one another. They have developed a motto to “[Baseball] is a game where you can fail and still define their performances. “[We tell each guy to] put the team on [his] back,” succeed. You can fail seven out of 10 times and still have a junior Colby Turton said. “[It means] step up and put the good average as a hitter,” junior Riley Ferrell said.

Senior Scott Jones agreed with Ferrell’s sentiments. team on your back and don’t be selfish.”

“Baseball’s a game where whatever you put in, you’re The strategy has worked well for Tiger Baseball, as their record is 27-4 after their best-of-three bi-district win. going to get out,” Jones said. “As a team, we still need to come together more as a team so we can win those close They play Dallas White tonight at 7:00 p.m. in Waco.

“When I go to pitch, I know that I have a really good games.”

In addition to the boys’ reliance on one another, they defense behind me, and I have a lot of confidence going in to pitch,” junior Seth Holbert said. “We have a starting pitch also rely on the coaches for moral support, guidance in their where number one batter through number nine batter can sport and friendship.

“Coach Mann, he’s always trying to be like our best hit the ball.” friend.

He’ll walk behind us and tap us on one shoulder Beyond having an excellent lineup, the boys on the team believe their bond as a team has strengthened as well and hope that we look over, and he’s on the other side,”

Paradowski said. “But when it comes to game time, we’re all serious.”

Holbert agrees.

“I love playing for Coach Mann and Coach Jackson,” Holbert said. “They’re doing a really good job with helping us get better and motivating us.”

Junior Ford Moore described the season as having “a couple ups and downs, but mainly ups.” Throughout the ups and downs of the season, though, the team surely has learned the meaning of teamwork and being a “brotherhood”, as Paradowski called the team.

“It’s not a matter of one player doing better than any of the other players. It’s a matter of our whole team relying on one another,” Holbert said. “We’ve done a good job. We’re a family, and we know that we can pick each other up when we’re down.”

With state championship dreams in their eyes, the boys know that becoming an even closer team can lead them far.

“Mentally, we have to have a killer mindset,” senior Josh Schulman said. “We’re going to go out there and play our best.”

Senior Andrew Brown swings at a pitch during the DeSoto playoff game. Brown was signed to play baseball at Texas A&M University next year. PHOTO BY EMILY NELSON

Senior Cade Walton warms up before the playoff game against DeSoto on Friday, May 6. The Tigers won the series. PHOTO BY EMILY NELSON

BY AMY ZHANG AND DANA BRANHAM opinions editor & assistant editor

Freshmen District finish: 14-0

baseball

Fans in the stands cheer wildly for the Tiger varsity baseball team on May 6. The Tigers won the game 3-1.

PHOTO BY ALEX HALL

Junior Varsity District finish: 9-3

Varsity Top Batting Averages as of April 5 1. Andrew Brown -- .525 2. Ford Moore -- .462 3. Chase Miller -- .438 4. Scott Jones -- .410 5. Riley Ferrell -- .406

Top Pitching Records as of April 5 1. Ford Moore -- 8-0 2. Seth Holbert -- 8-0 3. Riley Ferrell -- 3-2 4. Chase Miller -- 2-1 5. Josh Schulman -- 2-0

24 | sports | the roar

2011

friday, may 13, 2011

Spring Sports Review

compiled by staff reporter Kirsten Bevan and assistant editor Isabel Drukker

Soccer

Signed Athletes Baseball

Tim Oberhelman – McMurry University,

Abilene, Texas

Johnathan Schmitz – Tarleton State,

Stephenville, Texas

Cannon Schrank – Hendrix, Conway, Ark.

Josh Schulman – University of Rochester,

Rochester, N.Y.

A recap of athletics this spring

While boys’ soccer faced defeat due to a number of injuries and complications, girls’ varsity soccer earned 20 shutouts, breaking their previous record of 15.

“It was definitely a hard working season for both teams,” girls’ head soccer coach Stoney Pryor said. “We had an undefeated season on the JV level, [and] both teams had an outstanding year.”

Meanwhile, the boys’ soccer team struggled with health issues.

“This season was really good, [though] we had quite a bit of injuries,” coach Chris Kovacs said. “But I think it was a very fun and successful season.”

Basketball

Taylor Tucker – University of Louisiana at

Lafayette, Lafayette, La.

Football

Clinton Banks – Trinity University,

San Antonio, Texas

Chris Ceazer – West Texas A&M

University, Canyon, Texas

CJ Goodman – Mary Hardin Baylor

University, Belton, Texas

Matias Grande – Beloit College, Beloit, Wis.

Chris Nutall – Texas State University,

San Marcos, Texas

Ernest Payton – University of Missouri,

St. Louis, Miss.

Caden Walker – Sam Houston State,

Waco, Texas

Alex Wilson – Sam Houston State,

Waco, Texas

Softball

Jordan Bettiol – University of Nebraska,

Lincoln, Neb.

Gina Delisa – University of Minnesota –

Crookston, Crookston, Minn.

Alyssa Gregg – Sam Houston State

University, Houston, Texas

Sarah Halliwell – Savannah College of Art

and Design, Savannah, Ga.

Sydney Parks – Jacksonville University,

Jacksonville, Fla.

Swimming

Hayden Duplechain -- Texas A&M,

College Station, Texas

Chris Munster -- Wheeling Jesuit

University, Wheeling, W. Va.

Mauricio Zambrano -- Incarnate Word,

San Antonio, Texas

Track

Sophomore Clare McDougal and junior Sofia Rojo del Busto PHOTO BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

The boys’ varsity basketball team made it to the playoffs where they were defeated with a final score of 58-38 “We all pulled together,” boys basketball coach Rick German, said. “We were fortunate to do well in the playoffs this year.”

The girls basketball team also advanced to playoffs.

“Nobody really expected us to make it as far,” junior Tierra Tucker said. “We really proved them wrong.”

20

Basketball

4

Unique King – Lon Morris, Jacksonville, Texas

Volleyball

Neely Edwards - Colby Kansas Junior College,

Colby, Kan.

Bailey Gillum – Temple College,

Temple, Texas

Ashten Landry - University of Texas Pan

American, Edinberg, Texas

Julie Westerbur – Southern Methodist

University, Dallas, Texas Varsity boys basketball team PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Junior Tierra Tucker PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

the roar | sports | 25

friday, may 13 , 2011

Powerlifting

Swimming Swimming made a splash this semester with the boys’ swim team placing second in regionals and the girls winning first.

“They get along really well as a whole,” coach Ryan Goodwyn said. “It was a good year.”

Besides the team doing well, each swimmer won a personal victory, including senior Hayden Duplechain’s breaking the school record in the 200 IM by over 5 seconds.

“Everyone dropped times, everyone had their season’s best and everyone had fun,” senior Mauricio Zambrano said. “We really made a big impact this year.”

Sophomore Kelli Klein PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO

5

9

Senior Alec Kenerley PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO

1

Gymnastics

The girls’ gymnastics team ended the spring semester with a bang by placing first in district and second in the region.

They went on to place twelfth in state to top off an almost undefeated season.

Sophomore Ben Guzman of the boys team also competed at state, placing tenth on the floor apparatus.

“We had a fantastic year,” head gymnastics coach Julie Foght said. “I couldn’t have asked for anything more than what [the team] gave.”

Guzman placed among the top 10 all around gymnasts at the regional meet, making it to the state meet in every event.

“Gymnastics was a blast this year,” Guzman said. “I’m looking forward to competing and meeting new people next season.”

Sophomore Ben Guzman PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Sophomore Esther Parulian PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT

After a number of players placed at district, including Frankie Colunga who won first in singles and Chris Walter and Ben Walter and Esther Parulian and Amy Gore who placed first in doubles, tennis failed to continue to state after regionals.

“I made it to the corners of regionals but next year I am looking to improve,” sophomore Frankie Colunga said.

Tennis players hope to continue their success next year as a whole.

“I’m looking forward to getting back and really getting a good shot at winning and getting further in regionals,” said sophomore Amy Gore.

Juniors JJ Bynum, DJ Levias PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT

Sophomore Scott Wilding PHOTO BY LAURA EVERETT

Tennis

The girls’ power lifting team completed their second official year by sending four girls to state, while the boys’ power lifting team finished by winning the regional championship.

“I think we accomplished a lot, truth be told,” sophomore Madison Becker said. “Sending four girls to state is incredible. Next year is going to be pretty intense. I think we’re going to do really well.”

In addition to winning the regional championship, boys’ power lifting also sent nine students to state.

“Of the nine guys that went to state, six are coming back next year,” coach Gregg Frashure said. “[We can be] as successful as we were this year.”

7

Junior Alison Garlick PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

26 | sports | the roar

f or the f uture BATTING

friday, may 13, 2011

Seniors discover passion for softball, pursue college athletic careers

By Kimmie Cessna, Assistant Editor It’s the bottom of the inning.

Down by one, two outs.

It all comes down to this moment.

The last pitch is released and the score reveals one team as the winner and for the other team it is the last time for the seniors to play a high school softball together.

“One of my favorite things about the team is the stupid stories we can tell after the games,” senior Sarah Halliwell said.

A majority of the seniors this year are planning to play softball in college and try to go even further.

“I am signing with the University of Nebraska because ever since I saw them play A&M my junior year, I have always been interested and fate stepped in and made it happen,” senior Jordan Bettiol said.

Practicing is a way to improve skills and techniques required to succeed in softball.

“I have been preparing for college softball by playing with a tournament team and having a personal trainer to help me,” senior Alyssa Gregg said.

The softball girls spend much of their time together with games, practices, and bus rides.

“My favorite thing about softball is spending time with all the girls and having fun, but my least favorite part is the running,” Halliwell said.

For Bettiol, softball was not her first sport in high school.

“I played softball for eight years, but took three years off for track and eventually went back into softball my sophomore year,” Bettiol said.

A good softball team could not be possible if it were not for a coach who supported the team.

“Coach has definitely helped me with my temper problem big time by calming me down when I get really mad,” Gregg said.

Playing softball in college is a priority for the seniors, but other goals are important as well.

“My goals for college are to get a degree as fast as I can,” Halliwell said.

After playing softball for so many years, it would seem as if it would get tiring after a while, but for these seniors, it is only the beginning.

“The question shouldn’t be ‘why do you play softball,’ but ‘why don’t you play softball?’” Bettiol said.

Senior Alyssa Gregg practices batting after school on April 28, 2011.

She has been playing softball at Consol for the past four years.

PHOTOS BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

BUNTS AND BRUISES

Senior Alyssa Gregg practices infielding after school on April 28. Gregg prepared for playoffs on April 29-30. PHOTOS BY PREKSHA CHOWDHARY

Sophomore Ashley Esparza applies outfielding skills during after school practice. She played on varsity as a shortstop this year. PHOTOS BY RACHEL KAGLE

Varsity

Junior Varsity

Team Record:

(21-12)

softball

Playoff Results:

(0-2)

Sophomore Taylor Oberg: “My favorite moment this season was when we were playing hacky sack, and the ball landed in the chalk line, and Sydney Park got a chalk print on her face.”

Team Record:

(12-7-2)

Junior Sarah Stuart: “I love the adrenaline rush I feel when I hit the ball and running for my life from base to base.”

the roar | health

friday, may 13, 2011

& rec | 27

Consoltimate

New club reaches out to students to participate in fast-paced sport 1

2

The consoltimate team lines up before a game played on Saturday, April 23 (1). Afterwards the team huddles to celebrate the 8-1 win against a tournament team (2). PHOTOS BY ELENA EDWARDS

1

3

2

4

BY ELENA EDWARDS assistant editor Lined up accordingly across the field, one player glances at each of his teammates, frisbee in hand, before launching it through the air and beginning the rigorous hour-long game ahead. Consoltimate has arrived.

A new club at Consol, Consoltimate offers a chance for students throughout the school to participate and compete in Ultimate Frisbee, a game that not only test’s one’s athleticism, but determination and character as well.

Senior Ron Moretz, who began playing in the seventh grade and is currently captain of the team, started the club at Consol in March. Encouraged by his prolonged desire to have an Ultimate Frisbee team at the school, Moretz was able to make the team official by talking to Mr. Diem and asking English teacher Otha Graham to sponsor the club, Moretz said.

Being a new club at Consol, Moretz hopes that Consoltimate will reach a wide variety of students.

“I’m actually surprised at how the club’s grown the past couple of weeks,” Moretz said. “We have about 30 guys who come to practice right now. There are freshman, sophomores, juniors and seniors, so a pretty broad group of people. Currently, word of the club is just traveling by mouth, and anyone one, no matter the grade or gender, is welcome to join. We meet every Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. at the Consol soccer fields.”

Sophomore CJ Pye, who is lined up to be captain of the team next year, believes that Ultimate Frisbee is for anyone who has determination and a good attitude.

“Ultimate Frisbee is all about integrity,” Pye said. “There are no refs and you make your own calls, so it’s kind of like an honor system. As a

player, you’re expected to be respectful and fair. It really does promote good behavior, and so far everybody on the team has been getting along great.”

Senior Ron Moretz prepares to release the frisbee while warming up before a game. Moretz started the club this year with the help of sponsor Otha Graham.

PHOTO BY ELENA EDWARDS

Ultimate Frisbee is not only physically demanding, but requires a broad range of skills.

“Ultimate is awesome because

it’s really fast paced, there’s not a lot of resting time, you do an incredible amount of running, and you can pretty much sacrifice your body trying to catch the Frisbee,” Moretz said. “It’s not so much strength that’s important in Ultimate, but rather having the ability to jump high, to be quick on your feet, and being able to read how the Frisbee flies and adjusting to it. You don’t just chunk the Frisbee wherever. There’s actually a lot of skill and technique to it.”

Pye agrees and has found through his experiences that being in good shape is key.

“Ultimate is definitely challenging,” Pye said. “It’s constant running, and if you don’t run and keep up with your opponents, then you’re going to get scored on. You need to be in shape, and if you’re not, then be prepared to get in shape.”

As current and soon-to-be captains of the team, both Moretz and Pye have similar goals for the club.

“I would like to see us get to be a legitimate team that continues to excel and eventually participate in a lot more tournaments,” Moretz said. “Also, part of the reason I started this club is because I saw it as a ministry opportunity. I’m hoping that Consoltimate will reach a lot of students and that our team will continue to grow strong both athletically and spiritually.”

Pye has similar motives.

“As captain, a goal in everything that you do should be loving others well and just being a light to all of the guys on the team by being nice, being caring and giving 100 percent on the field for the purpose of showing them what Christ looks like,” Pye said. “Some people on the team may be Christians and some people may not, but I want it to be a positive environment that shows something different from everything else in the world. When you live life set apart, people ask questions, and that’s where God comes in.”

Ultimate Terms: The following are commonly used words in the sport of ultimate frisbee Layout - A diving catch or diving to defend the disc

Seniors Peyton Austin (1), Ray Richards (3), Ron Moretz (4) and sophomore, Wesley Remschel (2) play during a tournament Saturday, April 23. That tournament was their first since the club began.

PHOTOS BY KATE WILLIAMS

Bid - a failed attempt to catch or block the disc Handler - The person with the disc Cut - integral part of a route by a receiver

Scurvy - One of the ultimate embarrassments for a defender. It is the act of faking out the defender so bad that they believe the disc has been released Hammer - A forehand grip that is thrown over the head. This throw results in the disc flying upside down before tailing off at the end of its flight Source: http://ultimatefrisbeeinfo.com/ultimate_frisbee_terms.html

28 | health

& rec | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Student overcomes battle with cutting through work, time

BY DINI SUSANTO

editor-in-chief *** Note: Student’s name has been changed for confidentiality purposes.

For Jack, a knife was a man’s best friend.

Enticed by the X-Acto’s sharpness and precision, he drew the sliver of the blade across his forearm.

“It felt good,” Jack said.

His life took a sharp turn after that, as he became one of 3 million Americans facing problems with this type of selfinflicted injury, called cutting.

“Sometimes, people assume that teens who are cutting are only seeking

attention,” psychology teacher Lindsay Zahn said, “when, really, it’s a treatable personality disorder.”

Similar to tolerance development among drug addicts, Jack claims that his past habit arose from a craving for a new level of excitement.

“It releases endorphins, so it felt good, but it also kind of hurt,” Jack said. “I liked the adrenaline rush.”

Zahn said that this occurs among those struggling with anxiety.

“Generally, these people don’t even cut themselves the first time,” Zahn said. “They accidentally get a cut, and maybe seeing the blood and watching themselves bleed, and maybe even the process of treating it, just clicks, and it becomes a fixation in the brain.”

Aside from thrill-seekers like Jack, other teens also cut themselves to alleviate depression.

“The only way I can justify it in my mind is that it served as a distraction,” Jack said. “Instead of emotional pain, it would be more like physical pain, and that’s somewhat easier to [cope] with.”

Jack said that the thin lines on his forearm were easy to hide under jackets and long-sleeved shirts, but as his cutting grew more severe, they became more evident, and his parents discovered them within days after his last incident and sent him to a psychiatrist. “[My parents] were really sad when they found out, because they thought it was their fault, and they felt responsible,” Jack said.

According to Jack, sitting in a psychiatrist’s office was not a fond

memory.

“Honestly, I was kind of pissed that I was there. I didn’t really listen to [my therapist],” Jack said. “I guess I was just a typical kid.”

After his experience in the psychiatrist’s office, Jack said that friend-to-friend talk is preferable to a parental confrontation.

“If you see a friend doing this, try talking to them first,” Jack said. “If that doesn’t work, get help from an adult, because it can only go downhill from there, and your friend could end up severely injured.”

For certain exceptions, alternate adult sources may be necessary.

“Ultimately, you need to find the adult figure in your friend’s life whom they trust most, regardless of how your friend may react,” Zahn said. “It’s something that needs to be out in the open, and this key figure can and will point your friend in the right direction, whether it’s a therapist or a help line. But you have to tell an adult first so the process can start.”

With support from his friends, family members and psychiatrist, Jack no longer cuts himself.

“The thought of doing it again crosses my mind sometimes, but I just remind myself that it’s not worth it,” Jack said. “It’s just too much trouble to go through.”

Jack’s newfound morale has become his new best friend.

“It’s destructive, and it doesn’t lead anywhere good,” he said.

Five years later, Jack reveals his scars, visible, parallel lines along his forearm.

“I want to forget it, but I can’t. I still have the scars,” Jack said. “People still ask about it, and I still lie about it.”

Behind the Act It is estimated that 1 in 200 girls

have cut themselves.

13% of 15 to 16-year-olds have deliberately harmed themselves.

For 3 million Americans cutting is a serious

Cutting occurs most often with girls/women between the ages

problem.

of 13 and 30.

Cutting can become addictive.

Cutting usually starts when the cutter is between 10 and 16 years old.

Source: http://www.teenbreaks.com/cutting/cuttingfacts.cfm

Looking for Help? Call 603- 482- 9696

the roar | health

friday, may 13, 2011

and rec | 29

LISTEN UP

Increased headphone volume causes hearing loss “The average level that someone listens to their iPod is around 87-91 decibels, which is loud,” Dr. Herring said. entertainment editor “Anyone that works in an environment that has a loudness With bass-rattling sound systems and small headphones of 85 decibels or higher is required to wear ear protection, wedged in teen ears, rhythmic thuds vibrate the pavement so if you listen to your iPod louder than that, then it’s louder and the eardrums of students as they crank up the volume than what Occupational Health and Safety Administration with their advanced stereo equipment, iPods or mp3 play- (OSHA) recommends you to wear protection for.” ers, blaring the latest hit at maximum volume.

Exposure to loud noises can cause harmful short-term Having a custom sound system is growing in popular- or long-term effects, depending on the case. ity as many teens begin to drive their own vehicles and take “Warning signs of damaged hearing include temporary the responsibility of managing the volume of their music. loss of hearing immediately following listening to the per“I really like having a sound system that portrays my sonal media player, ringing in the ear, talking loudly immemusic in the best way possible,” junior Will Davis said, “but diately after using the device and difficulty communicating most of all I enjoy being able to literally ‘feel’ what I’m especially in noisy environments,” Herring said. “If you lislistening to. ten to loud music excessively as a teen, you are more likely Music is proven to relax, energize and comfort, but to notice hearing loss in your forties rather than having it constant exposure to listening to loud music later in your sixties or seventies, and hearing aids on a regular basis can lead to detrimencan be as expensive as $6,000.” tal side effects that hurt more than There are, however, several ways to help. prevent harmful side effects of hear“If a person responsibly ing loss and listen to music in a listens to their personal healthy manner. media players, they “iTunes allows users to are simply causing set a volume limit on the the ears to function iPod itself so that it cannot naturally and are exceed a preset level,” stimulating the Herring said. “Another hair cells [that way to avoid hearing allow the ear to damage is to limit the hear effectively] length of time the dein a safe manvice is used. There is ner,” Audioloalso a setting to make gist Dr. Robert sure all of the songs Herring said. on your device play “If, however, the at the same volume music is too inbecause some songs tense or loud and are recorded at different is listened to for levels.” long periods of time Simple tests can dethe hair cells can be termine if an individual is traumatized and actulistening to their music at a ally be physically damsafe volume. aged or fail, due to internal “If you take your headphone damage.” and hold it three feet away from you Depending on where the and you can still hear it, turn it down,” sound is coming from determines how PHOT Herring said, “If someone else can hear your T O BY LAURA EVERET it affects the inner ear. music, that is also a clear indication the music “The difference between hearing is too loud.” music from speakers and headphones is the range and how Over the past couple of years, the occurrence of hearclose it is to the listener’s actual eardrum,” Herring said. ing loss in teenagers has risen by nearly one-third compared Whether it is large headphones or small ear buds that to study that took place in te 1980’s and early 1990’s acgo directly in the ear canal, the effect is virtually the same. cording to the Journal of American Medical Association “One isn’t much better than the other because they (JAMA). both are close to the ear,” Herring said. “What matters is the “I want to assure the teens that they are not the first length of time at which you listen to the music. The longer generation dealing with [hearing loss],” Herring said. you listen to loud music, the more hazardous it is to the ear.” “They are just experiencing it in different forms like iPods Volume is measured in decibels that determine the in- and mp3 players, whereas older generations were exposed tensity of the sound. to loud concerts and stereos.”

BY KATE WILLIAMS

NOISE LEVELS Dangerous 130 - 140 dB

Avoid and use hearing protection.

Examples: fireworks, gun shots, custom car stereos, jackhammers, ambulances

Uncomfortable Dangerous after 30 seconds exposure.

120 dB

Example: jet planes during take off

Very Loud 90 - 110 dB

Loud

Examples: concerts, car horns, sporting events, snowmobiles, MP3 players at full volume, lawnmowers, power tools, blenders, hair dryers

Examples: alarm clocks, traffic, vacuums

70 - 80 dB

Moderate 50 - 60 dB

Examples: normal conversation, dishwashers, moderate rainfall

Soft 30 - 40 dB

Examples: quiet library, whispers

Faint 20 dB

Example: leaves rustling Source: www.HowsYourHearing.org American Academy of Audiology

30 | entertainment | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

The Roar Reviews

Local cultural cuisine hot spots offer new tastes Taz

reviewed by Faria Akram

After hearing so much about the new restaurant Taz, I decided to join some friends and visit the place myself.

Located on Texas Avenue next to Kroger, Taz serves authentic North Indian and South Indian cuisine for lunch or dinner, both café and buffet-style. When I came for dinner, I was immediately won over by the kind service that escorted me to a table within minutes of my arrival.

The atmosphere was pleasant and quiet, with several images of Indian graphics and background music to heighten the experience. The menu was a plus, with four back-to-back pages filled with several varieties of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

I ordered some aloo puri (two fried pieces of bread with a mashed potato and vegetable mix) and mushroom masala

40 Tempura

reviewed by Kendra Spaw

Upon entering 40 Tempura, an Asian cuisine restaurant located off Texas Avenue, I felt the rush of cool air refreshing me from the stuffy heat outside. My ears were filled with the soothing sounds of classical music, and my eyes soon adjusted to see a small, dim lit restaurant with a sushi bar, booths and tables scattered about the room. Tempura is definitely a peaceful place if you’re looking for relaxation or a calm and romantic date, but it isn’t big enough for a

large crowd. This small sushi house has a feng shui that calms the mind and soul and prepares you to eat a small meal.

The sushi was fantastic and it was especially interesting to watch the chef make the roll right in front of me at the sushi bar. Tempura has a full menu of sushi selections with a picture next to each item to assist the newcomers. This restaurant offers more sushi than they do chicken fried rice or your typical Asian cuisine. The only thing I was displeased

Seasonal Senses

for the summer months TOUCH handcafted home decor and jewelry

(dish of rice and spicy mushroom stew).

The drink menu has several staples such as sodas and water, but also includes Indian specialties, including the sweet lassi that I ordered (buttermilk and yogurt milkshake). The waiter also served some free fried papads (crispy fried bread) with chutney. The only downside to Taz is its price: a good dish is a little pricey, ranging from $9-$15.

with was the miso soup, which did not satisfy my taste buds much at all. Also, the menu was extremely pricey ranging from $8 to $13 for a single meal, so I wouldn’t recommend this place for an average dinner. The food was delightful, the environment was peaceful, and the service was quite helpful and accomodating. I was thoroughly impressed with the speed and execution of the tremendous meal.

I recommend this place for any special occasion or date.

at the Peddler Show from 3:00-12:00 on May 28.

For more information, visit www.PeddlerShow.com or call (800) 775-2774. Visit www.facebook.com/ thepeddlershow or follow us on Twitter @thepeddlerdiva for more information.

HEAR the bands of the Starlight music for free on May 14 with your family and friends at the Wolf Pen Creek Ampitheater. Blankets, coolers and lawn chairs are welcome. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Visit http;//www.cstx. gov/starlight for more information.

SMELL

suncreen as you lather up to protect yourself from the hot sun this summer while swimming at local swimming pools. Visit CS Park and Recreation webpage for more information on pool hours.

SEE local art and culture at First Friday in Downtown Bryan on June 3 from 6-10. Horse-drawn carriage rides are featured and begin at the Lasalle Hotel. For more information visit www.hiddenoasisranch.com.

TASTE

Genghis Grill

reviewed by Abigayle English

My mouth literally watered upon entering the Genghis Grill. After my nose adjusted to the overwhelming aroma of fresh spices, I could make a first impression of the atmosphere. Though the music was a little loud and it was quite cold, the decorations and set up were delightful. The Mongolian theme is developed by the use of bright red colors

and gongs hanging from the walls. At the buffet bar, you have a choice of 13 meats, 12 seasonings, 31 veggies, 14 sauces, and 6 pastas. The combination possibilities are endless!

After picking out all your ingredients, you give it to the cooks who stir fry it right in front of you. The service was prompt and friendly, and our delicious food came

out in little time. The restaurant also does some neat things, such as being able to order online and count the calories of all the tasty meals you are consuming. The meal was a bit pricey at $9.00, but I did not resent the purchase, for it was one of the best meals I have ever had.

homemade frozen snowcones as you beat the summer heat with your own snowcone machine.

These machines can be purchased at Target for $30.

Snowcone flavors are purchased separately.

Compiled by Alex Hall

Final Exam Schedule

www.Facebook.com/CopyCorner

Senior Finals

Non-senior Finals

Tuesday, May 17 8:20-10:15 2nd period 10:20-12:15 4th period 12:15-1:45 OCL 1:50-3:45 6th period

Wednesday, May 25 8:20-10:15 2nd period 10:20-12:15 4th period 12:15-1:45 OCL 1:50-3:45 6th period

Wednesday, May 18 8:20-10:15 3rd period 10:20-12:15 5th period 12:15-1:45 OCL 1:50-3:45 7th period

Thursday, May 26 8:20-10:15 3rd period 10:20-12:15 5th period 12:15-1:45 OCL 1:50-3:45 7th period

Thursday, May 19 8:20-10:15 1st period

Friday, May 27 8:20-10:15 1st period OCL: Open Campus Lunch

the roar | entertainment| 31

friday, may 13, 2011

Getting into Character

Theatre actors reflect on roles played in 2010-2011 productions

by: Laura Everett, Assistant Editor

The curtains open and Tiger Theater members escape reality as their characters enter the stage. “[It is a] form of escape for both the audience member and the actor,” junior Alexa Cepeda said. “And in that escape you are confronting issues that not everyone talks about.”

Still Life with Iris Tiger Theater began the year with “Still Life with Iris,” which presented Consol’s actors and actresses with quirky characters, one of whom was Annabell Lee, half sea creature and half pirate, played by senior Kasey Quinn.

“It was really fun to become that,” Quinn said, “ a n d get to have that kind of confidence, because

normally I wouldn’t necessarily have that.”

To truly develop these roles, students had to use different methods of character development.

“It really helps to write down things about my character and then just read over it and make up my own little story,” said junior Liz Ellis, who played Flower Painter.

Senior Kelsey Lightsey, who played Bolt Bender, also uses journaling as a helpful method for developing her characters.

“It works because I get to know about their basic days and what they do as a normal human being,” Lightsey said. “I also write to the other characters to establish relationships.”

Junior Taylor Beyer, who played Thunder Bottler in “Still Life with Iris,” concurs. “[Thunder Bottler] had a family, and she had a past,” Beyer said. “And you don’t get that from the four lines. I just love being able to create a person who deserves to have life and then getting to live that for them.”

Building a background for characters is important, as it gives the actor a purpose for each action that they perform on stage, said senior Emilie Condon-Heck, who played the lead role of Iris. Quinn agrees.

“Your character is a person, not just a part, not just lines. It is a person,” Quinn said. “And once you get in the mindset of who your character is, then you are more free to naturally do what your character would do.”

State of Grace

Techniques used to get into character: Laban – Process of finding one’s

“center,”. This basically means what body part one “leads” while moving Example: A confident character may lead with their chest

Stanisavsky – The main method used, especially in college; this

method entails thinking of a time when comparable events have happened to the actor and then recreating them

Meisner – actors perform lines in repetition in order to get into the emotional heart of the scene

Theater’s year continued with the performance of “State of Grace.” The play focused not only on Joan of Arc, but also the story of Prince Charles, played by sophomore Ty Thomas, becoming a king and his subsequent interactions with Joan, which ultimately ended in betrayal.

“Obviously, we can’t really relate to being accused of being a witch and burned at the stake and all, but we can draw from persecution on a much smaller scale,” said senior Kalena Miller, who played Joan’s ghost sister, Catherine.

Although not always the most relatable story lines, “State of Grace” confronted serious issues, such as rape. The rape scene, involving senior Luis Reyes as a soldier, was eventually altered to cut to black, rather than having the students perform something that they were uncomfortable with. “[The rape] is all implied because you were seeing the action by her reaction,” Reyes said. “I really think it was a very clean thing to do.”

Viewpoints – Analysis of pacing, rhythm

and pattern

Source: Assistant Theatre Director Beth Creel

Cinderella After “State of Grace,” Tiger Theater performed the musical “Cinderella.” Senior Reagan Wilkins played one of the two servants in this musical.

“The way I usually imagine getting into character is not putting the character on, as people typically think,” Wilkins said. “It is more like melting yourself down into this mold that still has you in it, but it is still [the] character with your basic skeleton in it.”

U.I.L. One Act Competition Tiger Theater originally planned to a perform a play called “Dark of the Moon” for the One Act competition.

After receiving a complaint, the play was canceled. This abrupt alteration in performance meant abandoning characters that the actors had already spent over a month developing.

“I had this character ready, [called Dark Witch,] and she was living, and she was so real to me,” Beyer said. “I spent so much time having her in my head, and then not getting to live that out was really difficult.”

In contrast, with the cancelation of “Dark of the Moon,” Thomas left behind the most challenging role he had played.

“Every single time I went on stage, my character, [Marvin,] got rejected,” Thomas said. “When you always have to be sad, you don’t have the emotion to get into your character, because there is nothing that excites you.”

The 15-member cast found something new to get excited about when they started working on their new One Act play, an 80’s version of a Shakespearian classic, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This excitement, however, came with new challenges.

“Puck, [one of the fairies,] was actually pretty difficult,” Beyer said, “especially coming from Dark Witch, who I connected with so well.”

Condon-Heck played one of the leading roles as Hermia, which involved some heavy lip action with her counterpart, Lysander, played by Reyes.

“Yeah, we’re making out on stage, but we are making it look worse than it actually is,” Condon-Heck said.

“There was no saliva swapping or tongue in each other’s mouths. It just looked like it. My character is desperately in love with not Luis, but Lysander.”

To achieve their placement at the area competition, the cast had to commit heavily to developing their characters, which often entailed vulnerability.

“Theater is being able to be vulnerable. And when you make yourself vulnerable, you’re more likely to develop stronger relationships with people,” Quinn said.

“You have to let all your walls down so that you can build up your character. You have to be able to let other people reach in and get to know you soul to soul, not face to face.”

This vulnerability has ultimately taught an important lesson, senior Haley Johnson said.

“You have to find humanity in everything,” Johnson said. “I didn’t understand the depth of a human being before theater.”

Senior Haley Johnson literally gets in into character as Gretta Good in the Consol play “Still Life with Iris”. PHOTO BY ALEX HALL

seniors speak

32 | seniors | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Graduating class of 2011 offers advice to next year’s students “ID fines add up. Keep a spare (this is coming from an ID violator).”

Neha Shetty

“Don’t worry about looks or popularity. Just love everyone, keep your chin up and show your smile.”

Jeremy Brumley “Don’t worry about the small things. What you’re going to remember are the friends you have made and the fun you had. It won’t matter if you passed your physics test or if you fell down the stairs.”

Jamie Jasperson

looking back...

“Remember the AP motto: we can sleep when we’re dead.”

Rainbow Suh “Breathe. It’s just high school.”

Jade Farias “Do not procrastinate. It is an addiction that can ruin you.”

Brady Herwald “Get a calendar and fill it. It is helpful for events, and it looks powerful to whip it out.”

Maui Arreola-Garcia “Respect your elders.”

Walker Riley “Make your choices and stand by them.”

Jacob Christensen “Make this place your playground!”

Haley Johnson

Seniors reflect on high school years Favorite Year:

Favorite Faculty Members: Principal: Chris Diem

Social Studies: Jason Pratt

Math: Stoney Pryor

Vocational/ Elective: Peggy Cryan

English: Mike Williams

Athletic Coach: Ray Kavanaugh

Freshman, 12%

Sophomore, 11%

Science: Jill Faith Senior, 61%

Favorite Senior Activities:

Favorite English Novels:

Senior Skate Day

“To Kill A Mockingbird”

Senior Wellness

“The Great Gatsby”

Graduation

“1984”

Junior, 16%

compiled by The Roar Staff from the 504 seniors surveyed

the roar | seniors | 33

friday, may 13, 2011

Graduates prepare for college to further education Blinn College- Brenham, Texas Cameron DeBesse Hilary Delgado Kaycee Rogers Thomas Swierc

class of

2011

Legend 1-10 students 11 - 99 students 100 students

compiled from a survey of seniors Auburn UniversityAuburn, Ala. Riley Smith

Full Sail UniversityWinter Park, Fla. Quincy Dill

University of LousianaLafayette, La. Taylor Tucker

University of Alabama- Tuscaloosa, Ala. Neil Devin J.R. Lacandola

Jackson UniversityJacksonville, Fla. Shelby Parks Sydney Parks

Tufts UniversityMedford, Mass.

Stacey Bevan

Hendrix College Conway, Ark. Cannon Schrank University of Arizona- Tuscon, Ariz.

Elena Urbina University of Arkansas - Fayetteville, Ark. Lindsay Allen Morgan Anderson Nellie Hillner Nelly Muyia Vicky Wilhelm Southwestern College- Chula Vista, Calif.

Haley Chambers University of California BerkeleyDaniel Hsieh Bruce Zhang University of California Los AngelesSun Choi University of Southern California- Los Angeles Sandra Shin

University of MichiganAnn Arbor, Mich.

Nicky Wang

Louisiana State University- Baton Rouge, La. Ashton Matthews

Carleton CollegeNorthfield, Minn.

Kalena Miller

Georgia Gwinnett College- Lawrenceville, Ga. Will Kremer

University of Minnesota Crookston- Crookstone, Minn.

Gina DeLisa

Abilene Christian University- Abilene, Texas Tyler Eidson Ben Roberts

Georgia Institute of Technology - Atlanta, Ga. Caleb Appleton

University of MississippiOxford, Miss.

Sarah Elbert

Amarillo CollegeAmarillo, Texas Kyler Oles

Savannah College of Art and DesignSavannah, Ga. Sarah Halliwell Morgan Murphy Allie Schultz

University of MissouriColumbia, Mo. Ernest Payton

Art Institute of Austin- Austin, Texas William Keith Mark Jenkins

Iowa State UniversityAmes, Iowa Kaytlin Berlund Columbia College Chicago- Chicago, Ill. Racquel Cable Northwestern UniversityEvanston, Ill. Po-Ju Huang Karen Wang

University of Colorado BoulderMary Muenich WyoTech- Daytona Beach, Fla. Matthew Telg

University of IllinoisUrbana-Champaign, Ill. Eric Zheng

Trinidad State Junior College- Trinidad, Colo.

Clayton Schubert

Colby Community College- Colby, Kan. Neely Edwards

Smith College - North Hampton, Conn.

Alycia Habib Yale University- New Haven, Conn.

Dipika Gawande Georgetown University- Washington, D.C. Andrea Cohen Neha Shetty Barry UniversityMiami, Fla. Mario Ramirez

Oklahoma State University- Stillwater, Okla.

Kendall Williamson

University of FloridaGainesville, Fla. Lisa Lee

University of ChicagoChicago, Ill. Haley Johnson

U.S. Air Force Academy- Colorado Springs, Colo.

Jake DeRuyter Alec Kenerley

Oklahoma Christian University- Edmond, Okla.

Hannah Hood

Texas A&M UniversityJustin Acton Caroline Adams Alyssa Adcock Kayla Allison Amelia Altendorf Alyssa Amos Erika Arthur Erica Ashmore Faizan Askari Peyton Austin Sara Baker Lauren Barnhill T.J. Bayer Amanda Beard Kayla Bednarsky Atakan Berkman Chad Blanton Alexandria Bolton Taylor Bonnet

Cottey College- Nevada, Mo. Cassie Nelson University of NebraskaLincoln, Neb. Stephanie Jordan Bettiol AJ Clouston Dartmouth CollegeHanover, N.H. Lulu Chang Columbia UniversityNew York City, N.Y. Alejandra Oliva Cornell UniversityIthaca, N.Y. Adam Wang Zachary Wu University of RochesterRochester, N.Y. Josh Schulman

Erin Briers Andrew Brown Jeremy Brumley Maddy Burdick Sarah Calloway Whitney Chenault Divya Chowdhary Stephanie Cepeda Kaydee Colson Emilie Condon-Heck Lauren Cummings Hayden Duplechain Lamees Elnihum Erica Escalon Hayden Fox Nicos Georgihades Leah Gonzalez Jazmine Govan Emma Griffith James Hair Sarah Hampton

Kelsey Haney Jered Harris Joshua Herrington Katie Hirsch Kaitlyn Hobson Trenton Hollas Corey Howell Shellie Hudspeth Ben Hughes Sally Hwang Brittney Jackson Derby Jones Tony Jung Kelly Keller Laura Kim Michelle Kim Lazar Kish Patrick Lewis Morgan Leigh Victoria Liere Kelsey Lightsey

University of Oklahoma- Norman, Okla.

Jeff Scott

Art Institute of Houston- Houston, Texas Kelsi Belk KD Ragsdale Austin CollegeSherman, Texas Sally Kate Humphries Austin Community College- Austin, Texas Kaitlin Fahlman Nori Hubert Richard Nguyen Lauren Sevilla Chilton Smith Nicole Strickland Baylor UniversityWaco, Texas Taylor Gade Dayton Kunz Emily Nelson Katie Ray Chris Stauffer Shuang Lin Clayton Loggins Lauren Lohner Chris Lueking Matthew Lyle Maria Lyuksyutova Raka Mallick Jessica Marek Elizabeth Martinez Joey McGinnis Aaron Menchaca Chase Miller Rowana Mohamed Zainil Momin Drew Morgan Matthew Mullins Kelsey Ni Stacie O’Shea Ale Ochoa Katherine Park Ashley Peters

Blinn Team- College Station, Texas Disha Amin Sam Bailey Kara Beathard Avery Burns Ryan Fairchild Trent Hall Jordan Jeter Travis Knight Patrick Lewis Jace Robinson Cedar Valley CollegeLancaster, Texas Timothy Lott Concordia UniversityAustin, Texas Alex Nipps

Del Mar University- Corpus Christi, Texas Cameron Heilman

Houston Community College- Houston, Texas Elizabeth Vitale Huston-Tillotson University- Austin, Texas Jasmine Richardson Kilgore Community College- Kilgore, Texas Bethany Daily

Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute- Austin, Texas Lindsey Munyon

Lon Morris CollegeJacksonville, Texas Unique King McMurry UniversityAbilene, Texas Tim Oberhelman Rice University- Houston, Texas Maui Arreola-Garcia St. Edwards UniversityAustin, Texas Emily Colwell University of San AntonioSan Antonio, Texas Viridiana Gomez Sam Phinney Victoria Pilger Elizabeth Pratt Marie Quiros Natalie Raisor Mona Reddy Nimrah Riaz Ray Richards Hayley Rogers Zach Romo Sydney Rosario Jessica Ross Katherine Salazar Catalina Sanchez Morgan Sauseda Lexie Schroeder Nathan Schulz Stephanie Santana Cade Shimek Tayler Slocum Ashley Smith

Stephen F. Austin UniversityNacogdoches, Texas Manuel T. Cavazos H. Stephanie Hilton Sam Houston State UniversityHuntsville, Texas Joi Coleman Alyssa Gregg Muffy Harrison Marina Miller Brittney Thomas Caden Thomas Alex Wilson Kensie Woolard Southern Methodist UniversityDallas, Texas Jewel Lipps Julia Westerbur

Temple College- Temple, Texas Bailey Gillum TEEKS at A&M- College Station, Texas Jade Farias Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi- Corpus Christi,Texas Jose Aguilar

University of the Incarnate Word- San Antonio, Texas Tina Gallegos University of North TexasDenton, Texas Charles Anderson Ryan Dubuisson Dillon Garrett Alex Hall Blake Hubbard Chloe Presnal Luis Reyes Andrew Williams University of Mary-Hardin Baylor Belton, Texas Justin Bohn Cedric Goodman Jr. Katie Wilding

Texas A&M UniversityGalveston- Galveston, Texas Jose Boillat Brooke Eaker Karly Elliot Ahmet Kalkan Brandon Miller Bethany Monsees Niki Momin Gustavo Sanchez Ashley Steel Halye Vessell

Brooke Wilkinson Christian Wolz Texas A&M University-Prairie View- Houston,Texas Shomari Curry Takiara Darnell Steffon Johnson Arielle Stewart Corey Taylor Texas Lutheran UniversitySeguin, Texas Elizabeth Stephens Texas Southern UniversityHouston,Texas Kirstie Freeman Shaunda Freeman

University of Texas- Austin, Texas Faria Akram Lindsay Berry Chris Boardman Piper Cain Frank Cheng Graham Carter Richard Dusold Bin Her Ali Hert Chris Hong Jee-Ho Kang Andrea Klein Jessica Kohlepp Sam Moore David Mora Tim Reinberg Aaron Salzar Mani Singh Daniel Tihanyi WalkerThompson Erin VandeVanter Daanish Virani Leah Villarreal Harry Watson

Texas State Technical CollegeWaco, Texas Emily Bozeman Theodore Carroll Kyle Hoffman Elijah Smith BlinnTaylor Adams Alani Agramonte Rubab Ali CJ Allen Tegan Allison Anthony Altavilla Ernesto Baca Matthew Bland Kate Broome Ashley Browder David Bryant Manuel Campos Jasmine Cantero David Cassens Mariah Chambers Jessica Cienega Sean Clifford Katrina Collins Nicole Colunga Chris Conley Cassidy Contreras Andrew Crum Keyran Davis Mindy Davis Samantha Detrick

Texas Tech UniversityLubbock,Texas Odessa Appel Ericson Caldwell Meghan Koett Taylor Lynn Matthew Taylor Katy Wallace University of Houston- Houston, Texas Chase Beasley Ashleigh Boyd Ashley Browder Noel Letton

Tarleton State UniversityStephenville, Texas Garrett Flanagan Jordan Harris Michelle Langley Jordan Privett Jonathan Schmitz

Sarah Solcher Collin Soltis Kayla Stavinoha Chris Stebbins Zachary Stocks Meghan Strawswer Preston Sturdivant Rainbow Suh Dini Susanto Cole Sustaire Yifan Tang James Taylor April Teel Katy Templin Joseph Thomas Garrett Thompson Ala Tobeh Paul Voelker Cade Walton Taylor Whittlesey Reagan Wilkins

Texas State University- San Marcos, Texas Nick Barber Lauryn Dott Anna Huff Cameron Lovas Sarah Molitor Neeliza Momin Kirsti McConnel Danielle Norwood Chris Nutall Victoria Stuart Kaylee Sydow

University of Texas- Arlington Arlington, Texas Tafadzwa Gwaze University of Texas-DallasDallas, Texas Jonah Scott

Natalie Diaz Jayde Dickman Dalton Downey Tyler Duckworth Taylor Dyson Brooke Eaker CJ Elliot Steven Etter Deshandria Faulk Brandy Fick Emma A. Flores Laura Forehand Trace Gain Patrick Galloway Alberto Garcia Jacob Garcia Drew Geick Jr. Nick Goerger Garret Goodman Kameron Goodman Nick Gratton Gage Greer Brian Grimes Ashley Groff Renee Hall Trent Hall

Charles Hamilton Colton Hanson Crista Havner Brady Herwald Tara Hodges Jessica Howell Justin Jaynes Shadarria Jefferson Hector Juarez Sara Karner Kelsey Kelley Kade Kenney Carson Kieschnick Kameron Kitchens Kellie Larson Cody LeBlanc Aaron Lee Eric Lewis Lioncel Lin Kenny Lindsey Andrew Luca Makenzie Maldonado Caitlin Martin Oscar Martinez Cedrick McCan

Cisco Junior College- Cisco, Texas Dusty Palmore University of TexasPan-American- McAllen, Texas Ashten Landry University of Texas-San Antonio` San Antonio, Texas Graham Carter Becca Gamache John McGraw Danielle Payne Elise Sosebee Walker Riley University of Texas-TylerTexas Erick Simpson Chris Walters West Texas A&M- Canyon, Texas Chris Ceazer Jacob Christensen Stephanie Meadows Brigham Young UniversityProvo, Utah Sam Hickson Jamie Jasperson Ryan Kuttler Emily Nixon Lindsay Painter Monroe Community CollegeMonoroe, Wash.

Amber Kuskie Wheeling Jesuit UniversityWheeling, W. Va. Chris Munster University of Waterloo- Waterloo, Canada Shant Nepal La Escuela de Diseno Altos de Chavon- Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Estefania Murphy U.S. Air ForceDillan Freeman Aaron Rodriguez Jennifer Williams U.S. ArmyT.J. Barrentine Barron Myers James Salazar Brian Shoenfeld Kenneth Wheeler U.S. MarinesNicholas Aguirre Ariel Arnold-Garcia Coltin Boggs Vernon Harris Holt Ledyard Jordin McDowell U.S. NavyJosh Smith J-Mac McCarthy Jazlyn Mello Ron Moretz Hallie Morrison Zac Moseley Ian Myers Chloe Needham Kristin Newsom Olga Rocio Novoa Stephen Patton Chandler Payne Samuel Perez Johnny Phan Abby Piper Brandon Ragan Charles Rahnert Paulina Rameriz Gavin Rieke Avery Rogers Staci Rougas Samir Saqib Allison Schaefer Jon Tyler Schlandt Ja’Nae D. Shepherd Nicole Strickland

Ryan Sturgeon

Timothy Talamentes

Candace Taylor LaShanecia Taylor Torylynn Thompson Jessica Townsend Nicole Townsend Quoc Tran Tien Tran Alicia Vandivort Angie Vanegas Alberto Veliz Cami Wade Sabiha Wahab Chris Walden Tayler Walker Tyler Ward Nicol Warren Ashley Weber Victoria Wilson Patrick Wood Mariah York

34 | seniors | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Seniors send well wishes to freshman siblings Compiled by Faria Akram, Features Editor

Chris and Brian Hong Dear Brian, For the past 15 years we have created a list of memorable events ranging from finding my hidden report card, noting my lack of instrumental practice and revealing the secret training of my Pokémon (Red version) at night, all of which have gotten me the loving warm embrace of our mother. As I am leaving soon I would like to give you some last parting advice. One, wearing boxers around the house is not advisable, as mom’s students come at the most inconceivable hours, and it just reflects badly. Two, the importance of friends cannot be stressed enough. Third and finally, don’t ever give up your pure ideals or your dreams. Looking at your growth throughout your first year at high school, I know with complete certainty that while mom and I are both extremely proud of you, there is one other person who is even more proud.

Love, Chris

Lauren and Sarah Porter

Hey Numbah Two! So, I’m moving out in a couple months. No. You can’t have my room.

But I can leave you some advice. Getting to bed at a reasonable time is always a really good idea. If you’re desperate enough, lunch and advocate can be enough time to do almost anything except major projects.

If you didn’t get one of those done days in advance, then do not (repeat: do not) fall asleep. Also, anything I’ve told you this semester should be disregarded. I confess: I fell prey to senioritis and have probably given you terrible advice regarding the worth of your schoolwork. The end goal here is getting into college, which you can’t do if you’re failing your classes because of not doing any homework or studying.

Love you lots, Numbah One (Lauren)

Emma and Luke Griffith Hey Luke, I just want you to know that I have really enjoyed being in school with you this year, more than I thought I would. Waking up every day at 5:30 for swim practice, eating lunch together, leading prayer meetings together, this year has been a blast and it is crazy to see everything ending so soon! Here is some advice for the rest of high school.

Don’t let grades consume your life and be okay with letting things slide every once in a while. We all mess up! Swim like crazy. You have done amazingly well this past season, and I am seriously ecstatic to see where you go with swimming through high school. I am so proud of you, and I am excited to see the plan that God has for your life, for surely it is “to give you a future and a hope” (Jer. 29:11).

Love, Emma

Morgan and Ryan Anderson Ry, Where do I even begin?! I hope your next three years are awesome! Have fun with your friends, don't procrastinate (too much) and always believe in yourself. I am so glad I got to spend this year with you at the same school.

Good luck little bro! I love you and will miss you!

Love, Morgan

Daniel and Zeke Hsieh Dear Zeke, High school goes by fast, so enjoy it while it lasts.

It’s the bridge between childhood and adulthood, an opportunity for you to explore your interests and become the person you will eventually be.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your familiar circle, to try new things or make new friends. Be courteous, make memories and learn from my mistakes. I’m anxious to see what you will become and hopeful that your future will be bright and your own.

Love, Daniel

Matt and Nick Lyle Dear Nick, So, we’re finally at the end. No more fighting over the computer, no more fun facts over which lake is the deepest and no more debating over what people thousands of miles away think about the United States. I know we fight a lot, but that’s what brothers do. You’re very bright, and there’s only one thing I worry about: I worry that you won’t apply yourself, for one reason or another. Find your interest, find something in school, in a college or in life that just takes your fancy and pursue it. Don’t worry about not knowing what it is; I didn’t know what I wanted to be until I was a senior. You still have your high school career in front of you; make the best of it, both academically and socially. Somehow, though, I know you will. I know because, well, you’re you.

My brother.

Sincerely, Matt

Lamees and Lujain Elnihum Jainy, Don’t worry so much- just have as much fun as you can in high school because you’ll be graduating before you know it. Keep getting good grades, though, or you’ll be dead meat.

Love, Lamees

SENIOR friday, may 13, 2011

Wellness 20ll

35 | entertainment| the roar

Senior Natalie Razor soars across the sky on the zipline on April 27.

Many students were able to experience the ziplines, including one that landed in water.

PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

Seniors participate in annual field day at Camp Tejas

by alex hall, executive editor

W

hile the freshmen, sophomores and junior classes tediously bubbled in scantrons on April 27 for TAKS, the senior class took a day off and traveled to Camp Tejas for Senior Wellness, an annual tradition for more than twenty years. Some of the more popular features of the camp were the rock wall, kayaks and zip lines, along with team competitions.

“We had a lot of fun on the zip line and on the trapeze bar,” senior Neil Devin said. “My favorite part was watching others flip off the trapeze bar.”

While some seniors propelled themselves into cold lake water or sprinted across basketball courts, others took advantage of the afternoon to relax before AP exams.

“We have taken the TAKS test since elementary school, and the fact that we didn’t have to take it was a huge relief,” senior Jee-Ho Kang said.

Along with being relieved of certain pressures of TAKS, seniors enjoyed the opportunity of spending time together as a class before graduation.

“Senior wellness showed me how close and awesome our senior class really is,” senior Rami Mooti said.

Seniors Trenton Hollas, Marcell Mickens, Neely Edwards, J.R. Lacondola, Tayler Slocum, Leah Gonzalez and Maria Quiros from bus 4 compete in their tug-of-war. To test their strength each bus takes part in the annual tug-of-war competition for the strongest bus. PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

Senior Morgan Murphy attempts a back flip on the lake swing on April 27. The rope dangled over the lake 20 feet above the water.

PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

Seniors Stacie O’Shea, Sam Moore, Sarah Elbert, Ali HerttElena Urbina, Emily Nixon, Leah Villareal and Neha Shetty participate in a teamwork activity at Senior Wellness on April 27. Each team had to get to the other side by moving in unison on two planks of wood. PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

Senior Chris Stauffer serves the ball while playing sand volleyball on April 27. The competition included students and teachers.PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

36 | etcetera | the roar

friday, may 13, 2011

Sitting Pretty During the winter holidays, it is a customary scene to see children sitting on the lap of Santa Claus, looking up at him with large and innocent eyes, then asking him for a pony. For seniors Derby Jones and Piper Cain, sophomore Rachel Lucht and freshman Avery Ellis, that wish came true.

“I remember fighting so hard to get a horse ever since I was in Pre-K,” Jones said. “My parents said it was never going to happen, but I kept trying and when I finally got one, I said to myself, ‘This is it.’, and I honed in on that.”

Jones specializes in western horseback riding with her horse Pep-C, a rose gray three year-oldquarter horse.

“Pep-C is very natural and picks things up quickly,” Jones said. “We have a true partnership.”

Cain began horseback riding in an easier fashion. Cain’s first horse, Skip, came after pony lessons in Massachusetts and a move to Texas.

She now owns Cole, a chestnut quarter horse. “[Cole] has a personality,” Cain said. “He is very willing to learn and easy to work with. He is so eager to please.”

According to Jones, it is easier to keep control of the horse when the rider has a strong connection with it.

“Even if a horse is well trained, if y’all don’t have that click or connection, he’s not going to put forth the best effort out for you,” Jones said. “[The rider and the horse] need to have the best understanding of each other.”

Lucht, who started riding at age six, owns two appaloosa horses and knows the importance of tending and caring for her horses.

“The way your horse looks reflects how you take care of them,” Lucht said. “I need to be [at the stable] everyday.”

By devoting her time to her horses and training, Lucht has gained many valuable life lessons.

“Riding has taught me responsibility,” she said. “I’ve learned how to better manage my time because spending so much time with my horses makes it hard to balance homework and studying.”

Patience is another important aspect in horse training.

“It’s very easy to take out your anger and frustration on them because they are in your control,” Cain said. “I learned that if you want to teach your horse to listen to you more, then you reward them [for doing things right]. That projected into my real life. It taught me a lot of patience and that reacting in a negative manner doesn’t help.”

Because of Cain’s hard work and developed patience with Cole, she earned the District title in 2009. “[Winning] wasn’t because of me. It was definitely because of Cole,” Cain said.

All of the girls have taken home multiple

Equestrians find fulfillment through ownership of horses by becca gamache, photography editor

titles across Texas and the nation. But for Jones, winning is just a bonus point.

“I used to think the only reason I [rode] was to win and that made things not near as fun or enjoyable,” she said. “Winning has gone from being the main thing that I worked for to just a benefit and measurement of how well I am and what I need to improve.”

According to Ellis, shows are very time consuming but enjoyable and rewarding. However, the time commitment required for the sport is not for everyone, as Cain does not seek to pursue horse riding after high school.

“I feel like if I were able to donate all of my time to riding [Cole], we would be able to do so much,” Cain said. “However, I don’t feel my future lies in him and horse shows.”

Despite the time obligations, Lucht plans to keep horse riding as a hobby while Ellis and Jones still plan to ride after high school on the Texas A&M Equestrian team. In fact, Ellis intends to work toward to making the 2012 World Cup team.

“I have definitely wanted to skip out on horse shows or not ride one weekend to hang out with friends, but in the end, riding always seems to be more important to me,” Ellis said.

Jones agrees.

“I can’t think of anything monumental that I’ve missed because I decided to ride my horse for an extra hour one day,” Jones said. “I go out there and I get to train and see my project, my horse, improve and get better.”

No matter what the future holds for each of these riders, horse riding has made a deep impact on their lives. “[Riding] has been one of the most wonderful experiences I have had in my life,” Cain said.

“My life would be really empty had I not grown up around horses and riding.”

Senior Derby Jones rides her horse Riley. Jones competes in Westernstyle riding, including barrel racing. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Senior Piper Cain competes in English riding with her horse Cole. Cain began riding as a small child in Massachussetts. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PIPER CAIN

Senior Derby Jones cuddles with her horse Pep-C. Jones got her first horse in sixth grade. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE