The Roar Vol. 16 Issue 2

the

Roar

A&M Consolidated High School

nthis ssue

Viewpoints

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

People Military families: Students with relatives serving in the military share a unique lifestyle. Page 14.

Sports Tennis: Junior Kristina Raphael works hard to achieve goals. Page 17.

Vol. 16 No. 2

minority report

by alejandra oliva managing editor

Trick-or-Treat: Junior Elena Edwards explores the creepier side of Halloween traditions. Page 5.

Friday, Oct. 29, 2010

District strives to equalize performance, enrollment of minority students in advanced placement classes

News Interfaith: Club fosters discussion of world religions and spiritual issues. Page 4.

Discover the benefits of local produce on page 9

Despite the district’s continued gains in the enrollment of minority students in its advanced classes, Consol still faces challenges in ensuring these students are prepared for college life.

“We have work still to do in that area,” Superintendent Eddie Coulson said. “Are we moving in the right direction? Absolutely. Have we established some processes and procedures and programs that have helped us move in the right direction? Absolutely. Are we aware of the need? Absolutely. Are we where we want to be? No.” Coulson described the district’s enrollment goal as maintaining the school’s demographic profile within the advanced

level classes. For example, if 19% of the student body at a given school is Hispanic, then 19% of the students in the advanced-level classes at that school would be Hispanic as well. The school district is currently about 8.2% away from its goal for African Americans and about 5.4% away from its goals for Hispanics (see graphs below). The other two student groups, whites and Asians, both currently have overrepresentation in AP classes.

An organization that is helping minority students succeed in their classes is AVID, Advancement Via Individual Organization, directed at Consol by Tami Dudo and Kimmie Daily.

“Our goal is to take middle-of-the-road children and give them all the skill that they need to not only get into college, but succeed in college,” Dudo said. “We’re looking at the kids who are sitting in regular classes, making Bs and Cs, but are more than capable of doing the advanced work, but they’ve been kind of overlooked.”

The AVID program targets stu-

dents, often, but not always, from low-income families or minority households who would be the first in their families to graduate college, and offers tutoring and encouragement to help them succeed, Dudo said.

“A lot of times, students in advanced classes have advocates within their families, or its just an expectation that they’re in advanced classes, there’s not a whole lot of questions about it,” Coulson said. “The AVID teachers are seen as an advocate for the AVID students on that campus, so an AVID teacher may go to an honors classroom, to work with that teacher and that student.”

See 'minorities' on page 2

Entertainment Freestyling: Students practice verbal wit through improvised rap competitions. Page 19.

Student Life

pages 10-11

People

pages 12-14

Health and Rec Sports Entertainment Etc.

pages 15 pages 16-17 page 18-19 page 20

total district population by race 2009-2010 school year

58.8%

17.6%

14.3%

9.0%

hispanic asian

page 9

black

Snapshots

pages 5-8

graphs by alejandra oliva

Viewpoints

pages 2-4

white

News

tolook

where

key

advanced courses enrollment by race 2009-2010 school year

66.3%

13.3%

7.1%

12.9%

2 | news | the roar

in the news Seniors named as commended scholars by College Board Seniors Lindsay Berry, Christopher Boardman, Racquel Cable, Sun Choi, Neil Devin, Lamees Elnihum, Chris Hong, Parker Lumpee, Maria Lyuksyutova, Kalena Miller, Sam Moore, David Mora, Alejandra Oliva, Katherine Park, Elizabeth Pratt, Alexandria Schultz, Neha Shetty, Daniel Tihanyi, Nicky Wang, Karen Wang and Bruce Zhang are among 34,000 students received the commendation nationwide for their PSAT scores. Additionally, Mauricio ArreolaGarcia, Elizabeth Lipps, David MoraBoellstorf, Alejandra Oliva, Zachary Romo and Elena Urbina were recognized along with nearly 5,000 other students identified as Hispanic/Latino.

Tiger Forensics team excels at Bishop Tournament The Forensics team competed in a speech and debate tournament in Bishop, Texas on Oct. 16. Placing in their event were Katie Ray, who qualified for TFA State competition in Domestic Extemp with her first place win; Tafadzwa Gwaze, second place in Oratory, second place in Foreign Extemp and third place in Student Congress; Maui Arreola-Garcia, first place in Foreign Extemp and fifth place in Student Congress; Heather Brewer, first place in Novice Extemp and fifth place in Impromptu Speaking; Joanne Koola and Sara Krusekopf, third place in Duo Interpretation.

friday, oct. 29, 2010

“Minorities” continued from page 1

Program seeks to increase minority enrollment in advanced classes to encourage high performance Although AVID is not a program only for Hispanic or African American students, according to data on AVID’s national website, approximately 69% of students enrolled in the program are either African American or Hispanic.

While enrollment levels are fairly good in the district now, Dudo said, before the AVID program began at the high school in 2007, this wasn’t necessarily the case.

Dudo said that three years ago, when AVID was started, the district set out the goal to have a 10% advanced level class enrollment for the district. Two years after AVID was started that goal was reached.

mixed performances

often try to perform the same amount of work for a harder class, often w ith less than stellar results.

“It’s a different kind of class,” Dudo said. “[The tests are] not going to be matching. They are not going to be multiple choice. You’re going to have to write out your answers, show what you know.”

However, a few students do find themselves succeeding to the point of taking on the advanced level’s more traditionally competitive atmosphere. Dudo said that a few of the students who perform well in 5.0 classes often notice the change in their GPA that class makes.

“They start to see [the challenge of raising their GPAs] and get competitive with it,” Dudo said.

However, while the district’s enrollment is increasing, students’ performance in these classes is less than stellar.

Among students at Consol who took the SAT in 2009, Not only that, but many minority students find themselves which, according to its website, is a “globally recognized occasionally intimidated by the fact that they are the only ones college admissions test,” African American students scored of their race in their classes, Dudo said. an average of 246 This comes as no surprise, points below the given that Consol offers 33 district average, classes that are considered and Hispanic “above level,” most of which students scored are given several periods a day. an average of 61 However, the classes that lead to points below the the most awkward moment are district average. the discussion-based classes, Both Asian and such as History or English, white students, Dudo said, especially in racescored above the based discussions. district average.

“We discuss, ‘This is AVID TEACHER TAMI DUDO In addition, only how [to] answer those type of 24% of Consol’s questions: ‘I don’t represent African-American graduates are considered “college ready” in everybody that looks like me, just like you don’t represent both English and Mathematics, well below the district’s 70% everybody that looks like you, but here’s my opinion,’” Dudo overall college-readiness. said. “[And I say to my students,] they’re going to turn to you, Not only that, but students new to the advanced-level because you’re the only one, and it’s very rare that they have program often find themselves unaccustomed to the course somebody like you in that classroom.” load given in these classes, Dudo said. She said that students

facing the odds

“It’s a different kind of class. [The tests are] not going to be matching. They are not going to be multiple choice.

You’re going to have to write out your answers, show what you know.”

missed your picture in THe roar?

Check out our Flickr page at www. flickr.com/theroar for more pictures!

the roar | news | 3

friday, oct. 29, 2010

School district implements various policy changes

BY AMY ZHANG AND ANNE FINCH

W

opinions editor and staff reporter

hen students walked through the doors of the school in August, they noticed many major changes. New doors were added outside the office, new trophy cases lined the hallways, and TV screens were placed above the lunch lines. However, students may not realize that equally important, albeit more subtle, changes were also put into effect over the summer, many of these affecting the district as a whole.

Academics

Assignment options in grade viewer Pinnacle went from varied to only two distinct categories: Academic Achievement and Academic Practice. Instead of teachers determining their own grade percentages, a committee of both administrators and teachers decided on fixed values to use throughout the district.

“Anytime you have any type of system in place, you have to look back and see what you can improve,” associate principal Gwen Elder said. “What can we change, and how can we improve to make our district one of the most topnotch districts in the state?”

The grading policy changes have been one of the most dramatic, with many students taking note of the fact that “major” and “minor” grades are now obsolete terms.

“Since every grade is an important grade, the language of the grading guidelines was discussed,” said associate principal Kelly Kovacs. “These issues made us change the system to what we now have, Academic Practice and Academic Achievement.”

With this newly established system, it will be easier for a school to assess a student’s progress.

“Part of what is driving the grading guidelines change is our goal as a district to evaluate students based on their knowledge of the curriculum, not based on periphery items that sometimes come along with a course,” district superintendent Eddie Coulson said. “[The district] is placing more emphasis on Academic Achievement grades, even though Academic Practice grades are still important.”

With this new system in place, grading is expected to be more consistent than it has in previous years.

“These new grading policies bring consistency to our school district,” principal Ernest Reed said. “Grades are competitive [here], so now every student throughout the entire school district is on an even playing field.”

While teachers retain a degree of flexibility in how they structure their grades, a more concrete system has now replaced the previously vague guidelines, Coulson said.

While some teachers have found this beneficial, others have seen some slight flaws in the system.

“We’ve realized that 12 grades per six weeks is too many for some of our advanced level English classes,”

English teacher Stormy Hickman said. “Trying to get in that many grades results in busy work for students and unnecessary teacher overload.”

Fundraising

Fundraisers have also undergone a major change. In previous years, a fundraiser merely needed administrative approval to be allowed. Now, the school requires each club to complete an application providing more information concerning the goals of the fundraiser and how the funds will be used.

“If too many fundraisers are held, a burden is put on students, families and the community if we’re not careful,” Kovacs said. “We want to show that we’re grateful for what we have.”

For a fundraiser to be approved, the form must be filtered through assistant principal Scott Martindale and Reed, before finally arriving on Coulson’s desk to be approved.

“These fundraising guidelines were developed to provide direction for groups,” Coulson said. “We’ve basically set up a new framework for how fundraisers work in CSISD.”

Field Trips

Field trips have also been limited in their approval process, as teachers have been restricted on the number of days they can spend away from their students for extracurricular activities. For example, French Club has been kept from going to their annual Renaissance Festival field trip.

“The district’s policy was a shock at first as [Renaissance Festival field trips] have been part of French Club’s activities for the past four years,” said French Club president Mona Reddy.

Assistant Principal Chris Diem concurred.

“For field trips, a lot of things are budgetary,” Diem said. “Sometimes, as field trips aren’t absolute necessities, they have to be considered as an area to be cut. The applicants have to think, ‘What’s the educational benefit of this field trip? Why should this class go?’”

The school district is attempting to cut back on the number of substitute teachers that the district has to hire as well.

“We’ve reduced the district budget by $80,000 by merely limiting the number of subs needed by teachers being taken out of the classroom,” Coulson said.

Kovacs agreed, adding that students under a substitute teacher would have a less productive day under a substitute who is not necessarily as qualified as the teacher.

“It’s a district effort to consider how much money is being spent on substitutes and how often teachers are away,” Kovacs said.

As these changes slowly become more prominent

throughout the district, it is important that students realize the goal that the teachers, administration and district keep in mind.

“When we grow as a district, change occurs, and some people are not comfortable with change,” Elder said.

“However, in the best interest of the kids, you have to look at the past years and see if the effects have been good for the children. If they’re not, you have to examine what you’re doing and just keep trying to improve.”

District Policy Changes Major and Minor grades changed to Academic Achievement and Academic Practice.

“We met as a committee of administrators and teachers and came [up with] a consistent format of Academic Achievement and Academic Practice,” principal Ernest Reed said.

More information is required from a group or club wishing to organize a fundraiser, with approval from Martindale, Reed and Dr. Coulson needed.

“Previously, groups were raising money, but we weren’t too sure where that money was going or who was benefiting from those monies. As a result, we’ve implemented some guidelines that must be followed in order for clubs and groups to be able to fundraise,” associate principal Gwen Elder said.

To lessen the number of days that teachers spend away from their students, field trips must be proven to be beneficial and educational before approved.

“The district has been a very good steward of its money, but with the economy as it is, sometimes you have to step back and take a look at what is essential to run a school district,” assistant principal Chris Diem said.

Compiled by Amy Zhang and Anne Finch Want to advertise with The Roar

?

Contact us at the. roar.amchs@ymail. com

4 | news | the roar

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Interfaith club members discuss personal beliefs on religious views them, then they choose to believe something else.

GC: Yeah, that’s what I was saying. editor-in-chief and managing editor JK: So do you think that the way they came to choose The 3:45 bell may signal the conclusion of a typical those beliefs was their choosing? Does that make sense? school day for most students, allowing them to relieve Did they grow up around it, or were they like, “I believe their brains from strenuous academic activity, but for this,” and then that’s the way it was?

Interfaith Club members, the ritualistic ringing marks the WR: That’s fate vs. free will. beginning of a philosophical journey into the depths of JK: So, do you believe in fate or free will? Why can’t it conviction. be both?

On Tuesday, Oct. 12, club members met in English AH: I think it can be both! Do you not believe that? teacher Michael Williams’ classroom to participate in a JK: Every decision possible decision I could make is philosophical chairs discussion regarding the question already known, so that’s a belief in fate. But if you there’s “are individuals free to choose their own beliefs?” no one watching, there’s no way that anything I do could Members who believed that individuals are free to choose be premeditated, [and] it’s my free will that I choose to their own beliefs sat on the right side of the classroom, do this. and those who opposed sat on the left. Students who were AH: Oh, gosh, I’m in the middle.[scoots to center of indifferent or uncertain sat in the middle. group. GC gets up, walks to free will side] Are individuals free to choose their own beliefs?

NS: Well, if someone tells you something is true often JK: It really depends on how you look at it. If you look enough, then you’re going to believe it. at it like you’re a baby, you obviously can’t choose your JK: Because beliefs are basically what you believe is true, beliefs, because you don’t really have beliefs at that time. right?

If you look at it from later, do you say, “it’s my will that I JK: So the fact that you can choose what you believe in— decide to be a Christian, its my will that I decide to believe NS: You can change the way you think in gay marriage, or am I just dictated by my customs?”

LH: So, right now, if you wanted to, you could be like “I NB: So, right now, can we choose our beliefs? want to be a Christian” and believe in God? JK: Like believing in another god? [laughs] Are you NS: You can’t really choose, because it takes another maybe on the wrong side? [NB gets up, changes sides of person to inspire you. If you believe something, but then the room] you hear an argument for the other side, so you change, WR: I think you can definitely choose, because someone then that person controlled your beliefs. could want to believe something and ignore all logic AH: Yeah, it’s from outside, it’s not internal like I’m against it just because they want to believe this. And if going to believe this. people give them any reason against their belief, they’ll WR: Someone came in and said something. choose not to listen to it. If they listen to it and it changes AH: Yeah, but it’s already there to begin with.

BY DINI SUSANTO AND ALEJANDRA OLIVA

Round Table Roster

JK- Jennings Kennady Interfaith President

GC- Graham Carter

NB- Nevin Blum

WR- Walker Riley

NS- Nathan Smith

AH- Alyssa Halcombe

a Texas A&M pri vate res hall

top 3 reasons to live here: ( all for nearly the same cost as living on campus )

THE TRADITION Un

iv

er

s

ity

Dr

iv

e

#1

#2

#3

a ma zing a menities:

unbea ta ble convenience:

non-stop suppor t:

W el lb or

• Your OWN Private Bedroom & sink/vanity area

• Live right across the street from campus

• Award winning Residence Life Program

• FREE High Speed Internet, utilities included

• Weekly Housekeeping (yes, it’s included!)

• Academic Success Center which includes

• Furnished Suites with mini fridge & microwave

• The Edge Cafe, full service dining hall

a full tutor staff, resume writing,

n Rd . .N

877.820.0027

TAMU CAMPUS

• 24-hr Fitness Center • Heated Pool • Surround Sound Movie Theater

WWW.LIVETHETRADITION.COM

with a variety of options & daily menu • 24-hr Attached, Covered Parking Garage

TEXT: “TRADITION” TO 47464

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THETRADITIONATNORTHGATE

internship placement & private study rooms

the roar | viewpoints | 5

firiday, oct. 29, 2010

Halloween participant realizes potential dangers of seemingly safe holiday night

Every October, the leaves turn orange, red, then brown; the air becomes chilly, the nightfall comes quickly and the pumpkins appear. The spirit of Halloween spreads across the town, and decorations galore are displayed in people’s yards in a celebration of this eerily fun holiday, one that kids (even adults) love so much. Until a few years ago, the eerie aspect of Halloween did not exist for me.

When I was younger, I was excited for weeks in anticipation of participating in those three hours of “fun” that only come one night each year. More recently, however, the eerie side of Halloween has become much more apparent to me. Halloween, while seen by children as a holiday filled with candy, dress-up, fun, excitement and joy, can also be viewed as a decidedly uncomfortable and unsafe night of horror and doom, with razor-stuffed candies and creeps lurking behind that inviting door that kids of all ages run to so eagerly.

I was once one of those over-eager kids. It was not until my teenage years that I actually crossed the line and

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 Editor: Abigayle English Staff Reporters: Kimmie Cessna, Elena Edwards, Anne Finch, Kendra Spaw Graphic Artist: Morgan Murphy 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 Scholatsic 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 2000-2010, 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 2007-2010.

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.

Minorities should pursue taking advanced courses America has often been called the “melting pot” thanks to the great variety of immigrants our freedom attracts. Consol, in large part thanks to A&M, has become a small-scale reproduction of this same diversity. We boast students from all corners of the world, and from all parts of the United States, as well as students from all socioeconomic levels. The diversity at Consol is indisputable.

What is disputable, however, is the equality of such diversity. If you’re sitting in an AP class, take a look around you right now: how many of the kids in your class are professors students? The income vs. academic achievement gap is huge, not only here, but throughout the country. Unfortunately, this income divide is also somewhat racially divided. For example, according to texaspolitics.org, an online textbook dedicated to Texas politics, 53% of those living below the poverty line in Texas are Hispanic, and 16% of them are African American.

Studies have shown that poverty is a generational malady that is most easily escaped through education. According to CNN, college grads make an average of $22,000 more per year than their peers who only finished high school.

In order to move society into a better, wealthier place, we need more educated people. In order for students to value learning, we need to make being smart something attainable for everyone, not only professor’s kids or those with wealthy parents.

AP classes should be welcoming places, and learning should not be something just for “nerds” or “geeks,” and constantly knowing the right answer in class shouldn’t be bad.

In short, having minorities in advanced classes should be everyone’s priority, not because we need the “black” perspective when reading Toni Morrison or because it’s the “right thing to do,” but because we need to bring back a culture of intellectualism, where everyone has a fair shot of learning and moving up the socioeconomic ladder.

CONTACT US

elenaedwards

put myself out there without a safety net…and by that I mean I literally placed myself in a situation where being snatched up by strangers was a possibility. I was thirteen, dressed in a kitty-cat costume (fishnet hose and an exposed midriff included), and headed out at ten at night with some girlfriends for a few adventurous hours of trick or treating (any earlier would have been lame).

To avoid having to wait at the doors of popular houses for candy, we chose the streets less traveled…in other words, the more desolate streets with the majority of the lights turned off. We did this partly for the candy, but also for the thrill. Throughout that night my friends and I would ring doorbell after doorbell, mingle with the strangers who were giving us sweets and devour our candy without a second thought.

I should have been holding up a neon-flashing sign that yelled, “Please, take me now!”

Although nothing bad happened to me, I realize it easily could have. I know, however, that I am not the only teenager who has had such an experience and many more will continue to live dangero u s l y on Halloween.

Halloween s h o u l d Art by Morgan Murphy be a fun experience, whether people are trick-or-treating or taking a sibling. However, we need to be cautious and careful of where we go and how we present ourselves to strangers.

Although it’s a “holiday,” the rules and values that we were raised with still apply for this special night. Be safe.

Elena Edwards is a Staff Reporter for the Roar. If you would like to discuss the vulnerable streets of Halloween night, email her at the.roar.edwards@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

6 | viewpoints | the roar

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Special connection and relationship with autistic cousin inspires personal growth W hat are you Halloween r traditions?

“I hide on my porch with a bucket of candy that says “take two”. If they take more, I jump out and scare them.”

-Thomas Murphy, freshman “My friends and I have a pumpkin carving party and watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown !”

-Jeana Nam, sophomore cake “My family eats birthday y, da th bir s because it’s my dad’ rd ya r and we also decorate ou like a graveyard.”

katymassey His name is Ian. At twelve years old, he is average height, has brown hair and eyes, and the sweetest smile I’ve ever known. With his childish naïveté, he has the ability to make a joke about the simplest of subjects and also possesses the rare talent of being able to make even the most austere person smile.

He questions everything and requires an explanation for the answers he receives. His curiosity as well as his intelligence is astounding. However, there is one truth that most people are not able to ignore: Ian is autistic.

Most of the earliest memories I have of my childhood involve Ian in some way. When I was younger, I was charged with the responsibility of caring for my cousin along with my grandmother while his parents and my mother were Art by Morgan Murphy at work. Taking charge, I ensured he received a quality education from 7:00-7:30 every morning through the latest episode of Sesame Street. I convinced my aunt to buy him piles and piles of books so I could teach him how to read. Slowly, we achieved progress as my grandmother watched over us both, encouraging us with her silent praise.

Of course, I did not spend all of my time teaching my cousin. The rest of the time was spent being a child along with him. I remember the fall afternoons while we played in the piles of leaves that smelled like mist and crisp, cool air.

I remember going swimming and clapping for him enthusiastically when he finally did a cannonball from the side of the pool. I remember congratulating him when he received a gold star on his homework at the end of the day. No matter what, Ian and I were always together, whether it was for something amusing as building a fort out of sheets and furniture or helping him with school work.

As I grew older, I became Ian’s moral support, helping him overcome the cruel taunts and merciless jeers he faced from children his age who lacked the capacity to understand his condition. He would come home sometimes, despair clearly evident on his face, as he sadly recounted the events of his day. He spoke clearly of how his classmates called him strange or weird—and at rare occasions, gay. I would listen to him, my expression remaining composed, but on the inside, my heart was twisted as I wondered how fifth and sixth graders could be so cruel to each other. Children, who I had formerly presumed to be innocent and sweet, now seemed just as malicious and malevolent as the corrupt society I was immersed in—and my cousin had to endure the worst of it.

Now, Ian and I have forged an unbreakable bond and shifted the relationship of mere cousins to one like brother and sister. I aid him with his hardships, and he helps me realize the faults in my character. I give him support when he requires it, and he gives me happiness when I need it most. We each compensate for what the other lacks. In essence, Ian has, and always will be, my missing puzzle piece.

Katy is the Assistant Opinions Editor for The Roar. If you’d like to share your thoughts with her, email her at the. roar.massey@gmail.com.

word on the street

-Dustin Fry, junior “I love getting fat by eating lots of candy, but I hit the treadmill the next morning.”

By Morgan Murphy

The Great Debate

Do you have a tattoo?

-Tim Oberhelman, senior “I dress up my dog as a pumpkin! She always looks adorable.”

-Jessica Kouba, history teacher

3% 50%

29%

Yes! No, but I want one!

18%

No, but I’m thinking about it.

No, and I’ll never get one.

677 students surveyed

the roar | viewpoints | 7

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Loss of grandfather serves as reminder of time together

alinadattagupta I had never lost anyone close to me before. I never had anyone I knew so well no longer be a part of my life. I had never experienced the feelings and sentiments of deep loss or grief. That changed this past summer when my grandfather passed away exactly a week after I left India and returned home.

I do not think his death would have been as painful if he had not been such a great influence on me throughout my childhood. He was the reason we visited India every year.

He was the reason that our huge extended family always kept in touch with each other. Every time I met with my family in India, I heard stories of how much he loved to visit many different places and how much he enjoyed the company of his loved ones. I heard stories of how he changed the lives of many people, and in many ways, he definitely touched mine.

By watching him silently suffer for eight years from Parkinsons’ Disease, I learned the true meaning of strength and courage. I never heard him complain of the pain he experienced. I never heard him complain of never being able to walk. I was able to watch him enjoy the simple pleasures that life offered

him in his present situation. I would see a smile form on his face when he looked out of his window and saw the sun shining on the Victoria Memorial Building. It must have brought back so many memories of when he was young and had visited the place. I would see how happy he would be when we would sit at his bedside and play chess with him. I would see how delighted he would be when we would surround him with pictures drawn by my sister.

I dreaded every year when we said our goodbyes to him, fearing that each year would be his last. This year,

because of his deteriorating health, I thought that he would not understand that we were leaving.

Much to my surprise, he did. He shakily placed one hand on his heart and the other hand on my head and blessed me with a prayer. I do not think I will ever forget that moment. Now when I speak with my grandmother over the phone, I can sense the loneliness in her voice. It is hard for me to comprehend that someone who I knew so well is gone forever.

When I go back to India, my grandfather’s bed will be empty. I will no longer be able to share my school experiences with him or hear him call out my name.

I will never hear him tell me stories about his past when he was growing up. I knew that someday he would no longer be there, but I did not know the kind of feeling that I would experience. It is true that I will miss him dearly. It is true that I will miss his laugh and smile. But I know that I have his blessing and that is something I will treasure forever.

Alina is the News Editor for The Roar. If you would like to share your thoughts with her, email her at the.roar. dattagupt a @ gmail.

Art by Morgan Murphy com.

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 Is religion something that you choose yourself, or is it involuntary?

Cole Glidewell, junior I believe it is a voluntary thing--through your relatives’ beliefs and practices, you can make your own choice. However, when you grow up in a religion, it usually becomes a part of your life. Also, as you live your life, certain experiences can either strengthen or change your thoughts about religion.

Angie Vanegas, senior People aren’t born with the knowledge of religion. It’s taught to you by your parents or adults you’re close to. You grow up agreeing or disagreeing with what you’re taught, which makes it a choice whether or not to believe.

Josh Schulman, senior All religions are based on faith rather than fact, and an individual should be free to choose whatever they believe is the most “believable.” There’s absolutely no way to prove that without a doubt one exact religion is the only path to salvation. If it isn’t your religion, so be it. There’s no way to prove for a fact they’re a lesser human than you or destined for hell.

Matthew Lyle, senior In a certain sense, beliefs are chosen, but for the vast majority of people, religion is a cultural trait just as much as skin color. This is why I believe that religious discrimination should be treated as harshly as racial discrimination.

Add your opinion and see more responses: Friend Roar Newspaper on Facebook.

8| viewpoints | the roar

{

}

opposing viewpoints

YES

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Are the I ♥ Boobies bracelets an effective way to fundraise for breast cancer research?

NO

by Alejandra Oliva, Mangaging Editor

Breast cancer is a serious matter, not a fashion trend. There are many causes to help heighten the awareness of this type of cancer among women. The “I ♥ Boobies bracelets are not appropriate for helping the cause.

“I ♥ Boobies” bracelets are meant to help the awareness; instead, they are having a controversial effect. Many people wear these bracelets because of what they say and not what they are meant to do. These bracelets are becoming a fashion trend among some students, which are causing others to jump on the “bandwagon.” Students should wear the bracelets because they want to increase the awareness of breast cancer, not because someone else is wearing one.

Some students who have had family or friends battle this disease believe the bracelets are offensive and disrespectful to the cause. Some people are wearing the bracelet because it has a “word”, which is not in our daily vocabulary and think it is “funny” and “cool”. Breast cancer is not a “funny” or “cool” matter. This disease affects a woman every day throughout the year.

The “I ♥ Boobies” bracelets fashion trend should be overlooked and replaced with a more tactful and respectable way to heighten the awareness of this cause,(i.e. wear an unlabeled pink bracelet, pink ribbons pinned over your heart or designate a specific day of the week to wear pink). Don’t degrade the cause with an immature thought.

Wouldn’t it be great if the bracelets could be just like a fashion trend and after time they just go away?

Breast cancer is a horrible way to die, and as much as possible should be done to eradicate this disease that is predicted to rob us of 1 in 8 of our mothers, sisters, and girlfriends.

“Boobies” is not a sexual term.

Both of these statements are pretty basic, and not difficult to understand, and once they are established, there is no reason to ban the “I ♥ Boobies” bracelets currently making the rounds of the school.

While many feel uncomfortable about the male population of Consol wearing bracelets proclaiming their love for something typically perceived to be a feminine secondary sex characteristic, it would do well to remind these prudishly minded souls that boys have boobies too. In fact, one in every 1,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer during his lifetime.

While substantially less common than in women, these are still horrendously high statistics, and unlikely as it may seem, the young men of Consol may as well be celebrating their own pecs.

Not only that, but “boobies” is hardly obscene terminology.

After all, why is “Save the Ta-Tas” okay while loving boobies isn’t?

Simply because boobies is a more modern term doesn’t make it more taboo, in fact, the “I ♥ Boobies” campaign should be a sign of hope, as a younger generation takes up the mantle of activism begun by the generation of women before them.

student responses. The Roar surveys students to find out their opinion on the I ♥ Boobies bracelets

NO 78%

YES 22%

Do you support the I ♥ Boobies bracelets?

If not, would you consider buying something that supports the campaign?

NO 29%

YES 71%

NO 24% YES 76%

by Kimmie Cessna, Staff Reporter

Do you think the I ♥ Boobies campaign is effective?

112 students surveyed

breast cancer statistics.

About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for Hispanic women and is the the second most common cause of death for white and African-American women.

About 39, 840 women in the United States are expected to die of breast cancer this year.

This year, there are over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

Source: www.breastcancer.org

the roar | snapshots | 9

friday, oct. 29, 2010

buy ng l cal: c

Fresh produce from community vendors offers healthy benefits

by Anna Huff, Sports Editor

ollege Station’s history is mainly agricultural. Going back to these roots can provide benefits for individuals and our community.

“The vitamin and mineral level [in fruits] is highest right when it has been picked,” food technology teacher Erin Stutts said, so eating foods that are locally grown are most healthful.

Understanding where the produce came from is a key factor that attracts health concise people.

“If I look at the ingredients and do not know what it is, I have a problem putting that in my body,” senior Stacey Bevan said. “Getting those fresh fruits and veggies provides me with more energy, unlike processed foods.”

Along with the nutritional level, flavor and taste also differ from the produce found in mainstream grocery stores. “[The Farm Patch has] more of a variety and can have foods that grocery stores cannot,” owner Mark Scamardo said, explaining that they are more hands on with their food and can provide local famers canned goods while grocery stores cannot under certain restrictions.

The difficulty that comes with purchasing local produce is the effort of finding when and where to go.

“You really have to be someone who is willing to take care of your body,” Bevan said.

Many prefer local farmers markets for economic reasons. Farmers markets found in College Station are The Farm Patch, open seven days a week, and Village Foods, open on Wednesdays.

“I like [buying local foods] because it supports our local economy and gives the money to families here,” Stutts said.

Quality service is also top priority among the local markets.

“I always make sure the employees take care of the customers, from finding what they need to helping them with recipes,” Scamardo said.

The home grown taste and the friendly atmosphere of farmer’s markets give customers an experience unmatched.

College Station resident and frequent Farm Patch shopper helps her son climb down after playing on a pumpking on Oct. 11. Not only is the Farm Patch known for its fresh produce, but also its family-friendly atmosphere.

PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Farm Patch produce, such as these tomatoes, are stocked daily by employees. The majority of their produce is from farms in the Bryan/College Station area. PHOTO BY ANNA HUFF

Local Farm Patch produce supplier carries in corn stalks for an autumn fruit and vegetable display on Oct. 11. This year’s autumn decorations included the state’s largest pumpkin, a hay maze and a petting zoo. PHOTO BY ANNA HUFF

Farm Patch provides not only fresh produce, but also shelves freshly made tortillas, tortilla chips and taco shells. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Employee Aly Jackson assists College Station resident with her bags as she checks out from the Farm Patch. According to owner Mark Scamardo, along with providing quality produce, Farm Patch provides quality customer service. PHOTO

BY BECCA GAMACHE

10 | student

life | the roar

friday, oct

FRIDAY N

BY DINI SUSANTO & KATE WILLIAMS editor-in-chief

T

entertainment editor

Football creates characte emotional growth throug

HIS IS IT. It’s the Crosstown Showdown, and four minutes and fifty seconds are all the Tigers have to break the 28-28 tie for a six-year winning streak against the rival school. An interception return gave the Vikings’ Dexter Comeaux a clear shot towards the end zone, resulting in the hundred-yard touchdown tying the game. The possibility of losing their sixth consecutive win creeps on the Tigers. Paint-smeared faces yell for their heroes and emotions intensify, heating up the Friday night football fever.

THE MOMENTS “When I run onto the field, I don’t hear anything,” senior varsity running back Chris Nutall said. “I put all of my focus on the game.”

With two minutes, 41 seconds left to spare, Nutall scores the winning touchdown, bringing the Tigers to a 35-28 victory.

“When I’m running to score a touchdown, its like I’m in a tunnel, and I’m running as fast as I can to get out,” he said.

After accumulating over 42 years of experience, head coach Jim Slaughter earned his 200th victory that night.

“Beating Bryan was definitely one of the greatest moments of the season,” Slaughter said.

As the audience leaps to rejoice their triumph, the players’ confidence soars to new heights.

“It feels like you’re in heaven,” senior cornerback Earnest Payton said.

Drenching himself with water, senior cornerback Chris Ceazer takes a break on the sideline on Sept. 3. Ceazer executed six tackles and recovered a fumble that night. PHOTO BY ANNA HUFF

THE STORIES As hurricanes Katrina and Ike stirred strong winds onto the gulf coast, they also brought two strong cornerbacks to the team.

“I wasn’t really scared [of the hurricane] at first, because my family was making the best of it,” said senior Chris Ceazer, whose house was flooded when Katrina wreaked havoc on New Orleans in 2005.

After treading through water, Ceazer and his family slept outside, laying on concrete as they awaited the buses that promised an escape from the obliteration.

“No one came,” Ceazer said, “and I started getting nervous.”

Two nights later, the buses arrived. The evacuees were sent away from the overflowing Astrodome in Houston. Dallas was no better.

Eventually, they arrived at Reed Arena.

While 12-year-old Ceazer reconstructed his life and discovered his renewed goal of playing college football, another boy from another part of the world was unknowingly preparing to face the same fate.

“When I came to College Station, I fell in love,” said Payton, who relocated from Galveston in 2008 due to hurricane Ike. “Everyone was treating me wonderfully—I felt special.”

According to Payton, playing football for Consol has “opened a lot of doors” for him through increased focus in class and enhanced physical skills in speed and catching.

“The hurricanes definitely turned out for the best,” Ceazer said.

“Now [Payton and I] are starting corner backs. I don’t think I would have had these opportunities elsewhere.”

THE DOWNS Fate may have uncovered previously Ceazer and Payton, but for senior stron winds of football were not on his side.

Richards said that after enduring a ta JJ Bynum during two-a-days, he “felt lik unsuccessfully tried to jog it off, only to failed to reveal a hairline fracture in his fib a broken leg that cost him a majority of th “It didn’t really hit me until [I saw] the was completely broken in half,” he said out on a wheelchair, I tried so hard not t hospital.”

The most devastating part about Richards, is giving up a long-awaited mom “I grew up here, and ever since I was y playing varsity at home with my friends,” won the first home game, it was hard to w play.”

Richards’ inability to play football a played the sport in high school and colleg “Football has always been a strong bo he found out I was out for the season, it upset about it than I was,” Richards said.

THE LESSONS If there is anything the boys have le that optimism is the key to progress.

“Coach Frashure was always encoura life throws you lemons, make lemonade,’ Payton said.

However, when the players are dism return to households that, for some, may n haven.

“For some kids, [football] may be th they’re a part of,” Slaughter said. “This mak They become tougher and learn how to b For Payton, this attitude also applies “During a game, I had a family eme play,” Payton said, “but my mom wanted my anger on the field. I was like another p As their head coach, Slaughter also p “I try to do a good job of not only te but also lessons in life,” he said. “I’m hopi this football team, [the boys] are learning I hope they’re learning to be responsible a a team. It’s a character check.”

THE INSPIRATIONS Richards watched as the steel doors voice echoing in the hallway asking him t complied.

“I was on crutches and in a leg brace, a I held the elevator for him,” Richards said ‘there’s nothing even wrong with this foo

the roar | student

friday, oct. 29, 2010

life | 11

Y NIGHT LIGHTS

racter, generates rough challenges

previously hidden opportunities for nior strong safety Ray Richards, the s side. uring a tackle by fellow defenseman e “felt like he had a dead leg” and ff, only to feel more pain. His x-rays e in his fibula, which later resulted in ority of the season.

[I saw] the new x-rays, and the bone ” he said. “Then, as I was wheeled hard not to cry in the middle of the

1

2

his injury on Oct. 8 at the Crosstown Showdown. PHOTO BY AMY ZHANG

and senior tight end Matias Grande on Oct. 8. PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO

rt about his injury, according to aited moment. ce I was young, I’ve always imagined y friends,” he said. “Even though we s hard to watch it without getting to

ootball also affects his father, who and college. strong bond between us, and when season, it seemed like he was more rds said.

ys have learned about football, it is ress. s encouraging, telling me that ‘when emonade,’ and it made sense to me,”

s are dismissed from practice, they me, may not always constitute a safe

may be the most positive thing that “This makes [some players] stronger. how to be successful.” o applies to difficult moments in life. mily emergency and I almost didn’t wanted me to, so I just took out all another person, but it helped me.” ter also plays the role of a mentor. ot only teaching lessons in athletics “I’m hoping that by being a part of learning much more than x’s and o’s. ponsible adults and how to be part of

eel doors began to close. He heard a king him to hold the doors open. He

g brace, and this guy walked in while ards said. “I looked at him, thinking, h this fool,’ and I was getting pissed.”

3

Seniors Steven Etter, Garret GoodSenior running back Clinton Banks 1 argues Dr. Richard Smith’s sug- 2man and Tyler Ward congratulate gestion to sit out of the game despite senior linebacker Carson Kieschnick

Senior running back Chris 3 Nutall runs the ball out of bounds at the first home game on Sept. 3. The Tigers defeated Cy Woods with a score of 38-24.

PHOTO BY AMY ZHANG Senior tight end Matias 4 Grande resists a tackle by two Vikings on Oct. 8. Grande caught

4

three passes for 49 yards. PHOTO

BY DINI SUSANTO Junior starting quarterback 5 Jacob Bronowski prepares his team for the next play at Klein

5

Oak on Aug. 27. The Tigers had their first loss at 34-38. PHOTO

BY BECCA GAMACHE

6

7

Junior running back Quinton 6 White evades the Vikings on Oct. 8. White ran 107 yards and scored two touchdowns that night.

PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO Senior offensive lineman Ben Sherman grimaces in pain on Oct. 8. Sherman suffered a broken leg. PHOTO BY KATY MASSEY

7

12 | people | the roar

Animation addicts

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Interest, in foreign comics leads to creation of club to study Japanese culture

By Katy Massey Assistant Opinions Editor

C

omic books are usually asooiciated with bright, bold colors and superheroes, such as Spider-Man or Batman. However, more recently, teenagers have developed an interest in foreign comics and cartoons, specifically Japanese anime and manga.

“I like how [manga] is not [like] American cartoons and comics,” said junior Melissa Quiros, founder and co-president of the anime and manga club. “Anime and manga can have a darker point of view, deeper meaning and storyline.”

Because of her brother’s interest, Quiros became interested in manga and anime when she was nine years old. As she got older, Quiros acquired a deeper love for anime and manga.

The idea to create an anime and manga club or AMO, was formed after a discussion between members of the former knitting and crocheting club, who discovered a common interest in Japanese comics and cartoons.

“I was at the club, even though I already knew how to crochet. At one of the meetings, I met someone who also had an interest in manga and anime,” Quiros said. “We ended up talking about that instead and discovered that we were really into it.”

After Quiros was certain that there were enough people interested in attending anime and manga club, she had to secure a sponsor to ensure there would be a place to hold the meetings.

According to Quiros, this was the hardest part of the entire process.

“A lot of teachers have no idea what anime or manga is,” Quiros said. “We eventually ended up asking the librarians if

we could host weekly meetings there. They had a very positive reaction [to the idea].”

Pam Slough, who has been a librarian at Consol for two years, states that when Quiros first came to her with the idea, she instantly supported it, due to her own p e r s o n a l experiences with anime and manga.

“We always want to support our students’ recreational reading,” Slough said. “My daughter herself is very interested in manga and anime, so I can understand where [these students] are coming from.”

After Slough agreed to sponsor the club, both she and Quiros took the proposal for the club to the principal, who soon after approved it.

AMO is not only about Japanese cartoons and comic books, however. The club strives to cover as many relatable topics as possible, including t h e

“A lot of our focus is on art, since most of our members are artists themselves,” Quiros said.

Quiros said that the club definitely plans to focus on the artists in the club and allowing them to showcase their artwork more frequently, setting up cosplay skits or small plays where students would dress up as their favorite anime or manga characters, for thespians in the club and even setting up a cooking class to further their study of the Japanese culture.

“Melissa really has been the push behind [the club],” Slough said. “She really makes [the club] work. It’s absolutely amazing.”

“Anime and manga can have a darker point of view, deeper meaning and storyline.”

-Junior Melissa Quiros

production of fan fiction, fan art and original artwork, along with a study of Japanese culture.

Meetings, which occur once every month, are typically a place to hold discussions about different manga or anime, Quiros said. In addition, the club has also screened several anime series in the library, had karaoke days and even held a miniature art convention to showcase some of their members’ artwork.

Source of graphics: Wikipedia.org

Anime vs. manga Q. What is anime?

A. A style of Japanese cartoons/animation, similar to

American cartoons, but also involve deeper storylines and characters. In America, audio is usually Japanese, accompanied by English subtitles. Sometimes, the episodes are dubbed in English.

Compiled by Katy Massey

Q. What is manga?

A. A style of Japanese comic books that is read right

to left and printed soely in black and white. Comics are published in Japanese and English and similar to anime, manga usually has a deeper and more profound storyline, unlike some American comics.

Junior Emiliy Creasy designed this character in photoshop after scanning handrawn sketches. Creasy finds this process easier to get animation proportions right, she said. (Artwork by Creasy)

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Prepared to Persevere

the roar | people| 13

Senior immerses self in activities, faces challenges optimistically

BY FARIA AKRAM

features editor

Traditionally, the high school homecoming court is the royalty of the celebrated football game. However, the funny nature of senior Preston Sturdivant, one of the top five finalists for Homecoming King, reveals that this member of royalty is like any other high school teenager.

“I can really lighten the mood,” Sturdivant said. “ I try to be funny. Sometimes I try too hard.”

However, humor is only a small part of Sturdivant’s busy life. Sturdivant is involved in several activities both inside and outside the school including Band, 4-H, FFA, Aquatic Science Club, Key Club, SAAD, Boy Scouts and Christ United Methodist Church Youth Group and Orchestra.

Sturdivant’s involvement in these activities goes beyond mere membership. He is currently the co-captain of the French horn section in band and is an Eagle Scout, the highest level of attainment for Boy Scouts.

“Becoming an Eagle Scout was definitely my biggest accomplishment,” Sturdivant said. “It took a long time to get [to that position].”

Another honor for Sturdivant is that he currently holds the positions of both local and state president of 4-H. “4-H is a youth development program that teaches kids lifelong skills that they can use, as well as specific skills they can use through the use of agriculture,” Sturdivant said.

In order to become state president, Sturdivant first had to be elected to represent Brazos County and then became the district president. Being on the district council made him eligible to compete for state office among thirty-six other applicants and he won the position of state president.

“As state president I do the same kind of stuff I did as a local club president, such as running the meetings, making sure officers are doing their jobs, and writing the agendas, but on a much more massive scale,” Sturdivant said.

Local 4-H advisor Brandon Gregson said Sturdivant has been extremely successful at the position due to his exceptional leadership qualities.

“He’s very reliable and motivated and a very forward thinker,” Gregson said. “He’s able to generate his own ideas and carry them out quite well.”

Gregson has known Sturdivant for eight years, ever since he himself became a part of the 4-H team, and has viewed positive changes in Sturdivant as the years have past.

“Preston was a lot shyer before, and not as outgoing, but that’s changed as he’s taken on more leadership and responsibility [in 4-H],” Gregson said. “He’s become very outgoing, and I can see that in how when we’re at [4-H] functions now, other people seem to gravitate towards him.”

Fellow band member, junior Dustin Fry, also commented on Sturdivant’s friendly nature.

“He’s always nice to everybody, always pleasant to be around, and a really good friend,” Fry said.

Even in the face of adversity, Sturdivant’s friendly nature has not wavered. Sturdivant’s father was recently diagnosed with leukemia, and while this greatly affects Sturdivant and his family, he has not allowed his personal life to interfere with his school and extracurriculars.

“You wouldn’t know about [his father’s illness] from his attitude,” Gregson said.

“He hasn’t changed much in

his way of dealing with others or interacting with people because of it. He goes on and moves forward, still handles himself in a very respectful way.”

Respect is not only a personal characteristic of Sturdivant, but a feeling that others connect him with.

“I have tremendous respect for Preston,” Fry said.

“He’s a far-above average band member. He contributes well to rehearsals, is always on time. He’s a great person.”

Sturdivant also states that his father’s illness has been a difficult time period for him but a lesson in disguise as well.

“It hasn’t been easy, but if there’s one thing I’ve personally learned, it’s that you can’t take any time you have for granted at all because you don’t know how much more time you’ll have,” Sturdivant said.

In speaking about his father, Sturdivant reveals the high level of importance family holds in his life.

“They are what keep me down to earth and grounded and help me keep my priorities straight,” Sturdivant said.

Family has also been what has helped Sturdivant succeed the most in juggling school and all his extracurricular activities.

“I could say it’s because I carry around a calendar or something wild like that, but what has helped the most is the support of parents,” Sturdivant said. “Practicing good time management is important as well, but having supportive parents has been the most helpful, by a long shot.”

Being involved in a variety of activities has benefited Sturdivant in ways that will continue to help him, even after high school.

“It’s helped me both on the inside and outside,” Sturdivant said. “I’ve definitely become a more aware and informed citizen because of my community service in 4-H, FFA and Boys Scouts. [My activities] have also taught me several job skills, social skills and individual skills.”

After graduation, Sturdivant plans to attend Texas A&M University. As he leaves high school behind, his fellow band members agree that there are some aspects of Sturdivant that are unforgettable.

“His band uniform,” Fry said. “He wears it like a boss.”

Senior Preston Sturdivant attempts to balance various items that represent his life. Sturdivant is involved in several extracurricular activities, but considers family to be one of his greatest priorities. PHOTO BY FARIA AKRAM

A Week With Preston Sturdivant Sunday

•Christ United Methodist Church services; church youth group meeting and orchestra practice as well

Monday •4-H meeting

Tuesday •Boys Scouts

Wednesday •A day to catch up on homework and spend some quality time with the family

Thursday • A&M Consolidated Band practice begins early, at 6:30 a.m.

Friday •SAAD (Student’s Against Drunk Driving) meeting

Saturday •Off; a day to relax, spend time with friends and prepare for the week ahead

14 | people | the roar

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Sanctuary, Solitude, Stability

Military families reflect on service around the world

BY BECCA GAMACHE AND ALINA DATTAGUPTA

photography editor and news editor

M

ilitary personnel are known for courage and sacrifice. However, the sacrifices made by their family members are often overlooked.

Therefore, when prospective soldiers raise their right hand to deliver the Oath of Office, they pledge not only their own lives to the country, but the lives of their family members as well.

“I definitely feel a strong sense of pride,” senior Chris Stebbins, whose father was in the Marine Corps, said.

“My dad is probably the biggest person in my life who I look up to. Whenever he wears his uniform, to see the amount of respect he gets from everyone, I think that’s a really cool thing and I want to have that same experience to go out and have the same sense of patriotism that comes with being a part of the military.”

Senior Kayla Allison, whose father is the Corps Commander at A&M, greatly appreciates her father’s service in the Air Force, but the experience of being a child of a military family has

turned her away from recruitment.

“I think [my father’s involvement in the military] has really pushed me away from ever joining,” Allison said.

“It is important for people to serve our country but in a way, I feel as if I’ve already served.”

However, the contribution of senior JD McGraw’s father, who was in the Marine Corps, did not affect his views on possibly partaking in the A&M Corps.

“At one point I thought about maybe joining the Corps if I went to A&M, but I’m not really sure anymore,” he said.

Though neither Allison nor McGraw plan to join the military, they do understand the values of service to the country.

“I encourage [people] to join,” McGraw said. “It’s just not my thing.”

Stebbins, on the other hand, would like to be a pilot in the Marine Corps in the future.

“Being a part of a military family

Senior Kayla Allison holds a photograph of her and her father, Kenneth Allison, standing on Kyle Field during the Aggie game on Sept. 11, 2010. A special service was held as they watched the Corps of Cadets march in. Kenneth Allison serves as the Corps Commander at A&M and moved here this summer from Colorado Springs. He has served in the Air Force for 25 years. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

has definitely affected my career choice,” he said. “I can’t think of being anything else in life besides being a part of the military.”

During various assignments, Allison lived on a military base.

“There are a lot of kids there, so I made a lot of friends that way,” she said. “However, it’s very sheltered and restricting. You have to show your [military] ID to get into the base.”

Allison feels that joining the military is a decision that should not be taken lightly because it involves dedication.

“Joining the military is a big commitment,” senior Kayla Allison said, whose father served in the Air Force for 25 years. “It’s not easy. You have to be tough.”

For many families, part of that dedication is the willingness to move from base to base. Stebbins did not move as much as other military children simply because he lived on Okinawa, Japan for the majority of his life.

He feels that living there has greatly affected him.

“Anytime you get to go live overseas, it is definitely one of the most memorable experiences of your life, and so for me, it was Okinawa,” he said.

Aside from enjoying the experiences of traveling the globe, Allison implements lessons learned in her everyday life.

“I learned to be flexible,” she said.

“I can do a lot of things now, and I make friends pretty easily. [Moving] helped me develop better social skills.”

Though she appreciates the lessons she has learned, she sometimes feels tired of her many moves.

“I am proud of him [for being promoted], and I know it is a lot of hard work, but at the same time my mind [is reluctant about] another three years [of service],” she said.

Senior Chris Lueking, whose father was a colonel in the Marine Corps, also feels that he learned many lessons from being a part of a military family.

“I learned to have manners, and to be polite and respectful,” he said. “Also, it has made me open to all people and experiences.”

Lueking feels that being a part of a military family is an unforgettable experience.

“I feel very proud of my dad,” he said. “He has been in the military for the maximum amount of years. It has been a fun and great experience, and I would never change it.”

Branches of the Military The Army •oldest branch of the U.S. Military •protects the security of the United States and its resources

Marine Corps •smallest branch of the U.S. Military •often first on the ground in combat situations

Navy •defends the right to travel and trade freely on the world’s oceans •protects national interests overseas

Air Force •protects American interests at home and abroad with a focus on air power

Coast Guard •protects America’s waterways •deploys with the Navy during wartime

compiled by Alina Dattagupta

the roar | health

friday, oct. 29, 2010

and rec | 15

Media tech discovers new outlet for creativity with soccer teams BYEMILY NELSON

senior editor

From setting up and taking a shot, to setting up and making a goal; from brainstorming video ideas to strategizing plays, the students of Media Tech set aside their filming equipment to show off their skills on a whole new playing field.

“Media Tech soccer is something that the guys in Media Tech came up with and it is a great way for students in Media Tech to hang out and spend some time together outside of the classroom,” senior Jeremy Brumley said.

During a technical boot camp for Media Tech over the summer, the junior and senior boys decided to take a break by playing soccer.

“We had a boot camp [at Consol] and got really into soccer over the summer because of the World Cup,” senior Cameron Lovas said, “so we decided to play in the gym and formed a junior and senior squad.”

A girl’s team was added after the boys formed their team. Now, the three teams compete against each other on the weekends. “[The girls] just decided that since the guys were doing it, and they would be willing to play against us, we would form our own team,” senior Marina Miller said.

The junior team is made up of underclassman and, although a senior, Brumley chose to play for their team.

“The juniors asked me to play on their team, and I’m pretty honored to play with them,” Brumley said. “All of the guys are really tight, and I just love hanging out with them.”

Though not everyone in Media Tech participates in the soccer games, it has brought the students closer together in the classroom, Lovas said.

“When I found out about the kids playing soccer together, it was really cool and exciting to see them bonding like that and developing those relationships,” Media Tech teacher Scott Faulk said. “It is something I really strive for in class, and I like seeing them doing that.”

The games are open to students outside of Media Tech.

Senior Ron Moretz has been invited to participate in a game even though he isn’t in Media Tech.

“I thought it was fun playing because it was pretty competitive, but everyone was joking around with each other,” Moretz said.

Friendly competition does occur between the teams, but they play because they enjoy spending time together, Miller said.

“The games have been intense and extremely fun to play,” junior Colton Massey said. “Even if with lose, we know we had a good time, but when you get that win, you know your hard work has paid off.”

In order to make the games more entertaining, the teams have created different chants and cheers to raise their moral and spirit.

When the senior team scores their first three goals, Lovas yells ‘seniors! What is your profession?’ in which they reply with three loud hoorahs, similar to the movie 300.

“We all have our little sayings and traditions to get us pumped up,” Brumley said. “One thing I always say to the junior team is, ‘guys, strength and honor,” just like from Gladiator.”

Throughout their own league of soccer and team bonding, Media Tech students have begun to develop friendships that will last them throughout the years and down the road when they are in college and possibly even into their careers involving video and filmmaking, Faulk said.

“I love playing the game, but when you get to play with people that you love to be around, it just makes it that much better,” Massey said.

Junior Tyler Isenhart throws the ball into play at a Media Tech Soccer game on Thursday, Sept. 21. The game was played between the seniors and the juniors at the Rock Prairie fields. PHOTO PROVIDED BY MEDIA TECH SOCCER

Who’s in charge

on the field?

Friend Roar Newspaper

Breaking News, Polls, Photos

The following students lead their Media Tech Soccer Team as captains.

J

Colt Massey UNIORS

SENIORS W

Cameron Lovas

Kasey Quinn OMEN’S

Soure: mediatechsoccer.webs.com

Home of the SmartClip Techonolgy.

16 | sports | the roar

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Cross country runners display passion throughout races

BY KENDRA SPAW

Before the race

staff reporter

Boys Cross Country lines up early Thursday, Oct. 21 on the track for the two-mile time trial. The team was preparing for the district meet at Round Rock on Oct. 27. PHOTO BY KENDRA SPAW

On a Saturday at 4:30 a.m., senior David Mora wakes up to board a bus for a cross country meet. Before 8:00, he is warming up with stretches and build ups of 100-meter runs to prepare for his race.

“With running I can show my own success,” Mora said.

After build ups the team gathers in a huddle to pray for strength, safety and good placement. Finally it’s time to line up and anticipate the firing of the starting gun.

“I just try to calm down and try to concentrate on how I want to go out in the beginning,” senior Josh Herrington said about preparing for the lengthy run ahead.

During the race

After the race

Senior Travis Bohne, juniors Patrick Alexshonis and Brent Winemiller finish the first lap during the time trial on Thursday, Oct. 21. They are all on varsity. PHOTO BY KENDRA SPAW

After completing the timed run Thursday Oct. 21, the runners line up in order of who finished. After catching their breath and stretching, the team was told their times.

PHOTO BY KENDRA SPAW

With the ringing of the loud starting gun in their ears, the runners burst from the starting line and begin to make their spots for the next couple miles.

At the start of the race the runners conserve energy so they do not tire out quickly but they make sure to avoid running “too fast where you blow yourself out and get tired, but not too slow that you fall back and have to catch up,” Alexshonis said.

As the boys run along side teammates and strangers in the silence of the cool morning, they focus on improvement rather than the pain. Usually, little noise can be heard, except for the spots where Coach Skinner is waiting to cheer them on, tell them their time and how they need to improve, said Alexshonis. In a few sections the course will venture near the crowd of supporters.

“It is always good to hear [my parents’ and other parents’] voices during and before the meet,” senior David Mora said.

For senior Travis Bohne, their support is what cause him to push harder and go faster.

“Running this length is all mental” Mora said.

They must be not only physically, but mentally be prepared to run the long race.

“The idea that I can get out there and run my best to try and improve my personal time is what mainly drives me,” Herrington said, “and while I race, I mostly just think about how it’s not that far to the finish, and the faster I go, the faster I will be done.”

With the finish line in sight and the sound of the crowd getting louder with each stride, the runners begin the real fight, the fight to finish. Putting the drive of endurance over the pain is what it is all about, Mora said.

“At this point the runner has to ask himself if he really wants to kick it up and go hard, or to stay in his comfort zone,” Alexshonis said.

The satisfaction of crossing that finish line and knowing they have completed the race is exhilarating, said Herrington.

“I feel glad and relived and a little happy after I cross the finish line,” Herrington said, “because I am done for the day, and I dont have to put up with another race till the next meet.”

As the runners finally sit and stretch and ice any injuries, they take the time to reflect on how they did and more importantly how they can improve, Mora said.

For Bohne the race is about giving his all, for Herrington it’s about completing the course successfully, for Mora it’s about improvement, and for Alexshonis it’s about finishing where he and Coach want him to be. Although all the boys on varsity have different goals and styles of running, they all come together as a team to support one another and be the drive to work harder, yet enjoy what they are doing.

“I do cross country because it gives me time to spend with my friends,” Herrington said. “On all of our practices, we mostly just try to find ways to have fun and work hard at the same time, which makes it all worthwhile in the long run.”

Girls Varsity

varsity girls and boys cross country

Top Runners: Karis Jochen Lindsay Berry Sadie Garza Anikka Lekven

Boys Varsity Laura Casper Amy Bingaman Chaiss Matthews

Top Runners: Travis Bohne Brent Winemiller Gus Roman Chris Boardman

Josh Herrington David Mora Patrick Alexshonis

Second Place in district on Wed., Oct. 27

Second Place in district on Wed., Oct. 27

Regionals on Saturday, Nov. 6, at Arlington

Regionals on Saturday, Nov. 6, at Arlington

friday, oct. 29, 2010

Singles Lady

Aceing the Serve

Junior tennis player dominates the court in singles

BY ALEX HALL

Varsity Tennis

A

Junior Kristina Raphael volleys the ball back to an opponent during a practice match on Thursday, Oct. 7. Raphael competes in both singles and doubles.

PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Team Record: 11-6 in district Upcoming Matches: Region 2-5A team tournament on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29 and 30 Senior Sarah Solcher: “This season we have come every day to practice ready to work and to prepare for our upcoming match.

Each match we have left it all on the court. Even if it was a tough loss, we are satisfied with our effort.”

Senior Victoria Liere: “This season has been fun and amazing and a time of great improvement. We have gotten really far, and regionals will tell all.”

Sophomore Frankie Colunga: “It can be challenging playing matches against a lot of older people, but it’s really fun because you also get to play the best people.”

executive editor

s the top female player on the varsity team, junior Kristina Raphael, with a racket in one hand and a neon green tennis ball in the other, prepares to serve. Her balance is adequate and her focus is set.

“I have been playing tennis since I was five,” Raphael said.

“My dad would take my sister Jessica and I out to the courts.

Playing tennis when I was younger was a way that I spent time with my family and a way I got exercise.”

Eight years later, Raphael is now at the top of the charts playing on Consol’s district champion tennis team.

“Sometimes tennis is stressful, but I enjoy it for the most part,” Raphael said. When I play outside of Consol tennis, there isn’t that team atmosphere and common goal I would have if I were playing at Consol.”

Remaining calm while thinking on the court and the ability to move on the court without too much thought comes naturally to Raphael, she said.

“Tennis is a lot like instincts,” Raphael said. “You don’t have a lot of time to think. You just have to go when you see the ball.

A good tennis player is consistent. Tennis isn’t all about hitting winners and putting it away. You have to be able to keep the ball in play.”

While competing, Raphael sees herself as a very focused player.

“To play a match of tennis, I have be to focused,” Raphael said. “A lot of times I will have songs stuck in my head, and if I focus on the song, I’ll actually do better than if I think too much about the match.”

Relationships with fellow team members are also crucial and what make the team like a family, Raphael said.

“Our team chant, HOORAH that we yell before and after matches pumps us up and brings us together, and if we are loud enough, then the other team knows we are there,” said Raphael.

Aside from competing in the sport, Raphael has other responsibilities as a member of the team.

“My job on the tennis team is set an example through my attitude and actions on and off the court, showing a good attitude during the drills and supporting the coach in his decisions,” Raphael said.

Coach Stephen Mercer finds Raphael and the top male player, Frankie Colunga, as leaders of the team.

“As a player and individual Kristina really helps the team,” Mercer said. “She and Frankie really raise the level of the team and are both good role models,” Mercer said.

Apart from individual input, team effort is recognized as equally important.

“Our team has a lot of sportsmanship and there are teams that we take notice of when they are rude, but we still try to be respectful to the other teams,” Raphael said.

Junior Varsity Upcoming Match: Thursday, Nov. 4, against Harker Heights-all day tournament

junior varsity and freshman tennis

the roar | sports | 17

Although tennis has been a focus of her high school experience, Raphael does not intend to play in college.

“When I go to college I want to focus on being a student and having not a regular experience but just not playing tennis,” Raphael said. “I have been playing it for so long that when I get to college, I want to try something different.”

Coach Mercer supports her decision.

“The opportunities to play college tennis are very limited, and I believe that each of my players in a sense are like my own children,” Mercer said. “I want them to do well in whatever they choose to do.”

Junior Kristina Raphael serves the the ball to sophomore Katherine Miller during Thursday’s practice on Oct. 7. Raphael has been competing on the varsity team since her freshman year.

PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Freshman Team Record: 4-2 in district

Sophomore Matt Legg: “Competitions are my favorite part of tennis because it’s one-on-one out there, and you’re out there by yourself.”

Upcoming Match: Thursday, Nov. 2, against Harker Heights-all day tournament

Team Record: 2-1 in district

Freshman Bianca Sevilla: “Tennis so far has been really great. Coach Mercer is a really laid back coach and sets you up to play with someone on your same level, so it is all very refreshing.”

18 | entertainment | the roar

friday, oct. 29, 2010

The Roar Reviews

Local eateries offer fall seasonal foods Blue Baker

By Kendra Spaw

Blue Baker is serving up some festive foods and treats that may just get you in the mood for the holiday season.

While offering different specials each week, Blue Baker is trying to incorporate the fall season into its menu. I enjoyed the New England clam chowder with a pumpkin chocolate chip cookie. The clam chowder was a first for me, but it was a surprising delight. The creaminess of the soup with bits of potatoes and ham really warmed me up and satisfied my tummy. The pumpkin chocolate chip cookie is something I recommend. With a blend of spices that remind

The Village Cafe

By Alex Hall

Reds, oranges and greens were displayed on images of the paintings that covered the walls of the cafe. Each piece was a creation of a local artist and floated on the walls in perfect symmetry, balancing out the architectural design of the café. A perfect amount of sunlight pushed its way through the glass windows. I felt relaxed ordering, eating and conversing with my friends. I ordered the raspberry veggie sandwich and tomato soup. After paying a reasonable price of $7.25 for my meal, I chose a comfy leather couch with a small coffee table to enjoy my meal. Shortly after sitting, the smiling waiter strolled to our table with

Sweet Eugene’s

Sub Culture.

At the corner of Southwest PKWY & Wellborn

Free small Drink with Student ID 979-696-5137

three steaming plates of toasted sandwiches and soups.

The sandwich was stuffed with avocados, tomatoes, lettuce, roasted red onions, feta cheese and hugged by whole wheat bread spread with raspberry chipotle sauce and organic mayo. The creamy satisfying tomato soup tickled my taste buds. Swallowing giant bites of my meal, I patted my tummy and slid further into the couch. Upon finishing, our plates were picked up by a kind and outgoing employee with a four-inch beard. Overall, The Village Café had a very relaxing, clean and artistic environment that I would rate out of five stars a five!

By Emily Nelson

The locally owned coffee shop, Sweet Eugene’s, otherwise known as “Sweets,” is the happening spot for college and high school students to socialize and study. However, their lack of space and continuous flow of students in need of a vacant seat, proceeds to provide reoccurring problems. Another dilemma I encountered is that while their array of drinks and treats vary from a wide selection of daily palatable foods, they lack on otherwise “seasonal assortments.” Serving the only fall drink, a fairly

1411 Wellborn Rd

one of thanksgiving, it is complemented well with melted chocolate chips hidden inside. For me, fall means warm feelings and sweet foods, and Blue Baker definitely gave me a taste of both. If they had offered some warm drinks as well, then they would have satisfied me, but I felt my meal was lacking when I would enjoy a spoonful of my warm soup, then take a sip of cold sweet tea. Overall, I was very satisfied and give this scrumptious delight four out of five stars.

exp: 12/31/10

tasteful, White Pumpkin Mocha, Sweet Eugene’s staff brewed it quickly, sliding it onto the counter, which caused the favorable liquid to slosh over the sides, leaving my cup wet and sticky. With dissapointment I would rate this coffee shop with two out of five stars. What causes students to flock to this establishment, I am unsure of, but if your taste buds are tingling for a simple delectable taste of fall, your mouth will be sorely disappointed.

Seasonal Senses for the month of November

See the Thanksgiving Day Parade,

Nov. 25, 2010 from 8:00am - 11:00 a.m. on Texas Avenue in College Station.

Smell

the Thanksgiving food at Epicures Catering, 2319 Texas Ave. Thanksgiving Day, volunteering to cook or deliver meals to the disabled and homeboundof the Brazos Valley. Call 979-6950985 for more information.

Hear

the CMT Revolution tour with Miranda Lambert and special guests Eric Church and Josh Kelley Nov. 5 at Reed Arena. A meet and greet opportunity for Ran Fans will also be available.

Time is yet to be announced.

Taste international cuisine Nov. 13 at

Worldfest in New Braunfels. The festival includes 3 stages, culture displays and demos, vendors and storytelling.

Touch the pavement with your tennis

shoes during the BCS Turkey Trot Nov. 25 at 6:00 a.m. The starting line will be at Thomas Park, 1300 James Pkwy.

Compiled by Alex Hall

the roar | entertainment | 19

friday, oct. 29, 2010

FREETIME FREESTYLIN' Students express poetic talent, create original rhythm

By Kimmie Cessna Staff Reporter The crowd gathers around as a beat emerges from people talking among themselves and distinguished voices begin to stand out by rapping along with the beat or, in other words, freestylin’.

Life experiences influence many who bring this form of rap popularity to the younger generation. Freestylin’ is a way to express thoughts, emotions and feelings.

“I am inspired to do freestylin’ because it is fun to me and I enjoy doing it,” sophomore Daricia Henson said.

A group of students in Courtney Wellmann’s English class formed the Dead Rappers Society after watching the film Dead Poet’s Society. Sophomores Nathan Smith, Cody Green, Ty Thomas, Alex Arreaola-Garcia and Anas AbuOdeh rap during advocate and have created a facebook page for their group..

“Our freestylin’ is not like poetry with written words on a page,” Smith said. “You have to go with the beat.”

Music and instruments are other forms of inspiration that aide students to gain freestylin’ as a talent.

“Playing the piano, drums and other instruments inspires me to start freestylin’,” senior J-Mac McCarthy said.

Daily performers continually practice and critique techniques exhibited during a performance. The way they use their voices and move illustrates how complex this type of activity can be.

“When I am about to perform, I think about not messing up,” senior Muffy Harrison said. “It is definitely a rush of emotions for me.”

When a group gathers to begin freestylin’, it can become loud and chaotic. Individuals who want to continue performing at a high level learn to block out their counterparts and focus on what they are saying during their rap.

“Sometimes there is no way to block the distractions,” McCarthy said. “I have to get into my own zone, and once I am there, you cannot stop me from going at it.”

If there is a good atmosphere, freestylin’ is started on the spot and rappers find themselves standing in front of a crowd asking them to break out the rap style. If presented with this situation, they generally rap about less serious situations and turn to the joke of the day.

“I like the people around me because it krunks me up more,” Henson said.

Letting loose and going with the beat can be relaxing.

While performing, being comfortable can make the rap sound better in the end.

“When I am freestylin’, I am always happy, and I try to laugh,” McCarthy said.

When the crowd gets an introduction into the freestylin’, they can get a better meaning for what the whole rap will be about.

“As I start freestlyin’, I start with an introduction to what I am rapping about and just go with the flow,” Harrison adds.

Having a positive attitude while freestylin’ can increase

the crowd’s interest in the person who is freestylin’.

“Freestylin’ is a part of my everyday life,” Henson said.”Every day I practice freestylin’ with someone.”

The environment for freestylin’ has to be just right for an adequate performance.

“I like how fun it is to be unexpected,” Green said. “You don’t want people to be expecting what you are saying. You have to surprise them.”

Multiple performers begin rapping, and crowds begin to gather and suddenly it turns into an informal freestylin’ competition. By the end spectators wonder who won.

“When the crowd around you starts cheering and chanting really loud for you, you know you have won the competition,” McCarthy said.

Speaking freely to a hip beat is something that requires passion and a desire to succeed.

“When it is the right moment, beat, and the people get me hyped up, this is when I like freestylin’,” Harrison said.

Bringin’ On the Beat “one way freestylin’ helps me in school is when I have to study for a test, i just use my freestyln’ to memorize a rap to the study questions”

Muffy Harrison “What makes me bettter at freestylin’ is to practice.

Practic makes perfect!”

Daricia Henson “one thing that helps me with freestylin’ is to be informed with the world and have a wide vocabulary.”

J-Mac Mccarthy “I like to start Freestylin’ in the car, by gettting a line in my head and going from there.”

Dead Rappers Seniors J-Mac McCarthy and Muffy Harrison and junior Daricia Henson practice their freesylin’ after school on Oct.14.

They each take turns rapping while someone else lays down the beat. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Compiled by Kimmie Cessna

20 | etcetera | the roar

DS

friday, oct 29, 2010

E by

AR LENA EDW

Tattoos provide outlet for personal expression, mark significant events feels that tattoos are a way of marking important moments in one’s life. “[I would] absolutely recommend people who are considering getting a tattoo to do so,” she said. “People always say ‘well, I don’t know if I want that forever,’ because people are really indecisive, and I’d say that even if the meaning changes for you, or even if it’s no longer as significant as it was at the time when you got it, it will still be always like a diary entry almost. It will be an artifact of that time of your life when that was important to you.

So, it’s kind of a way to look back and mark a significant point in your life.”

Senior Brian Grimes agrees and says that he will never regret his tattoos.

“I thought about the tattoo on my arm for a year and a half before I got it,” he said. “It represents two different diseases that are really common in my family, and the [illness] that my mom has right now. The tattoo on my side represents my Native American heritage. I don’t think I’ll ever regret my tattoos because they both have a lot of meaning.”

However, sophomore English teacher and swimming coach Ryan Goodwyn cautions teenagers not to get tattoos so quickly.

“All my tattoos have meaning behind them,” he said. “They all represent people who are important to me or experiences I’ve had that have changed my life. I’m not a big fan of getting something that doesn’t really have meaning just because you think it looks cool. I caution kids who say ‘I’m getting a tattoo as soon as I turn eighteen,’ because if you get something that you think looks cool at 18, you’re going to hate it when you’re 35. If I put something on my body at 18, and based on who I was at 18, God I would completely regret that right now.”

Taylor backs Goodwyn’s theory through her own feelings about her tattoo.

“I got my tattoo because I was close to someone at the moment, [but I’m not anymore.] I regret my tattoo right now…I like having a tattoo, but I don’t like the meaning behind it anymore.”

Which tattoo belongs to whom?

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

photos by Elena Edwards

1.f, 2.c, 3.e, 4.a, 5.b, 6.d

hen walking through the hallways and attending their usual classes at A&M Consolidated, students don’t usually expect to see their favorite teachers or classmates whom they’ve known for years with tattoos on their bodies. However, it is much more common than many people realize, and a number of Consol attendees are sporting their own diverse tattoos, each with different stories and feelings behind them.

For some students, getting a tattoo can be costly and risky, taking a toll not only on their wallet, but also on their relationships with their parents.

Junior Lindy Taylor, who has one tattoo of a heart on her lower stomach, kept her tattoo from her parents for six months before telling them about it.

“My youth leader found out and told me that she would tell them if I didn’t,” she said. “My dad didn’t really care because he got a tattoo at 15, but my mom was not happy at all; she was disappointed.”

However for others, such as English teacher Jacqueline Shoemake, getting a tattoo her senior year of high school was not only supported by her parents, but also seen as a way of following in her stepfather’s footsteps.

“My stepdad went with me to get my first tattoo,” she said. “He had several tattoos, and it was an understood sort of thing that I would eventually get my own if I wanted them.”

The process of getting a tattoo can be painful for some, but almost painless for others.

Senior Victoria Robertson found the process uncomfortable.

“I knew it was going to hurt, so I was just like, ‘I got this,’” she said. “[But on a scale of 1-10] it hurt a ten.

It’s like a bunch of needles just poking you. I didn’t cry, but I did have teardrops.”

Taylor felt the process was virtually painless.

“It only hurt like a two [on a scale of 1-10]. It didn’t feel like I thought it was going to. It tickled,” she said.

Shoemake believes that, besides popular belief, tattoos are not to be regretted, even if one’s opinions or feelings do change about them. Rather, she