The Roar Vol. 15 Issue 6

the

Roar

A&M Consolidated High School

School to School: The Roar compares schools around the state. Page 5.

•

Viewpoints

Reevaluating Success: Senior Katie Gibson reflects on her past failures to redefine success. Page 7.

•

People

Film Studies: Students seek careers in entertainment media.

Page 16.

•

Sports

Softball:

•The softball team shares team spirit.

Page 19.

Seniors

Seniors Speak: Seniors name their favorite teachers. Page 18.

•

Entertainment

WIT v. FIT: Students and teachers prepare to stage a battle of improv wits. Page 26.

•

tolook

where

pages 2-5 News pages 6-10 Viewpoints pages 11-12 Health & Rec page 13 Snapshots pages 14-15 Student Life pages 16-18 People pages 19-21 Senior pages 22-25 Sports Entertainment pages 26-27 page 28 Etc.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Vol. 15 No. 6

price - less prom

Paying for prom proves potentially problematic for planners, participants by taylor whittlesey

assistant opinions editor There is more to the suave fabrics, mouthwatering treats, detailed art pieces and dimly lit dance floor students admire upon arriving at the prom.

Student Council members put an immense amount of time, effort and money into the special night for all their peers.

While most students begin planning their date, dress, tux and dinner a month or two before the dance, junior Student Council members and their advisors begin planning for prom the moment they first walk into the high school doors.

“The goal is that each class has at least $10,000 by their junior year to be able to pay for funding for prom as well as being able to have a foundation for the class gift,” Student Council sponsor Tiffany Fox said.

Keeping these major expenses in mind, Student Council members plan and execute various fundraisers to achieve a useful and balanced financial foundation.

One class sold mugs and pens. Another year, some of the sponsors brainstormed and decided on the “no sell” fundraiser, Fox said. Some other methods for fundraising have been pizza making and other business alliances.

“We have formed a partnership with A&M to be able to scan tickets at football games and that has been a really profitable fundraiser for the junior class each year,” Fox said.

Other schools view prom as a fundraiser. For example, Bryan High does not view the dance as a class objective, but rather as a class fundraiser for the senior gift. They accomplish this by charging $10 per ticket for seniors and $30 per ticket for juniors.

“We have a variety of fundraisers, one for each semester, as well as ticket sales for prom,” Bryan High Junior Class Sponsor Colleen Holmes said.

“The proceeds are used

not only to pay for the facility, decorations, invitations and DJ, but the remainder is reserved for the senior class gift.”

Along with the senior gift, prom is one of the activites for which each class of Student Council fundraises.Consol, however, does not charge for prom tickets for seniors and juniors, although underclassmen dates are charged $20 per person.

“One of the priorities for us here at A&M Consolidated is for every student, regardless of financial situation, to be able to attend their junior and senior prom," Fox said.

"That’s why we have so many fundraising efforts going into their junior year,” Senior class advisor Sara Wendt said that prom is a huge project, but students want it to be special. She said that they want to do a good job their junior year because the following year they want the next class to put just as much effort.

Student Council members in the junior class are assigned to committees, including refreshments, entrance, walls and tables, DJ area, photos and lighting and building. Each committee given a budget of $1,000 to $2,000, junior vice president Stacie O’Shea said.

Some additional costs involved with prom include security ($500), the DJ ($500) and the rental of the Expo Center ($2,378).

“The decorations will be the most expensive [this year], and if not that, the refreshments,” O’Shea said.

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Friday, May 14, 2010

Prom, from page 1

In the News Junior awarded FCCLA scholarship Jennifer Williams placed first in the state Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Star event, Serving Up Success on April 17. The FFCLA is a national organization known for helping young adults in becoming leaders in personal, family, work and societal issues. Cori Decell and Cesia Sanchez competed in the Interior Design event, earning third and a trip to the state competition.

Senior accepts foreign internship Senior David Ryan Pratt was selected from 16 other students for the 2010 Borlaug-Ruan Internship in China. Pratt will conduct an 8-week research assignment at the China National Hybird Rice Research & Development Center.

The Borlaug-Ruan Internship is a program that allows students to participate at leading agricultural research centers around the world.

Senior wins BPA Championship Senior Carl Fitz won the Business Professionals of America National Championship in Extemporaneous Speaking at the association’s national conference May 6-8 in Anaheim, Calif.

Fundraisers ‘pay the price’ in creating Prom memories In order to minimize costs, the junior class only rents the Brazos County Expo Center for a day, meaning that the dance decorations must be set up and broken down during the day of the dance itself.

The cost is limited in order to save money for the senior class gift and graduation picnic. This year, a total of $10,000 is being reserved for these purposes.

Expenses

Last year, the senior class spent a budget of $10,000 on prom expenses. This is the budget goal for the 2010 prom, Fire and Ice, as well.

“The biggest expenses are the rental of the Expo Center and certain things you have to have like security, and the DJ,” Wendt said.

Renting Space

Although rental of the Expo Center is expensive, Fox said the additional space was much needed.

“On the surface, kids may wonder why [we use] the Expo Center,” Fox said. “The Brazos Center was just a smaller venue. It

was simply inadequate in so many ways.”

Students agree with the faculty and staff’s decisions on the set location for prom.

“It’s a great venue because they work with us really well,” junior class president Neha Shetty said.

Creating The Dance

Student Council does save money by completing so much of the work themselves.

“We build it, we create the designs, and we make up the theme and raise the money for it,” O’Shea said. “Some people probably don’t understand that the students do all of it.”

Wendt emphasizes the benefit of this.

“Even though it cost money, the work they put in makes it a bargain,” Wendt said. “My group worked very hard and kept it very simple, very chic.

When the kids get there and they see the lighting and it’s beautiful, it is well worth it. You’re making a very special memory.

Prom’s Receipt: Fundraising Income: $10,000 Pizza making at Pizza Hut Fishing for Funds Homecoming Dance ticket sales Welcome to the Jungle ticket sales Ticket scanning for A&M games Lucky 7 for Class of 2011

Prom Expenses: $8,500 Photographer-$1,000 Food-$2,000 Walls & Tables-$1,000 Renting Expo-$2,000 DJ and Security$1,500 Lights-$1,000 Compiled by Taylor Whitlessey

Friday, May 14, 2010

Juniors cope with disabilities, learn to appreciate differences by emily nelson sports editor With the crowded hallways, difficult class schedules and heavy books, high school can be a tough routine. However, due to their physical disabilities, juniors Aaron Featherston and Ashley Groff face additional challenges and have learned to persevere through the judgment.

“I was raised to never keep my differences hidden,” said Featherston, who has a prosthetic leg. “So, I try to keep everything as open as possible, otherwise I would stay locked in a closet, rolled up in bubble wrap and wouldn’t be able to do much.”

As an infant, Featherston was born with his ankle and foot fused together to where he only had two toes and a large piece of bone. He said also his nurse dropped him, and the doctors had to reconstruct his face, ribs, left leg and right foot.

“The nurse dropped me when I was born because she wasn’t ready for a baby with differences,” Featherston said.

The foot mended back in the form of a bow to the point of breaking. A cast was put on instead of a splint, and once healed, it formed the opposite way, Featherston said. Due to this

mishap, he was sent to Shriners Hospital in Los Angeles, California where he spent eight years of his life and was given a prosthetic leg so that he could walk.

Shriners Hospital takes care of

people like me who can’t hear.”

Groff was born prematurely due to a lack of oxygen while in the womb. The doctor’s believe that the minimal amount of oxygen sent to the brain caused Groff to be

understand the way I am,” Groff said. “I don’t’ like it when people make comments asking if I’m speaking English or if I’m from another country because it sounds like I have an accent. They do it on purpose and it hurts.”

Featherston also faces “My parents and my whole family support me. challenges while walking through the halls, so he is They wanted me to go to a place where I could given an extra five minutes in which he has the right to learn to hear, and read, and not just use sign leave the classroom early so that he may reach his language. They did all of that for me.” next class without being trampled. junior ashley groff “Every day walking through the hallways can be a challenge,” Featherston children from the age of 8 months born deaf. said. “Some people like to step to 18 years of age.

“I’m really strong, and I’m on my prosthetic leg as if it’s hard “I was brought up with a lot really not afraid,” Groff said. “My ground, and they bring me to my of doctors who had prosthetics, mom has always told me that I’m knees rather quickly. That’s when and because I was nine years of a strong and very independent people just keep walking and don’t age, I wanted to become a doctor woman.” notice me.” instantly, and I still have that At the age of four Groff began dream,” Featherston said. to attend speech therapy classes in Featherston said he wants to Austin and received her hearing attend A&M University, graduate, aids. attend medical school and then be “They had to put an implant able to work at Shriners Hospital inside my head, and I had to have for children. surgery behind my ear in order for Groff, who is deaf, has a me to be able to hear through my similar inspired dream. She plans hearing aids,” Groff said. to attend Blinn University and then Groff is 100 percent deaf transfer to a school in Dallas. and has faced much ridicule and “I want to be a deaf teacher teasing by students due to her when I grow up,” Groff said. “I speech, she said. think it would be cool to teach “I just wish people could

Elementary School | Middle School | High School

smarter services. smarter teachers. smarter students.

Both Featherston and Groff are thankful for their family’s support through the years.

“My parents, my whole family, they support me,” Groff said. “They wanted me to go to a place where I could learn to hear, and read, and not just use sign language. They did all of that for me.”

The parents of both students either enrolled their child in classes to help improve their disabilities or paid for additional medical care.

Both students have faced challenges throughout high school but have learned to overcome them and do the best they can.

Most people I have run into have treated me like garbage just because I’m different,” Featherston said. “But if they start to stare at my leg, I let them stare, and I give them something to look at. I have nothing to hide.”

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Friday, May 14, 2010

Student council appeals to principal for changes in schools by faria akram health and rec editor Students complaining about school is nothing new. From coming in early for TAKS testing while other students get a few more hours of sleep to the food the cafeteria serves, the administration has heard it all. Or have they really? To ensure that the students’ voices are being heard, Student Council decided to launch the RSVP program this year, an idea from their state convention.

RSVP, or Raising Student Voice and Participation, is a program that remains true to its name. According to the National Association of Student Councils, the goal of RSVP is to provide a forum for the numerous voices in a school and to increase student involvement by tackling issues that are important to students.

“RSVP gives students freedom,” Student Body President Taylor Vestal said. “That way, they can say our school does care about us.”

The RSVP program here, headed by seniors Sallyann Zhou and Catherine Koola, consisted of Student Council members going to every advocate class in the school and asking students what they would like to change about Consol. First, however, Student Council members who coordinated RSVP sessions had to attend their own training session.

“We learned how to handle certain situations and get responses, get people talking,” Zhou said.

When the time came to go to advocate classes, Koola was extremely pleased with the results.

“Some classes really made me proud,” Koola said. “Most kids weren’t too negative. I

was impressed and glad that they were strong and confident enough to voice their opinions.”

Zhou was also satisfied and suprised by the responses.

“Even the rowdy classes actually opened up,” Zhou said. “And one class felt very strongly about reducing PDA [public displays of affection], which was interesting.”

After visiting all the advocates and compiling their lists from each class, Koola, Zhou and Vestal created a list of the changes most frequently voiced, as well as the top three issues voiced: off-campus lunch, using electronics during lunch and advocate and adjusting the cell phone and tardy policies.

These were presented to principal Buddy Reed, who was positive about the results and hoped that some solutions could be found. Reed also voiced his own opinions about making changes at Consol.

“I think it’s imperative that seniors step up and be the leaders on the campus,” Reed said.

“Everyone else follows their lead.”

Though the meeting with Reed went well, there is still more work to be done to ensure the success of RSVP. “Now we’re detailing solutions, writing proposals, trying to talk to parents and teachers,” Zhou said. “We’ve even asked the administration to delay printing the handbooks for next year [in case some policies are changed].”

Koola expressed her joy at being able to meet with Reed and present the students’ ideas to him.

“We promised the students we would take their ideas to Mr. Reed, and I finally got to keep my promise,” Koola said. “Now, we are working on a plan of action to approach the

[entire] administration.”

Though both Zhou and Koola will be graduating this year, Koola still hopes that RSVP will continue next year.

“It’s important that you take into consideration every student and what they want, even if nothing gets changed,” Koola said. “I want students to believe that they matter.”

student

Suggestions Most-voiced ideas: ▪ Open Campus Lunch ▪Electronic Use during Advocate and Lunch ▪Tardy/Cellphone Fine Policy

Additional ideas: ▪PDA Control ▪Resolving Sanitation Issues ▪Replacing

Older Flooring

Information compiled by Faria Akram

UIL participants advance to state Members of the UIL team competed and advanced to the state meet after the Regional UIL Meet in Waco on April 24. The students who advanced were seniors Vivek Vadali (first place in informative speaking), Kalyan Venkatraj (first in Lincoln Douglas debate), Saum Chaudhuri (second in science, first in biology) and sophomore Kevin Li (first in chemistry, third in mathematics). Vadali placed fourth at the state meet held in Austin May 6-8.

Senior honored for art Senior Emily Manning was honored as a "Young Master of Texas" for her artwork.

Manning was one of five from across the state selected for the visual arts.

Three Consol students qualify for HOSA nationals Junior Zainil Momin and sophomores Lisa Hsiao and Eszter Kish will compete at the Health Occupations Students of America national competition in Orlando, Fla., this June for their accomplishments at the state meet.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Westlake High School Navasota High School A&M Consolidated High School 400

600

800

1000

1200

Students Per Teacher

A&M Consolidated High School Bryan High School Westlake High School Navasota High School State Average 0

3

6

9

12

15

Graduating Class Size

Navasota High School Westlake High School Bryan High School

Race Percentages

A&M Consolidated High School

400

500

600

700

800 White 34%

AfricanAmerican 14%

Hispanic 48%

White 33%

AfricanAmerican 28%

Hispanic 40%

Westlake HS

300

Navasota HS

200

State Averages

100

Other 4%

0

Other 11%

White 81%

A&M Consolidated High School

Bryan High School Westlake High School Navasota High School State Average 0

Other 1%

White 30%

AfricanAmerican 24%

Hispanic 46%

Other 9%

White 59%

African American 16%

Hispanic 17%

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

A&M Consolidated High School Bryan High School Westlake High School Navasota High School State Average

0

African-American 1%

Other 1%

A&M Consolidated HS

200

Bryan HS

0

The Roar compiled a list of statistics from last year’s TEA district profiles. While not all of the statistics pertain only to the high schools in each district, they serve to better illustrate both our district’s and our school’s quality. Four school districts are represented: College Station, Bryan, Eanes (home of Westlake High School) and Navasota. Schools were selected to show a variety of socioeconomic levels, geography and size. Bryan, for example, represents a large, relatively low-income school in a semi-urban area and was included as a cross-town reference. Westlake High School is located in an extremely affluent suburb of Austin. Navasota is a poorer, rural school district. The state totals were included to provide an overall reference point.

Dropout Rate (9-12)

Bryan High School

Hispanic 7%

Average SAT Scores

Each of the different statistic points was also selected to highlight a certain aspect of each school. Student-to-teacher ratios are often used by colleges and private schools as indicators of overall quality of education.

If an SAT score for a student indicates his or her proficiency as a student, then a school’s average SAT score should indicate its proficiency as an educator. It should be noted, however, that these scores do not include the writing portion of the SAT, and are based on a total score of 1600.

Graduating class size numbers are from 2008, and pertain to the overall district rather than any individual high school.

Percent of students on free and reduced lunch is a good indicator for how much of the school’s budget addresses more basic student services. Race percentiles indicate the diversity of a school in strictly racial terms.

by alejandra oliva senior editor

State Average

Percent of Economically Disadvantaged Students

School to School Compilation of statistics compares quality of various school districts

3

6

9

12

15

Friday, May 14, 2010

Junior reveals dangers of sexting, warns students to be careful of actions, texts

“Hey babe, will you please (with a cherry on top) send me a picture of you with no top on?”

I can’t imagine that any human being would be so arrogant as to feel no shame asking his classmate, neighbor or a coincidentally attractive passerby such a question, nor that any girl would succumb to such a degrading request.

But it happens. According to a nationwide survey conducted by the National Campaign to Support Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy (thenationalcampaign.org), approximately 20 percent of teens admit to having sent nude or semi-nude photos or videos of themselves to someone. In fact, this act is so common nowadays that it has earned its own word: it is referred to as “sexting.”

Of course, this is justified by the subsequent text message, which reads: “I promise I won’t show anyone.” Really? Then why have I received more than a couple of forwarded picture messages displaying the naked breasts of God-Knows-Who? I can safely assume that this occurs because the little

The Roar Staff Editor-in-Chief: Katie Gibson Managing Editor: Robby Smith Senior Editor: Alejandra Oliva Opinions Editor: Dini Susanto Sports Editor: Emily Nelson Entertainment Editor: Kate Williams News Editor: Alexandra Hall Health and Rec Editor: Faria Akram Assistant News Editor: Katy Massey Assistant Sports Editor: Alina Dattagupta Assistant Opinions Editor: Taylor Whittlesey Assistant Editors: Abigayle English, Becca Gamache, Anna Huff, Amy Zhang

The Roar Editorial Board Katie Gibson, editor-in-chief Robby Smith, managing editor Dini Susanto, opinions editor

Art By Morgan Murphy

shouldn’t teens realize that their photos could just as easily be posted on the World Wide Web? What if they push the wrong button on their cells phones and accidentally send images of their exposed bodies to unintended recipients or, even worse, complete strangers? Not only should the idea of physically exposing oneself to a stranger frighten away any willingness to send racy photos, but this act

is also immoral, illegal, degrading and downright gross.

To make matters worse, text messages can be permanent. Unlike spoken words, printed words and images are much more difficult to eliminate from the memory, and even more so from existence. Should the addressees choose to keep the sexy photos and messages in their inboxes, they will remain there for eternity, opening a gateway to a universe of blackmail and perpetual name-calling.

Deep down, although they may not show it, people do judge others for the things they do, and although the rumors and jests may eventually cease, no one ever forgets, and a sexter’s reputation will be tarnished, if not completely damaged. As a matter of fact, 72 percent of teens nationwide regard those who sext as “slutty” and 65 percent think they’re “desperate.” Would you want to fall into either of these categories? For your own sake, next time your fingers are hovering over the “send” button on your cell phone, remember that your decision is irrevocable. Once you push that button, there is no taking back what you send. Let us fight to end cell phone spams.

Let us fight to diminish the increasing number of child pornography. Next time your fingers are millimeters away from the shutter button on your cell phone’s camera, think: What if Granny sees this?

Dini Susanto is the opinions editor for the Roar. If you would like to share your point of view, email her at the.roar.susanto@gmail.com

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 editor-in-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 2003-2009, 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.

Administration should hear students’ voices, earn respect After several weeks of gathering data from advocate classes, tabulating votes and preparing a proposal, student council leaders have presented one of the top school policy concerns to the administration for improvement in the coming school year: the use of personal electronics during the school day. Now, the administration has the opportunity to respond to the voice of the student body. It is the responsibility of the administration to show students that they respect us and are listening.

Currently, the use of cell phones and iPods is restricted during the school day.The best solution that student council has presented involves allowing students to use cell phones and iPods during lunch and advocate. This allows students more freedom and responsibility during the school day, as well as opportunities to contact parents.

Mr. Reed seemed optimistic about working with student council, but hesitant to give students privileges they have not earned. It is understandable for him to hesitate at making a change in a distinctly defined and rigorously enforced policy. However, the privilege of letting students use cell phones during the school day is just that, a privilege that can be taken away by the administration if not used properly. The administration should know that by giving students such a privilege, they are expanding responsibility and showing respect for the opinions that students courageously voiced. If the administration responds negatively to the voice of the students or does not respond at all, they are not respecting the student body and should expect little respect from students in return.

While principals and adminstrators are authority figures to be respected, they should take this opportunity to show the students that they are listening. This builds trust and, ultimately, respect.

CONTACT

by Dini Susanto

boys who pinky swear that they “won’t tell” kept their promises and didn’t tell.

However, they did find a loophole, and instead of telling, they showed the pictures to their buddies. So, striving to be the biggest Big Daddy of all, they forward the picture to everyone on their contact lists (besides Mom, Dad and Granny) and spread the nudity for the world to behold.

After watching idolized teen stars such as High School Musical’s Vanessa Hudgens and Hannah Montana’s Miley Cyrus crash and burn due to rapid, mass distribution of their nude or semi-nude photos on the internet,

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.amchs@gmail.com

Friday, May 14, 2010

Reflecting on past failures allows graduate to redefine success

by Katie Gibson In the 11th grade I failed a timed writing in Mr. Williams’ AP English class. That year was the first year I failed anything in school, but hardly the last. The 65 was quickly followed by several F’s on U.S. History and Chemistry quizzes and, in fact, I can probably count the number of Pre-Calculus assignments I actually passed more rapidly rather than those I failed.

My list of disappointments doesn’t end in the world of academia either. I failed my friends when I gossiped and lied to them.

I failed my parents when I didn’t make National Merit. I failed myself when I dropped out of track, when I didn’t advance at UIL Regionals, and when I let the guy I’d liked for three years go off to school in California without telling him how I really felt.

And maybe that’s okay. Despite my academic delinquencies, I’m graduating summa cum laude in the top ten percent.

Through the fights and drama I’ve learned who my deepest, best friends are. Oh, yeah, and that guy? I’m glad I never opened up to him while we were dating because these days he doesn’t answer my emails, and we don’t talk anymore.

And now, after reflecting over all the supposed failures I’ve experienced in my four years of high school, I find that falling short of success, that never quite reaching that mark of precision has benefited me more than an endless parade of perfection ever could. I’ve learned that failing leads to humility, to change and to a life void of

complacency.

To a certain extent, we’re taught in high school that passing is the key to life. It’s evident in how a statewide test determines whether or not you graduate, how the football team is worshipped until they lose a game, how students fear exam days – nearly everything that happens from 8 AM until 4 PM inside this building tells us that success, each life, each day, each hour, comes from not making mistakes.

But what if we’ve got it all wrong?

What if failure isn’t what we should fear? Maybe it’s the driving force behind gaining true wisdom, or an opening for new experiences. Maybe failure is nothing more than choosing a path other than the one we’re expected to take.

And maybe success isn’t getting into an Ivy League school or finding a $100 K job post graduation; maybe success is accepting failure, learning from the mistakes and finding that putting together the broken pieces can results in something

far more beautiful than what was originally designed.

So often we refrain from new trials and experiments simply because the risk of failure is too great. We dread the thought someone, somewhere, might tell us we’re not good enough. That we’ve been rejected.

That we’ve failed. What we forget is that with every obstacle we face we gain new knowledge and experience, maturity and insight. We learn.

So, don’t believe the lie. Don’t believe that perfection is success. Don’t believe that one test or one person or one institution can determine who you are and where your life will go. Don’t be afraid to go against all odds. Don’t be afraid to pursue your passion.

And don’t be afraid to fail.

Katie is the Editor-in-Chief for The Roar. She will be attending the University of Missouri to study Convergence Journalism and East Asian Studies.

Senior shares her challenges with visual impairment

byRobby Smith “Excuse me,” I mumble as I push my way through the throng of ambling students in the overcrowded hallway. The person I bumped does not know why I intruded into his personal space.

Was I just in a hurry? Was I trying to shove him to be mean?

Actually, I accidentally bumped his arm because I did not see him at all. In fact, I can’t see anything located approximately ninety degrees to my right.

Despite the awkward tension or exchange of glances that may occur, I am fairly accustomed to such incidents.

Similar incidences happen almost daily and have become another facet of my life. In the hallways, walking through the cafeteria, winding through the stands at a football games, I bump

into people because I can’t see them.

Then, there are the classrooms, on the dreaded first day of school when I rush to be first to each class to claim my seat in the front half of the room.

And I also make sure to strategically plan my arrivals to movie theaters five minutes before the lights go down for previews, inconspicuously volunteering to save seats.

Because of my lack of peripheral vision, I can’t drive.

So, I have missed all of those conversations about learner’s permits, terrible license pictures, first cars and first tickets. I never chimed in, because I could never relate to the experiences that most take for granted as a natural right of passage during their high school years.

I’m not an awkward kid who has no social skills, the nerd who sits in the front to impress the teacher, the frustrated child whose strict parents won’t let her grow up and drive.

I simply have developed my own techniques for dealing with a largely inexplicable circumstance.

It’s a circumstance, however,

it

leg

Art by Morgan Murphy

that is challenging to discuss.

Most of the time, I wait and get to know people well enough to have them ask me about my vision, as has happened many times. “Robby, I’ve just kind of noticed sometimes you have to turn your head more when you’re talking to people around you,” they would say. “Is there something wrong?”

Then, I proceed to answer the question hoping to make the inquirer not feel awkward. But, sometimes, people never ask.

Other times, I feel the urge to just tell people, to hurry up and ease any noticeable hesitation. But, usually, I don’t.

Once people understand, friendships are strengthened and life moves on without any awkward hitches.

It’s just getting to the point of openness and unabashed sharing that is challenging. Through this, I have learned not to be judgmental, not to be condescending and not to make flippant remarks.

It is best not to dwell on stupid petty things that have no

lasting impact. I have learned how to show God’s love to the awkward kid and get along with different groups of friends.

Despite the various challenges we all face, I hope everyone can love who they are. So, embrace opportunities to share with others, and somehow, to learn to live for someone greater than ourselves.

It is easy to get bogged down in our own problems. By living a life of negativity and complaints, we aren’t improving our situation, and we may be missing wonderful experiences.

Find joy in life and show it every day, regardless of the lot you’ve been given. People will remember you for the positive impact you have on your class, not for the problems in your life that brought you down.

Don’t be afraid to be real with people. Share in the joys and challenges of life, with others, truly showing love to others without worrying about how your peers may respond.

Robby is the Managing Editor for The Roar. She will be attending Texas A&M University in College Station to study Political Science.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Junior gains wisdom from guidance, humbly grows through spiritual journey What is yo u favorite thin r g about your best friend?

“He finishes all my sentences and knows what I’m talking about before I say it.”

-Noah Giese, freshman “I like his mustache.”

-Franco Bettati, sophomore

“Since my best friend isailable myself, we’re always av at the same time.”

-Elena Urbina, junior

“She helps me not be too serious, and have fun while doing it!”

-Sallyann Zhou, senior

by Emily Nelson I am dirt, a mere piece of finegrained soil watered down until soft and moldable. I sit on an old cedar table looking disfigured and useless. I have the scent and color of the earth and am vulnerable to change. Around me lay tools used for shaping and forming, bending and structuring. Pondering what will become of my limp futile shape; I am suddenly lifted and placed into the Potter’s hands.

My journey into a striking creation begins, and I am first the clay. Sitting atop His palm, I can feel where the hard labored lines are imprinted into His nail-driven hand. He cradles me and sees my flaws, yet still desires to mold me into a beautiful piece of pottery made in His image. I am placed in a large basin of water where I am to be rinsed of the pebbles and grains of imperfection. The rushing water covers my spherical form and seeps

into my core, leaving me quenched and outside of my structure. His delicate eager to be transformed. and steady hand stays in rhythm with I am then gently placed on a round his strokes and leaves two perfect coats cement turntable that begins to rotate of blue paint over my cupped form. slowly. As the rotation gains speed, I Once finished, I am then put into a kiln feel the Potter’s strong hands press where I am to be fired and the finishing into my irregular form, smoothing my touches complete. uneven sides. Listening The firing process is absolute, and to Him resonate a I am carefully removed from the melodic tune, I kiln. The Potter looks at my once close my eyes moldable body and smiles, and attempt for I have been made into to dream of a simple cup made in His what I will image. In His eyes I am become.

His perfect creation, made As my to fulfill His purpose. The dreaming Potter continues to beam at continues, I me as I begin to realize what start to feel my I was made to do. once lame Instead of being made into form begin an extravagant piece of pottery to take to be used inside the walls of shape.

I His Majesty’s palace, I had can feel been made into a simple cup myself gaining and painted blue. I had been some height and designed to hold the being thinned out, Artwork by Morgan Murphy Word of the Potter and leaving the inside of my figure to share my knowledge with a thirsty hollow. The wheel begins to lose nation, to be used outside the palace speed, and then it finally stops, leaving walls where I may serve the people me dizzy. I look around and notice that who are dry. I was not meant to be an I have not been made into an elegant elegant piece that stays confined where vase that the members of the King’s I am only to be viewed; I was meant to court can envy; instead I have been be used to help fulfill His mission. My made into a simple ordinary cup, or so life is in the Potter’s hands.

I thought.

Emily is the Sports Editor for The Potter lifts my smooth frame the Roar. If you’d like to share your from the wheel once I am dry, picks up spiritual experiences with her, email His brush and begins to paint across the her at the.roar.nelson@gmail.com.

word on the street

By Morgan Murphy

How much money do you plan to spend on prom this year?

$0 - $100 45%

“That she’s my wife.”

-Jason Pratt, social studies teacher

$200 - $300 19% awesome.

$100 - $200 29%

more than$300 7% 429 upperclassmen surveyed

Friday, May 14, 2010

Strong bond of friendship aids in overcoming difficulties

byBecca Gamache The echoes of voices bounced around my house as my belongings were emptied from it. The faint smell of cardboard and Styrofoam lingered in the air. The walls were bare and lifeless just as they were before we had moved in two years ago. It was the same summer routine: say goodbye to my friends and neighbors, pack up my stuff and leave for a new Air Force base. Then, after two more years, do it all over again.

I guess I had taught myself to deal with it. Moving no longer fazed me; it was all part of the routine. Whenever I would find myself having to make new friends again, I would make sure not to get too close or open up too much. People get connected that way, and when I had to leave someone I was connected to, it hurt more. So, I had a

rule: friends only, no best friends. No best was reassuring to know that she would be friend except for one. there and that I would already have a friend.

Morgan Hartmann and I shared the Depending on who moved first, we would same life. We had moved to the same bases scope out the new base and call each other around the same times. Our dads had telling of the cool places the same job to go or why the and worked old base was t o g e t h e r. better.

A f t e r retirement, both of our families moved to College Station. She got it. She understood e v e r y emotion that came along with being uprooted and settled in a new home. She was there for Art by Morgan Murphy me during every move, just like Only I was there for her. With that a few moves, our kind of understanding, a bond is formed, a families didn’t follow each other when we best-friendship that broke my rule. moved, and they were hard. But the move During a few moves, she would help that showed us how much we actually me pack my things and say, “See you soon,” depended on each other was the retirement because her family would be moving to move to College Station. We would both the same base a few months after mine. It be moving out of a base and into a regular

neighborhood, and that was extremely foreign to us. We wouldn’t have a street full of kids to hang out with, and it would be hard to meet people if there weren’t any potlucks or neighborhood get-togethers. It was a complete change of scenery, and all we had was each other.

But that was all we needed. Both of our families were able to settle and not have to worry about moving until college came into the picture.

Morgan moved this past summer to attend the University of Florida, and the rest of her family plans to move to Alabama. We are still best friends and nothing will ever change that, even the hundreds of miles between us. We have been through so much together, and many of my friends will never be able to understand some of the things we’ve experienced.

Morgan and I have been best friends for 13 years, and I am certain we will be for the rest of our lives. True friendship never deteriorates, and now I know I’ll always have Morgan to count on.

Becca is an Assistant Editor for The Roar. If you would like to share a similar experience, contact her at the.roar. gamache@gmail.com.

speak out Discussion Board

Each issue, students can submit responses to The Roar’s Speak Out forum on Facebook.

Question: What will you miss the most about this year’s graduating class?

Zach Wu, junior I’ll miss having people to look up to who are so wonderfully brilliant yet can be so completely stupid (at the same time).

Zeta Morrison, senior How do I even begin? I’ll most likely miss the fact that we had so many jokesters; there was always laughing going on with us and nothing was ever taken too seriously. I’ll miss you, class of ‘10!

Becca Tomkins, senior I’ll miss the high fives in the hallway and the daily support from my friends.

Ethan Thatcher, senior I’ll miss everyone that has been with me since the first day of senior year. The football games and the pep rallies...

Most of all, I’m going to miss the experiences I’ve had at the school.

Add your opinion: search groups for ‘The Roar: Voice of Consol’

Friday, May 14, 2010

Dreaming of Prom

Should most of the money earned through class fundraisers be spent on prom?

yes

no

faria akram, health and rec editor

The large amount of money spent each year for Prom should definitely remain the same. Prom is not just another high school dance, but an important part of American culture that students remember for the rest of their lives.

It is that magical night reserved as a reward for upperclassmen who have worked hard. The money spent on Prom is not obtained carelessly from the school district or city. It is received through time-consuming hours of fundraising and planning and, in the case of the last couple of years, through hard work and sweat at A&M football games by junior student council members. The money used for prom at Consol is the reason why tickets are free (for upperclassmen). The junior class of Student Council has worked hard enough to ensure that there is enough money for the students to have a fabulous prom and, with what they’re already paying for dinner, dresses, etc., not have to pay a penny more. Many other schools that use a smaller budget for prom often charge tickets that can be as high as $50 per person. Therefore, it is actually beneficial to have a high prom budget to save students money.

Dance Discoveries

emily nelson, sports editor

Spending a large amount of money on Prom is unnecessary when student’s expectations are set to a high standard. Décor, lighting, music and refreshments add simple pleasures to the well-awaited night, but do not make the evening memorable.

Due to the $10,000 being spent at this year’s Prom, little money will be left to spend on alternative service projects or gifts, such as the senior class gift. The money raised should be distributed throughout the year in reasonable amounts and not simply spent all on one night. Although countless hours of hard work provided by Student Council are beneficial, their budget should be set at a lower level. Most students attend school dances to enjoy their time together, not to marvel at the glorious set-up. The student body does not need to depend on the extravagance of the Expo Center’s surroundings in order to enjoy themselves. Therefore, the budget for Prom should be lowered, so that money can also be used for service projects and the senior class gift.

Prom Perspectives

What is you favorite aspect of prom or school dances in general? Which of the following activities should student council fund with the most money from class fundraisers? “[I like] gettin’ jiggy with it.” senior Thomas Allred

Homecoming

“[I like] partying with friends in a safe environment.” freshman Allison Miller

Prom

Senior Gift

“[I like the] hot girls.” freshman Yanni Georghiades

30%

51%

19% 105 students surveyed

According to Student Council, here is the cost breakdown for prom.

Decorations Food “[I like] watching people fail at dancing.” freshman Chris Perez

Renting the Expo Workers each coin is equivalent to $1,000

Friday, May 14, 2010

Carrying the Weight of the Team New girls weight lifting team evolves, sends three to state becca gamache assistant editor A new sports team has emerged this year: the girl’s power lifting team.

“This is our first year to have a team,” girl’s power lifting coach Greg Frashure said. “And with half the amount other girls teams have, I’d say we had a pretty good season.”

The young team started lifting with ambition, sending three girls to the state meet including junior Alleen Alley, who placed third in the 107-pound weight class for 5A schools across Texas.

“I had a great season this year and state went really well,” Alley said. “I definitely had to make sure I was strongest the day before [state] so I could do my best.”

Alley not only led the team in the state meet, she created the team.

“Alleen came to me asking if we had a team, but we didn’t,” Frashure said. “She wanted to lift, so we started a team.”

Alley, however, wanted the team for more than lifting weights.

“I want to be a personal trainer,” Alley said. “Power lifting helped me to understand what makes me strong and how my muscles and body work and showed me how hard sports can be.”

Finding girls to join the power lifting team was no easy task, Alley said.

“I was basically the only one interested at first,” Alley said. “We started looking for girls that were up for the challenge and aware of what [being on the team] took. We had to scout.”

Alley and Frashure managed to find four other girls to create the team, a small amount compared to a full team, which is a standard of 11 girls. This, however, did not deter them from seeking success, Frashure said.

“At some of our meets, we placed as a team with only five girls,” Frashure said. “We even placed third once with half as many members as other schools.”

Though the team was extremely successful, their success did not occur so suddenly. The girls had set morning and afternoon workouts four to five days of the week.

“It shows dedication when you wake up at six in the morning just to lift weights,” Frashure said.

Alley also found maintaining her weight to be difficult.

“At our meets we have to make sure we make weight,” Alley said. “It was a lot of dieting and exercise.”

But more than losing weight and gaining muscle, the power lifting team gained many life lessons.

“With any sport you have to push yourself,” Alley said.

“I learned to believe in myself and that benefited me on multiple levels.”

Frashure emphasizes those ideas when coaching the girls.

“They can’t ride the fence,” Frashure said. “Take life head on, or it’ll whoop you.”

Junior Alleen Alley curls two twenty-pound weights at practice after school on Wednesday, May 5. Alley placed third in her weight class at the state competition. (photo by Becca Gamache)

Top 5 reasons to add weight lifting to your excercise plan 1. It strengthens weakened joints, making them more stable and less injury-prone 2. It not only works the muscles - it also strengthens bones.

3. Results are fast - regardless of age and sex. Your strength can increase by up to 72% in the first 4 weeks 4. It not only improves the overall tone of your body, it will also improve your posture - which will help in making you look slimmer

Freshman Madison Becker deadlifts 280 lbs. at the Copperas Cove meet on Jan. 30. Becker placed third in her event. (photo provided by Megan Caruso)

5. It helps to burn calories faster. Lean muscle tissue is 17-25 times more active than fat. This means you will burn more calories even at rest!

Source:http://www.intense-workout.com/workout_routines.html

Friday, May 14, 2010

Summer of Saving

Local teens pass summertime serving as lifeguards by

anna huff

T

hey spend the relaxing moments of summer under the sweltering Texas heat. Rather than serving food, working at a retail shop or sitting on the couch, a life guard’s job holds the huge responsibility of keeping people’s lives safe.

“I decided to be a lifeguard because I thought it would be a good experience and a responsible job,” junior Ali Hert said.

Because of the responsibility of a lifeguard, the training includes an interview, swimming 200 yards under a time limit, treading water without hands for two minutes and grabbing a ten-pound brick off the bottom of the pool.

“Treading water was the hardest test for me,” junior Jeremy Brumley, who has been lifeguarding for three years, said. “Afterwards, my legs felt dead.”

Although the training involves many skills, that is just the beginning of a lifeguard’s education.

“Once you get the job, training lasts for a week,” senior Taylor Grieger said. “We are taught First Aid, which includes water aid, AED and learning what to do in certain scenarios, such as mad parents.”

Even after that, life guards face continuous tests and have monthly training sessions to make their memory fresh if case harm is ever present.

“The scariest part of my job is watching numerous unsupervised little kids and knowing that I am in control,” Brumley said.

Hert, Grieger and Brumley all shared the thought that parents often forget that their kids are swimming and leave the supervision up to the lifeguards.

“One hard part about my job is having to deal with angry parents after I enforce the rules to their kids,” Grieger

said.

They have to constantly keep a watch on the pool and the kids swimming.

“Knowing something could go wrong at any point and [that] I have to know what to do is what makes this job so different from others,” Hert said.

There have been a couple instances where they have saved kids’ lives, but one was very memorable to Grieger.

“I was on duty, and there was a kid drowning in the shallow end,” Grieger said. “That was one of the most memorable days on the job.”

Swimming abilities and social skills are necessary for this job.

“To be a good lifeguard, you must be able to be social and willing to talk to plenty of people who go to the stand and have questions about the rules,” Grieger said.

In addition, lifeguards must also demonstrate administrative skills.

“Being a hard worker is vital to this job, because we run the pool,” Brumley said, “This includes balancing checks, being the cashier, cleaning and opening and closing the pools. This isn’t just any job.”

A lifeguard’s job provides students with a leadership opportunity.

“Lifeguarding is not just about getting a tan,” Hert said “It is very challenging and goal oriented.”

Junior Ali Hert stands guard at a friend’s pool. Hert has been a lifeguard for almost one year (photo by Becca Gamache).

POOL PROFILE

College Station Natatorium Location: College Station Middle School Admission: $3.00

Southwood-Hallaran Pool Location: Southwood Athletic Park Admission: $3.00

Adamson Lagoon Location: Bee Creek Park Admission: $6.00

Bryan Aquatic Center Location:3100 Oakridge Drive, Bryan.

Admission: $2.oo

Pool information and photos provided by http://www.cstx.gov and www.visitaggieland.com.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Encouraging Earth Day Awareness

Teachers, students plan activities for participation, celebration by kate williams entertainment editor

H

eads turn and a hush falls over the cafeteria as Debbie Robertson’s fourth period geography class enters. Each student carries a poster with frightening statistics about the environment.

Circling the cafeteria without a word, posters in hand, these students planned to spread environmental awareness on Earth Day. “A lot of people don’t expect us to come into their lunch with signs and Chris Lopez dressed as the Earth,” sophomore Kent Juliff said, “so, whenever we did that, it was definitely a message.”

The students spent time during their advocate creating posters with facts about the planet to show how humans hurt the earth with trash.

“It made everyone conscious and aware of how much trash we throw away and how it impacts our planet,” sophomore Casey Shomaker said.

Working on these posters taught the students valuable lessons.

“Our demonstration not only helped the student body, but it helped us by making

Freshmen Aidan Riley and Omar Elhassan raise recycling awareness on April 22, Earth Day. They encouraged their peers to properly dispose of their trash. (photo by Becca Gamache)

signs and learning more about the place we live in and how we as humans can help,” sophomore Lisa Hsiao said.

The idea of a silent protest was chosen to be the best method by the students.

“Silent protesting was a meaningful way to reach the students because it got their attention,” sophomore Chris Lopez said. “I liked hearing them tell me to slow down so they could read my poster. It showed that they really cared.”

Students were also inspired to participate due to the Nature Field Trip that Honors and Pre-AP English students experienced earlier that week as the culmination of their six-week study on the environment.

“The nature field trip taught me to respect the world I live in,” sophomore Kendra Spaw said. “It gave me a more realistic view of how much we impact the Earth.”

The students believe that continuing awareness is key to cleaning up Consol and the Earth.

“It’s really important that we not only raise awareness on Earth Day, but throughout the whole year as well,” sophomore class president Celina Malave said.

The entire protest was designed to effect everyone who eats in the cafeteria daily and to encourage them to think twice before they choose the trash bin over recycling.

“Hopefully, our actions will change their actions,” Robertson said.

English II Pre-AP student Mei Tan listens to an A&M wildlife biology student discuss ecosystems on the sophomore nature field trip on Tuesday, April 20. (photo by Courtney Wellmann)

On the annual sophomore nature field trip, English II Pre-AP students observe flora and fauna at the Texas A&M wildlife reserve. The trip is the culmination of a six-week study on the environment. (photo by Courtney Wellmann)

Sophomore Chris Lopez dresses up as “iEarth” for an Earth Day parade at lunch on Thursday, April 22. (photo by Kate Williams)

Sophomore Kyle Campbell leads Debbie Robertson’s fourth period geography class on a parade in the cafeteria on Earth Day, Thusday, April 22. Robertson’s class carried posters with environmental facts on them during all four lunches. (photo by Kate Williams)

Friday, May 14, 2010

Friday, May 14, 2010

T E E N parents realize responsibilities, mature to adjust to life with children

by Katie Gibson, Editor-in-Chief

Two months and $50 worth of home pregnancy tests after having sex with her boyfriend, 18-year-old Jonie Bailey found herself lying anxiously on a hospital bed, slimy goo plastered to her abdomen. The ultrasound flashed before her as she held her breath, not knowing what to expect. As the doctor slid the probe across her stomach, an unmistakable, rhythmic drumming could be heard: it had a heartbeat. “[When I first thought I might be pregnant], I panicked,” Bailey said. “I looked for every possible way out. I think I was in denial. When I found out the baby had a heartbeat, though, I knew it was alive. Even though it looked like a blob, it had a heartbeat.”

Bailey, a senior and six months pregnant, did not plan to become a mother on August 5, 2010. She did not plan to spend her senior year with swollen feet and nausea. She did not plan to stay home from prom or pick out baby names. Now, however, Bailey has had to adjust to life as an expectant mother, and plan accordingly, she said.

“I used to see pregnant girls and think of them as dumb, but [being pregnant] has made me mature a lot,” Bailey said. “I don’t go to school dances. I don’t go out drinking. I read baby books, and my friends are planning my baby shower.”

Pregnancy is merely the first step in being a parent, junior Ashley Browder said. She gave birth to her daughter, Laila, nearly 10 months ago. Now Laila is crawling, learning to sit up and developing her own personality.

“I was shocked to find out I was pregnant,” Browder said. “I still wanted to play

Junior Ashley Browder and her daughter Laila (above and right) play together at their home on Tuesday, May 4. According to Browder, pregancy is merely to the first step to becoming a parent. Approximately ten months old, Laila can crawl, sit up and is developing her own unique personality.

After school, Browder picks up Laila at daycare before going home. Browder, in addition to her schoolwork and volleyball, works at Wings ‘N More to provide for Laila, Browder said. (photos by Becca Gamache and Katie Gibson)

volleyball and be a kid. My mom gave me the decision to keep [the baby] or not, but I decided to go through with it. At first I thought it would be torture having a baby. But it’s not a burden, even though it changes your life. I enjoy being a mother.”

On June 25, Tracy Allen, a senior at Timber Academy, will celebrate his daughter Jaylah’s first birthday. Although, like Browder and Bailey, the pregnancy was unplanned and unexpected, his first reaction was fear rather than denial, he said.

“I was nervous and scared when [my girlfriend Jasmine told me] I was going to be a father,” Allen said. “I wasn’t ready for another life that I’d be taking care of, but I knew I had to take care of my responsibilities as a father. [Now], Jaylah is my pride and joy. She makes me so happy.”

I’m pregnant, now what?

After learning of their approaching parenthood, Browder, Bailey and Allen faced the difficulty of explaining the situation to their parents.

Although the reactions varied from disappointment to humor to tears, the challenge of simply facing reality proved universal.

“It was really hard to tell my mom,” Browder said. “She expected more of me, and she took it really hard. My dad passed away when I was in the eighth grade.”

Despite the initial reaction, Allen’s parents have supported him over the past year, he said.

“My mom, she buys diapers whenever we

need her to, and my dad buys her outfits,” Allen said. “They always try to see her.”

Not only has Bailey’s family aided her through her first 5 months of pregnancy, but her friends have as well, she said.

“My family has been really supportive, and my mom makes sure I get to all of my appointments,” Bailey said. “Even my friends are excited. They’re probably a little bit more excited than I am.”

Nine months later…

The actual arrival of Jaylah significantly impacted Allen’s school and lifestyle, he said.

“When she came, I dropped out of school,” Allen said. “But I knew I had to get my diploma because without it, I can’t get a job to provide for her. Now I think I’m going to go to college.”

Not only has Browder had to balance school and being a mother, but she has learned to grow up quickly, she said.

“I’m more mature now. I have to plan ahead,” Browder said. “I think about her before me, and I have to miss school sometimes to tend to her. I’m caught in the middle.”

Nevertheless, both recognize the blessings of having a child.

“I’m never bored anymore,” Browder said. “I was an only child.

I like taking her places like the mall or the movies.”

Allen agreed.

“There’s nothing that can compare to seeing my baby smile and have a good time,” Allen said. “It’s such an unexplainable, warm feeling.”

did you

KNOW? In 2005, there were 73,270 pregnant teen girls in Texas In 2006, Hispanics comprised 62% of all pregnancies in Texas In 2007, 28.5% of all Texas high school seniors had four or more sexual partners In 2007, 7% of all Texas high school sophomores had had sex before age 13, slightly higher than the national average

source: thenationalcampaign.org

Friday, May 14, 2010

bringing it on

Cheerleading captain accepted into prestigious organization by alina dattagupta assistant sports editor Her thumping heart and tapping foot prepare her for the cue. As she assumes her position to begin the routine with her pom-poms in hand, senior Sterling Knapp has never felt happier. After weeks of practice, it is her time to shine. She takes a deep breath and allows herself to begin the performance she has been working on for weeks for her fellow students. She feels complete after doing the activity she loves the most-cheerleading.

Recently, her love and passion towards the sport gained her the prestigious honor of being one of 300 cheerleaders invited by the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) to apply to be a cheerleading instructor at their camps for this upcoming summer.

“The award is a very big honor,” cheerleading co-sponsor Debbie Robertson said. “In the seven years I have been here, Sterling is only our second cheerleader to be invited to apply for the staff, and she is the first to be accepted.”

Knapp feels cheerleading is an important aspect in her life.

“Cheering brings me so much joy, and I absolutely love every part about it,” Knapp said. “I love the jumps, the stunting, the tumbling, and I love working with a group of girls who share the same passion and interest with me by spreading the Tiger spirit through our school.”

Coming into high school, Knapp had no intention of being a cheerleader.

“I was a big volleyball player, and I thought that I’d be playing volleyball in high school until my mom encouraged me to try out for cheerleading, and I made the squad,” Knapp said.

“It was one of those hidSenior Sterling Knapp poses in her Naden treasures I found that I tional Cheerleading Association (NCA) enjoyed.” uniform. Knapp was selected as an NCA Not only does Knapp possess instructor for cheerleading camps this exceptional cheer skills, but she is summer. (photo by Dini Susanto)

also well-rounded in all other areas.

“I am thrilled that she has received this honor because she deserves it,” cheerleading co-sponsor Linda Ferris said. “She is a fantastic cheerleader and a great role model. She is everything that you would want, all in one package, to be a cheerleader.”

Knapp said that a leader needs to make sure she is making decisions based on the best interest of the squad and not just to please others.

“I would not ask someone to do something that I myself am not willing to do, and I believe a leader should be understanding of the wants and needs of other people and simultaneously do what is best for the squad,” she said.

In addition to cheering for the school, Knapp does many extra cheer activities for the community as well.

“I teach for the Stretch and Grow Program,” she said. “I go to a different elementary school and teach the kids different cheers and stunts every Monday and Thursday.”

While Knapp enjoys all aspects of cheerleading, one component stands out above the others.

“My favorite part of cheering is performing the routines we have spent so much time working

on in front of my peers,” she said. “It’s really exhilarating when you’re in front of a crowd doing your thing.”

Knapp also practices tumbling at Brazos Valley Gymnastics.

“I also practice on my own in my backyard.

I used to go in front of the mirror to make sure my placements were correct,” she said.

Knapp and her younger sister had the opportunity to cheer on the same squad for two years.

“Even though my sister and I sometimes fight and argue, I love her very much, and I’m really proud of her accomplishment,” sophomore Holland Knapp said. “I have really learned a lot from her, and the lessons she has taught me will always be close to my heart.”

Knapp will not only be teaching routines and skills at the NCA camp this summer, but she will teach the true meaning of being a cheerleader.

“I am going to be sharing my cheerleading knowledge with other girls who have the same passion as mine and teaching girls that it’s not only about the label or skills, but it’s so much more,” she said. “It’s about being a leader and role model at your school and acting as a woman of integrity.”

cheer!

Senior Sterling Knapp passes out permission slips and teaches young girls basic cheerleading techniques at Forest Ridge Elementary. She coaches cheerleading on Mondays and Wednesdays at the school. (photos by Dini Susanto)

sterling’s favorite... movie is Braveheart class is math sport to watch is football books are Reedeeming Love

by Francine Rivers and Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck actress is Audrey Hepburn

color is blue food is steamed broccoli with lemon pastime is tumbling college is Texas A&M University Compiled by Alina Dattagupta

Friday, May 14, 2010

Seniors aspire for ‘silver screen’ productions, pursue careers in film by dini susanto opinions editor

S

enior Martin Aucoin will not be attending law school, business school or pre-medical school next fall, nor will he be training for the National Guard. Instead, this summer, he will pack his bags and relocate to Denton, Texas, to begin his freshman year at the University of North Texas in preparation for a future career in documentary filmmaking.

“People don’t usually expect a super smart, summa cum laude graduate genius to do something creative and artsy like that, but that’s Martin for you,” said junior Walker Thompson, a close friend of Aucoin’s. “He’s unique.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree, Aucoin plans to obtain a master’s degree in documentary production, which would integrate both of his interests: filmmaking and research.

“There’s just something about documentaries that speaks to me,” Aucoin said. “Cinema is all fictional—not that it’s bad or anything—but documentaries [are] real stories. It shows things that actually happen to people. I appreciate that a lot more than things that have been created.”

According to Aucoin, one of his favorite aspects of documentary filmmaking is that it would involve traveling to various places and talking to the inhabitants about their cultures and the circumstances they live under.

“It’s all about connecting people in other places back to us in the U.S.,” he said. “I think the main thing people get when they watch documentaries is even though other people are really different, they’re also really similar to us.”

Although documentary filmmaking may be considered an atypical career choice, Aucoin embraces his talent and fascination with the field.

“While most documentaries don’t have the same appeal as films that you see in the theater, I think they’re just as interesting, way more informative and very engaging,” Aucoin said. “Plus, you get to travel a lot. It’s all about seeing other people, seeing other things and learning about them. I think documentaries definitely will broaden people’s minds.”

As a matter of fact, Aucoin’s career choice was initially inspired by a documentary. “ A while ago, my church did a feature preview of a movie about some guy

who experienced the poorest of the poor around the entire world,” Aucoin said. “They went to New York and lived with the homeless and worked in a dismembered children’s hospital in Peru. Later on, they went to Africa and found an actual colony of lepers there. After I saw that movie, I realized that’s what I wanted to do.”

Last year, Aucoin produced a documentary of his church’s mission trip to Guatemala, which was shown at the Media Technology program’s 2009 Film Festival.

“I would really like to go back to the town that we stayed in, Tamahu, and spend a week with just the people, film them and talk to them to get a feel for what their life is really like,” Aucoin said.

Aside from his interest in film, research and traveling, Aucoin’s most passionate driving force is his desire to connect people internationally.

“I think one of the greatest experiences people could have is to see other people in other cultures and see how they deal with dayto-day things,” he said. “That’s kind of what I want to do—to bring that experience home to America for people who don’t necessarily have the chance to get out and experience it firsthand.”

On the opposite end of the filmmaking spectrum are musicals, which require extensive screenwriting and extraordinary vocal abilities—two of senior Kelsie Kullman’s areas of expertise.

“2014 is not only the year I graduate college, it just so happens to be how many ‘gold stars’ I have for my Glee audition. I can always use more, though!” Kullman posts on her Facebook profile.

While a typical teen’s Facebook status usually sports the lyrics of the latest love song or the inside-joke-of-the-day, senior Kelsie Kullman posts about her star-seeking mission. Instead of asking for sympathy from a long-lost friend or provoking questions from excluded classmates, Kullman encourages her friends to support her online audition in hopes of joining the cast of Glee, Fox’s high-rated musical comedy-

Senior Martin Aucoin practices shooting at various angles with the media tech Canon XL2 camera on Thursday, April 22. Aucoin will attend the University of North Texas in the fall to study film for a career in documentary film making. (photo by Dini Susanto)

drama television show.

“I love what [the show] represents, and the style of the show is very different from other shows out there,” she said.

“There is always a happy ending, and people get to pour out their hearts in song.”

But her love for the show is not her only motivation to compete.

“I love singing, dancing and acting, so I figured it would be a good fit [for me],” she said. “I’ve been performing ever since I was little, so I honestly feel like I’ve been preparing for this my whole life.”

After years of preparing for the audition of a lifetime, Kullman has earned the privilege to daydream about the moment of her ultimate debut.

“If I were selected, words could not explain my excitement,” Kullman said. “I would probably do some jumping around and crying. I would be ecstatic and ready to start.”

However, Kullman has accepted that her audition does not guarantee a role in the show, and she may have to face rejection, which she greets with positivity.

“If I don’t get selected, I will be disappointed, but it won’t get me down,” Kullman said. “I know there are thousands of auditions, and the likelihood of mine getting picked is low. Ultimately, I keep engrained in my head that I do have talent, so I’ll just keep searching for my next big shot.”

Her next big shot, however, may not be onstage.

Instead, it may be lurking near a desk, among piles of drafts, revisions and her active imagination.

In February, Kullman participated in and won a screenwriting contest hosted by a Houston-based Christian film studio called Crosswinds Productions. Her winning screenplay will be made into a 15-minute short film to be shown at the Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival in Ridgecrest, North Carolina on June 3-8.

“Hopefully, after that, other festivals will pick it up,” Kullman said of her screenplay, which will be in production and ready to sell within the next 10 to 11 months. “[Crosswinds Productions] is also hoping to get it on websites such as Netflix, which would be amazing!”

According to Kullman, the screenplay, entitled “The Guardian,” is a religious story that revolves around the life of Tara, a young woman who struggles with an estranged relationship with her mother due to her father’s recent death.

“I get inspiration from the slightest little things,” Kullman said. “I probably saw a homeless man in the background of some TV show and [developed him into a character].”

Despite her budding success in screenwriting, Kullman has made no hasty decision in selecting her career pathway.

“I never really considered it before, but now, seeing how it has impacted me and the positive feedback about how good it is, I’m starting to think harder about it,” she said. “A girl can dream, right?”

Friday, May 14, 2010

Elevated Educators

Graduating senior class selects their favorite teachers in each department English: Chauncey Lindner

What is one word to describe your teaching style?

I teach literature because I love literature.

I teach writing because I love language. If I didn’t have passion for English, there’s no way I could teach it.

What makes your class unique?

Here are just a few of the things: slam poetry, Gordo, today’s music, the grammar hammer, and our discussion of Brinker’s “most salient physical characteristic.”

Social Studies: Jason Pratt

Elective: Lindsey Zahn What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?

This job is NEVER boring! I love it. I learn something new from my students everyday.

What is one word to describe your teaching style?

Relatable. I always try to relate what I am teaching to my student’s lives. I try to always stay on a level that provides the best possible environment for them to learn in.

Do you have any nicknames?

No, but Pratt thinks my last name sounds like an evil villain.

Science: Jill Faith

If you had been named something in high school like “Class Clown” or “Best Smile,” what would it would have been?

This is going to shock my students, but Class Talker.

What made you decide to become a teacher?

I was about to graduate and felt in my gut that there was something else I was supposed to do. I went with my gut and now I’m here.

I truly love my job, even if I’m cranky some days.

What was you favorite class in high school?

I liked classes because of teachers, not becasuse the subjects.

What made you decide to become a teacher?

Literally, I didn’t decide. It just happened.

What is one word to describe your teaching style?

Superfluous Do you have any nicknames?

Prattzilla J. Roy Kracker Astrochimp

Foreign Language: Peggy Cryan

Coach: Ray Kavanaugh

Math: Julie Pye

What was the craziest thing you did in high school?

The craziest thing I did was in the chemistry lab.

I leaned too close to the bunsen burner and burned my bangs.

Who’s your favorite musical artist?

The Beatles, Rod Stewart, Carlos Santana, Elton John, and Celine Dion.

What is one word to describe your teaching style?

Energetic. I try very hard to keep my students involved in all that we do.

What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?

Watching the faces or excitement of students/athletes when something they worked on goes great or they get an A on a assignment.

What was the craziest thing you did in high school?

I shoe polished and toilet papered the high school.

If you had been named something in high school like “Class Clown” or “Best Smile” what was your name?

Class clown with Best eyes.

What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?

I love being a teacher because every new school year brings new people to get to know. It is impossible to be bored when you interact with hundreds of teenagers.

What was the craziest thing you did in high school?

I can not think of any crazy things. I was scared of getting in trouble!!

What was your favorite class in high school?

Of course, math was my favorite subject in high school. photos by Alex Hall

Friday, May 14, 2010

seniors speak

Class of 2010 graduates reflect on high school experiences

what would you change about CHS? I wish that they would sell tacos everyday at lunch.

{

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-amber doucet

“I think senior pranks should be allowed to a certain extent, because it’s our last year, and we should enjoy it.”

-kelsey strong

“I would make the girls less insane.”

“Seniors should have open campus lunch. It’s way too crowded in the cafeteria.”

-stephanie roberts

“I would find a place to add a courtyard.

We don’t ever ever go outside.”

-jacob brenton

“The ID policy needs to be changed. I’m not a terrorist. I promise.”

-tyler mcfarland

-dustin williams

what words of wisdom would you give to underclassmen?

“High school isn’t everything. Make sure that you take care of yourself and don’t let an over competitive nature use up all of your energy. You still have your whole life ahead of you.”

-kristen ackerman

“Stick by your friends, because they are the ones who will remember you when you leave.”

-michael winthrop

{

“Karma sucks, so just do the right thing the first time.”

{

Kids can be cruel, but you can be strong.

-brooke dooley

“A2 + B2 = C2.”

“Daily grades are important to passing a class.”

-jordan ransom

-stephanie roberts

what will you miss most?

“Steak fingers and pudding on Fridays!”

{

{

-emily smith

The phrase “Eye of the Tiger.”

-paul unger

“Review sheets and fill-in-the-blank notes because we won’t have that in college.”

-colleen andrews Survey compiled by The Roar staff Photos by Dini Susanto and Katie Gibson

-daniel brossart

favorite... activities Field Trip: Sophomore Nature Trip Senior Activity: Senior Wellness Overall Activity: Football games

experiences Book: To Kill A Mockingbird Elective Class: Art Hangout Spot: Sweet Eugene’s House of Java Year: Senior

Friday, May 14, 2010

Graduates prepare for college to further education Blinn - Brenham Kyle Doll Kelby McMullen Nakiya Uoshua

f o ss

Cla 1-10 students

2010

11 - 99 students 100 students

Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN June Kang Alexandra Popescu Cornell University Ithaca, NY Frank Liu Alex Reese Detian Shi Colorado School of Mines - Golden, CO Paul McVay University of Missouri - Columbia Katie Gibson Anthony Haynes Texas A&M University at Galveston Victor Boillat Eddie Hernandez Jacob Lucht Matt Mackey James Taylor Rice University Houston Chen Wu Chen Yao Jesse Drummond Kyle Chapkin Sallyann Zhou Texas A&M University Kristen Ackerman Kovid Amin Dillon Anderson Dillen Ashton Matt Barron Miranda Barzilla Brittany Blomstedt Javan Booker Daniel Brossart Chris Byrne Teresa Camanna Macey Cangelose Todd Cast Te-Yang Chen Shikki Cheruku Tewei Cheu Patrick Choi James Chung Mason Cote Paul Davis Adam Dorsey Amber Doucet Skylar Duncan Kayla Eberle Megan Eikenhorst

Prairie View A&M Ketarrah Britton Kelsey Freeman University of Pennsylvania Allie Pearce Manuel & Teresa’s School of Hair Design - Bryan Victoria Urrutia Charles and Sue’s School of Hair Design - Bryan Morgan Lyles Le Cordon Bleu Dallas Averie Wendt Kilgore College - Kilgore, TX Katie McCreary Utah State University Logan Connor Hinckley University of Oklahoma Norman Joyclin Webster Maysun Elnihum Haley Frye Samantha Glamann Garrett Goerger Elyssa Grant Brent Green Haley Greene Lina Ha Betsy Haberl Anthony Jackson Sarah Jones Sandeep Kancharla Andrew Kim Kelsey Kinley Sterling Knapp Kristen Koeplin Wilson Martin Claudia Martinez John Mayo Sean McDonald Tyler McFarland Andrew Morris Leslie Olvera Adrian Ortega Emily Oswald Sriram Perumal

University of North Texas- Denton Martin Aucoin Brooke Dooley Kelsie Kullman Rachel Sturtevant University of Houston Unzella Chagani Zertora Freeman Ariel Johnston Sonia Kelly Young Lee Matt Stewart University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa Nelson Devin Trent Vittrup San Angelo State University Katy Williams Dallas Baptist University Brittney English Barron Sanders Houston Baptist University Aqsa Lakhani

Texas A&M University at Kingsville Josh Ash Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi Forrest Rowan Brigham Young University- Hawaii Kaiti White Trinity University - San Antonio, TX Kara Schoenemann Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN Jieon Kang Rothsberg International School at Hebrew University - Jerusalem, Israel Aimee Kanter Seattle University Scott Meyer

University of Tulsa Tulsa, OK Jack Lestina Jacob Pokora Eunice Quiroga Divya Raju Caleb Riebe David Roraback Ryan Samuel Travis Scherr Mark Scullion Dmitriy Shatalov Emily Smith Robby Stephanie Smith Eugene Sohn Harvey E. Stewart III Luke Strain Alan Su Seth Toups Paul Unger Taylor Vestal Ashley Warzon Courtney Weldon Cody Westbrook Matt Wilkins Mary Kate Wilson Meghan Zimmer

University of Arizona Tuscon Emilio Bernal

Blinn - Bryan Valerie Alexander Thomas Allred Jefferey Altenbern Colleen Andrews Amie Araghi Ian Arthur Vick Badhan Soraya Baraque Blake Bauman Latricia Bazy Jordan Beier Delissa Berryman Xian Ting Cao Todd Cast Jayme Croome Jasmine Crum Leonardo Deleon Adam DeWitt Shelby Dickson Sarah Doyle Avery Dubos Monlane Duron Sarah Estakhri Mike Eyeington Jake Fairhurst Michael Gamble

Military Air Force Chae Johnson Hailey Lege Jaquelyn Liles Army Stephanie Adams Paul Kremer Army Reserves Matt Stewart Marine Corps.

Justin Lyle National Guard Megan Hefti Navy Sarah Bowman James Delasandro Nathan Lauer Texas A&M University at Commerce Haley Green

Sam Houston State University - Huntsville Sarah Allison Dallas Briles Jacob Cadle Parris Colbert Brionna Donovan Shawn Dunham Alexia Florentin Jenna Floyd Katie Kennedy Brennan Lamont Mary Martinez Shaneace Mason Stefon Mitchell Kelsey Overby Eric Payton Jenny Talbert University of Texas at Austin Elena Mora-Boellstorff Pranitha Patil Aadil Razvi Aaron Salin Kalyan Venkatraj Art Institute of Houston - North James Mitchell Kelsey Garrison Jaime Garza John Goen Cody Gunnels Daria Harmon Rusty Harrison Taylor Henderson Haylee Henning Melissa Hidalgo Matt Huff Stephen Hwang Christie Jackson Cody Jacox Logan Jenkins Aaron Johnson Amber Jones Lauren Killough Melany Klopp Kerry Krivdo Dallas Lewis Jasmina MaCan Danielle Martinez Daniella Martinez Shoneace Mason Kendall Mayes Shelbi McIver Matthew Mjelde

Concordia University Austin, TX Donneshia Maxey Jordan Berry Houston Community College Paris Kinchole Northwestern Oklahoma State University Jacob Rae Louisiana State University - Baton Rouge Peter Lamanna Utah State University - Logan Connor Hinckley Southern Methodist University - Dallas Allison Hardin University of Texas at San Antonio Toni Bair Ashley Hastings Brandi Jones Taryne Matthews Jordan Ransom Barber College - Austin Robert Galindo Brigham Young University - Provo, UT Nate Garlick Sarah McKneely West Texas A&M University - Canyon, TX Philip Zeig

Austin Community College Ellen Bruxvoort Stephanie Roberts

Baylor University - Waco Kelly Boysen Will Brice Monica Ricks

North Carolina State University - Raleigh Kelsey Mills Tulane University- New Orleans, LA Lena Serhan

University of California at Berkeley Paul S. Jung Rajeev Kinra Saum Chaudhuri

University of Nebraska Lincoln Seynabou Youm University of Mary Washington - Fredericksburg, VA Alivia Scott

University of Mary Hardin – Baylor - Belton Jacob Brenton Bethany Feldman Susan Torres Institutu Tecnologio de Estudios Superiores de Occidente - Guadalajara, Mexico Daniel Feuchter Palp Alto Community College - San Antonio Jesus Banuelos Texas Tech University Lubbock You-Jin Kim The University of Vermont - Burlington Claire Crisman Southwestern University - Georgetown Kanika Amin Emily Manning

New York University Mike Panin

Rochester Institute of Technology Chris Viall

Weber State University Ogden, Utah Lauren Ballenger

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Casey Grice

Harvard College Cambridge, MA Luis Miranda

Stephen F. Austin State University Nacogdoches Macy Cmajdalka Kevin Bishop Heather Burns Meg Knight

Oklahoma Christian University - Edmund, OK Ivan Noffsker

Texas State University San Marcos Terry L. Nixon

Reed College - Portland, OR Finn Lynch

Texas Southern University - Houston Jasma Jones

David Mundaca Stephanie Muniz Ethan Myers Zain Nayani Lauren Nelson Lashauna Nelson Xavier Nelson Alex Newell Ashley Olden Emilio Ortega Mayra Patlan Ben Patterson Beth Pfitzer Christine Phillips Gabriela Piedra Damon Pittman David Powdrill Brittany Prather Sarah Rahman Kaitlin Raley Brian Ramirez Contessa Reed Benjamin Richardson Hart Remschel Alicia Rivera Rebecca Saca Hollye Saffle

Lamar University Beaumont Lexus Perales

Lashay Sandle Jamie Scamardo Kory Shearer Cody Sheffield Ankit Siddhartha Shea Sikes Seth Smith Erika Solar Brice Springer Katie Stark Kelsey Strong Sara Tharp Lauren Thomas Jourdan Tiffin Symone Torres Kasey Tucker Ryann Wall Kelsey Weingand Lee Wells Nate Whited Dustin Williams Alyssa Williams Michael Williamson Sarah Wilson Michael Winthrop Elizabeth Young

Abilene Christian University Jennifer Acuff Stephen Case Oksana Hays Sally Hays Hannah Hawkins Shelby Richardson Brinson Stephen University of North Carolina - Greensboro Karrian Chambers

Oklahoma City University Ashley Adeyemi

Centenary College of Louisiana - Shreveport Garrison Liles University of Florida Tallahassee Chris Haynes

Friday, May 14, 2010

Seniors send well wishes to freshman siblings Dear Makell,

Little Bro,

k akell Garlic an dM

M

e co

Dear Hannah,

High school can be tough and confusing at times. It is the time of your life that you are supposed to enjoy the most and an important time for you to work hard towards getting into a good colSt lege.

Balance ur is key here. Make tev a nt time for work, friends, family, and you’ll be in my shoes before you know it! They say laughter is the best medicine. Never forget how much you are needed and loved because of this. I will miss you when I go to North Texas. I fully expect great things from you, little sis.

d Phil Bru

t or o xv

an dR

oshni Sid

rt h a dh

a

Love, Rachel

Ell

en

Love, Ankit

algo

ac h h e l a nd H a n n a

Throughout the rest of high school you will face huge challenges, and there will be many moments when you will feel like giving up. Just remember, don’t give in to the pressures of high school; work with them and, most of all, be t ki yourself. In these n A next few years you will learn the most about yourself and the kind of person you are. You should know that if you make mistakes, it’s okay, as long as you learn from them. Remember, I am always here to help you, no matter what the situation may be.

Hid

R

‘10 te Na

Melissa

an

Dear Roshni,

n fra nd Gian

Love, Nate

I hope you try your best at everything you do in life and know that I’ll always be here for you. Remember, to other people we may be getting older, but because we share so many childhood memories with each other, we’ll always be young to each other. I love you.

il ss aa

Remember who you are. Get to bed by 11:00 p.m. on school nights. When in doubt, pray. If you have to do something, do it well.

Lighthouses are never in neighborhoods. Take the road less traveled, for that will make all the difference. I love you!

Dearest Little Brother,

These next few years are going to bring you some of the best, yet most trying, times of your life. I want you to know that nobody expects you not to make mistakes, but we do expect you to learn from them. Though I’ve already seen you fall in areas

where I wish I could have been stronger, I trust and believe that in your days to come, you can rise above the temptations of our generation. “Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anyone expects of you. Never excuse yourself.”

You’re gonna be great, kid.

Love, Ellen

Friday, May 14, 2010

Pitcher earns baseball scholarship to Stephen F. Austin by robby smith managing editor Sinking his cleats into the mound of red dirt in the center of the infield, senior Kevin Bishop loses his thoughts of the real world as he focuses on the pitch he is about to throw and the game he and the catcher are playing.

Bishop has signed to pitch for Stephen F. Austin University.

It has always been his dream to play collegiate baseball, he said.

“I’ve been playing baseball since I was four years old,” Bishop said. “I have always wanted to play in the World Series, and when I was younger, I would practice in my backyard pretending I was in game 7.”

Though playing for SFA is not quite the Major Leagues, Bishop is excited at the opportunity he has to continue playing.

“My sister plays softball for SFA, so I had a good connection,” Bishop said. “When they offered me a scholarship, I jumped on the opportunity.”

Bishop feels ready for the next step in his baseball career because of what he has learned as a player for the Tigers.

“I learned to be a leader,” Bishop said. “Our team’s really young this year, so I had to pick a bunch of people up when they were down and had to teach them it’d be alright and to just play the game.”

“Right now, Kevin is probably our number one guy,” head baseball coach Chase Mann said. “He’s a two-year letterman on the varsity, and this year he’s fine-tuned his off speed and gotten some really good pitches that have made him a much better pitcher.”

When it comes to pitching,

Bishop said his favorite pitch to throw is the curve ball because it’s nasty, and the hardest pitch for him to throw is the changeup.

However, Mann has noticed Bishop’s work and improvement.

“Not only does he have good velocity on his fastball, but his curve ball and changeup have improved,” Mann said.

“He hits the spots well and gets outs, making him a standout pitcher.”

Not only is Bishop a standout pitcher, but also a leader for younger players on the team.

“Being the leader has made me more confident to go out there and be great every day,” Bishop said.

He knows what he needs to do to be successful in games and does it regardless of what Senior Kevin Bishop pitches against Harker Heights on Tuesday, his teammates may say.

April 4, the Tiger’s last home game of the season. They won the “To focus before an away game 12-2. (photo by Robby Smith) game, I listen to my music,” Bishop said. “I don’t talk to follow as the season goes on,” Am.” anyone the whole bus ride and Mann said. “Rather than us just Regardless of the bigreally focus for that game. That’s picking them, we kind of let picture goals, seniors have all I do until after that game, then leaders define themselves. For not forgotten their individual I talk to everyone.” us, it’s worked best. We haven’t positions on the team as well as His teammates have noticed had a [team captain] in the last their responsibilities. the dedication to the game five or six years since leaders “I feel like most of the Bishop has. kind of rise up amongst the team is pretty selfless,” senior “Kevin Bishop and Caleb team.” outfielder Caleb Riebe said.

Riebe are stand-out players who As of now, Bishop is the only “They understand that if they help to keep our team together Consol player to have signed. aren’t doing what they need to, in general,” senior Josh Dangott However, since there are a lot of the coach is going to put someone said. “As leaders, they’re guys who have really turned it else in to do the job.” someone who gets along with the on their senior year, Mann said Senior Josh Dangott has rest of the team, good athletes he thinks they will have a couple also enjoyed the opportunities to who know how to play the game, guys playing in college next year be a leader as a senior. and who understand their role on who just have not signed yet.

“I like helping the freshmen the team to help us win, but also “I think we could have a learn what they have to do to just help the whole team move lot of guys sign, but we usually to keep going in high school forward.” have guys who end up focusing baseball and keep going on Mann enjoys seeing his on school,” Mann said. “Not this team,” Dangott said. “Just team identify leaders on their because they couldn’t play, but being a role model for them and own, without naming specific because they’d choose to go get showing them what they need to captains, he said. their degree at A&M as opposed do and keep excelling every day “The guys find leaders to to going to play for UT Pan- is fun.”

quick stats on junior varsity and sophomore baseball

Varsity Baseball

Season Results: 24-4-0 District Results: 13-1-0 Playoffs: Game 1: Thursday, May 13 - 7:00 p.m. at Tiger Field Game 2: Friday, May 14 - 5:00 p.m. at Richardson High School Field Recent Results: Bi - district games against Mesquite Horn Thursday, May 6 - Tigers won 4-2 Friday, May 7 - Tigers won 5-0

photos by Dini Susanto and Becca Gamache

Sophomore

Junior Varsity District Record: 20-4

Swinging the Bat

Junior Josh Schulman: “My teammates are what I enjoy most about baseball because they act as a second family, and no matter what, we know that we have each others backs through it all.”

District Record: 21-7

Freshman Payton Holderman: “The hard work we put in this season led to our success.”

10

Running the Bases Varsity Softball

Friday, May 14, 2010

Things You Should Know About the Softball Team

by abigayle english assistant editor

District Results: Second in district with a record of 12-2

5 6

Playoffs: Lady Tigers (31-4) vs. Mesquite Horn (25-4) Best of 3 series at Corsicana High School Game 1: Thursday, May 13, 7:00 p.m.

Game 2: Friday, May 14, 6:00 p.m.

Game 3: (if necessary) Friday, 30 minutes following Game 2

7 8

Admission: $3 students ; $5 adults Sophomore Kayley Smith: “Softball is great because the game is so fast. One second you can strike out and then the next hit a grand slam.”

Senior Sarah Allison catches during the game on Tuesday, April 20. Allison is playing for Sam Houston State University next year. (photo provided by LaDawn Smith)

1

Consol WON against Bryan in a split game this year. Bryan, however, beat Consol in the first game.

2

Sophomore Kayley Smith, player #2, enjoys playing sausage during bus rides to games. The game Sausage consists of asking one person multiple questions and all they can answer is the word sausage. But the twist is that you cannot smile or laugh while answering.

3 The varsity softball team stands along the third base line during the National Anthem on Tuesday’s game against Harker Heights on April 23.

The Lady Tigers won the game. (photo provided by LaDawn Smith)

4

9 10

The Consol softball team has lost less than five games this season. We have played 35 games this year and have won 31, junior Dayton Kunz said.

Junior Alyssa Gregg tells of an embarrassing softball moment. “When I was running into home plate I tripped only six feet away from the plate and had to crawl all the way home. Luckily I was still safe,” Gregg said.

“My favorite thing about softball is chilling with the girls and having fun. We bring out another side of each other and we’re just like sisters,” junior Jordan Bettiol #7 said.

The team usually practices from 3:45 till around 5:30 adding up to a total of eight hours of practicing on the field a week, sophomore Macy Hicks said.

Junior Sydney Parks #9 said that her favorite thing about the softball season was the cross-town show down against Bryan.

“The game is really intense and both the dugouts are always really loud,”Parks said.

The team has formulated many nicknames from this season.

Junior Gina Delisa said some of the ten most funniest include: Swan (Macy Hicks), Raptor (Kayley Smith), White Lightning (Ashley Warzon), Dragon (Gina Delisa), Shark Bait (Sarah Halliwell), Snow Leopard (Jordan Berry), Night Hawk (Jordan Bettiol), Sphinx (Alyssa Gregg), Wolverine (Sarah Allison) and Ferbie (Sarah Almand).

The team has three rituals that they do before every game. The first one is going to Freebirds for some burritos. Senior Jordan Berry also tells of another tradition of playing hackey sack before each game. They also write their numbers in the sand and say a prayer.

Junior Alyssa Gregg rounds third base and heads home as directed

by Coach Billy Hicks during Tuesday’s game on April 20 against Temple.

Gregg’s nickname from this season was Sphinx. (photo provided by LaDawn Smith)

The girls softball team has four coaches: Hicks, Holubec, Graham and McGrath.

Varsity

quick stats on girls gymnastics

State Results: 5th place as a team at Alvin on April 14-16

Senior Lena Serhan: “The most exciting part of the season was placing as a team.”

Individual Results: Freshman Maggie Drummond-9th place, beam finalist

Freshman Maggie Drummond: “This season I really enjoyed being with the team and competing with everyone.”

Sophomore Taylor Chenault: “My favorite part about this season was state because we were able to see all of our hardwork pay off.”

Friday, May 14, 2010

Girls golf team goes for gold at state tournament by amy zhang assistant editor The ball taunts the players as it inches towards the hole, moving slowly enough for them to hold their breath with anticipation.

As the hole finally swallows the little white ball, the players exhale, yelling the success to the skies as they relish the achievement.

Together as a team, they celebrate the success of the one player, showing their bond as the varsity girls golf team and celebrating their team’s achievements.

“The team has had an exceptional year, and are currently ranked in the top five in the state among 5A schools,” Coach Mike Terral said.

The varsity team is composed of seniors Lauren Ballenger, Shikhi Cheruku, Haley Green, Casey Grice and sophomore Angela No. “With a team of so many seniors, the improvement in golf is often very subtle, but each girl brings her own strength to the team,” Terral said.

The team has won four different tournaments this year, finishing no worse than fourth in any event entered at each.

They have broken the existing records for lowest two-day and one-day team total and lowest nine-hole total. Additionally, the girls won their fourth consecutive district championship this year, qualifying with at least a 100-stroke victory in each event.

For the third consecutive year, the team has qualified for the state tournament that began yesterday and continues today in Austin.

“I think that the best attribute of the team is that they all lack a selfish personal agenda,” Terral said. “No one’s ego is over the top, and these girls are all about the team results.”

Becoming close has involved many traditions for the team.

“We always eat dinner at either IHOP or Olive Garden the night before a tournament,” Green said.

Additionally, the team always watches each person tee off.

“By doing this each time, we know that we’re all here for each other and are cheering each other on,” Cheruku said.

All the girls devote a great deal of time

Varsity Girls Golf

Next tournament: State tournament today in Austin Recent Results: Second place at Regionals behind The Woodlands on April 20

Seniors Haley Green, Shikhi Cheruku and Lauren Ballenger practice their bunker shots on Thursday, May 6 at Pebble Creek Country Club. (photo by Amy Zhang)

to golf, as practices are four days a week from 7th period to 5 p.m, with occasional weekend practices.

“Golf takes up so much more time to practice than any other sport,” said Green. “ You can’t practice for an hour and be done, as you have to develop a “muscle memory” for a good swing.”

This sentiment was shared by the rest of the team.

“Golf is a game that no matter how well you score, there is a tendency to think, ‘If I just had not done this or that, it could have been even better,” Terral said.

“The continuous play makes you stronger mentally,” No added.

Ballenger thought this year was the most intense for the seniors.

“Since it’s the last year for us seniors, I think we all started practicing more on weekends,” Ballenger said. “We all took it more seriously because it was our last year.”

The year has been memorable for each girl, as they’ve all improved over the season.

“If it weren’t for the golf team, I never would have found some of my best friends,” Cheruku said. “As a team, we learned to support each other, and that’s how we’re so close.”

Grice reflected upon her years in golf as being successful.

“We have accomplished so much as a

Varsity Boys Golf

quick stats on varsity boys golf

Putting to Win

Team Results: Aggie Cup Invitational Jan. 19 ; Ben Hughes led team 1st place in District; Jimmy Balthrop led team 3rd place in Regionals

team the past few years,” Grice said. “We’ve really grown up together.”

Four of the five girls are graduating this month.

“I will miss the camaraderie of this team,” Terral said. “I will miss those four smiling faces, and I will miss the blessing that they have been in my life.”

Green reminisced on the bond the team has developed.

“We already all know each other and how we all play,” Green said. “It will definitely be different next year.”

Grice also reflected upon the solidarity of the team.

“After graduation, I will definitely miss the bond we have created over the past few years,” Grice said.

No also acknowledged how much she will miss the departing seniors.

“They’ve all helped me so much, and I’m not sure what I’ll do without them,” No said. “I’ll always remember this year, no matter what happens next year.”

Every member of the team is looking forward to spending one last major tournament together at the state event.

“We were runner-up last year, and we’re hoping to win this year,” Cheruku said.

Whatever happens, the connections formed between the golf team will last beyond their last year together.

“We’re pretty much sisters,” Cheruku said.

Overall Individual Results: Lowest Scorer- senior Mike Eyeington Senior Mike Eyeington: “The season was well. It did not turn out with what we expected but, I know next year the team will do great.”

Individual Results: Lead scorers at Regionals senior Casey Grice - 70 senior Haley Green - 81 sophomore Angela No - 82 Coach Mike Terral: “These girls are an absolute delight to be around and are great ambassadors fo the school and community.”

Senior Lauren Ballenger practices her swing on the driving range on Thursday, May 6 at Pebble Creek Country Club. (photo by Amy Zhang)

Junior Ben Hughes: “We had a very productive year and hope to improve next year by advancing through regionals to the state tournament.”

Friday, May 14, 2010

Running the Race

Reaching New Heights

Runner jumps to victory, qualifies for regionals

Varsity Boys Track

by katy massey assistant news editor

“[Andrew] has developed the right attitude and the right approach to life in general.”

Senior Andrew Fletcher gains momentum for his long jump. Fletcher has been on the track team for three years. (photo by Katy Massey)

District Results: 6th place team Individual Results: Senior Michael McClendon- 5th in shot put, 6th in discus Senior Kareem Ishaq- 3rd in high jump Senior Andrew Fletcher- 1st in long jump Junior Carson Kieschnick: “This season the bus rides were a lot of fun, and it was great being on the team with my friends.”

Senior Malcolm Brown: “It was a really good season, and I saw great effort from everyone on the team. Everyone gave their all.”

guy, I’m excited.”

Fletcher is the only member of the boys’ track team who advanced to regionals, and although he is excited, Fletcher is Looking past his fatigue, senior Andrew slightly disappointed that his friends on Fletcher revels in his accomplishment as he the team will not be competing with him, recalls how, only seconds before, he had suc- he said. cessfully executed possibly the longest jump As a coach, Rhodes has seen Fletcher in the entire district, thereby securing a defi- develop not only in his athletic abilities, but nite spot at regionals. in his personality as well.

Weeks later, he remains dedicated and de“Andrew is a pretty funny and laidtermined to further his progression in sports. back guy. He’s comical at times,” Rhodes However, Fletcher is more than just an aver- said. “At the same time, through his develage athlete. While he excels in and definitely opment of enjoys his a stroncareer in ger work athletics, he ethic, his contributes immatunot only rity diskills, but minished excellence a little and hard bit.

He’s Assistant Track Coach Dennis Rhodes work to the more fotrack team. c u s e d “Withnow.” in the past two seasons that [I’ve been In addition to improving on his attitude, coaching], I’ve seen him develop a better Fletcher has also been able to take a leaderwork ethic,” said Dennis Rhodes, Assistant ship role within the track team, impacting Track Coach. “I think he became easier to various team members through his support coach, which has allowed him to grow as an and encouragement. athlete.”

“He’s shown leadership in the fact that Fletcher has been on the track team for he’s rallied around the other guys,” Head three years and has competed in various Coach Mike Skinner said. “It’s not so much events, including long jump, which he has him talking, but by his example. It drives been competing in since middle school. [the other team members] to be better.”

“I [initially] joined the team because I Fletcher is not only supported by his wanted to compete in relays,” Fletcher said. coaches, but by his family as well.

“A lot of my friends were doing it, so I want“[My parents] enjoy watching me,” ed to join too.”

Fletcher said. “They come to most of the Fletcher’s improvement has definitely meets, and they support my decision to be in become apparent, as he has gained over a track.” foot in his long jump distance in the years Even though Fletcher enjoys track, he that he has been on the track team, progress- has recently been accepted to Blinn Junior ing from an average of 21 feet to 22 feet, College on a football scholarship, which his 6.5 inches, a distance which recently quali- coaches adamantly support. fied him for regionals May 3 and 4 at Baylor “He has a great opportunity to become University at Waco. a football success,” Rhodes said. “I’m look“It feels good to advance to regionals,” ing forward to watching him go to Blinn and Fletcher said. “Even though I’m the only

Varsity

quick stats on girls track

Senior Sally Hayes: “We had a really good season this year. We worked really hard before and after school and had six girls qualify for regionals.”

Junior Abby Piper: “This season was really good.

We had a dedicated team, and it really showed.”

Regional Qualifiers: Senior Karla Gilbert- shot put Senior Jesse Drummond- high jump Sophomore Catherine Chenaultpole vault Sophomore Victoria Quintanashot put Freshman Karis Jochen- one mile, two mile Senior Sally Hayes- one mile, two mile

Senior Andrew Fletcher runs towards the long jump pit in order to execute a jump.

Fletcher has been competing in track events since middle school and was the only runner to qualify for regionals held at Baylor University on May 3 and 4. (photo by Katy Massey)

contribute to the success of Blinn’s football program.”

As a senior, Fletcher will definitely miss being part of the track team.

“I’ll definitely miss my friends on the team and people that I’ve met,” Fletcher said.

Through his constant balancing of school work and athletics, Fletcher has achieved admiration from not only his fellow teammates but from his coaches as well.

“Andrew is a team player,” Rhodes said.

“Throughout the time he’s been on the team, I’ve learned to admire his openness and willingness to be coached. He has developed the right attitude and the right approach to life in general.”

Junior Varsity Sophomore Joy Pfuntner: “Track has been a positive influence for me because I was able to see myself improve physically and mentally from the beginning of the season to end.

Sophomore Jaci Foxworth: “Being on the track team this year was a great experience.”

Top Performers at District: Sophomore DeCarryea Mooresprints Freshman Saddie Garza- distance Sophomore Anikka Lekventriple jump

Friday, May 14, 2010

Students battle faculty onstage through improv acting by alex hall news editor Stage? Check. Props? Check. Knee socks and sweatbands? Check. High-top Converse or comfortable sneakers? Check. Sense of humor? Of course. On May 13, history was made as Consol’s Warped Improve Troupe, also known as W.I.T., took the stage and laughed in the face of Mr. Serious, also known as boring daily life.

“People really like to laugh, and if you can get a good enough group together who can understand how to mix jokes up to make people laugh, people get happy, and happiness, I feel, is success; thus, comedy is successful,” junior and W.I.T. troupe member Haley Johnson said.

The W.I.T. troupe reemerged into the theater department after Director Beth Creel felt that it was necessary to bring a “comedy feel” back to Consol, she said.

“I feel that the kids really enjoy comedy and bringing back Improv to the theater department really changed up the regular theatre schedule of shows and One Act Competition,” Creel said.

Hidden techniques are also part of creating a troupe capable and worthy of coming onto the stage to perform comedy.

“To make an improv show successful, the troupe has to be prepared for any possibility, to have an open mind, and you must really encourage your troupe to go beyond,” Creel said.

Since improv is acting without scripts, audience input and participation is often looked to by the troupe to keep the show moving.

“Input into the scene from the audience makes the show better by proving to the audience that nothing is planned, and it keeps the players on their toes,” Creel said.

But before an improv show takes place, rehearsals are conducted, where individual members can practice different improv games that will get them prepared for the real shows.

“In rehearsals we play a few games from a big list, and each of the players’ plays, and after that, we go back and give ourselves feedback about how to make the scene funnier, how to make it clearer and how to avoid problems in the future,” Creel said.

Not only is W.I.T. a troupe, members all agree that they are also like a family and are comfortable acting in front and alongside on stage.

“Sometimes when you’re a comedian, you want to be the center of attention, and being in W.I.T., you learn to share the spotlight,” senior and W.I.T member Adam Dorsey said. “When we work together, we are even funnier than we would be if we were doing it by ourselves.”

But within the giant W.I.T. family, differences also

exist between each member.

“We all have a unique type of comedy and I like to say that I feel what I offer to the troupe is how I relieve the stress off others in the show,” Dorsey said. “For example, I take the tension off a bad joke by going up after that and making a joke that’s even worse.”

Tonight the W.I.T. troupe will battle against the faculty troupe known as F.I.T. “I have always loved to make people laugh, bringing a little carefree joy, if even for a moment of time,” Spanish teacher and F.I.T. member Susan Ward said. “The classroom isn’t always the most appropriate place for straight-up comedy. FIT offered the opportunity to do improv comedy with some of my hilarious colleagues and match our ‘elderly and experienced’ wits with some of our clever students.”

For this year, F.I.T. members are looking forward to the improv battle.

“Last year, I think FIT took it easy on the young’uns in WIT,” Ward said. “However, we learned that the students had no intention of going light on us. Game ON this year! No hard feelings. It’s just “business,” I mean comedy, for a good cause.

The proceeds from tonight’s W.I.T. vs. F.I.T. show will be donated to local charities. Admission will be $5.

“It’s awesome to be able to make people laugh because there is just nothing better than that,” Johnson said.

Friday, May 14, 2010

The Roar Reviews

Great Gaming

New super Mario Brothers When I first picked up the shiny red box, I had my misgivings. The title boldly proclaimed “New Super Mario Bros. Wii,” featuring Mario riding on Yoshi in the famous “Let’s go!” pose. As eye-catching as the uniquely red box was, I still held onto my oldschool image of Super Mario Bros., a truly classic series that shall never disappoint. My main concern was that the newest version of the game would be completely different from the original and lose that cheery ol’ Italian plumber gamer feel that people everywhere

call of Duty

Behind me my friend’s little brother laughs and makes fun of my lack of handeye coordination. I try to ignore it and put all my focus into maneuvering my thumbs to the correct angles. I attempt not to think about the pain my eyes are in after they have been, squinting at the 20x24 inch TV screen. This scenario is my first real experience playing a video game. Apart from some occasional

The game certainly wasn’t perfect, as saving the game was complicated due to the lack of a button to save at the gamer’s convenience (until the game was completed). However, New Super Mario Bros. Wii now ranks as one of my favorite Wii games, and playing it is an interesting way to relive the past--in better color.

Wii Tennis, I had never really interacted in a video game and couldn’t understand what all the ruckus was about, until now. Call of Duty was my first video game, and it got me very involved. The house could have been on fire, and I wouldn’t have flinched. The fast pace movement of players in search of victims was intense, and the sound of footsteps and gunshots made me feel like I was at war. All

the different scenes that I could pick from kept the game new, challenging and competitive.

The only thing I would change about the game would be to let players pick different outfits that their players could wear because a headto-toe camo outfit doesn’t make for the cutest ensemble.

Marvel ultimate Alliance From the first damsel in distress to the dark alleyways of crime-haunted, urban cities, young boys and girls have constantly fantasized about having superhero-like powers to fight off evil villains and protect the existence of mankind. Playing the Marvel videogame “Ultimate Alliance,” I had the ability to choose from 20 different Marvel heroes and create a four-member superhero “strike force” to

by Amy Zhang

have grown to love. To my delight, the game had not completely changed and still held the captivating elements that ensnare people into the series so easily. The Wiimote controls were soothingly reminiscent of GameBoy controls, which made actions familiar. Some new additions to the game, among them the Penguin Suit and Mini Mushroom, enhanced the experience. My favorite power-up had to be the Propeller Suit, as it never failed to be useful and was much easier to use than its flying counterparts in previous Mario games.

fight against the forces of evil. For my force, I chose the characters Wolverine, Elektra, Blade and Deadpool. Though the larger amount of characters on the screen was at times confusing, being able to fight of the “bad guys” with a stronger force paid off. When my group of heroes made contact with the enemy, the cheesy and patriotic music would begin to play in the background and cause

THe Roar RAtings

Great Gaming

by Abigayle English

Mediocre Madness NotSO Noteworthy

by Alex HAll

me to feel as if I were personally fighting for the survival of mankind right there in my TV Room. The controller was easy to handle when maneuvering the characters and their fighting skills. Even though I am not a huge video game fanatic, I feel that the game Ultimate Alliance was satisfying and entertaining.

Congratulations to the Class of 2010

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Friday, May 14, 2010

creatively cosmetic makeup adds to theater effects by kate williams

entertainment editor

t

“We use magazines like Vogue, high fashion runway model’s makeup, special features from movies, and we also talk to a professional makeup artist in Austin for ideas,” Campbell said.

When the cosmetic artists are putting on theatrical makeup, they must consider several factors.

“It’s important that the [actor or actress] likes the look you are going for and is comfortable with it, but don’t be afraid to give your own personal touch or experiment with makeup,” Rougas said.

Students and teachers practice on themselves or on mannequins to nail techniques and perfect their make-up skills.

“We practice to make sure that the makeup looks good from far away and not too blended in,” theater teacher Beth Creel said.

Relationships among students can form while applying the cosmetics for a production.

“It’s a great way to get to know people,” Campbell said. “You have a great conversations while you’re talking them through the process.”

marvelousmakeup

wolfcub

elephant

theater department makeup artists created these looks for november’s “jungalbook” (photos provided by tiger theater).

python wolf

tiger

vulture

he heavy curtains are pulled back. Bright lights illuminate the floor as the cast strides on stage, making their first appearance. The bold, bright colors of the makeup on the faces of the characters are immediately recognized, adding to the depth of the characters in the play.

“I like doing others’ makeup because I can bring out the personality of the character in the contrast of the colors,” sophomore makeup artist Amber Williams said. “It puts them in a different reality.”

Theater productions use the makeup to define and distinguish different characters.

“For the ‘Jungalbook’ play, we tried to make actors look as much like their animal as possible,” junior makeup artist Staci Rougas said. “We used different colors to accentuate the features on the face.”

With theater cosmetics, there are certain guide-

lines to follow in order to be sure the makeup is effective.

“It’s important that the makeup looks bold, but not too dark,” Rougas said. “Blending the makeup into the skin well is key.”

There are several types of makeup used, when involved in a theater production, each depending on the characters and the mood desired.

“If we perform a play like Dracula, you would use latex or wax that blend into the skin and give a more gory effect, but the Ben Nye theatrical makeup line is used for a more natural effect,” junior makeup artist Emma Campbell said.

Natural facial features are meant to stand out during a performance and can be enhanced with makeup.

“My favorite feature to stand out is the eyes,” Campbell said. “It’s the most important feature when I’m putting on makeup.”

The Tiger theater cosmetic artists gain inspiration from different sources.