Lone Star Dispatch Issue #3

Commentary pages 2 & 3 News page 4 In-Depth page 5 Student Life

pages 6 & 7 Entertainment page 8 Trends/Culinary

page 9 Sports pages 10-11 Photo Essay page 12

News Briefs

Band spreads holiday cheer to community The jazz band kicked off the holiday season at Central Market on Tuesday evening Dec. 3. Big band classics were played as well as traditional holiday music.

The performance had a positive turnout thought senior band member, Josh Stout.

“The concert at Central Market last week was really fun. It is always good to get some practice performing on a stage in front of a live audience,” Stout said.

The jazz bands meet during sixth and seventh period on B days to practice in preparation for performances.

“It usually takes about a couple of months to prepare for concerts,” Jazz band director, Ryan Thomas said. “Most of that time is just getting to know the technical parts of the songs we are working on for that concert, but we also spend time getting to know the original artists, what their lives were like, what they were trying to say with that piece of music, and why it’s important.”

A successful turn out of two complete bands, one for younger students and one for more experienced students are creating positive feelings for this year.

“I could tell the first week back at school that both of the jazz bands were going to be really good this year,” Thomas said. “We had more kids than ever make the Region Jazz band back in November, and had the most kids in the district advancing to the Area taping. They obviously spent some time practicing over the summer, and it shows not only in those results, but in how they sound everyday in class.”

Jazz band will be attending their traditional jazz festivals this spring located at UT and around Austin as well as traveling to Savannah, Georgia or New Orleans, Louisiana.

“I am certain that the jazz band will represent Bowie extremely well no matter where we go,” Thomas said. “Getting to preform for your family and friends in town is always fun, but sometimes, performing in front of a crowd of complete strangers in a totally different environment teaches you a lot more about yourself and your abilities.”

by Editor-in-Chief Meagan Prehn

Recognized for successfully being the first player from Bowie’s lacrosse team to sign with a Division I school, senior Wesley Sanders signed with Virginia Military Institute in November.

More on page 11.

Every year local cafes introduce their new holiday menus, wardrobes are in need of renovation, and plans for secret Santa parties are around the corner.

For how - to - do’s, winter outfit tips, and latest holiday drinks continue on to page 9.

Trends & Culinary

Sports

James Bowie High School, Vol. 2013-14, Issue 3, 4103 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX 78749, December 16, 2013, www.thelonestaronline.com

Dispatch

one Star L The

Table of Contents

Holiday treats warm up campus

Sanders signs intent letter

Trail of Lights comes to life Opening night The evening of Dec. 8, multi-colored lights brought life to the archways, walkways, trees and cartoons places across the lawns of Zilker Park. This annual holiday event is scheduled to run every night from 7 to 10 p.m. until Dec. 22. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

It is always ‘that time of year again’ for the Weir clan Sleigh bells ringing, children singing, Christmas lights glistening, that can only mean one thing. It’s that time of year again. As Thanksgiving slowly drifts away, the most wonderful time of the year approaches especially in Austin, Texas as

the 48th annual Trail of Lights Festival returns once again.

Senior Amber Weir and her mom, Jill Weir collaborate to help assemble yet another successful year of lights.

Jill is a coordinator for the Trail of Lights and helps run

many of the activities as well as sets up volunteer opportunities.

Amber helps her mom out by recruiting volunteers though an organization here on campus known as the Bowie Key club.

Lots of volunteers are needed every year to help light up the

trail and guide others through the trail.

The festival takes place December 8-22 from 7-10 p.m. every night. Every year the admission to get into the trail of lights is free.

See “Trail” page 6

Tyler Norris comes out on top for all-state jazz After spending seven years in marching band and four years in jazz band trying to become a great overall musician, the countless hours of practicing with his trumpet every day has finally started to pay off for senior Tyler Norris.

Out of 100 members in Texas competing for all-state jazz, Norris was selected in the top ten.

Jazz director, Ryan Thomas explained the importance of the all-state victory and Norris’ efforts in achieving that level.

“To say that Tyler has worked hard for this is an extreme understatement,” Thomas said. “This takes years of preparation and is the culmination of Tyler’s efforts throughout his band career-taking lots of ensemble classes, private lessons with great teachers, and his own self-discipline. The band staff at Bowie is extremely proud of Tyler and this huge achievement.”

His band mates were also excited for Norris and his accomplishment.

“It’s exciting that we already have a Bowie student in all-sate band,” senior Laura Phillips said. “Making all-state takes a lot of work and practice but he deserves it.

Hopefully after region auditions this week there will be a lot more Bowie students

joining him.”

Region Band is the first step in auditioning for Texas All-State Band, the highest honor achieved by an individual.

Students who earn top placements at Region advance to Area who then advance to State with top placements as well.

All wind and percussion instruments have the chance to audition. They are given a set of challenging etudes that are worked on throughout the fall semester.

After playing three etudes of different styles, improving over a jazz song’s chord changes and sending in a personal recording of performances finally led to the moment of truth.

In the last round, Norris was notified he had been selected to be a member of the allstate jazz band.

“I was ecstatic. It is such a huge honor to be one of the all-state jazz members,” Norris said. “I think the reason why I made all-state was because I spent the majority of the time on my fundamentals which helped improve my sound.”

An encounter with musician, Wynton Marsalis, sparked a flame in Norris to continue to push forward with his passion for band.

“He really inspired me to pursue a career in music, and told me that if I practiced a lot and had a desire to be the best, I can become anything I want to be,” Norris said.

“My family and close friends have also been a huge support, and I don’t think I Practice to perfection could have done this Tyler Norris intensely w i t h o u t practicing his trumpet in the band room. Norris was t h e i r working on a few improv support.” pieces. Photo by Photo EdiN o r r i s tor Ashley Stroud is looking at Baylor, Southern Methodist and Indiana for college next year.

He plans to major in music education with a focus in performance. He wants to obtain a masters in performance and then ultimately become a teacher and a performer.

by Editor-in-Chief Meagan Prehn

Successful outcome for annual food drive

In November, Alejandro Garcia’s World History and US History classes participated in a canned food drive.

The total number of cans collected by his classes was 1,605, a new record for the food drive.

The cans were taken to the Capital Area food bank where all the schools in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) have a competition to see who collected the most.

Before Thanksgiving, the cans were sorted out and then given to people who are in need during the holidays.

Garcia has been participating in the can drive for four years now.

“Every year I have been a teacher I have made it an activity to do in the fall,” Garcia said.

Through this donation, students realized how fortunate they are and how they are able to help the needy.

The simple effort can have a big impact on the community

One thousand cans and counting...

World History and US History teacher, Alejandro Garcia happily sits upon his ‘new record setting pile of cans’. A total of 1,605 cans were collected by the efforts of his class periods as well as other campus help for the food drive. Photo by Co-Entertainment Editor Kamryn Bryce

and students say how they are willing to help in any way possible.

“I feel like even I take my life for granted so I wanted to bring in cans to help because I know to some people even just one can of food is a lot,” junior Katelyn Ruel said. “If someone gives me the opportunity to help others I’m always willing to step up and do whatever I can.

All the students are able to catch a glimpse of the troubles in the world and do their share to try and help others.”

Garcia makes it a competition for his classes, but it is also an eye-opener to students.

“This year we watched a video called Poor Kids that was on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) about poverty in America which is something

that was really heart-felt and got to the point of people who really are in need in this country,” Garcia said.

Many students claim they are used to having everything given to them without understanding those who don’t.

“You don’t think about it; it’s always been there,” sophomore Mari Takeda said. “And we take it for granted. We don’t think about the fact that there are people that struggle to survive everyday. People don’t realize what they have until they lose it.”

Garcia tries to inspire his students and also unites the school.

“It’s always a good way to encourage others to help others in a real simple way,” Garcia said. “It allows people to come together for a common cause, which is helping people who are less fortunate and it’s a good way to unite classes, even it’s in a competition form. It’s still for the better good of others.” by Staff Writer Lauren Blevins

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ommentary

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 2

Poor behavior taints schools reputation Students push their way into the gym where groups are formed to cheer on the team. The crowd roars, and Bulldog school spirit shines through. But before the game ends, some unruly fans resort to taunting members of the opposing team.

Sometimes that same school spirit turns into hurtful words and gestures.

School spirit can be fantastic and cheerful but when insults are shouted that is when the rah-rah has gone too far. When a fun time goes to far and leads to a firing of inappropriate words at an opposing team or player, behaviors that don’t represent our school, it damages the reputation of our team and our school.

Pride in our school is important to most students but in cases where it leads to an attack on the competing team, there is a problem. Name-calling isn’t good for Bowie and something needs to put an end to this misrepresentation of our school. Bowie takes pride in its reputation and whenever a few students mess up our reputation it ruins our school as a whole.

School spirit has existed for a long time but sometimes it doesn’t represent our school in an ideal way. Whenever students decide to beat the other team to a pulp with viscous slurs that is when Bowie loses its respected reputation. Students at Bowie should strive to maintain its fine reputation as students who care about the world as a whole and people in general.

This behavior doesn’t just show

bad decision-making; it also distracts the Bulldog players as they try to concentrate on the game.

Poor behavior in the stands doesn’t help the players of our school teams on the field or court because it can mess with their minds. It also sends the wrong message to the opposing team to the point they might retaliate against our players.

There are ways to prevent inappropriate behavior at games. Stopping the game and calling out the antagonizing students in the stands and warning students of possible punishment beforehand should be a last resort. Students at Bowie should know better and they need to know ahead of time that if they disrupt the game in an inappropriate way, they will be dealt with, at the game and afterwards the next school day.

Some punishments should include suspension from school for especially bad behavior. Kicking those students out of the game can solve the problem in its entirety.

Students need to know what their boundaries are so that they can stay within them and not go outside of the lines. Whenever students step out of line there needs to be a form of punishment harsh enough to make a statement.

Warning the entire student body before any games or school events of the punishments that will occur if bad behavior happens. Doing so will solve the problem before it actually occurs. Solving potential problems by outlining punishments will not only make a statement

from our school, but will also show students that they must stay within the boundaries.

Suspending a student from school would prove that the school is not messing around and that school behavior must be appropriate or there will be consequences.

Suspension lets the student body understand what will happen if they do not respect our school and spirit boundaries.

D ispatch Staff Co-Editor-in-Chief | Rachael Crawford Co-Editor-in-Chief | Meagan Prehn News Editor | Marisa Marquez Commentary Editor | Ashlee Thomason In-Depth Editor | Nancy Tran Student Life Editor | Sandra Cuadros Co-Entertainment Editor | Kamryn Bryce Co-Entertainment Editor | Blaine MacMorran Trends/Culinary Editor | Ali Davidson Sports Editor | Maryam Hussain Photo Editor | Ashley Stroud Advisor | Michael Reeves Staff Writers Fuaad Ajaz | Lauren Blevins | Stephanie Hernandez Santiago | Annika Holm | Elyas Levens | Madison Wallace | Michaela Norton | Paige Rife | Isabel Rosales | Selma Sanchez | Klara Baker

E ditorial Policy The Lone Star Dispatch is the official student newspaper of James Bowie High School. It is published six times a year, generally once per six weeks for the school’s students, staff and community.

The Lone Star Dispatch is an open forum for student expression. The Lone Star Dispatch is not reviewed by school administration prior to distribution, and the advisor will not act as a censor. Content represents the views of the student staff and not school officials.

The Lone Star Dispatch will work to avoid bias and/or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful, timely and interesting to our readers. Our articles will reflect our genuine objective of reporting news and will be held to a high standard of quality.

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Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Lone Star Dispatch staff or administration as a whole.

The Lone Star Dispatch welcomes reader input. Please send any letters, articles, comments or corrections to bowie.journalism@gmail.com or mail them to 4103 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX 78749 or drop them off in room F-203 with advisor Michael Reeves or an editor. Letters must be signed, and emailed letters will require verification before publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right to edit for length and clarity.

The Lone Star Dispatch does not necessarily endorse the products or services of advertising.

It is sad that there have been incidents in which Bowie students have taken simple school spirit and had it turn ugly. There should be a set standard for all students to follow in order for us to achieve the respected reputation that our school deserves.

Students need to come to the point where they understand and can acknowledge that they represent the school when they are at

art by Klara Baker

games, especially at other schools home field or court. The traditions at Bowie have been a key part of our school’s and that tradition is not upheld whenever students take things too far.

The abuse of school spirit should not have to be addressed because students at Bowie who want to be treated like adults should act more maturely, especially when other schools are involved.

Some colleges change AP

Decision to not count testing bad for kids 2014. Dartmouth should keep in mind that students are paying for the tests so they can save money to take other courses in college.

Tuition is not cheap, especially if a student is out of state.

To put things into perspective, I will use Rows of desks fill the library during the the University of Texas--Austin’s tuition month of May. Students quietly file in one rates. For a semester in state for 2013-2014 by one after over nine months of prepping it is about $9,790 and about $33,824 for outof-state students according to U.S. News. for the Advanced Placement test.

Dartmouth College, ranked #10 for Na- An $89 test saves a UT student from havtional Universities according to U.S. News, ing to take six hours of U.S. History course reports that beginning with the class of 2018, for at least $2,873 or more depending on the the college will no longer grant credit based student’s major.

Students spend from 160 to 180 days out on its students’ AP test scores in high school in an article titled “Advanced Placement, of a year for school instruction, the number Not Credit” by Alexandra Tilsley on Jan. 18. of days vary depending on the state the stuHowever, Dartmouth is not the first institu- dent resides in according to the Education tion that has stop granting college credit by Commission of the States. Due to the A/B schedule, AP students on campus spend 75 using AP exam scores. days prepping for the AP tests that are first Dartmouth administered on May 5th. AP students have ran an been poundindepened with infordent exmation that periment are essential in its for the tests, psycholsome being ogy detips on how partment, to “ace” the asking all free response students portion of the that earned a five on the AP psychology test, to take a placement test based on the final test or the material the test covers.

After each unit for an AP subject, teachexam for intro psychology. It was found that ers generally administer a test to allow 90% of students failed the placement test and did not perform better than their peers students to apply the knowledge they have who have not taken the AP test or scored less learned on mock AP test questions. AP students on campus spend approximately 113 than a five, according to Tilsley’s article.

Students may be exempted from certain hours of instruction per AP course before the courses that count towards their degrees in exam. Keep in mind that those are only the college by receiving certain scores on AP hours spent in class, there are many more tests. Scores differ between various univer- hours spent on homework and studying outside of class. sities and colleges.

Before the AP test, some choose to prep I think students who score well on an on their own with books that claim to help AP test should earn an exemption from the students achieve high scores. Books costs as tested subject.

According to the College Board, students much as 55 dollars on the Barnes and Nowill have to pay $89 to take a single exam in ble’s website.

Granted if they can’t pass a department test they shouldn’t be able to receive credit if it essential for their degree, but tell me when will a nurse need six hours worth of US history when preforming a routine checkup on a patient.

Students spend countless hours studying and preparing themselves before the AP test, spend nearly $100 on the exam, and some invest on study aids for the exam. You would think that being a prestigious school, they realize that students deserve to receive credit for their hard work and dedication for the high score on their

by In-Depth Editor AP test(s). art by Ashlee Thomason Nancy Tran

“

I

think students who scored well on an AP test should earn an exemption from the tested subject”-Nancy Tran

AP

Readiness

C The Lone Star Dispatch

ommentary

Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 3

COWS wanted for grazing processors What are COWS? Oh, those tiny computers stored in black jail cells waiting for someone to power them on to their natural state. Well, these junky machines don’t even serve as computers but more like a nuisance.

Even the look of the metal cages in a classroom makes a student cringe. Pulling out the computer assigned to the student’s number is like looking boredom in the face.

There are more problems than one can count with the COWS. The slow processors are always causing constant problems and issues that can’t be fixed easily.

An assignment due in class on the computers is a nightmare to complete because of how frustrating the little computers are.

The COWS should go back to their pasture and leave students alone.

What kind of a name is a COW anyway? What is so appealing about the name COW and from the moment you hear the title it sounds slow and unattractive.

I don’t know if it’s the name

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art by Ashlee Thomason

that throws everyone off or the appearance but either way the mooing computers are just too painfully slow. The COWS transmit just as much as if you are trying to yell in the ears of an elderly person and they still can’t understand what you are saying.

Why couldn’t the district have spent a few more dollars in purchasing something a little more, shall we say, reliable? An iPad would be much more practical and students would have even more possibilities with the touchscreen. Even a minor upgrade would be fantastic. All

that money wasted because now students are left with a bunch of computers that are too slow to do anything or even complete a simple task like clicking the Firefox icon and opening up the web.

I’m sure at first sight the COWS seemed nice back in the day when they were brand new, but let’s face it, these cheap mini laptops are not meant to last very long.

I just hope that some day there will be an upgrade or at least an expenditure on something more useful to the student body, like an upgrade in the bathrooms.

by Commentary Editor Ashlee Thomason

The endless struggle of MATH Inside the Lone Star Dispatch The pressure to pass is made heavier with how test grades are handled in the math department. With tests weighted at 70 percent of a six weeks average, it’s no wonder students are having trouble passing math.

One could make hundreds on both homework and quizzes, but that does little to change a bad test grade.

We all have those days where we were up too late or forgot to study, but there isn’t much hope when it comes to really increasing an average after failing a test.

While test corrections and extra credit may help, if it’s even provided, when it

comes down to it, the test grades that decide whether you pass the six weeks or not.

In most core classes, tests are usually weighed anywhere from 30 to 50 percent.

Missing a single day of math is unforgiving enough when it comes to the amount of homework you’ll have to make up, but if you miss just one lesson it’ll be that much harder to do well on the detrimental test.

Math is known for not exactly being everyone’s best or favorite subject. So why tests are the most heavily weighted part of the class, I can’t understand.

While students do have opportunities to get extra tutoring after and before school as well as during FIT sessions, other teachers may

have priority those days or the student might have extra curricular activities that take up their time.

Although it is expected of students to juggle their own time and deal with the consequences, the stress that is put on students can be very overwhelming.

Another issue is that because math grades can suffer so easily it can make a student’s GPA drop dramatically. Which in turn can affect how colleges see students.

A way to better the system would be to lower the percentage that tests are weighed to somewhere between 30 and 50 like other core classes and provide more extra credit opportunities or testThomason retakes like many art

by Ashlee classes do.

by Co-Entertainment Editor Kamryn Bryce

W e d o n ’ t just slap some stories and pictures on a page just so you can have Thundercloud coupons.

We put together the newspaper every six weeks because we love what we do and we want you to enjoy reading about things going on campus.

The student body underestimates the amount of work put into the newspaper.

When I tell my friends that I not only put in class time to work on the paper but also after school, during our off-periods, and even during other classes, they are shocked.

Some of them even question why I’m still on the staff if I have to put in that much effort for one newspaper. It’s because we love it.

Yeah, we all stress out in the process, even shed some tears sometimes, but the reward that you feel when you look at your page or article after it’s been printed for the first time is the best feeling a staff member

could have.

Hearing that people are grabbing six or seven copies of the newspaper just for the Thundercloud coupons is not a good feeling.

It hurts.

Think of a football player who has put in hours and hours of practice every day to get ready for a game, but the people that come to watch only come to get the free shirts that the cheerleaders throw into the stands.

That’s how it feels to us.

We put in at least eight to ten hours outside of school per page, which means that each of the section editors has to put in that much time for their page, maybe even more, of strictly working on the computer. No texting, strictly working.

We have to come up with ideas, decide what page they will go on, take pictures, layout the pages, edit every single thing on each page, and finally, publish the paper. This is what we do in those eight to ten hours of working.

Next time you pick up a newspaper, read it. But don’t just pick it up for the Thundercloud coupon. by Co-Editor-in-Chief Rachael Crawford

Many students are unaware of Hanukkah traditions

part of Hanukkah is getting one gift every night of Hanukkah. They think this because the Americanized version of Hanukkah is giving gifts, but that’s not the real meaning of Hanukkah according to the Jewish people.

holiday outside of America.

The Americanized version of Hanukkah came to be because of Christmas. Hanukkah fell around the same time and season as Christmas, which gave the American Jewish people a reason to celebrate along with the rest of the country.

If Hanukkah wasn’t around the same time as Christmas, we, the Jewish people, would celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, instead of Hanukkah.

So next time you think of Hanukkah, don’t just picture the stereotypical things that you have known about Hanukkah. Think about the actual meaning of it.

by Co-Editor-in-Chief Rachael Crawford

g speak out Jake Ryan 12th

Quinn Mattson 10th

Alex Reyes 9th

BULLD

art by Madison Wallace

Another name for Hanukkah is “The Festival of Lights” because we celebrate the eight nights that a flame was kindled, when the Jews thought that the oil for the flame was only going to last one night.

Hence, the eight days of celebration.

But it’s more than just the celebration of oil lasting eight nights.

We also celebrate the Maccabee’s who fought against and defeated the people of Ancient Greece, although, not many people, even people who celebrate Hanukkah, know about this.

Only a small group would know that this is the main reason that the Jews celebrate Hanukkah. And really, Hanukkah isn’t a very popular

Micaela Jimenez 11th

Students do not know anything about Hanukkah.

When you guys think of Hanukkah, you picture a bunch of curly haired, big nosed people getting together and singing Jewish songs. Each person gets one present a night for, oh maybe 12 nights right? Wrong.

I can’t count how many times I’ve been told that Hanukkah is 12 nights long. Don’t get confused with the “Twelve Days of Christmas” song. Hanukkah is only eight

nights long.

I have to say that my family doesn’t look like what some of you would consider “Jewish.” I can also say that my family doesn’t sit around and speak Hebrew or sing Jewish songs. None of us know Hebrew at all or even know how to sing.

I don’t think my family could be that calm for that long unless someone died or something. And I could probably say the same for every other American Jewish family.

Honestly, I could say that I’ve heard so many different stories about what actually made Hanukkah become a holiday.

Some people say that the main

what do you and your family do as a holiday tradition every year?

“During the Christmas holidays, me and my sister decorate the Christmas tree with no help from our parents.

We decorate however we want it to look and it represents how we feel and what we accomplished that year.

Items range from just multicolored beads to preserved and hardened crackers. And to feel the true spirit of family and not the desire of presents, we wait to put presents under the tree until Christmas Day.”

“We usually keep within the family and do things on the personal level like opening gifts early on Christmas Eve. Sometime during the holidays I usually go hunting with my father, it’s always a good experience and something to look forward to. Overall, it’s mainly just time to connect with family through conversation and the little things.”

“As a holiday tradition my family and I always open our smallest gift on Christmas Eve together then watch a Christmas movie like the “Polar Express” or how the “Grinch Stole Christmas. On Christmas Eve we always get a pair of pajamas to wear the next day. We wake up and make a big breakfast and open all the rest of our gifts in our new pajamas that we got the night before and have a big family day”.

“My family always goes and gets a tree a couple of weeks before Christmas. We go to this little church and buy a real tree. Then we take it home and spend the night decorating it with lights and ornaments. We put lights up, and our inflatable snow globe and reindeer decorations in the front yard. We also always watch “It’s A Wonderful Life” either on Christmas Eve, or a couple of nights before it.”

by Editor-in-Chief Meagan Prehn Photos by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

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The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 4

Science Day students interact with kids Science Day is a day where the science department and Bowie students come together to teach students from various elementary schools.

This year, kindergarten and first grade students from Barinoff, Mills, Kiker, and Kocurek attended.

The elementary students partook in different activities in each class based on the teacher’s subject.

“My class taught the little kids about reduce, reuse, and recycle. We did a recycle relay and we taught about what they can do at home to be better to the environment,” science teacher Nikki Vohl said. “They got to run back and forth and figure out whether they should put things in a recycle bin or a trash bin, so they learned stuff from that.”

Physics teacher Murray Fly’s class made a speaker out of a bucket and cup, then projected the sound through the white board. They also did an experiment with color addition and subtraction.

Biology teacher Jill Harding’s class made cars out of popsicles, gumdrops, and marshmallows.

Bowie students had different interactions with the

kids on Science Day. Several Bowie students volunteered to stay in the class to participate in activities and help teach.

“One of the stations we

set up the Van de Graaff generator which uses static electricity and makes your hair stand up. They loved it,” senior Kendall Hanson said.

Other students escorted

Engineering students from the University of Texas and Bowie’s Student Council will undertake a unique real world project early next year when they work together to create a rain garden.

A rain garden is a shallow depression that is usually designed and placed in an urban environment to help give the ground an opportunity to absorb water, ultimately to recharge local aquifers.

“There were some checking done as to what high school in Austin had a gardening culture, I love that expression,” teacher James Ellerbrock said. “Somebody told them that Bowie High School did gardening.”

The decision was made that UT students would come to Bowie and work

with the student council to design and make a rain garden here on campus.

“I think it’s great, I think it’s going to be awesome, although it will take a lot of work,” Ellerbrock said.

The two main teachers working with the project are Ellerbrock and science teacher Jill Harding. Both are anxious to see the final product.

The construction will take approximately four to five hours and will happen in January.

In November Harding was initially contacted by the city of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department’s representative Jessica Willson.

“We literally walked around the campus and looked for places where a

water garden would be appropriate,” Harding said.

Three groups of four engineering students from UT had to come up with an imaginative water garden that would compel the school representatives to pick theirs.

With a canvas of 60 acres and three final ideas, the Student Council finally chose the best one.

“It’ll be located adjacent to the solar classroom, between the E and F wing,” Ellerbrock said.

The garden will contain Bicolor Iris, Cherry Sage, White Obedient Plant and Pigeonberry plants.

“We are excited to continue the beautification of the campus,” Ellerbrock

by Staff Writer Selsaid.

High fives Junior Riley Hamilton teaches elementary students about reducing, reusing, and recycling. The class encouraged students to help the environment. Photo

by News Editor Marisa Marquez

the groups of elementary students to each class.

“I led the little kids around classes. They were super adorable,” senior Lindsay Stites said.

There weren’t any issues with teaching the elementary kids for Bowie students.

“The little kids love the big kids and they will listen to anything that they say,”

Vohl said.

Science Day allowed all students to have fun and learn about science subjects.

by News Editor Marisa Marquez

As you enter room A207 you’d think you’re among the most laid back students in the school. Turns out, if you pick an argument with these guys and gals, then saddle up.

Debate is full of different people with different ideas and representations.

“All of the people are very unique and interesting,” senior Natalia Rafiq said, “Everyone is very individual and different.”

There are many events that members of the team could compete in, most people can find one they like.

“There a lot of different events,” junior Alisa Hoban said, “Everyone has what they’re good and bad at.”

Debate isn’t just a class either; it’s an all around learning experience.

“Debate to me isn’t about being in class,” senior Ethan Roberts said, “It’s about waking up early on a Saturday morning to go compete in a random school with people you don’t know and trying to beat them.”

It could even help one out in life skills, not unlike most classes, says a team captain.

“You’ll be more prepared for the real world,” team captain Bre Steele said, “Debate has taught me more than most of my classes have.”

Roberts, a humble guy, is number one in the entire state of Texas as well, and the team is overall very good this year.

“Roberts is number one in state,” coach Brian Alford said, “He doesn’t really talk about it much.”

Debate can even boost scores on English essays.

“You’d be surprised at how much you learn,” Rafiq said, “My English essays have improved and spending 14-17 hours on the weekend debating is probably why.”

The events range from anything to one on one, a debate with one student arguing against another, and congress, a giant argument with tons of people in it.

“There’s one-on-one and LD,” said Hoban, “Congress is the best with a room full of people arguing.”

New teacher and debate coach, Brian Alford, is ready and excited for upcoming events.

“Yeah, I was judging debate for 10-12 years,” Alford said, “They just came up to me and offered me the job.”

A person is not just completely biased when debating either.

“You’re forced to see and understand a different point of view,” Hoban said, “It really is a good experience.”

The team is very close and fairly welcoming to recruits too.

“For people coming in and wanting to do it, the class is just getting to know what you’re getting into,” Steele said, “After 17 hours debating and hanging out with your friends on

the weekend, we’re pretty close.”

Homesickness isn’t very common, since the team doesn’t go very far from Austin.

“You don’t really go too far unless you make it to nationals, we generally stay in Austin, Dallas, and places like that,” Zach Genin said, “It also is a pretty good excuse for getting out of late work and grades.”

Judging is based on how well the competitors speak s and get’s his/her point across one needs to be concise and to the point.

“Usually judging is based on speaking quality and the content you use,” Steele said, “Also how you refute other people arguments makes a pretty big difference.

After a San-Antonio qualifying tournament, all 16 Bowie competitors moved on to the semi-finals with 14 moving to the finals.

First place for congressional debate went to Ethan Roberts, and 2nd place in prose interpretation a literary debate went to Dane Ralph with five others getting 3rd place in multiple other competitions.

“We have some of the best kids in the state ranging from all different kinds of personalities,” said Steele, “We’re definitely a worthy competitor.” by Staff Writ-

Bowie collaborates with Debate shows dedication UT to create a rain garden Team breezes through competitions

ma Sanchez

Recovering from the flood What can seem like an ordinary day can turn into a disaster in a matter of minutes.

Devastating flooding has caused many to lose not only their homes but all their belongings including cars, pets, blankets, and much more.

There are many ways in which the community can get together and help those who have lost everything.

According to the Austin Disaster Relief Network the main message they are receiving is, “I need help.” After over 12 inches of rainfall hit the Austin area, neighborhoods were flooded with as much as six feet of water and homes were swept away. A total of 470 homes were affected with major damage, while 170 had minor damage, according to the ADRN. The families that suffered these tragedies do not qualify for federal funds and they need any help that they are offered; that’s where the community needs to step in and help those in need.

“I went to the community with my family and it was breath taking,” senior Santi Salazar said. “Homes were completely destroyed and unrecognizable. Families had lost everything and needed any help from anyone.”

There are plenty of ways to help the vic-

tims out including getting together with a group of friends, family members, or even going out to the South Austin Area to help clean up the mess made.

Any donation is appreciated and is a large step to those affected. If there are no personal connections that can be reached donations such as food, clothing, and any other items can be brought to the nearest Salvation Army or flood organization.

The Austin Disaster Relief Network has also put together a Central Texas Flood Relief Fund which donations can be made by check and PayPal. The United Way of Greater Austin is also collecting 10$ donations for long-term recovery efforts by texting ‘UWATX’ to 85944. The Red Cross Central Texas Chapter is accepting donations as well.

The more involved the community gets and the more aware the people in Austin are of the horrors that are going on, the faster the news will spread and lives can be repaired.

“It’s a serious tragedy that occurs here in Austin and not a lot of people know about it.

In the future, I hope the homes will eventually be able to be rebuilt and allow the families to return to a proper home,” Salazar said.

by Staff Writer Paige Rife

er Elyas Levens

YoungLife camp goes below freezing

How you can help: Volunteer

Donate

The Austin Disaster Relief Network is looking for volunteers to help clean up.

People can sign up to volunteer online through Austin Disaster Relief Network.

Donations via PayPal and check can be sent to the Central Texas Flood Relief Fund.

The Austin Disaster Relief Network also accepts food and supply donations.

Free time in the cold A group of YoungLife members sit on the soccer goal post at Polar Bear during free time. This was the first time that temperatures were below freezing at the event. Polar Bear is a annual YoungLife event at Camp T-Bar-M in which campers stay in cabins over the weekend of Dec. 6-8. No phones are allowed the entire weekend. It is a religious-based group for students to spend time together with a YoungLife leader in a natural environment. Photo by Editor-In-Chief Rachel Crawford

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N-DEPTH

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 5

Holiday season brings joy to students Eid

Hanukkah Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday and carrying on their traditions is the celebrated in late November to late most important thing about the holiday.

December for eight days. The name of “My favorite tradition is going this holiday is taken from the Hebrew to my aunts house in Dallas during word that means to dedicate; it is during thanksgiving break to celebrate this Festival of Lights that the people of Hanukkah with her and our family; Jewish faith honor the re-dedication we then celebrate again when at home of the miracle of the oil. when Hanukkah starts,” Crawford said.

According to the Talmud, or This year Hanukkah fell on Jewish civil and ceremonial law, the same day as Thanksgiving; the leaders of a Jewish rebel according www.dallasnews. army, the Maccabees reached com this will not occur again the Temple but could only until the year 2070 and then find one oil jug with the high again in the year 2165. It is priest’s seal intact. The jug only estimated that this will not contained enough oil to last art by occur again for thousands of Nan one day, but in what can only years. cy T ran be described as a miracle, the oil Junior Megan Schwab makes lasted for eight days. latkes with applesauce and hands This miracle is celebrated through the o u t presents every Hanukkah with her traditions of Hanukkah; these traditions family. These traditions are a way to include the lighting of the menorah. The keep their heritage and customs alive. menorah holds nine candles, eight of “Hanukkah is special for me because which are for the eight days that the oil I get to be with my family; we laugh, burned and the ninth in the center called eat, and just have fun together,” Schwab the Shamash is used to light the rest of said. “The story of Hanukkah itself the candles. is kind of a reminder to me to always For sophomore Brandon Crawford persevere.”

by Co-Entertainment celebrating Hanukkah with his family Editor Blaine MacMorran

Christmas and Hanukkah are “Our family helps out families well known holidays. Most people who cant afford to buy meat so don’t know about the Muslim we sacrifice a goat to give the less holiday, Eid. fortunate to eat meat,” Barakat said.

“Eid brings me closer to my Not for everyone it’s about the Muslim culture and closer to my gifts, clothing, and food, its also family,” sophomore Lina Barakat about family and friends. said. “Eid for me is about spending “For me Eid is about hanging time with family and friends out with friends and family. If I and helping the less don’t get presents I fortunate.” will survive, the same The Prophet with clothing and good Muhammad used to food. I can survive give children sweets with jeans and a t-shirt as presents. Muslims and some rice for today follow his clothing and food but footsteps by giving out I don’t think I could presents. survive a day with out “We have a white my family and friends. art by Fuaad Ajaz elephant every year to My family and friends get our presents on Eid,” freshman are my world.” Haroon said.

Rameen Haroon said. “The biggest There are many more family tradition we have is making a sweet traditions and this one involves pudding called Sheer Korma and it baking. is basically like a rice pudding with “The whole day before Eid noodles instead of rice. We spend my family bakes these shortbread the whole day before Eid making cookies with dates in them and we Sheer Korma. We have it with eat them for breakfast on Eid before lunch on the day of Eid and also we go to pray,” Barakat said. “They give it out to friends and family.” taste so good after all that intense Some people like to help the cookie labor.”

by Staff Writer unfortunate with donations.

Fuaad Ajaz

s a m t s Chri Senior Kari Schulze beautifies her family’s home with Christmas lights, stockings, and other holiday decorations during the first week of December every year.

“Every family member is in charge of putting up their sentimental ornaments,” Schulze said. “Ornaments that we have either made or gotten in the past years.

Trees and plants that remain green all year had a special meaning for people during winter long before the creation of Christianity according to “History of Christmas Trees” on History.com.

The first record of a tree being displayed was in the 1830’s when Germans settled in Pennsylvania, and have been credited for starting the Christmas tree tradition. The tree was first seen as a “pagan symbol” according to the article, but after Queen Victoria and her German Prince, Albert, were sketched in London News standing with their children around a Christmas tree in 1846, it was turned into a

fashionable symbol.

Nadia Bayoumi spends the few By 1890’s Christmas ornaments days before Christmas baking had arrived from Germany and the her grandmother’s old recipes, popularity of Christmas trees raised consisting of cakes and cookies, for around the United States. family friends.

With many ornaments to hang on “The first year we tried to make a tree, senior Lindsey my grandmother’s cookies we used Sageser and her the wrong kind of butter,” family participates Bayoumi said. “The in the German first batch came out Christmas pickle really soft so we ornament tradition. put them back “Every year in the oven to my mom hides a harden more. pickle ornament We put the inside the tree, deep cookies in way in the branches,” too long and Sageser said. “The they came out person that finds the black and hard.” ornament on Christmas While some art by Nancy Tran day gets an extra gift. I students have find the ornament every year. traditions with family, Last year I got a $50 gift card and a Bayoumi and Schulze started chocolate bar.” exchanging pajama pants as Some students spend days before Christmas presents during their Christmas with their extended sixth grade year at Bailey Middle family by playing games, cooking, School. or other activities together. Senior “Last year we both got each other

the wrong sized pajama pants,” Bayoumi said. “I accidently gave her a medium instead of a small and she got me an extra large instead of a small.”

Americans have a custom of giving and receiving presents on Christmas to remind others of the presents Jesus received from the Wise Men according to whychristmas.com.

Schulze has a tradition of having two white elephant gift exchanges, one with good presents and one with bad presents.

“When I was in the fourth grade, I got a box of rocks from the bad white elephant gift exchange,” Schulze said. “I was pretty disappointed because I thought it was going to be a big doll.”

Bayoumi enjoys the feelings of anticipation and excitement Christmas brings.

“It is so much fun to see the faces of my friends and family as they open their presents,” Bayoumi said.

by In-Depth Editor Nancy Tran

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TUDENT LIFE

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 6

Walkin’ in a Zilker wonderland

Zilker winter wonderland Zilker park’s lighted path features many different characters from all generations of childhood. The 155 foot tree stands tall in the background of the trail consisting of over 3,309 lights of all different sorts of sizes and colors, the tree is a significant mark for many Austinites and is seen from all over in the down town Austin area. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud.

Local community park transforms into a winter attraction for Austinites from H-E-B and much more.

This year, the trail will have many food The festival has kept it that way for sev- vendors from a variety of places like Auseral years due to the many businesses, spon- tin Pizza, BOWL’d, Cazamance, Hill Counsors and individuals that contribute funds to try Kettle Korn, Howard’s Roll Around the event.

BBQ, La Fantabulous, Pamela Jane’s New The trail of lights is an Austin tradition England Lobster Rolls, Santa Lucia, Tapas that has been around for several years. The Bravas, The Original New Orleans Po-Boy tradition first started in 1965 under the name & Gumbo Shop, 57 Scotsman, Amy’s Ice Yule Fest. In 1992, the name changed to Creams, As Good As It Gets Concessions, Trail of Lights. Back in 2010, the festival Blue Ribbon Barbecue, Boomerang’s Pies, was temporarily discontinued due to budget Chi’Lantro BBQ, and Crepe Crazy. constraints. Frowns flew across Austinites As for music, a schedule is posted on faces, sad that a true Austin tradition may their website at www.austintrailoflights.org never return again. According to Jill, now with the entire December schedule of musithat the Trail of Lights Foundation has been cians and entertainment. formed it is their mission to focus solely on The 155 foot tall tree is composed up of the sustainability of the event by ensuring 3,309 lights that range from 1960s to modthere is enough money to produce the event ern time. This year’s trail contains the Zilker on an ongoing basis. tree, Armadillo Alley, North Pole and Zilk“A feeling of true devastation when they er Village. Each will have food, drink and cancelled the festival. It was such a family shopping vendors for visitors to check out. tradition for me and many other Austinites,” The Trail of Lights also offers a “zipJill said. pass” which allows early and easier access Recently, locals have questioned ongoing to the trail starting around 6:15 p.m. to prerumors about the trail having an entrance vent waiting and lines. The zip-passes can fee. Many thing that the fact that the trail be purchased online at the Trail of Lights could potentially have a fee draws from the website. attraction, as it has always been something A festival filled with lights, walking, for families all over to enjoy without a cost.

Christmas, laughter, family, friends, hot According to Jill, while the trail has many cocoa and apple cider is enjoyed by all opportunities to accept donations from the ages. public to help support the Trail of Lights The Trail of Lights is a winter hot Foundation, there is no current plan spot for couples, families, groups of or idea that the foundation will start friends or individuals. A true holicharging an entrance fee in the near day bliss, with lots to be merry future. about.

During the wintertime, Zilk“My favorite part of the er Park is completely transtrail of lights is the holiformed into a winter wonday spirit it brings but I derland as you walk down don’t like how stressed 1.25 miles of lights to the out it makes my majestic Zilker Holimom around the day tree. The Trail of holidays,” Amber Lights consists of said. beautiful light disLast year, plays, food and the trail of beverage venlights had dors, two eno v e r tertainment 400,000 stages, people Lights at night pictures attend with Santa The Zilker tree stands tall with thousands of multi-colored lights. o v e r C l a u s e , The trail of lights officials set up the tree weeks in advance to reeight free books mind everyone that Christmas is near. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley n i g h t s . uuCont. “Trail” pg. 1

Grand entrance Many Austinites gather at the entrance on Dec. 8 to take the first walk of this year down the Trail of Lights. Visitors bundled together in warm attire to enjoy the lights. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

This year, the foundation expects the same number if not more except over a two-week period.

The Trail of Lights is run by the Trail of Lights Foundation. Every year, many sponsors contribute and collaborate with the foundation to raise money for the organization. One of the main title sponsors is H-E-B and Seton Healthcare family.

Jill has been working for the foundation for two years through the company she works for. The Trail of lights Foundation offered jobs to her company to help produce the event.

Jill primarily works with the corporate sponsors that pay for the event and raise money needed for the event.

“It is truly a blessing to have so many

companies in Austin that care enough to give back so we can all enjoy this iconic Austin holiday tradition,” Jill said.

This year, many students plan on attending the Trail of Lights this winter break.

According to the Trail of Lights website, the 2012 Trail of Lights was named one of the Top 10 lighting festivals in the country

by USA Today.

Senior Elizabeth Fisher plans on going again this year as she always does.

“Every year I go to the Trail of Lights with a big group of friends or family and I like to go to the trail of lights, drink hot cocoa, spin under the tree together, take pictures, be silly and laugh. The light’s are so bright and beautiful and it feels like Christmas,” Fisher said. by Student Life Editor

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S The Lone Star Dispatch

TUDENT LIFE

Monday , Dec. 16, 2013

Page 7

Teachers drop the books and lift the weights In the parking lot, teachers and other adults participate in a yoga and palliates fusion workout to get in shape called “X Fit 2 U.” At Bowie, there are two different locations and times to take advantage of this fitness opportunity. Near the weight room on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursday at 6 am to 9 am is one option.

The other is after school in the parking lot Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Rachael Brown, the owner and founder of the organization, coaches at Bowie and provides an energetic, fun environment.

To sign up, you can go to www.xfit2u.com or call 512251-XFIT (9348).

The association raises

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money for U.S. Wounded Warriors, the National Childhood Obesity Foundation (NCOF), and the American Cancer Society.

The organization has expanded tremendously; starting with about eight people it now has

a lot better than I have ever in my entire life. It has really created a situation in which I have been a positive role model for my daughters,” Jamison said.

Jamison has her friends and co-workers that keep her going and inspire her to go before and after school.

“Having the opportunity to exercise with other people that help keep me going and keep me motivated and that are co-workers, it really changes the dynamics in the work setting in which I find myself much happier and more social,” Jamison said. That motivation piece is really crucial in keeping me going and keeping them

by Staff Writer going.”

Lauren Blevins

“ find myself so much more healthier and happier” -Marita Jamison grown to about 15 teachers and staff members.

Life skills teacher Marita Jamison started participating in X Fit 2 U about a year ago and has seen incredible results.

“The weight loss has really made a huge difference, I definitely feel a whole lot better about myself and I eat

LeBel works out Life skills teacher Christine LeBel follows instructor Rachael Brown as she lifts some weight in downstairs B hall after school. The “X Fit 2 U” program has a trailer where they store all the equipment and supplies for the teachers. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

New club creates mixed feelings on campus Formed as a national organization in May of 2000, the Secular Student Alliance is a group with a goal of advocating for human-based ethics and secularism.

The Secular Student Alliance website states that their mission is to “organize, unite, educate, and serve students and student communities that promote the ideals of scientific and critical inquiry, democracy, secularism, and humanbased ethics.”

The organization is guided by their mission and their six core values; these values are listed on their website as action, grass roots, community, cooperation, critical thinking, and ethics Senior Nick Montana is the founder of the Bowie chapter of the Secular Student Alliance; his hopes are that this will build a positive community around on campus for non-religious students and those who are questioning religion.

“I want it to be a place where kids can come and be doubtful and skeptical

of religion with people who think like they do,” Montana said. “It is important to me because it allows me to talk about this subject with people who understand where I am coming from as well as it being a place for others to come and think critically and rationally.”

As expected there have been people who aren’t particularly in favor of the club being at Bowie, but those who are more accepting others beliefs welcome the club.

Junior Ment Morris is a follower of Christ who is in favor of having the club at Bowie. He believes it will spark an interesting conversation between creationists and those who are skeptical of God’s existence.

“I respect their beliefs and cause, it is not my place to disrespect any beliefs that the club holds,” Morris said. “I feel it is important to have clubs for religious and non-religious students, because it builds community for individuals and presents

Club welcomes conversational debate The Bowie Secular Student Alliance meets with Christians in B206 with sponsor Chris Lyon to discuss their religious beliefs. Members of the club debate over the existence of God, Jesus Christ and whether or not to follow the bible. Photo by Co-Entertainment Editor Blaine MacMorran

questions if there is something much larger to live for past our own identity and desires.”

For every new club being established at Bowie there are procedures to follow in order to get the club up and running. Initially there were

some issues with the Secular Alliance being allowed on campus, but eventually after a lost form was resubmitted the club was approved.

Chris Lyon is the teacher sponsor of the Bowie Secular Student Alliance and offers his room to

the club members every Tuesday starting right after school ending around 5:30.

Lyon is involved with the discussions and activities that the club presents.

“The club shows the diversity of the campus and I feel that it is everyone’s right

to have a club displaying their beliefs,” Lyon said. “I do not feel that the club has been completely accepted by those who do not understand what the club stands for.”

by Co-Entertainment Editor Blaine MacMorran

Stressed? Hop on the stress-free wagon One nearly unarguable fact about high school is that, at some point, everyone will become stressed. A freshman learning their way around the halls, a senior preparing for college applications, or someone in between, everyone is bound to feel overwhelmed during their four-year stay.

Many high school students deal with stress differently, and students here at Bowie are no exception. Since stress, as well as coping with stress, are such universal things, every student has at least one way to deal with stress.

“When I’m stressed, I play Candy Crush, watch YouTube videos, think about all the work I have to do, and make a plan, which I end up not following,” freshman Olivia Roberts said.

Playing games, as well as procrastinating and ignoring the source of stress, as a whole tends to be a popular, and temporary, way to calm from stress. Procrastinating likely leads to a pile-up of work, ultimately resulting in more anxieties on top of the previously mentioned.

Other students try their best to manage their time as efficiently as possible.

“I try not to procrastinate too much,” freshman Alexandra Ansdell said. “Also just using all extra time at school to do as much homework as I can before I get home, to have more time.”

For many students, study hall Flexible Instructional Time (FIT) sessions, in addition to lunch periods, are nearly crucial to the completion of assignments, or to studying.

In addition to playing games, some students enjoy physical activities in order to avoid the pressures of their academic careers.

“When I’m stressed, I go for a run,” freshman Erik Rhodes said. “I love going out, and having time to think, all while being active.”

As well as there being many different potential solutions to school-related strains, there are a number of exact sources for this uneasiness.

“English stresses me out the most, because it is the hardest class with the heaviest workload,” Roberts said.

For some, the reasons for anxiety expand beyond classes; sports are a very common source of stress, as students are left

with very little free time after their activities. “[Synchronized swimming] would take away substantial amounts of time, and leave me with an hour of time to work when I got home,” Ansdell said.

Many students also have to balance homework and assignments with activities such as theatre and marching band.

Additionally, tests are stressful events. “Homework [stresses me out], especially when it piles up, and the morning before a test,” Ansdell said.

As can be assumed, large amounts of unnecessary stress can have negative effects on the developing adolescent, brain and body. For example, it can lead to things such as panic attacks, problems sleeping, or even depression.

It has been suggested by professionals that stressed out people do one of two things, at least, to address the source of the problem. Either avoiding the unnecessary stress (though, this is not a good method if the source is unavoidable, as this would cause more problems), adapting to whatever the situation may be, or altering the situation or source as much as possible. by Staff Writer Michaela Norton

Off period stress Several juniors and seniors gather together in the library during their off periods to get some final studying time in and complete reviews during the “dead week”. Many students try to get work completed before the stress levels arouse as the semester comes to an end. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

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The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 8

Choir brings the heat at winter concert Students and directors put on their second showcase of the year Choral director, thespian, and sophomore Austin Hyde rehearses not only for a lead role in STC musical, Miss Saigon, but also for upcoming choir winter concert.

“If I hadn’t joined choir I wouldn’t have made the musical, let alone a lead,” Hyde said.

Hyde is also involved in the new choir club, Silver Sound.

“It’s like an intense choir in the way that it’s more dancing rather than just sitting and swaying,” Hyde said.

Jazz Choir showcases a performance four times a year and rehearses about an hour nearly every morning before school.

“We have just five weeks and 11 rehearsals to prepare for the show,” choir teacher and director Cate Obert-Thorn said.

The 26 annual winter choir concert was held at Bethany Lutheran Church on Slaughter Ln. on Friday Dec. 6 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. admission was free.

Due to short rehearsing time, all that goes into a show has to be planned months in advance and gives both directors and students a short amount of time to get it all done.

“We start talking about music as early as summer and we gage what music will be best for the students in the sense that we try to pick songs they’ll like, because if they don’t love it then they won’t perform it at the level that we want them to,” Obert-Thorn said.

As well as putting on performances, many choir students also take theatre and other extra curricular activities that choir has helped them in.

“Choir has really helped me by not only teaching me how to sing properly but how to be a good chorus member, because regardless of your hopes and dreams you won’t always be the lead in everything,” thespian and sophomore DJ Fortner said.

The program started back in 1988 with director Sheryl

’Tis the season Choir gets into place for the 26th annual winter choir concert. Just moments before choir was preparing in the choir room running through their songs and learning their positions in the show. “Throughout the year the winter concert is always the best,” Hyde said. Photo by Co-Entertainment Editor Kamryn Bryce

Jones and has since then grown into the award-winning program that it is today.

“Everyone at this school just exudes talent, there’s not

a single program that is bad. We are all really lucky to be

by Copart of such a great school,” Obert-Thorn said.

Entertainment Editor Kamryn Bryce

Dance classes take the stage at winter showcase As the year ends, dance students start preparing themselves to perform for their school at the Winter Dance Concert. The students involved in the dance department practice their dances almost every day.

This event took place Thursday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. in the theater.

Brenda Saucedo and Karla Boone are involved in dance director Jennifer Dawson’s second period class that performed to ‘Dance with me.’

“I wasn’t nervous for the dance concert because I knew the dance pretty well and I felt comfortable with it,” Saucedo said.

According to Saucedo her class period had practiced their dance several times both before and after school in the theatre before going up on stage and performing it live.

“I thought the space they had to get ready and the limited amount of time was very hard to keep up with

since it was different than she was used to,” Saucedo.

Although Saucedo admit the easiest part of the dance concert was performing the dance because we had rehearsed it so many times that it was muscle memory.

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legs confused a lot but after time she finally got it right.

Saucedo said she felt so many different things before she danced.

“So many emotions were going through my head at the concert. My head was telling me to have fun

to think at the time but I was just reminding myself the next steps in the dance so I wouldn’t forget them,” Boone said.

Saucedo mentioned that she did gain some experience from this winter dance concert she was in.

“I learned so many new things about dance and what it’s like to work as a team. I learned that nothing will be accomplished in an activity like dance where you rely on your teammates without everyone giving it their best,” Saucedo said.

According to Boone all of her classmates were really excited about this performance because some of the girls in her class had never performed in front of a big

“ y head was telling me to have fun while I danced because that’s the whole point of the show,”-Saucedo said.

“The easiest part of the dance was the scoots we did as a cluster and in general when we did simple dance moves in a big group,” Boone said.

Boone admits that the hardest part was probably the flick kicks because she would get the arms and

while I danced because that’s the whole point of the show. It’s supposed to be enjoyable for both the dancers and the audience.” Saucedo said.

Boone said she was ready to just go on stage and perform.

“I honestly didn’t know what

audience.

“I was really excited about the ending where we could show off and feel confident about the dance,” Boone said.

Boone felt like she really put her best foot forward and did all she could at the showcase.

“It was so exciting to be able to show all my friends and family all the hard work we put into the show,” Saucedo said.

Boone mentioned how she much liked the concert in general but that there were specific things that popped out in the performance.

“I loved the old fashioned ‘sugar’ moves that we did with our partners, it was so cute and went with the song really well,” Boone said.

Dance students and directors have already begun preparing for the Spring concert next semester.

by Staff Writer Stephanie Hernandez

Comic Convention brings the TV sensation Walking Dead to life

Doctor Who and The Walking Dead are both extremely popular television

shows, airing on the BBC, and AMC, respectively. Both have very passionate fan

Mile high comics Thousands of comics stacked for Comic Convention TV show stars and character impersonators seen all over the convention. Photo by Staff Writer Michaela Norton

bases, Whovians and Walkers alike were delighted by this years Wizard World Austin Comic Con. Wizard World Comic Con regularly has a loose theme associated with each year. For example, in 2011, the theme was Buffy the Vampire Slayer, hosting actors such as Julie Benz, Charisma Carpenter, and Juliet Landau. 2012 hosted a number of Star Trek actors, like LeVar Burton and Patrick Stewart. This year, however, The Walking Dead was the series of interest.

“I love The Walking Dead because it combines violence, and a heartwrenching story of a family that came together in a time of need,” freshman Caroline Jacaman said.

The Walking Dead, featuring Andrew Lincoln, Chandler Riggs, Laurie Holden, and many other actors, have been reeling in viewers with their critical acclaim for four seasons.

“I’d say Daryl is my favorite character because of his smarts and cunning bow skills,” Jacaman said. “But he’s weak with emotions, which makes him as vulnerable to humans as he is to zombies.”

The Walking Dead wasn’t the only attention-grabber of this year’s convention, though. Doctor Who managed to take an important place, as well.

Doctor Who celebrated its golden anniversary, 50 years, on Nov. 23, as the classic series began in 1963. A dozen

men, from William Hartnell to Peter Capaldi have portrayed the well-known Doctor. Additionally, fifty actors and actresses have portrayed his companions.

“I saw it in 3D at the Cinemark in South Park Meadows,” freshman Hannah Casey said. “I had been waiting to watch it for so long. I kept hearing about it a lot, so I was really excited about going to see it, not only in the theater, but in 3D, too.”

To celebrate, Steven Moffat wrote a 76-minute long special, directed by Nick Hurran. This special, which welcomed back beloved past incarnations of the title character, was shown as it aired at the convention.

The airing was a packed event, filled with fans

dressed as companions, various creatures, and anything concerning the show in between.

“I really enjoyed the costumes,” freshman Erik Rhodes said. “In many of them, you could see the intricacies, the amount of time that had obviously gone into them. I particularly liked the different interpretations of the Joker.”

Always a successful event, Wizard World Comic Con in Austin, as well as all over the country, continues to draw in thousands of fan girls, fan boys, cos-players, and comic-lovers annually.

Their next Austin event is scheduled for Thursday Oct. 2, 2014 through Saturday

by Staff Oct. 4, 2014.

Writer Michaela Norton

songs like, “Never Tear Us Apart” and “Need You Tonight”.

INXS performed over 4,000 live shows to more than 25 million people in nearly 50 countries over their first 25 years as a band.

After the tragic death of Hutchence, in Nov. of 1997 INXS took a break from the music scene. Later going on to release a few records with other singers including recent album, Switch, which debuted in November of 2005.

Today the band is broken up after 35 years of making music, but nevertheless the band won dozens of awards throughout their career and remain a rock legend 36 years later. by Co-Entertainment Editor Kamryn Bryce

Music Review Periphery Two: This Time It’s Personal was a ground-breaking the metal community in 2012.

The 70-minute long album starts off with a soft electric intro that builds up into a powerful opener; this happens through vocalists Spencer Sotelo’s high ranged voice belting a note as the instruments make their entrance to the song.

Each song title describes the band’s goofy sense of humor, with titles such as “Facepalm Mute. “ Several tracks feature

guest guitarists, these musicians include John Petrucci of Dream Theater on the song “Erised,” as well as Guthrie Govan on “Have A Blast. “ From the rhythmically difficult song “Ragnarok” to the melodically challeng-

ing tunes such as “Have A Blast,” the band’s influences can be heard. The rhythmical aspects can be related back to Djent pioneers Meshuggah.

With Matt Halpern’s thunderous drum kit and poppy snare, Misha Mansoor, Mark Holcomb, and Jake Bowen’s crisp guitar tones, Adam Getgood’s bass lines, and Sotelo’s monstrous vocal range the album makes a one of a kind

by Co-Entertainsound. ment Editor Blaine MacMorran

Starting in 1977 the groundbreaking Australian rock band, INXS, began a striking career of international fame and success.

Originally called The Farriss Brothers, Michael Hutchence and Andrew Farriss started the band with Farriss’s two brothers Tim and Jon, along with Kirk Pengilly, and Garry Gary Beers.

The band sold over 30 million records and had over a dozen hits.

Their most popular album, Kick, includes striking

T

rends & Culinary

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 9

Deck the halls with DIY Christmas crafts Students save and create this season “The most wonderful time of the year” has become “the most stressful time of the year.” Between partying, baking, and traveling, there is still the issue of trying to find gifts without becoming utterly broke.

Thankfully, do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts are here to save the day.

“I never really thought about how easy it was to just make your own decorations,” freshman Maggie Murray said. My mom and I always bought expensive things but DIY gifts are so simple and you can make so many things for such a little price.”

Not only do DIY gifts save money, they also provide a more thoughtful approach than a typical, store bought generic.

“Homemade gifts are truly the most meaningful and heartfelt gifts,” junior Scott Mayo said. “I’ve received homemade gifts before, and they bring me so much joy.

We’ve all heard that money doesn’t buy happiness and when it comes to gifts, that is absolutely true.”

There should be no worry about lack of wonderful craft skills, have no fear.

DIY gifts do not necessarily require too much ability or time out of your ABC’s 25 Days of Christmas marathon.

“My mom and I are going to make little homemade tags with old book pages and decorative paper,” Murray said. Its more simple than I thought. Simply punch the tag and write the name on it.”

Gifts are not the only things that students are making themselves this winter.

Homemade Christmas decorations make everything much more festive.

One student has begun her own DIY Christmas tradition with which she can add little personal touches to her home.

“My aunt is really

crafty and one Thanksgiving taught me how to make old fashioned fabric ornaments,” junior Lily Howard said. “Surprisingly, they don’t even require sewing.

You get Styrofoam balls and choose several fabrics, which you cut into squares and pin with straight pins onto the ball. You cover the middle with a decorative ribbon once you are done which allows you to hang it.

They look really impressive and difficult to make but its actually really fun and almost anyone could do it.”

Whether gifts or decorations, DIY crafts not only save money but bring a special touch the season that cannot be found on the aisles of Best Buy. “I love being able to find the perfect thing for someone and watch them open it,” Howard said. “Homemade stuff makes everything even more special and personal.”

by Trends & Culinary Editor Ali Davidson.

Filled to the brim Junior Lily Howard puts her homemade ornaments onto the Christmas tree. She makes this decoration annually by using pins, fabric, and Styrofoam to create a fun, decorative look.

“They look really impressive and difficult to make but its actually really fun and almost anyone could to it,” Howard said. Photo by Trends & Culinary Editor Ali Davidson.

Must-try recipes for your next Secret Santa party Festive tropical party punch

Tropical goes cold Pineapple juice is no longer summery in this Christmastime drink. Made by Staff Writer, Fuaad Ajaz. Photo

by Trends & Culinary EditoAli Davidson.

Peppermint “puppy chow” mix

Ingredients: • 1 packet of Tropical Kool- Aid 2 T. of sugar • • 2 cups cold water • 1 pint of Sprite • 2 cups of pineapple juice • Miniature candy canes Green candy sprinkles •

Ingredients: • 1 box of Rice Chex cereal • 1 pack of Baker’s White

Chocolate • 1 box of miniature candy canes (crushed) • 1 cup of powdered sugar

Directions: 1.

Mix pineapple juice, Sprite, and water 2.

Add Kool-Aid and sugar, stir until dissolved and evenly red 3.

Chill and serve in glasses, hang candy cane * To rim glasses: Dip in water, then in sprinkles

Directions: 1.

Microwave white chocolate as directed or until thoroughly melted 2.

Mix chocolate, cereal, and candy canes in a large bowl until cereal is fully coated in chocolate 3.

Shake mix in a large Ziploc with powdered sugar

New take on a classic The original puppy-chow has a new festive spin.

Made by Trends & Culinary EditoAli Davidson. Photo

by Trends & Culinary Editor Ali Davidson.

The campus cools down, the winter styles heat up It’s that time of year to break out the sweaters, jackets, and boots. During the colder winter months, staying warm is an important aspect when getting dressed.

“Well when wearing clothes in the summer, it’s obviously the bare minimum since you don’t want to wear a lot because you’ll be super hot,” senior Victoria Saenz said. “I definitely think it’s easier to dress during the winter because you can layer a lot of stuff.”

Both girls and guys feel it necessary to combine pieces when the temperature drops.

“I wear a lot of quarter-zips, cardigans, and sweaters. It’s all about layering,” senior Christian Haddad said.

One of the perks of winter fashion is the ability to alter your other seasonal clothing for the chilly weather instead of having to purchase a whole new wardrobe.

“You can have your summer clothes and then just put a scarf over it or a sweater and another jacket,” Saenz said.

Though it doesn’t stay cold for very long in Texas, students still take advantage of the

Bundle up buddies Seniors Victoria Saenz, Christian Haddad and Karla Boone enjoy time outdoors. They sported winter gear and listened to Haddad’s jokes. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

low temperatures with shopping sprees for the best winter fads.

Certain brands, although sometimes pricey, continue to hold some of the season’s most popular must-haves.

“During winter I notice that people buy

a lot of Steve Madden boots because they’re comfy and really cute,” sophomore Karla Boone said.

Some students are dropping the tailored look for the baggy and snuggly ways to keep warm.

“Oversize sweaters are a clothing piece that goes with anything. It’s basically a sweater you can stay warm in, and still look like a million bucks,” Boone said.

The holiday season gives some students an excuse to sport more dressy clothing.

“If you dress like you just came from a semi-formal party, you’re doing it right,” Haddad said.

Other than wearing special holiday outfits, it’s easy to still look classy the rest of winter.

“When I think of winter fashion I immediately think of leggings, long cardigans, sweaters, and boots. It all goes together very neatly and nicely and it just looks very fashionable and professional.” Boone said.

Ideally during finals week, many Bowie students pull of their Northfaces and come to school wearing dressed comfortable to help with focus on their tests.

No matter what style you choose, bunby dle up cause baby its cold outside.

Commentary Editor Marisa Marquez

Your favorite seasonal drinks, back for the holidays As senior Melissa Huyn prepares for school in the wintertime and heads out the door she goes down her daily checklist. Hair. Check.

Jacket. Check. Scarf. Check.

Books Check. Starbucks?

This winter holiday, water bottles leave student’s hands as mittens and coffee cups take their place.

“Winter is when I prefer hot drinks because I need something to keep me warm, other than that year-round I usually prefer cold drinks,” Huyn said.

With a pair of Starbucks located a mile away, student’s are more tempted to

make the irresistible stop on the way to school during the winter to catch all of the Starbucks seasonal menu items.

“During the winter holiday I love the pumpkin spice latte but after fall I go for the salted caramel mocha if I need some coffee or the salted caramel hot chocolate if I don’t want coffee,” Huyn said.

Starbucks offers caramel brulee lattes, peppermint mochas, gingerbread lattes and the eggnog lattes on their winter menu.

“My favorite drink during the winter from Starbucks is

the gingerbread latte because it’s a nice taste of coffee and sweetness. I also love gingerbread,” senior Elizabeth Fisher said.

Although many crave Starbucks all year long, one unfamiliar winter spot for the holidays is a diamond in the rough.

Mozart’s coffee house located on Lake Austin Blvd is a must stop according to senior Alexa Boone.

“Mozart’s is definitely my favorite coffee shop in the winter because it’s in such an amazing location with a beautiful view of a lake plus they have

Christmas lights and a light show set up which adds to the whole Christmas vibe,” Boone said.

Every year for the holidays, Mozart’s sets up lights and music as a festivity for Christmas.

People love to gather and enjoy the Christmas light show while warming up here with a drink.

“I recently went to Mozart’s to check out their light show and it was absolutely delightful. It makes me cheerful and excited for the holidays,” Huyn said. by Student Life Editor Sandra Cuadros.

Filled to the brim Junior Elizabeth Farewell sips from a fun mug, enjoying a seasonal holiday favorite. Many students enjoy seasonal drinks such as pumpkin spice lattees, peppermint mochas and eggnog lattees. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

S

PORTS

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 10

Senior Wesley Sanders sign with VMI He is the first senior this year to sign with a Division I lacrosse program Senior Wesley Sanders signed with Virginia Military Institute (VMI) on November 15th for lacrosse.

VMI is a Division I school in lacrosse and Sanders is the first player from Bowie’s Lacrosse team to sign with a Division I, college.

“I felt very accomplished due to one of my long lasting goals of playing Division I lacrosse was finally met,” Sanders said.

VMI selected Sanders at the VMI campus showcase where they were put on teams and played games against each other.

Proud parents Senior Wesley Sanders stands between his proud mother and father after his signing. They all celebrated the start of something new for Sanders. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

“I verbally committed to play lacrosse for VMI at the showcase, I felt the same as when I decided I would be signing with them,” Sanders said.

Sanders visited the campus of VMI in the summer of 2013 to look around and check it out.

“I visited in the summer to see if I liked it and I met some of the players and coaches,” Sanders said “They offered me a spot on the team at that visit after the tryout. I went for my official visit in November.”

Sanders was contacted

by Bellarmine University, Rutgers University, Ohio State, Mount St. Josephs, and many more. Sanders settled on VMI. “I picked it because they are one of the few DI lacrosse school with engineering, I like the area, school, and people, they make it possible to do lacrosse and ROTC,” Sanders said.

Sanders has played la-

Sports Briefs

Seal the deal Senior Wesley Sanders signs with the lacrosse team at The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) with a big smile on his face as he prepares himself for the future. His friends and family were there to support him on his life-changing day. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud crosse for seven years, I was still really interested ing Mechanical engineering when he started he didn’t in football but when I start- at VMI. think he would ever make ed playing in high school, I “It interests me and I it this far, but after playing pretty much knew I wanted think that’s what I would in high school he knew he to play it at the highest level be best at,” Sanders said.

by Photo Editor Ashley wanted to play lacrosse.

I could,” Sanders said.

“When I started lacrosse Sanders plans on study- Stroud

‘Dawg Pound hits home

Annual Powder Puff Games return Bowie’s annual Powder Puff games are just around the corner.

The games will be held on December 20, 2013. The Powder Puff games are a fun event in which the girls play rigorous sports like football as the boys cheer them on. The event is open for all students.

“It’s a celebration day for finishing first semester. Lots of people come out to participate or spectate,”Silver Stars director Jennifer Dawson said. “The girls are playing

football, the guys are coaching or cheering, and there’s even a halftime show from the Silver Studs. It’s good clean fun for everyone.”

The sign-ups table can be found in the fine arts foyer during first and second lunch.

Everyone is encouraged to participate.

“The Silver Stars host the Powder Puff Games, but it’s an event for anyone and everyone,” Dawson said. by Sports Editor Maryam Hussain

The ‘Dawgs lost the first football playoff game of the year against Cedar Ridge by a score of 45-35 at the Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex on Nov. 15.

Senior Austin Eschenburg tore two ligaments in his right shoulder during the game when a teammate fell on him and his shoulder got compressed.

“I thought we could of won that game,” Eschenburg said.

The team was very disappointed in the loss because they were in the mind-set that they were going to go further in the playoffs.

“It was really disappointing. With such a good record we thought we would do a lot better. But I think we played really hard and I’m really proud of my team,” senior Clayton Law.

by Editor-in-Chief Rachael Crawford

Football playoffs turn off too soon

Spotlight player Jake Moore

Why did you start playing basketball?

and never stopped playing.

I didn’t really decide to do it. My parents signed me up when I was younger.

I played at the YMCA when I was four years old and I just started liking it

What’s your favorite thing about playing?

I love that the only way you can win is if you play with your teammates.

What’s been your best of favorite moment you’ve had while playing?

The best moment I’ve had was when Liam (Oreilly) hit a last second three-pointer to send the McNeil game to overtime at McNeil and then we ended up winning in overtime.

Photos by Editor-In-Chief Rachael Crawford and Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

Get your head in the game Sophomore Kianna Ray drives the lane for a lay-up.. Ray is one of the top scorers on the team with a 13 point average. Photo by Staff Writer Isabel Rosales

Team ready for strong district push The girls Varsity basketball team is cur- improve their skills. rently 11-5 overall and 1-0 in district after Junior Austin Davis is one of the boys their 42-26 win over Westlake, to start Dis- who occasionally plays with the girls in trict play. practice and he thinks the extra help will imVarsity coach Vickie Benson is optimistic prove the team’s overall play. for the rest of the season.

“We force the girls to play with high en“We are hopeful to repeat a district cham- ergy to match our pressure so they can be pionship and go to the playoffs,” Benson ready to deal with the pressure they will face said. “This is the best team I have had at the the next day at the game,” Davis said.

Varsity level since coming to Bowie.”

The players are thankful for the boys and The players are also optimistic for the their help to make the team fiercer competicoming games because of the team’s signifi- tors. cant wins so far this season.

“The basketball game that guys play is “We’ve won some pretty big games. We a whole lot different from the girls,” Ralph beat the defending 4A state champions and said. “They really challenge us in practice to that was big, then we make us better.” won our first district Reilly thinks the game,” sophomore boys help the team Kianna Ray said. because they help Freshman Savanthey force the girls to nah Ralph thinks this make quicker deciseason’s success may sions on the court. partly be due to the “I think our pracoff-court chemistry of tice with the boys is the team. very helpful,” Reil“We work well toly said. “They are gether, we are really quicker and stronger close on and off the than us which makes court,” Ralph said. us have to think fastSenior Jada Reilly er, react faster, and believes the team has be stronger with the accomplished a lot ball.” this season.

The team has “We’ve been dobeen working hard ing well so far, and and they believe that we’ve made a lot hard work will pay of progress,” Reilly off throughout the said. “We have beat remainder of the seasome teams that a lot son. of people doubted we “I’m very optimiscould beat. I think tic for the rest of the we’re really coming season,” Reilly said. together as a team.”

“I think we have a Kennedy Godsey very talented team She shoots, she scores believes the team has and we will surprise become better this Sophomore Amber Lotz leaps for a basket. a lot of people this season and will con- She had her best game of the year against season.”

Leander with seven points and one steal. tinue to improve.

Kianna Ray be“The Lady Dawgs Photo by Staff Writer Isabel Rosales lieves their hard work basketball program continues to get better is enough to take the team to state this year. each year,” Godsey said. “I’m excited to see “Our confidence is high right now,” Ray how much we better will be in the future.” said. “I have no doubt that we have the abilA group of four boys have been playing ity to make it to state.” by Staff Writer Anwith the girls during practice to help them nika Holm

S

ports

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 11

Boys Basketball teams ready to win it Team’s confidence level rises as pre-season comes to an end, district ahead

Catch me if you can Senior Stevens Gonzalez Matta rushes through the court to score against San Marcos High School. Bowie lost the game 63-51. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

Bowie’s boy’s basketball teams are coming towards the end of their preseason schedule soon and doing well with varsity at 5-2, junior varsity at 8-0.

Players have improved a lot since last year for Bowie’s varsity team too said junior Sam Jefferson.

“Some people including me failed every play last year, “Jefferson said. “My mom would always yell at me.”

This year the team’s had a slightly slower start from last year’s 11-4 we’re now 5-2 for varsity.

“We had a slower start to the season compared to last year,” Jefferson said. “But there’s still more time in the season.”

Boy’s varsity coach Celester Collier, may seem mad sometimes, but it’s in with good intentions say players.

“Coach Collier gets really mad at us for the smallest mistakes,” senior Andrew Miller said. “I think it helps us to fix all our little imperfections and get better because the little things matter too, sometimes it can be really helpful, it’s when we mess up on big things is when he gets really mad.”

“Coach” won’t be chewing your ear off for too long says senior Andrew Miller.

“Usually he helps us a whole lot,” Miller said, ”And if he does rattle us a little bit we have the other coaches to help us deal.”

The team still has its fighting spirit moving into the latter part of the year too say players.

“Time will tell but we can hope for the best,” Jefferson said, “Hopefully we will kick butt.”

The players are extremely motivated for their upcoming tournaments at McCallum and Waco.

“We’re all super hyped up,” Miller said. “The rest of our games are gonna be hard but I think that we will do really well.”

The junior varsity team or JV has had an even better start this year trying to outshine the varsity team with a 8-0 record.

“We’ve won every single game so far that I lost count,” sophomore Jacob Osterloh said.

There might not be a loss for JV this year either; it’s a great team says Osterloh.

“We’re gonna win every single game this year,” Osterloh said. “Everyone on

the team has improved and there’s no way we’re gonna lose.”

The team’s confidence towards the end of the year is as high as ever and players are ready for the coming games.

“The whole team is pretty exited about how we’re doing so far,” Osterloh said.

“We feel pretty prepared for our next games but we still do need some practice.”

Fans are excited towards the end of the season too and if you haven’t seen a game yet, time is running out says junior Alejandro Pena.

“It’s super cool to see my actual friends playing basketball instead of people on the TV,” Pena said, “It’s almost the end of the season and things are really heating up because it’s close to the bigger games.”

Last year the freshman B-team won every game but one.

“I was on B-team last year and we won every game but one,” Osterloh said. “I still need to improve on my shooting and the team needs to improve on basketball in general.”

by Staff Writer Elyas Levins

Wrestling team is set to take down the competition

Former club sport members hit the mat to prepare for regional matches

The combat sport involving techniques such as clinch fighting, take downs, joint locks, and pins has begun once again.

Yep, that’s right; wrestling is back in the gym learning how hard the grind towards state really is.

Ultimately driven by passion and dedication this former club is now recognized as sports team.

The former club sport is now the real deal and members of the team are driven and dedicated to success.

“We’re really good at always encouraging each other and we treat each other like family even though its an individual sport,” senior Varsity wrestler Samantha Abrego said. “We push each other to work harder every day.”

For members of the team, hitting the mat on a daily basis prepares them for competition, but when the sports is as intense and serious as wrestling, nerves still emerge during matches.

“I still get as nervous as I did when I first started wrestling,” Junior Varsity wrestler

Sam Parker said.

Glen Lewis and Spike Fogle coach the team. They lead the team daily with drills and a daily three-mile run. This regime is set up to prepare their players for the long season and eventually a berth at in the state tournament.

“I’m hoping to go to state. I could’ve possibly gone last year but I almost tore my shoulder; the tendon was just hanging on there,” Parker said. “I went to Regionals even though I couldn’t wrestle.”

A unique tradition at Bowie for wrestlers who qualify for Regionals is that they dye their hair blonde.

The first event of the year was the “Capital Classic” that occurred on Saturday, November 23 and was held here at Bowie.

Bowie wrestlers worked the entire weekend from the ticket booth concession stands to inside and out of the ring.

“We are all really determined, we work really hard and we’re confident in our perby Staff Writer formance,” Abrego said.

Selma Sanchez

Wrist control Coach Glen Lewis critiques senior Logan Zahn as he practices his wrestling moves on junior Kemal Kalimov. Practice takes place during 8th period and after school on B-Days.

Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

Soccer tryouts: a success

Cold weather doesn’t impact turnout or efforts

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The long endless hours of after school practice begin. Soccer tryouts have finished and now it’s time for the season to start.

During the tryouts both boys and girls were hit with cold weather but that did not stand in the way of going out and doing what they love to do.

“The cold weather only hit the last day of tryouts and it didn’t affect us to much because our season is usually in the cold.” junior Emma Orlando said. “We had to wear more layers but besides that we are used to it.”

Others were just happy to be out with their teammates and coaches again.

“Last year I was on JV and I loved it. The players were wonderful and I loved having coach Cihal,” Orlando said.

Varsity has a great amount of pressure put on them acting like leaders of all the team.

“Varsity has team dinners before most games and it lots of fun spending time with a great group of people who have fun but also work really hard and want to win,” junior Alisa Hoban said. “Since the season hasn’t started and I was on JV last year I’m really looking forward to being able to learn from the varsity team and hopefully we can have a great season.”

This year’s players have very high expectations.

“I expect the teams to be good, and I hope that varsity will be able to make it all the way,” Orlando said. “All the players are super dedicated and have skills they will

be able to bring to the table to make a solid team.”

The soccer team has a strong bond that allows them to exceed their expectations it helps with the chemistry and the way they play on the field.

“The team bond for all the soccer girls is really strong because of the amount of time we spend together and how much of a team sport soccer is in general,” Hoban said. “The experience being on the Bowie soccer team is really great. Doing something I love with a bunch of really great people, I couldn’t ask for something better.”

by Staff Writer Isabell Rosales

Get practicing Senior Audrey Baker practices by scrimmaging with her teammates. The team will begin its season in 25 days. Photo by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud

P

hoto Essay

The Lone Star Dispatch Monday, Dec. 16, 2013 Page 12

Gingerbread Galore

Creative Cat On Halloween senior Martin Pandola designs some of the layout for their gingerbread house. It took a week of planning for the gingerbread houses. “We had to break down day by day what we were going to do,” Pandola said.

Laughing at taffy Senior Martin Pandola and Junior Jen Saucedo laugh at the jokes on the Laffy Taffy wrappers. The taffy was going to be used for the streets lines. “The laffy taffy was really sticky but it was also fun,” Saucedo said.

Cutouts Senior Edeline Ong cuts out pieces of gingerbread. The ginger bread ingredients had to be made for ten batches. “The gingerbread smelt funny when it was dough, but when baked I wanted to eat it,” Ong Said.

Roof work Junior Kathryn Mayo discuss ideas with senior Edeline Ong. They are discussing how to apply the roof with out having it fall in. “The roof is covered in chocolate and has cool lines on it,” Ong said.

Icing on the cake Junior Kathryn Mayo cleans up the windows and smoothed the edges. Mixing blue icing with white icing made the windows coloring “Icing lets you be creative, and it requires focus,” Mayo said.

Time will tell Juniors Jen Saucedo and Jack Clements assist Senior Martin Pandola with the clock tower.

Saucedo holds a beam to help it dry. “The road took three days and everything else took one day,” Clements said.

A helping hand Chef Richard Winemiller gives a few pointers to the team about how to keep the roof from falling or creating a disaster.

The group put more gingerbread in to help hold it up. “Generally speaking, I like to try and give them the general outlines of what they are going to do and then have them do it hands on because I think the only way you can really learn to cook is by cooking,” Winemiller said.

Annual gingerbread house bake-off results in unique culinary creations Ten batches of gingerbread and nine groups can only mean culinary is baking gingerbread houses “Great Scott!”

There were many groups working on different houses. One group in particular made a Back To The Future ginger bread house.

With nine groups and each group consisted of five members, with two “second-year” students who acted as the group leaders. Also in the group were three “first-years” who helped to construct the house and learn from the second-years.

Senior second-year Martin Pandola came up with the theme of the Back To The Future house.

“I really love the movie and the clock tower scene, I just had to choose it,” senior Martin Pandola said.

With Pandola and senior sec-

ond-year Edeline Ong coming together as the leaders they worked with their team.

“I am constantly learning new things from the second-years every day. Whether it’s learning where something goes in the kitchen, learning a new technique or learning how to stay calm in new situations,” junior first-year Jen Saucedo said. “I know I can always go to the secondyears for help or advice.”

As they all worked together they did have their good and bad times.

“It was difficult when the group was not in agreement with one another on a certain piece of the

project,” junior first-year Kathryn Mayo said “However, it was a good learning experience to talk things through and make compromises.”

The team came together and decided that 10 types of candies were needed for the houses decoration along with fondant and icing.

“We used a few different types of candies and sweets like ice cream cones, licorice, coconut and a handful of other types of sweets,” Pandola said.

With only a week to work on the project it took the team roughly nine hours to complete the project. Within that week stressful situations occurred with the house.

“The most stressful part about making the house was the humidity that week. The humidity and changes in temperature caused our roof to warp,” Mayo said.

With such a problem, the team talked to Chef Richard Winemiller and

figured out how to fix the roof.

“We asked chef what to do about it and he told us to cut the section out and build walls in the middle where the opening was, and then to put the old roof back on,” junior Jack Clements said.

This was not the only struggle they had faced with their house’s construction.

“One of the big struggles we had was connecting two pieces of “wire”, which was made of licorice, together from the building.

We had to put some icing down on top of the tree and pin it down.

At first the wire kept sliding away, but eventually we figured out how to fix it,” Ong said.

The team put on the finishing details and stood back to admire the work that had been finished by them from the weeks of work.

by Photo Editor Ashley Stroud