The Marquee Volume 30 Issue 1

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Volume 30 • Issue 1 • Oct. 2, 2015

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School celeberates of former principal.

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Defining the ruling

Ultimate players balance three competitive teams.

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Discover new binge-worthy shows on Netflix.

Edward S. Marcus High School • 5707 Morrisss Road, Flower Mound, TX 75028

The Marquee Staff

pHoto vanessa davis

CovEr brooke wyant

Senior Nate Hopkins breaks a tackle running downfield at the Battle of the Axe. The Marauders won the game 40-26.

CONTENTS

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News

NEWS BRIEFS A quick run down of hot topics in the media.

Feature

GIRLS NATION Senior selected to attend exclusive mock government.

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Sports

JUST KEEP RUNNING Senior suffers back injury and works to return to cross country.

Entertainment

AROUND THE WORLD Taste a variety of cultures in your own backyard.

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Rachel Ramirez MANAGING EDITOR & SPORTS EDITOR Darci Walton DESIGN EDITOR Anna Kate Hutton PHOTO EDITOR Brooke Wyant ONLINE EDITOR Jacob Fontaine GRAPHICS EDITOR Taryn Welch BUSINESS MANAGER Jacob Fontaine NEWS & FEATURE EDITOR Sanika Sule ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Katie Burton OPINION EDITOR Cara Croker REPORTERS Vanessa Davis, Carli Fazio, Bailey Crocker, Andrea Garza, MIchelle Mullings PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Fineran, Madeline Stanfield, Abby Schlichter ADVISER LaJuana Hale PRINCIPAL Gary Shafferman

The Marquee newsmagazine is a student-generated publication of Marcus High School. It is produced, edited and maintained through the efforts of the school’s advanced journalism class. The Marquee is designed to serve the school and community as a forum for open discussion and student expression.

The Marquee encourages letters to the editor as part of its mission to educate, inform and provide an open forum for debate. All submissions must be signed.

The staff reserves the right to edit all material. Editorials reflect the opinion of the staff, not necessarily that of the administration. Signed columns or reviews represent only the opinion of the author. Advertising rates are $70 per 1/8 of a page, with discounts available. For more information call 469-713-5196.

The Marquee is a standing member of ILPC, TAJE, ATPI, CSPA, NSPA, JEA and Quill and Scroll.

Marquee News Briefs

news

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story ANdrea Garza

Presidential candidates fight for primary spots Business man Donald Trump, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, and most recently former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina are topping the Republican ballot. The three canditates make up over half of the potential vote. Jeb Bush began as the frontrunner for the Republicans, but has lost a lot of support to Trump.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is the top candidate for the Democratic party, but she has lost a significant amount of support over the last two months due to the controversy surrounding her use of a private email server for official government business.

Senator Bernie Sanders has 24% of the potential vote. Vice President Joe Biden

is third for the Democrats with 21% of the potential vote, even though he hasn’t officially decided to run.

Trump has maintained popularity despite being a reality TV star and his often controversial comments. However, over half of Americans say that neither Trump nor Clinton is honest or trustworthy.

Trump came to Dallas in September for a sold out rally. Around 40,000 tickets were purchased, but only 20,000 attended.

Hundreds of Hispanic protesters gathered outside of the American Airlines Center.

So far two candidates, Rick Perry and Scott Walker, have dropped out of the election due to financial troubles and a desire to lessen the competition.

Flower Mound park awarded $400K Flower Mound recently received a $400,000 grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Recreation. The money will be used to renovate areas destroyed by the spring floods in the Twin Coves Park.

Construction is set to begin in November and the park is estimated to reopen in the fall of 2016.

The park has been closed since May due to flooding damage. Repairs will be needed before new construction begins. The flooding destroyed much of the infrastructure and landscaping in the park.

The additions will enable more patrons to stay at the park as well as provide new activities to enjoy during their visit.

Stock market crashes in China, causes ripple effect The economy of China began falling on Aug. 24, which was subsequently called “Black Monday”. The market has fallen 43% since June with losses in the billions.

So far the U.S. economy has not suffered major loss, but is predicted to experience a drop the next month or so, according to Gina Champion-Cain of American National Investments.

DESIGN Katie Burton

Chinese investors are seeking stable U.S. investments to better their economy. U.S. investors are hesitant to provide assistance to the Chinese because it may throw the U.S. into recession.

This crash in China has caused the American dollar to raise in value by 3%.

Despite the raise of dollar value, it increases the prices of U.S. exports which negatively affects sales and profits. oct 2, 2015

4 FEATurE

Boom Bah Forever Former principal remembered by students and staff story sanika sule

The packed gym buzzed with excitement as the students chanted the pep rally cheer in unison. Each group awaited their turn. As Principal Larry Sigler pointed to one side of the auditorium, an enthusiastic “Boom Bah!” would echo. As he pointed to the other side, they followed with an even more passionate “Hey!” He would start the cheer slow then vary speed and volume, until the walls resounded with his signature cheer. Boom Bah! Hey! Boom Bah! Boom Bah! Boom Bah! Hey! The incantation with seemingly meaningless words gave a sense of spirit and unity to the entire audience. It was one of the first Marcus traditions, started by a principal known for his energy and zeal.

The volume of the crowd could be heard from afar, but the loudest of them all stood at the front.

The school’s first principal, Larry Sigler, moved spiritedly throughout the gym as he led the pep rally. Students stood shoulder to shoulder, filling in every open space as they cheered. His pep rallies were highly anticipated by both students and staff.

The limited space of the Silver Gym often meant that underclassmen were excluded.

The tight space only heightened the sense of camaraderie.

“Standing room only,” assistant principal mhsmarquee.com

Amy Boughton said. “I’m talking all the way around the gym. Everybody was up on their feet. I get chills even thinking about it..” *** Sigler passed away on June 23, 2015.

He spent 19 years as the principal and over 40 years as an LISD educator, dedicated to creating opportunities for students. He worked to establish a close knit atmosphere at the school, often greeting students by their first names as he passed down the halls.

Sigler’s passion for the school was evident not only in his high standards of education, but in his enthusiasm for the school’s sports.

He attended almost every game, even after he was no longer principal, spreading his support to all the school’s groups. “[He was the] kindest, most caring man for the students and his faculty,” attendance clerk Trudy York said. “He was phenomenal.

I never saw a side of him that he wasn’t always in a good mood - except if we lost in a football game.”

Sigler’s spirit transcended the football field. He could often be seen impersonating Elvis Presley, or driving a motorized football helmet throughout the halls. He even vowed that he would shave his head in a deal he made with students. York recalls Sigler’s dedication to the school.

“I don’t know that there’s anybody that can match Larry Sigler as far as in his dealings and running of the school,” York

said. “There wasn’t a mean bone in his body.”

Sigler built the school’s foundation,

pHotos submitted Larry Sigler played quarterback for Lewisville High School. The photo above was taken his freshman year.

choosing everything from the school colors to the mascot. He even supervised the writing of the school song. Though many traditions continued after his retirement in 2000, the subsequent principals introduced their own customs.

Principal Gary Shafferman began his design ANNA KATE HuTToN

FEATurE

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term determined to make his mark. When Shafferman was appointed as the school’s third principal, his first call of congratulations came from Sigler. Though Sigler wasn’t there in person to guide Shafferman, he said he was able to get to know Sigler by reading all the records he left behind in his office. By becoming familiar with Sigler’s legacies, Shafferman was able to transition the school into a new era.

“I learned that if I’m not myself, I’m not going to be effective,” Shafferman said.

“We all have our own gifts to Larry Sigler was honored with a retirement pep ralley on May Sigler rides around in the Helmet Cart with current Briarhill this school, but he set the tone.” 18, 2000. It was known as Larry Sigler Day, and celebrated middle school principal, Christ Mattingly.

The various traditions that his years of service.

Sigler started have shaped the Boughton said. “I really think that speaks school, making it what it is made sure the students were surrounded by a volumes of the experience we all had here.” today. To commemorate his contributions supportive staff. Several former students have The love many former students have to the school, the auditorium is named after returned as either teachers, or administrators. for Mr. Sigler is evident, long after their him. He also has a scholarship under his Boughton said that as a former student, she graduation. Several alumni contacted name with the Lewisville ISD Education was eager to return.

Shafferman to display a “Boom Bah Forever” Foundation, or the LEF. “There’s over twenty people that have in cups across the fence, after the news of his The honors given to Sigler are indicative come back and wanted to work here,” passing. Shafferman said he had no hesitation of his efforts to better the school. He in creating the display, because he too wanted to commemorate Sigler’s contributions to the school.

“Some of the people from that time frame really loved him so much they wanted to do something to show their love,” Shafferman said. “For being such a small man, he made such a big difference in our lives. What a wonderful way to be remembered.”

The shouts of the Boom Bahs and Heys continue to echo throughout the school. Sigler’s presence is evident in every pep rally and football game. Though traditions have evolved, the foundation Sigler created for the school has remained the same.

“Normally in that big of a community you don’t have the traditions that this school has,” Shafferman said. “This school has a lot of traditions, and I think that’s because of Mr. Sigler. It makes us feel like we’re a small community.”

Gary Shafferman, current principal, Larry Sigler, Marcus’s first principal and Dr. Kevin Rogers, current superintendent, stand together at a Marcus football game representing the legacy of leadership at the school. design ANNA KATE HuTToN

oct. 2, 2015

6 F e at u r e

Taking big ideas to Capitol

Senior progresses to Girls Nation in Washington D.C. Early in the school year, junior level teachers start looking for students that they As Jun. 19 drew to a close, girls from would like to nominate to send to Girls State.

“We look for someone who is opinionated all over the state sat together in a gym at Texas Lutheran University. The room that and willing to speak their mind, but does it was normally filled with spirited debate in a way that is respectful,” AP US History was now silent with anticipation as the girls teacher Kaitlyn Wilson said.

Watson was one of awaited the results of the Wilson’s students last bills and resolutions that had been voted “At some level, it’s fun because year. As her teacher, upon that day at Texas we’re all little government nerds, Wilson got to see what Bluebonnet Girls but then at another level, I’m Watson would be able State. to contribute to Girls 17 and in a graduation robe Senior Emma State.

Watson had been swearing someone in on an iPad “She was really pushing a joint that has the Bible app pulled up.” interested in learning, resolution through the she cared about -Emma Watson, 12 House and Senate. She historical topics, had put in long hours she cared about the in a lamplit dorm room political process and working on her resolution that would amend she was willing to engage in conversations,” the definition of discrimination in the Texas Wilson said. “She would be someone who constitution to include gender identity and would be able to take this opportunity and sexual orientation. run with it.”

With girls coming from all different At Girls State, she wasn’t afraid to backgrounds and ideologies, Watson’s propose big ideas that seemed radical. resolution had been met with mixed On the very first day, Watson got to reactions. However, it was up to these 550 work on her resolution to amend girls to decide if Watson’s hard work would the Texas Constitution. By the be rewarded, or if the resolution would fail. second day, she was already giving It passed. speeches in front of the Senate The gym was quickly filled with to defend it. To Watson, it was excitement. Watson and her partner on the very important that this piece bill danced in the aisles as their peers cheered of legislation passed. them on. Even girls who weren’t necessarily “In the state of Texas for the resolution cheered because they you can essentially be fired had been following Watson’s work over the for being gay,” Watson course of the convention. said. “We don’t offer any As she danced and celebrated her explicit protection for achievement, Watson realized that this win discrimination on the was even bigger than just her or the girls in basis of gender identity the room. and sexual orientation.” *** Because the Girls State is a summer leadership definition of program that brings teen girls together to discrimination in the replicate a state government. Throughout the Texas constitution does course of a week, girls work on different levels not include gender to write and vote on bills and resolutions as identity or sexual well as run and get elected into positions. orientation, being fired Story Katie Burton

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from one’s job based on such qualities is still a reality. *** For the last time, all representative at Girls State found themselves back in the university’s gym. Five days ago, these girls had come together to build leadership skills and gain political knowledge, but now, their time together was ending.

On a stage, Director Lori Swann tells them that for four of the girls in the gym, their journey is not over yet.

Out of the 550, four have been picked to represent Texas at Girls Nation in Washington D.C. As she sat surrounded by her

Design Madeline Stanfield

F e at u r e

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following their dreams.

“He was really personable and took time to shake everyone’s hand,” Watson said. “In that moment, we were all very unified.”

No matter if they were conservative or liberal, Republican or Democrat, Watson said all the girls felt like they were a part of something special. She was also given the opportunity to meet with senator John Cornyn, who is currently the assistant majority whip leader. It is Cornyn’s job to make sure Republicans vote according to the party platform. photo Submitted As a senior, Watson has several choices Senior Emma Watson, was appointed Supreme Court Justice at Girls Nation in Washington DC. It was her job to about her future that need to be made. swear in the Vice President.

However, by going to Girls State and onto Girl’s Nation, Watson was able to see how peers, Watson did not expect to be one of the Senate floor. During the week, Watson her path in college could affect a possible the four. Swann began to call out the names had given her authorship speech and the career in politics.

“I want to do medicine first and of girls who had demonstrated excellent senator speech on her resolution. After citizenship, and in a moment of complete appointed, Watson had the job of swearing understand the field before I hop into politics,” Watson said. “It’s very important shock, Watson heard her own name. everyone into court.

Watson made her way past 546 other “At some level, it’s fun because we’re for politicians to be aware of what they’re girls who had worked hard all week. all little government nerds,” Watson said. making policies about.”

Being a part of the second group the Somehow, whether it was by the passing of “But then at another level, I’m 17 and in a her resolution or her speeches on the Senate graduation robe swearing someone in on an school has sent to Girls State, Watson said she received minimal advice. The most floor, she had distinguished herself from iPad that has the Bible app pulled up.” her peers. Because of that, she found herself Because the girls are replicating the important reccomendation Watson can pass on a stage with three other girls and the American government at Girls Nation, it is along is simple.

“Make the most of everything and be opportunity to partake in an extraordinary tradition that they get to meet the President. program with 200 girls from across the During a trip down to the White House, excited about it,” Watson said. “I decided nation. they gathered onto risers and took a picture that I’m going to spend a lot of time here *** with Barack Obama. He told them they they thinking it’s dumb or I’m going to have a Going to Girls Nation, all students are shouldn’t let their gender deter them from really great time with it.” allowed to bring only one piece of legislation that they proposed at state. After the success of her resolution, Watson chose to take the resolution with her to D.C. Now, the amendment would apply to the U.S. constitution.

Watson’s resolution successfully passed with less opposition than at State.

But that wasn’t Watson’s only achievement. Unlike her experience at Girl’s State, at Nation, Watson was able to hold the appointed position of Supreme Court Justice.

“Chief Justices and Justices are appointed by the President and then photo Submitted approved by the Senate,” Watson said.

Watson and other members of Girls Nation pose with President Obama. Watson is in the back row and the 14th The elected President had gotten to know Watson from hearing her speak on from the right.

Design Madeline Stanfield

oct. 2, 2015

8 sports

Their Ultimate journey Two girls take their Ultimate Frisbee careers to the professional level story bailey crocker

As they step onto the field at regionals in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the two girls can’t help but think of everything that has helped them get to this moment. They’ve tried out for DFW’s top women’s team together, competed against and with one another, and put their all towards the one thing that joined them together: Ultimate Frisbee.

Junior Tanika Graham and senior Caroline O’Connell have both been playing Ultimate since their freshmen years of high school. Both girls play for the school’s ultimate team, a Youth Club Championship team known as Texas Tango, which is a team of girls coming together from all over

the state, and Maeve, DFW’s top women’s Ultimate team. Despite being the youngest players on Maeve, O’Connell and Graham never cease to exceed expectations when they step foot onto the field, especially at YCC nationals.

“We were expected to not win a single game but we went in 13th and came out 6th place,” O’Connell said.

Ultimate takes hard work, and the girls have proven their talent at the sport. They both hope to try out this January for World’s team. In this team, they will represent America and compete against other country’s Ultimate teams in Poland this summer.

“I want to play ultimate as much as I can,” Graham said. “Whether I’m playing or

teaching or coaching or just on the sidelines.”

O’Connell has stepped it up a notch her senior year and captains both the Marcus team and the YCC team this year. According to the school’s Ultimate Frisbee coach, Rob Doyle, O’Connell fits her role well.

“Everybody on the team respects her abilities and they listen to her when she speaks and she commands the field when she’s out there,” Doyle said.

Despite being “the baby of the team” on Maeve, Graham works hard to better herself, like completing CUT Camp, a youth Ultimate camp, this past summer in Chicago.

Going to regionals for Maeve proves how committed and competitive she is with the sport, and her teammates and coach at the

Photo submitted

Photo averi collen Junior Tanika Graham steps out to throw a flick at school practice. This is Graham’s third year to play for Marcus. mhsmarquee.com

Senior Caroline O’Connell and Graham wait on the goal line before a point begings. They are the youngest players on Maeve.

Photo brooke wyant O’Connell pivots on the field looking for someone to throw to.She has been playing Ultimate for four years.

DESIGN ANNA KATE HuTToN

sports school notice this.

“They try to find ways to get her the disc because they know that she is a level above most of the people she is playing against,” Doyle said.

For O’Connell and Graham, Ultimate is a sport where everyone comes together and bonds. Even after placing fourth in regionals for Maeve and missing their chance for nationals, they supported each other. The women from Maeve went to support Graham and O’Connell for their high school championship game last May. The two girls were overjoyed when they saw their teammates cheering them on.

“We could hear them in the stands and it was amazing,” Graham said.

Their commitment to the sport doesn’t end with the school year. Over the summer, they had four three hour practices every week. On Sundays and Tuesdays was practice for Maeve, and Wednesdays and Saturdays for Texas Tango. And even on the days they didn’t practice, they found a way to train, whether it was running, throwing or just

design anna kate hutton

watching Ultimate games on TV. “There were a lot times where I overwhelmed and thought I was doing so much,” O’Connell said, “But then I kept telling myself that it was all going to be worth it.”

After high school they still want to keep committed to the sport. They both hope to attend colleges that have either an Ultimate team or have a team in the area.

“I would definitely not go to a college that did not have an Ultimate team,” O’Connell said, “Colleges definitely become more intriguing when I know that they have a really good team.”

Ultimate frisbee may be a smaller sport, but it takes just as much effort and work as others. Graham and O’Connell put their all towards it, and that definitely pays off when they can look back and reflect on how far they have gone in their Ultimate careers.

“The people, the community, the team spirit, it’s unreal, I love it so much,” Graham said.

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Photo submitted O’Connell (right) looks to throw a backhand to Graham (left). The girls play for three different Ultimate teams throughout the year.

oct. 2, 2015

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Sports

Climbing back to competition Senior fractures spine, works to rejoin cross country story darci walton

One simple instruction. Go inspect the rock wall. A task senior Andrew Duffy has done many times during his employment at Life Time Fitness.

He checks the auto belays, a device that enables people to climb without assistance. He checks all the rocks, making sure everything was just right. But this time the inspection felt different. Not different because of a change to the rock wall, but rather a difference within Duffy.

He stands behind the rock wall, 30 feet above the ground where, on the other side, a yellowish propeller shaped rock is attached.

Fear takes over his body as he looks down.

Last time Duffy was up this high, one simple mistake could have caused Duffy to never walk again.

*** On Wednesday Aug. 19 the sunlight beamed through the glass of the large windows, casting shadows on the climbing wall as Duffy begins to put on his harness.

He and his belayer double check themselves and the equipment, making sure everything is all good before the climb.

After the required “on belay” and “belay on” communication between the two, Duffy began his ascent like he did about five times a week.

On this day Duffy decided to lead climb, where he would clip in as he moves up the wall, instead of the basic top rope climbing style.

This type of climbing is seen as less restricting because belayers don’t pull the slack of the rope as the climbs goes, a bigger risk but a bigger reward.

After completing his route for the day Duffy let go off the wall, expecting to be caught by the slack of the rope his belayer let during the climb. By mistake the rope continued to exit the grigri, a metal device that helps secure the rope, leaving Duffy in a free fall.

“The first ten feet [of the fall] I was okay with it,” Duffy said. “But then during the second ten feet I realized I was going to hit mhsmarquee.com

the ground.”

And he did.

Landing in a sitting position, the six inches of padding on Life Time’s floor did little to cushion the lower vertebrae that was ultimately cracked during the impact of the fall in Duffy’s lower back. Not realizing the severity of the situation Duffy tried moving on with his day.

“I was just kind of laying there for a while and thought I was just tight,” Duffy said. “I tried walking it off around the rock wall, which hurt like crazy.”

Still not convinced the fall was serious, he simply went home. It wasn’t until the next

morning that Duffy visited the doctor. After having x-rays taken, the doctors told him that the crack in his lower vertebrae would cause him to have an estimated recovery time of six weeks.

The month and a half without Duffy would be strenuous on the team because not only was he predicted to be one of the top runners this season but he is also one of the four captains.

As a captain, Duffy knew his injury affected more than just himself. He was determined to run again.

“The doctors said it would take six weeks to heal but I think I’m healing faster than

Photo darci walton Photo Darci Senior Andrew Duffy rides a stationary bike in the cross country hallway every morning for an hour toWalton keep in shape. One of Duffy’s vertebraes was cracked in August during a rock climbing accident.

DESIGN KAtie Burton

Sports

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and help them but you can’t,” Duffy said. “It that,” Duffy said.

If he wanted to reach his goal of running really kind of hurts.”

The limitations of Duffy’s involvement by the Oct. 3 meet in Round Rock, Texas, due to his back has been tough on the cross Duffy knew he would have to start his rehab country program according to Telaneus. training immediately.

“It has definitely left a hole, leadership His workouts shifted from 50 mile running weeks to daily stationary biking. wise and talent wise,” Telaneus said. “It’s According to cross country coach Steve been tough on the boys so hopefully it Telaneus, Duffy’s work ethic didn’t will make us stronger when he come back because some of the change during other boys have had his rehabilitation to step it up.”

“It has definitely left a hole, training.

Duffy’s absence “He comes leadership wise and talent on the course is felt to me to get the wise. It’s been tough on the by everyone around workouts, we talk boys so hopefully it will make him according fellow about a plan, he captain and varsity does the plan and us stronger when he comes athlete senior Cole he gives me back because some of the Klashinsky. good feedback,” other boys have had to step “We were Te l a n e u s looking pretty good it up.” said.

“It’s until it happened so -Steve Telaneus, Coach like talking we had to stop and to another reevaluate and sort of adult, it’s very readjust,” Klashinsky said. straightforward and he communOver the last two weeks Duffy has icates well.” started to run again, hoping to fill that hole Despite not being able to take as soon as possible. on the course with his teammates, He plans to travel with the team this Duffy still attends every cross weekend down to Round Rock to the country meet.

He helps the managers time McNeil Invitational. After McNeil there and take mile splits while cheering is one more race before the district meet on the team. Having to stand on where the team will have the opportunity to the side at the race was really hard advance to the regional competition.

“I mean, we’ve been doing fine without for Duffy. him, but I can’t wait until he’s back because I “If someone isn’t doing well and really miss him,” Klashinsky said. you feel like you could run with them

DESIGN Katie Burton

oct. 2, 2015

12 T h e m e

Supreme court legalizes same-sex marriage, verdict stirs up controversy across the nation story michelle mullings

This summer the Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage being legalized nationwide. In a close 5-4 decision, the remaining 13 states with restrictions on gay marriage were required to recognize these unions and treat them equally for the first time.

The judges on either side of the issue explained the reasoning behind their decisions. Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote the majority’s opinion, explaining that state gay marriage bans are unconstitutional, being in violation of the 14th Amendment.

On the other hand, dissenting opinion from Chief Justice John Roberts stated that these bans do not violate the Equal Protection Clause, because they preserve the traditional definition of marriage.

Just as the court was torn on the issue, students also hold conflicting opinions.

Among those against the ruling is junior Kyle Pickering.

“I don’t disagree with gay marriage, I just don’t agree with the choice,” Pickering said. “It shouldn’t really be a court decision. I just don’t think the state should control marriage.”

Suicide Rates statistics bailey crocker

Nearly half of young transgender people have seriously thought about taking their lives, and one quarter report having made a suicide attempt.

LGB youth are four times more likely, and questioning youth are three times more likely to attempt suicide than their straight peers.

Sources: www.thetrevorproject.org, www.phillymag.com, www.statisticbrain.com

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Tennessee, Ohio and North Carolina denied marriage licenses to gay couples. They said that doing so would conflict their religious beliefs. Kentucky Clerk Kim Davis received national attention when she upheld this decision, one met with both backlash and

praise. Senior James Patrick defended Davis regarding her faith.

“This country was founded on the beliefs in a God, and right and wrong,” Patrick said.

“We live in the Bible Belt, and I myself would agree with her decision to hold up her religious values and not hand out marriage licenses where she may not see it fit.”

Others believe that Davis should have adhered to the duties of her government job, particularly because her religion shouldn’t interfere with federal law. Junior Mady Gage thinks that Davis is mistaken in her decision.

“You can’t limit someone’s happiness just because you feel as though it is wrong,” Gage said. “There’s a reason why there’s a separation of religion and state.”

Couples who have state recognition of their marriage are granted various financial and legal rights, including Social Security benefits, the right to make medical decisions regarding their partner, and rights to their inheritance. Because of this, Gage believes it doesn’t matter that the decision was made by the Supreme Court.

“I think that even though it was technically up to the government, it was still up to the people, because you had people fighting for the people’s rights,” Gage said.

Thought about suicide

Attempted suicide

Gay/bisexual teen boys

Gay/bisexual teen boys

Opponents argue that it shouldn’t have been up to the Supreme Court, or that marriage is solely defined as between a man and a woman.

Following the decision, county clerks in Kentucky, Texas, Alabama, Arkansas,

41%

of Americans favor gay marriage, 47% oppose gay marriage, and 10% are unsure.

47 . 3%

Heterosexual teen boys

29% Heterosexual teen boys

34. 7%

13%

Lesbian/bisexual teen girls

Lesbian/bisexual teen girls

Heterosexual teen girls

Heterosexual teen girls

72. 9%

53%

52. 4%

25% DESIGN taryn welch

LGBT community representation

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Diverse characters in television, film more frequent story Sanika sule

Caitlyn Jenner’s coming out as a transgender woman and the summer’s five to four Supreme Court ruling that legalized same sex marriage and has brought the entire lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, or LGBT, community to the forefront. With more regular news coverage of the LGBT community’s campaign for civil rights, several TV shows and movies are depicting LGBT people more frequently.

“Now, in the modern day more TV shows and companies are trying to be more inclusive, so there’s almost a [LGBT] character in every TV show,” cofounder of Student Alliance For Equality, (SAFE), junior Cordelia DeDecker said. “Most of the time they are just normal people, they’re just like you.”

The Caitlyn Jenner interview, aired on April 24 on ABC’s 20/20 brought in 16.9 million views, the show’s largest audience since 2003. The interview acted as Jenner’s platform for unveiling her true identity. Though the interview received a lot of attention, junior Hallye Reed said that it sent the wrong message.

“For people who believe that that’s okay, then that’s a good step for [Caitlyn Jenner],” Reed said. “But for me I just think that that’s leading more people down the wrong road, and making people believe that things like that are okay. Really in the beginning, that’s not what we were created to be like.”

Although LGBT people have become regular characters in several television shows and movies, many believe the manner in which they are depicted is inaccurate, and perpetuates stereotypes.

Stonewall, a film released Sept. 25, has generated controversy and even petitions to boycott it. Though the film is centered on violent gay rights demonstrations in Manhattan, it contains several inaccuracies.

Many of the leaders of the movement were transgender women of color, but were DESIGN Taryn welch

replaced by white men in the screenplay.

“Obviously the goal, especially if they are making a historical film they should at least try and have it be what it actually was,” DeDecker said. “While the representation and the basic idea is important, we need to be moving more towards normalization, instead of just representation.”

According to a study conducted by Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, or GLAAD, ABC Family, MTV, and HBO are all “excellent” in the Network Responsibility Index. The index measures the quality and quantity of LGBT representation in television networks. DeDecker said that seeing characters in the media that gay youth can relate to allows them to embrace their identity.

“For a lot of gay youth, at least seeing someone on the screen or on TV who they can relate to, even if it’s not always the best example is positive,” DeDecker said. “It makes them feel better about themselves.

Especially in a community where they don’t really have anyone who is like them.”

Last year’s One Act play, The Infinite Black Suitcase, included a gay couple. Though the play did include LGBT characters, theatre teacher Denise Tooch said she is hesitant about frequent representation to be mindful of the audience.

“Some times I feel like there is some pressure not to expose some [aspects of the LGBT community], so I have to be really careful,” Tooch said.

The more frequent representation of LGBT people in news, television and film has generated more discussion. Sophomore Josh Corzatt said that even though he does personally not agree with it, he believes that representing LGBT people has positive effects. .

“There is so much misunderstanding even among the Christian community about these things,” Corzatt said. “No matter what is going around you, you have to stay firm in what you believe.”

On Television

With media playing a large role in everyday life, it is important for them to connect with all people, like the LGBT+ community. These statistics show what percent of characters in these TV stations are LGBT+.

6.5% FOX

4.5% ABC

3.8% NBC

3.2% CBS

0% CW

Source: www.cbsnews.com

oct. 2, 2015

14 T h e m e

Here come the brides story rachel ramirez

On Jun. 26, Rebecca Landry locked herself in her office at work, turned up the volume on her computer and watched history in the making. She was live streaming the Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage, and when news broke that the ruling had legalized these ceremonies across the nation, all she could do was cry.

While many rejoiced around the country, this ruling hit particularly close to home for Rebecca. After twelve long years, she would finally be able to marry her partner, Amanda Wedepohl.

“All I could sit there and say was ‘Thank God,’ because it had been such a long hard road for so many people,” Rebecca said.

Across town, Rebecca’s daughter, Lizzie was getting picked up from work by some friends who excitedly filled Lizzie in on the Supreme Court decision, and she too found it difficult to maintain dry eyes.

Without hesitation, she drove straight to Best Buy, where Amanda works, and jumped into the embrace of the woman who she had forever considered the other parent in her life.

“For someone who had been there for so long in my life and had taken care of me for as long as she did, through sickness, through happiness and everything in general, [I was] just so happy to finally be able to see two people that love each other are able to marry one another,” Lizzie said. *** The drop-off line at Rockbrook Elementary was packed with the before

“We are still not a protec ted class, so I woul d say to people, read up on ever y t hing. We’ve won one bat t le, but we didn’t win all bat t les.”

-Rebecca Landr y

school rush of parents and children. Rebecca watched as a Caucasian lesbian couple were in the process of dropping off their African American son. She noticed several of the other parents cast venomous glares at what she had thought of as a beautiful family.

“I saw the nasty looks that parents gave

In an ABC interview, Barack Obama became the first sitting U.S. president to publicly support the freedom for LGBT couples to marry.

Source: www.cnn.com

mhsmarquee.com

them, the weird looks that kids gave that family because their parents portrayed that to them, so we never made it obvious with Elizabeth,” Rebecca said.

Rebecca and Amanda knew all too well the general nature of people’s reactions to their relationship from the beginning.

Because of these and other incidents, they did their best to protect their daughter from the world’s prejudices.

“It wasn’t that we hid it, we just we weren’t going to subject our daughter to that,” Rebecca said. “We got enough of it on our own, we didn’t need her to have it.”

As she got older, Lizzie seemed to pick up on the reality of people’s opinions. When she reached middle school, she asked her parents how to address her family with her friends. Coming from Catholic Louisiana, the couple’s families both had members that were opposed to the relationship. For the first couple of years, Rebecca wasn’t even allowed to bring Amanda through the front door.

Since they had seen first hand how vicious people could be to them, the couple decided to allow Lizzie to choose when and who she would tell about their relationship. Fearing she would be picked on, Lizzie’s initial reaction was to keep it to herself. However,

pHoto submitted Lizzies birth mother, Rebecca and partner Amanda. The couple will be celebrating their twelfth anniversary in December.

DESIGN Taryn welch

pHoto amanda fineran Junior Lizzie Landry has begged her parents to get married since she found out they were dating. She intends to plan the entire event that is scheduled for some time in the next year.

when she finally decided to let her closest friends know about her two moms, she was pleasantly surprised.

“I think that when I was more willing to open up about it, it wasn’t really a bad thing,” Lizzie said. “People were just kind of like, ‘Oh, okay. That’s cool.’”

According to Lizzie, the general acceptance she has received recently has not always been the case. With the recent increase in LGBT media representation she says more of society seems to be accepting of relationship like her moms’. Despite the occasional derogatory comment she has received, Lizzie says she tries to not take anything too personally.

“All I can do is try to help you better understand my point of view and I’ll try to understand yours,” Lizzie said. “I’m not going to tell you to think a different way, but if that’s how you want to think, then that’s how you want to think.”

While their work schedules haven’t allowed them to physically rally support for this decision, the couple participated in several online petitions and emails over the past few years to get the attention of legislators. However, according to Rebecca, DESIGN Taryn welch

this is just the first step of many for the LGBT community.

“We are still not a protected class, so I would say to people, read up on everything,” Rebecca said. “We’ve won one battle, but we didn’t win all battles.” *** “But why don’t you get married?” a ten year old Lizzie whined.

“Baby, I told you, it’s not legal,” Rebecca said. Frustrated, Lizzie crossed her arms and frowned.

“I don’t care,” she declared. “You’re my parents and I want you to get married.”

Since she had discovered her parents’ relationship, she had begged them to get married. It seemed only natural to her that these two people that loved each other and loved her should be able to get married officially.

“Knowing that it’s legal, like absolutely legal, is amazing because now my parents can walk outside holding hands and not feel ashamed of it, or they can put their arms around one another as they’re walking through the store,” Lizzie said. “It makes me happy knowing that they feel more comfortable doing that.”

Now, the couple plans on fulfilling their daughter’s and their own wishes. Though no date is officially set yet, they hope to have the ceremony in about a year’s time. The wedding is in good hands, however, because Lizzie plans on orchestrating the whole day.

For Rebecca, the ceremony is significant because now the law will recognize the familial bonds that they have built for over a decade. She is relieved to be able to have all the legal backing of marriage, such as making decisions for Amanda if she is hospitalized, without fear of a court blocking her from doing so. Overall, however, she’s just grateful for the opportunity to share this long overdue day with her family.

“I get to marry the person who has been by my side through family issues, through deaths in the family, through all the happy times, the sad times, the really bad times, and through a hurricane that tore everything apart,” Rebecca said. “I can’t wait to stand by that person and say ‘Yes, I do.’”

Theme

Marriage

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598,791 Gay and lesbian couples in the United States.

Prior to the Supreme Court ruling, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and the District of Columbia.

Less than 1% of children in the U.S. live with same-sex parents.

Sources: www.mckinleyirvin.com, www.lifelongadoptions.com, www.pewresearch.org, www. statisticbrain.com

oct. 2, 2015

16 E n t e r ta i n m e n t

What to Watch Story Michelle Mullings

Up late on a school night, most students remain curled up in their natural habitat, glued to their screen, watching the same tired reruns of a favorite show. As they reach the final episode, their eyes flicker to the clock. A change must be made. No, not finally tackling that brutal English paper. They need a new beginning. A new series.

Like “The Office”?

Watch “Scrubs” Scrubs follows recent medical school graduate Dr. John Dorian (also known as “J.D.”) and his experiences at Sacred Heart Hospital.

As a staff intern, J.D. struggles to navigate his new job alongside his best friend and coworker Christopher Turk. Similar to the interviewstyle commentary in “The Office,” J.D. narrates his thoughts of his hectic life at work. This includes his love interests, an evil janitor, difficult coworkers, and his many instances of embarrassing verbal missteps. “Scrubs” also showcases similarly memorable workplace relationships, friendships, and rivalries. This comedic drama features a relatable and realistic representation of hospital life, while keeping the mood lighthearted with sarcastic humor.

Like “Gossip Girl”?

Watch “Friday Night Lights”

Friday Night lights

Similar to “Gossip Girl’s” nonstop drama, “Friday Night Lights” follows the lives of teens in fictional Dillon, Texas, a small town with a big love for football. The show is centered around Dillon High’s football coach, Eric Taylor. Coach Taylor juggles his responsibilities as a father as well as a coach to players like star quarterback, Jason Street. After Street suffers a devastating spinal injury that rids him incapable of playing, he must face the abrupt end to his glamorous sports career and start life over. Contrary to “Gossip Girl’s” affluent characters, the teens and families of Dillon offer a more relatable view of high school and the challenges it brings. The teens face issues like disability, poverty, alcoholism, drugs, abuse and racism. mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN katie burton

E n t e r ta i n m e n t

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Search

Top Picks for The M

arquee Friday Night lights

Like “The Walking Dead”?

Watch “The 100” Viewers who enjoy shows with an eerie apocalyptic feel like “The Walking Dead” are sure to be drawn in by “The 100.” The story is set 97 years after a catastrophic nuclear war wiped out almost all of the planet’s inhabitants. The only humans remaining reside in a space station called The Ark. The population is endangered when The Ark’s life-support systems breaks down. In a desperate final attempt, 100 juvenile prisoners are sent down to Earth to see if what remains of civilization can finally return home. Much like “The Walking Dead’s” flesh-hungry zombies, “The 100’s” troublemaking teens face unexpected mutations on Earth. Quickly realizing the dangers of a planet left behind, the rebels begin their race to survive.

DESIGN katie burton

oct. 2, 2015

18 e n t e r ta i n m e n t

A Bite Of The W rld story and photos vanessa davis

Throughout the years, many new and exotic ethnicities from around the globe have made a local appearance and American society has kindly accepted different cuisines to be apart of its culinary community. The Marquee traveled across Flower Mound to taste some of the dishes from these cultures.

Ista Indian Cuisine Anyone looking to step out on a limb and try one of the more adventurous ethnic cuisines in Flower Mound should consider this Indian restaurant. Ista Indian Cuisine is located in the shopping strip off of 1171 and Morriss Rd. Most of the dishes are usually priced around $12-14. One of the more valued features which is the lunch buffet ranges anywhere from $11-13 depending on the day. The impressive Indian setting is decorated with beautiful artwork, fine gold accents, and the fascinating cultural architecture helped to set an authentic Indian atmosphere. However, there was an absence of traditional Indian Music as well as an absence of Saturday evening customers which gave the restaurant a less than appealing feel. As expected, the menu consisted of the more traditional Indian recipes.

Some of those popular dishes included the Mixed-Vegetable Pakora which is finely chopped onions, green chillies, and spices, the Chicken Samosa which is a fried or baked pastry with a savoury filling, and the Goat Biryani which is a dish made of rice, vegetables, spices and goat meat.

Shell Gas Station: Taqueria

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The outward appearance of this Mexican eatery is not particularly impressive since it’s actually a gas station taqueria. Surprisingly, the food is full of zest and flavorful taste. The Shell Gas-Station located off of 2499 and Sagebrush Dr. in Flower Mound and offers a great selection of savory and authentic Mexican food such as mouthwatering tacos, tortas, carnitas, quesadillas, burritos and more.

The breakfast tacos are prepared on a warm buttery tortilla topped with grilled chicken or beef and sprinkled with tasty cheese and potato bites. Many of the main dishes are priced relatively low such as the chicken quesadillas that were only $6. The Taqueria is open for breakfast and lunch. Customers can also add a soft drink from the soda fountain, a licuados which is similar to a smoothie, or an aguas frescas which is like a smoothie with fruits, cereals, flowers, or seeds blended with sugar. The only downside to this taqueria is the noisy and hectic atmosphere, but overall the food was like eating a meal cooked by a Mexican grandmother and the friendly service made this experience worthwhile.

DESIGN aNNA kaTe huTToN

e n t e r ta i n m e n t

19

Lucky Panda Cafe The Lucky Panda Cafe is located in the strip center located off of 407 and North Garden Ridge Blvd. This family owned and operated Chinese restaurant prices their main entrees starting at $6, well within a high school student’s budget. The large portions, friendly service, and quick delivery make for a memorable eating experience.

Like most local Chinese restaurants, the Lucky Panda’s menu contains the more common entrees such as chicken or beef lo mein, sweet and sour chicken, egg rolls, fried rice and much more. Most of the main dishes come with either a side of fried or steamed rice or freshly cooked vegetables such as carrots or broccoli. The classic yet delectable orange chicken is coated in a sweet orange-flavored chili sauce and is one of the more popular items. Although the restaurant is considered a dine-in venue, most people tend to get take-out, which is why there was hardly anyone sitting and eating dinner at the restaurant on a Saturday evening. However, the Chinese music and tasteful decor helped to create a fun and convincing Asian ambience.

Luna Grill Luna Grill is a modernized Mediterranean cuisine restaurant located across the street from Kohl’s off of 1171. The bright and colorful trendy decor helps to create a pleasant and relaxed vibe in the restaurant. Most of the smaller menu items are priced around the $6-7 range and the main entrees usually cost about $10 depending on the dish. Luna Grill offers a variety of fresh and healthy choices such as tasty kabobs, flavorful salads, gourmet wraps and sweet treats for dessert. Some of the more authentic foods include the spicy cilantro hummus and the four rounds of handcrafted falafel which is basically a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas and/ or fava beans. Also, they serve mahi mahi which is commonly known as dolphinfish, and gyros which is a Greek dish made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The chicken kabob features several pieces of golden brown boneless tenders that have been seasoned to perfection and are sure to captivate its consumer. Anyone looking for something healthy, quick and delicious should head on over to Luna Grill.

DESIGN anNA kaTE huTToN

oct. 2, 2015

20 o p i n i o n

There for me SANIKA SuLE

@SANIKASuLE

Nobody knows why parents do the things they do. When I ask my mom why she cares, she simply replies with the classic line, “You won’t understand until you’re a parent.” I almost instinctively roll my eyes and think silently to myself, “That’s true.

I’ll never understand why parents are so controlling.”

I maintain this typical teenage mentality most of the time, until I want something. When I was pleading with my parents for a car, I suddenly turned into a model child. When I wanted to get a new piercing, I magically started to love chores.

Of course they always see through this charade, claiming I would never dry dishes or fold laundry if I didn’t have some hidden agenda.

When my demands are not met, I’m engulfed in a whirlwind of arguments with my parents. I attempt to convince them that they are being unreasonable and old fashioned, though deep down I’m aware that as a completely dependent, both emotionally and financially, teenager it is me who is irrational.

No matter who starts the argument, it is my parents who always want to reconcile.

No matter how much or what I ask for, they try to please me. When I stay up until

1:00 in the morning studying for a test, my parents are up as well. As I look up from my textbook to urge them to go to sleep, they simply reply, “ We can’t sleep until you do.”

I often find myself taking advantage of the fact that I have parents that would go to great lengths just for me. I not only ask for, but expect things I don’t deserve.

As a teenager, I have very little perspective of my parents’ decisions. I throw the cliched phrase at them that “they don’t understand me”, forgetting that they only have my best interest at heart.

I will never understand why my parents won’t let me go out and have fun. I will also never understand why my parents continue to support me despite my irrational demands. I sometimes even find my parents questioning why they provide such unconditional love, but nobody, not even parents know why they do the things they do.

Sweet tweets DESIGN & Compiled Katie Burton

“instead of Apple making a new phone every year they need to make a charger that doesn’t break every like 4 months” Riley Stephens @rileystephens10

“Fact: the goal of school is to get all the cords. you want so many cords that you can’t walk balanced across the stage.”

Lyndie Ho @lyndieoh

mhsmarquee.com

“I can’t name any of the chemistry scientists but I can name all of the Kardashians/ Jenners and I think that’s pretty impressive Sydney Carr @sydney_carr8

“Wolves are beautiful. I want a pet wolf please” Logan LeGard @logo2286

“I’m too busy to do it, but I should really live tweet the Rosendahl family trip to the bowling alley…”

Dan Rosendahl @1597342

DESIGN Katie Burton & madeline stanfield

opinion

Sooie sisterhood DARCI WALToN

@DARCIWALToN_

Rubbing the sleep away from my eyes, my surroundings came into focus. I became completely overwhelmed by the beauty of the mountains and trees that lined the highway. I rubbed my wonder-filled eyes again because surely, this had to be a dream.

A place like this could not be real. A place like this made me believe in love at first sight.

At the age of 10, stepping on the University of Arkansas’ campus already felt like home. It made me feel special. It felt mine.

My dad brought me to the Senior Walk where his name is etched into the concrete under the graduating class of 1984. I felt a desire to have my name somewhere among the miles of alumni.

When we arrived at Bud Walton Arena the next day for my cousin’s graduation ceremony, my fire had still not gone out. I remained captivated by everything around me. I imagined myself at basketball games

m

o Bo

! s h ba

Things we like

with my roommates, “Calling the Hogs” during a game winning basket. Snapping back into reality, I spotted my cousin walking in with hundreds of others dressed in her black graduation cap and gown.

“That’s going to be me one day,” I thought giddily.

From that day my dad called me his little Razorback girl. The t-shirts and jersey that he bought me are big enough to still fit me after all these years. The special feeling Arkansas gifted me made me feel invincible for four years.

But everything changed when my sister, Haley, began her college search.

I always thought that the magic I felt in Arkansas was the same way she felt about UT, but I was wrong. She started looking into other universities, including Arkansas.

My stomach dropped when she went on her official college visit. I wanted to be her. My jealousy subsided when she visited Auburn. I felt safe again, I even started to like the idea of us being SEC rivals. But, ultimately Arkansas won her heart, just as it had mine.

I cried after we helped Haley move in. She got to stay in Arkansas, and I had to spend another four years in Texas. I wanted to be the one at the football games.

I wanted to be the one discovering the best Fayetteville had to offer like Hammontree’s and Fayettechill. I wanted to be the one there. My jealousy eventually turned into unforgivable bitterness.

After a while I almost despised the school. I felt as if Haley had taken something that was mine.

21

My sophomore year, I started looking into other colleges. I desperately wanted to find another place that made me feel the same way I felt when I first stepped on campus back in 2006. School after school I was disappointed.

Time and time again my parents offered to take me up to Fayetteville to meet with the journalism school. Rather than swallowing my pride and anger, I relentlessly fought with my parents. They practically forced me into going, and I have to admit I’m thankful that they did.

Walking around on campus again gave me the sense of peace, comfort and love that all the other colleges could not provide.

I knew this was home.

All my anger and fear that came with Haley choosing Arkansas seemed to vanish in an instant. I realized how ridiculous it was to think that Arkansas was mine and mine alone. There are over 26,000 students that have every right to call it theirs, including my sister.

After two years of silent sulking and random outlashes, I finally was able to let it all go. Because of this I have been able to spend the last few months sharing the excitement of my application process, my acceptance, housing contract signing and orientation signup with Haley.

Eight years ago I promised my father I was going to live in Fayetteville someday and in eight months I will fulfill that promise when I move into my dorm at the University of Arkansas. My freshman year will be little sweeter knowing that my sister will be just a few streets away.

Java City

Colleges on campus

New soda machines

Students love getting their morning boost with a cup of coffee and a quick snack right before buckling down for a long day of essays and tests. And the coffee ladies make it even better with their smiles for the tired and overworked students.

Picking a college is stressful, every high school student knows that. But the decision is made easier with the wide assortment of colleges that come during lunches to talk to students. The free goodies they bring make it even better.

Caffeine in the morning is awesome, but if a student doesn’t want to order a coffee from Java City, then the vending machines now offer a wide assortment of zerocalorie drinks to down right before a period full of note-taking.

DESIGN RACHEL ramirez and Katie Burton

oct. 2, 2015

22 o p i n i o n

He’s still him Rachel Ramirez

@rdr179

He was in the waiting room when I was born with an elaborate, hand drawn banner to welcome me into the world. Before I could read, he would help me sound out the letters written in my birthday cards. He came up with fun games for us to play when I would visit his house. He introduced me to Recess and Furbies and all things ‘90s.

When we grew older, he came to every play, every performance, every award ceremony. He was always there to give me insight into the strange world of the teenage male mind. I watched him take the stage in theatre and use a newspaper story to shut down an illegal business in our town. He lived life fully and did so many interesting things in high school. I wanted to be just like him.

I wouldn’t have joined newspaper and discovered my passion for writing if he hadn’t.

I wouldn’t have known how much power I had to impact the people and places around me if he hadn’t done it first. I wouldn’t have

! s ey

H

Things we don't like mhsmarquee.com

known how to turn my aspirations into a reality if he hadn’t. I’ve spent my entire life looking up to him.

For some reason, people expected that to change when he came out.

They thought that because I wear a cross around my neck and he’s in love with a boy, I would automatically stop loving him.

But he’s still my family.

And he’s still crazy talented.

And he’s still incredibly sweet.

And he’s still him.

The fact that he’s gay doesn’t erase those memories I have of us; it doesn’t diminish his incredible success; and it certainly doesn’t change the fact that he amazes me everyday.

I consider myself so lucky to be in his life and to have him in mine.

We live in this church-saturated culture in the middle of the Bible Belt. Everyone seems to have a different take about homosexuality, gay rights and every other hot topic. And yet, somehow when I tell people I’m a Christian, they automatically assume I side with the members of Westboro Baptist Church. As if that’s the only option as a Christian.

The other day, I was out shopping with a friend from church, and I mentioned that I hadn’t chosen a college because I was still praying for God’s direction. Suddenly, a stranger cut into our conversation and said, “If you’re a Christian, what do you think about gay people?”

The interruption confused me and I

froze. Not because I was afraid to stand up for what I believe, but because it’s not a simple answer, and the question seemed to be asked with the intention of stirring up an argument. I’m not sure she even cared to hear my answer. Nevertheless, the words she used were “What do you think about gay people?” The truth is, I love gay people. I love all people.

There’s this myth that Christians are intolerant, prejudiced people who think they’re better than everyone else because they own a Bible.

Unfortunately, like all myths, it’s based in a tiny bit of truth. There are many people, who claim Christianity, but treat those in the LGBT community like second class citizens.

Many of these people believe that the community is destroying the sanctity of marriage, while they hypocritically continue to engage in extramarital affairs, view pornography, and file for divorces. But those people are only a portion of the Christian population.

I wish people would just ask me. Ask me what I believe instead of just assuming. Ask me because they really want to know, and not because they’re looking for a fight. Ask me, so I can tell the whole story, and they can see that I think my opinions through. Ask me so I can talk about him, and how much I love him. Ask me so they can see that there are some of us that aren’t consumed by hate.

Then they could see that these outliers don’t represent us all.

Lanyards

Freshman campus

Waketon entrance

We’re glad the school cares about the wellbeing of the students, but it’s so much more convenient to wear an ID on a clip rather than on a lanyard around your neck. On a lanyard around your neck.

Why do the freshman get a totally new campus while the upperclassmen didn’t have tiled floors in the gym until this year? They deserve a little bit of love and if not that, then at least cooler seating options.

Trying to navigate the parking lot in the morning is especially difficult when one entrance closes at 8:30 in the morning.

Senior In kids now have to rush into the Dixon entrance after stopping to get their morning dose of Chik-fil-A.

DESIGN rachel ramirez and Katie Burton

opinion

23

Tolerance for opposing beliefs can’t be one-sided STAFF EDITorial

t he ma rque e

LGBT rights became a major topic this year due to Caitlyn Jenner’s transition and the Supreme Court ruling over the summer. The Supreme Court ruling may have changed the legal recognition of same-sex marriage, but it didn’t change the opinion people had on the LGBT community.

Acceptance was widely spread, but groups also used these events to negatively target the gay community. Some people used their personal beliefs to justify their hateful actions.

Other people with those same beliefs were more accepting but were faced with hate for the actions others caused. People can have opposing beliefs as long as those beliefs aren’t purposely used to harm another person.

On the one side, some religious people are prejudice against the LGBT community.

People use what they’ve been taught their whole lives to attack others on certain actions

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that don’t follow their beliefs. Different religions label homosexuality a sin and if someone is a follower of that religion, they have the right to that belief. But some people use their beliefs to treat LGBT members as if they aren’t equal. Stereotypes play a major role in this, with one view being that samesex couples can’t be the same type of parents as opposite-sex couples.

In Mississippi, there is a law that prohibits same-sex couples from becoming parents and adopting children. Orphaned and parentless children are denied the right to loving parents just because the adopting couples are same-sex.

On the other hand, some members of the gay community don’t allow religious people the right to their beliefs. While many use their beliefs in harmful ways, people still do have the right to believe what they want.

If someone’s personal beliefs clash with a

re ma r k s

CompileD Michelle Mullings

How is the LGBTQ community portrayed in TV shows and other media?

“It’s overrepresented.

Now you don’t watch a TV show without someone in it that’s gay or lesbian. I don’t like that it’s almost more than straight people.”

-Hannah Martin, 9

DESIGN rachel ramirez and Katie Burton

popular belief, they are still entitled to their opinions even if it isn’t favored. Tolerance is not a one-way street.

People who don’t support gay marriage should not receive hate, no matter what their personal beliefs are. But they shouldn’t use their beliefs to justify hateful actions. No matter who someone loves or what they feel, they’re still human and we have to start treating everyone just that way.

Someone can have their own view as long as it isn’t purposely used to manipulate and harm the other side. Personal beliefs shouldn’t be used to manipulate and force others into agreeing.

We as a society should learn to discuss and share our opposing beliefs with others in a civil way rather than in a courtroom fighting against the law. Those who can speak up need to stand up for the bullied, whatever side of the issue they are on.

“A lot of the time LGBT+ relationships are seen as very sexualized and only surrounded around their physical activity and their kisses, instead of the actual emotional side of a relationship.”

-Kelly Rowe, 10

“I think the media has a positive and empowering portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community.”

-Emily Worland, Social Studies

“I feel like the media has gay characters as token characters.

It doesn’t really add anything to the show sometimes. I feel like they’re usually portrayed negatively.”

-Quintin Smith, 12

ocT. 2, 2015

24 S p o t l i g h t

Homecoming Carnival

Summer Thigpen, Toni Campbell, Hannah Cook, and Sarah Putneyworked at the school’s swim and dive booth.

Senior Avery Schnoor with a chicken at the FFA carnival booth. Avery is President of FFA this year.

The annual Homecoming Carnival was held Sep. 16. This year’s theme was Grease: a Flashback to the 50’s. Various clubs and organizations set up booths and games for the students and their families. Over a thousand people attended the event.

Seniors C.J. Respass, Kaden Smith, Michael Davis, and Elhadji Diop pose in front of the football booth.

Students play a ring toss game on the front lawn of the school. A wide variety of clubs and groups set up booths to promote their organizations.

Students press the button that plunges MHS 9 Assistant Principal Greg Axelson. compiled MADELINE STANFIELD