Ths april 17 2015 by THS Student Media

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volume 54 • no. 5 • april 17, 2015 • 4001 summerhill rd • texarkana, tx 75503 • www.tigertimesonline.com

photo illustration by s. pritchard

Study finds phones to be extensions of ourselves Technology has crept into every corner of daily life. It’s no longer confined to small TV’s in the living room or personal computers sitting on work desks. Little rectangles now bulge from every pocket, purse and bag. Cell phones have become more than tools; they are extensions of their owners. >>page 12 INSIDE

news 2-4 • viewpoint 6-8 • feature 9-17 • sports 18-20 • entertainment 21-22

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TOP TWEETS: @THSStudentMedia

@kipwilliams15: “Lost my watch once. Saw a guy stepping on it while harassing a girl. Punched him in the nose. No one does that to a girl, not on my watch.” @DivaCarPur: “I will still be studying for this test in my grave”

tigertimes april 17, 2015

COWBOYS & CROWNS Miss THS pageant makes changes to program

by ABBY HILL public relations The annual Miss THS Pageant will be held Saturday in the Sullivan Performing Arts Center, but this year there are a few changes. The cheer department will producing the pageant instead of the theater department. Student Council adviser Susan Waldrep expressed her excitement for creating a new atmosphere around the pageant. “The main change is that we’re going back to the way it was originally,” Waldrep said. “More students will be involved by helping with different aspects.” The directors are thrilled to be able to form a new mold for the pageant with an emphasis on making it a positive high school experience. “It’s one of those things where it should be girls from every area of the school, so they can meet people they

might not have known,” Waldrep said. “It should help the girls make friends.” Another prominent alteration is the addition of the “Tiger King” or Mr. THS. A few senior boys will be sponsored by clubs, and the winner is based on their ability to raise money. “Adding the boys is going to be a fun and interesting aspect to the pageant,” Waldrep said. “If you get 10 seniors together up there, they’re going to have fun.” The pageant will include an opening dance with the Mr. THS contestants, an interview with the judges and a talent show, but the new directors are planning on an even bigger picture. “We’ve asked drill team to do a few filler numbers, and dinner theater skits will be added,” Waldrep said “We just want it to be where people are entertained when they go watch it.”

THE HOT SPOT sports series Varsity basketball athlete, Jaylen Rhone, was featured in the last issue of the tigertimesonline. com series “Faces of the Game”. Now, take a look at senior, Hannah Brantley as she shares her experience as a varsity soccer player.

what’s happening REACH Banquet-April 30 REACH students will celebrate the end of the year. Reginal Track Meet-May 1 The Tigers will be competing against regional teams in Arlington. Prom-May 2 The dance will be at the Truman Arnold Center at 8 p.m. followed by Project Celebration from 1 to 4 a.m. Academic Awards-May 7 Awards ceremony will be held in the Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m. Color Guard Tryouts-May 14 Color Guard tryouts will be from 4 to 6 p.m. in the band hall.

Senior Awards-May 19 The senior awards assembly will be held in the Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m.

in this issue it’s just a pinch

Page 4 When deciding whether to get vaccinated or not, the safety of others could be considered. by Alex Heo

THS Drumline-Night of Percussion-May 19 THS Drumline will be performing in the band hall from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

pumping up awareness

Gatsby Celebration-May 21 Juniors will have a Great Gatsby party in the cafeteria from 3 to 3:45 p.m.

Page 10 My goal by the end of my life is to die without diabetes. by Molly Crouch

ACT Dates April 18 May 2 SAT Dates June 6

jumping over hurdles

Page 18

Boys and girls track teams look to make improvements before district. by Tyler Snell

photo by k. brinkmeyer

tigertimes Texas High School 4001 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 (903) 794-3891 Fax (903) 792-8971

The Tiger Times is a student-run publication. The contents and view are produced solely by the staff and do not represent the opinions of the faculty, administration or TISD board of directors.

Print Editors in Chief Madeline Hunley and Robert Hoover Online Editor in Chief Caroline Purtle Managing Editor Amanda Hackleman Co-News Editors Tyler Snell & Anna Graves Viewpoint Editor Kristin McCasland

Feature Editor Molly Crouch Sports Editor Jessica Emerson Co-Entertainment Editors Conor Diggs & Brianna O’Shaughnessy Design Editor Caroline May In-Depth/Copy Editor Maggie Coleman

Public Relations Abby Hill Calendar Editor Daniela Correa Advertising Manager Hannah Williams Business Manager Rachel Stuart Photo Editor Savannah Pritchard Staff Writer Anna Cannon

Jillian Cheney Ahja Cherry Leah Crenshaw Katherine Doan Bethany Dowd Matthew Francis Alex Heo Grace Hickey Hannah Higgins Anneliese Hounsel Raga Justin Naveen Malik Lauren Maynard Alex O’Gorman

Karlee Post Lauren Potter Cailey Roberson Ashlyn Sander Luke Smith Photographers Kelsi Brinkmeyer Savannah Pritchard Faith Rhone Sara Rogers Lauren Gibbert Paige Huddleston Alyssa Olade-Glavin

Carli Sharp Ashley Tyson Israel Arias Rachel Lewis Jordan Rowe Michaela Stiger Augusta Welcher Daylan O’Neal Brianna O’Shaughnessy Sara Vaughn Kristin McCasland

Israel Arias Augusta Welcher Daylan O’Neal Sara Vaughn

Videographers Ashley Tyson

Members NSPA, CSPA, ILPC

Advisers Rebecca Potter & Clint Smith Principal Brad Bailey

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tigertimes april 17, 2015

Breaking the

Mooneyham receives Teacher of the Year by LAUREN POTTER staff writer Unlike the regular classroom, Holly Mooneyham’s is more than textbooks and a daily bell ringer. It’s chitchat among the students about a million acronyms to help them remember the proper way to write a short answer for their English EOC. “My goal as a teacher is to make learning fun and engaging while building relationships,” Mooneyham said. Mooneyham was named the high school teacher of the year on April 2 and will now compete for the selection of the district’s secondary teacher of the year. “I was not expecting to become Teacher of the Year,” Mooneyham said. “In fact, Mr. [Chad] Evans and I have been having this discussion for weeks, and he was certain I was going to win while I was not.” As the first in her family to graduate from high school and then earn a master’s degree, Mooneyham understands the

importance of education. “I came from a family where education wasn’t nearly as important as having a trade skill and most of my siblings dropped out of high school. My only thought for that is: ‘what if my siblings had a teacher that engaged them and really cared?’,” Mooneyham said. “I want my students to understand that education is important and that I care about them as individuals.” Mooneyham has been recognized for her dedication in the classroom, as well as her time coaching UIL and sponsoring Key Club. “I have the extra time to devote to my students since I don’t have children of my own yet,” Mooneyham said. “I am able to arrive early, stay late and volunteer. It’s always nice to be recognized for your time and effort.” For the past three years an English teacher has been chosen as Teacher of the Year, including Monica Washington. “I know from experience that

English teachers put in some long hours grading assignments that take many hours to grade,” Washington said. “I am so happy that we are being represented by Holly Mooneyham. [She] is creative, hardworking, and she goes above and beyond to make sure that she meets all of her students’ needs.” It’s her teaching style that makes an impact on her students. “What I liked about Mrs. Mooneyham was her desire to pull success out of her students,” sophomore Slyder Welch said. “Her teaching style was strict and straight to the point. She made me realize the endless possibilities that come with writing and helped me strive to be the student I’ve become.” Ironically, Mooneyham found inspiration for teaching from her family’s lack of interest in schooling. “My family did not put much stock in education. It was a perpetual cycle of uneducated, illiterate family members,” Mooneyham said. “I wanted

SMILING FOR SUCCESS English teacher Holly Mooneyham smiles after receiving a bouquet of flowers from Principal Brad Bailey after she is named Teacher of the Year. photo by s. pritchard

more for my life, so I broke the cycle.” For Mooneyham, school and learning had become an escape from her everyday life. “School was a refuge for me. I enjoyed learning and found power in knowledge,” Mooneyham said. “In high school I was influenced by some pretty amazing teachers which then in turn allowed me to embrace the idea of teaching.” Mooneyham hopes to inspire

her students, as well as her family, to further their education. “I hoped that if I set the example and expressed how important education was to a person’s life then maybe more of my family would feel the need to continue their educational journey,” Mooneyham said. “Becoming a teacher meant that I could then empower others to understand the power and importance of having an education.”

Writing the gold standard Newspaper receives top national awards by MADELINE HUNLEY co-editor-in-chief

THE CROWNING MOMENT Juniors Anna Graves, Tyler Snell, Caroline May and Abby Hill collaborate to design pages to achieve an award winning publication. Tiger Times print edition received a Pacemaker award from the National Scholastic Press Association in November. The online site and the yearbook are nominated for Pacemakers, which will be presented during the NSPA convention awards ceremony Saturday. photo by r. lewis

For the newspaper staff, it’s the awards they dream of receiving–Crowns and Pacemakers. They’re imagined as a big, shiny, gold trophies, but in reality, they’re frames of excellence. A group of four students are in Denver for the National Scholastic Press Association’s convention where they will announce Pacemaker winners. The online newspaper and yearbook are finalists for the award. The print newspaper received a Pacemaker during the fall convention. This is the first time in the school’s history that all three publications have been finalists in one year. “Online did really well this year. We got everyone to write a lot more and had daily coverage,” online-editor-in-chief Caroline

Purtle said. “The staff was awesome and worked hard for this award.” Last month, the “Tiger Times” and “Tiger Times Online” received a Gold Crown in the hybrid category from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Co-editor-in-chief Robert Hoover, is thrilled to have received his third Gold Crown. “I’m so thankful to all of my staff and co-editor-in-chief, Madeline Hunley, for making all of this possible,” Hoover said. “I’ve enjoyed writing, and it has helped me grow as a person and as a writer.” A panel of judges assemble each year to view all entrants. “When I found out online was a Pacemaker finalist, I started screaming and crying,” Purtle said. “I owe it to my support system here at publications.” For the editors, the awards are a culmination of three years of

journalism instruction. “It all goes back to Mrs. Potter, and I thank her for everything. Without her, we’d probably be some two-bit paper that probably uses Comic Sans,” Hoover said. “Once she taught us everything, she let Madeline, Caroline and myself take the reins and do our own thing.” The judging standards push the staff to improve. “I am expecting for online to grow and to become more advanced with the new technology that is released every year,” Purtle said. “I just hope that the excellence continues.” Print is also looking forward to receiving awards next year, which will be picked up at Columbia University in New York City. “I hope our future editorsin-chief will get the same experience,” Hoover said. “I’m looking forward to what they will accomplish next year.”

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tigertimes april 17, 2015 creativecommons.com

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Cell phone fines fund additional student resources by AMANDA HACKLEMAN managing editor It’s a scene most have witnessed at least once in their high school careers. A phone poorly hidden under the desk, peeking out of a back pocket, or sitting on the lunch table being taken up by a teacher or passing administrator. The student will now be charged a $15 fine for the return of the electronic device. However, one question “I don’t agree with the plagues the student body, policy at times, but if the where does the money go? money collected goes towards helping, then it’s Approximately 400 more beneficial for the phones have been taken students. If you don’t want up this year, resulting to pay the money, then stay in about $6,000 being off your phone.” added to the school’s bank account. “Cell phone fines - Kinzy Smithson, 12 collected are deposited in an activity account and is only accessed for student needs such as tutoring, snacks for testing, resources for students, scholarships, etc.,” Principal Brad Bailey said. “It is an activity account separate from our general campus fund.” Rumors circulated that the money might have gone to help fund the library. “This is not true,” Bailey said. “The library has a general operating budget and a separate activity account. Mrs. Ransom had written and received grants to help with special projects in the library.”

Even knowing this, some students are still not happy with the current policy and desire a change. “While the money goes to good use, especially considering it goes back to benefitting the students, I still don’t see how it’s right,” senior Jessi Chapman said. “It’s private property that our parents pay for monthly.” There will be a change in the cell phone policy beginning next year. Cell phones will still be confiscated if they are visible or ring during the school day; however the fines will change. “Instead of the $15 fine, it will be $10,” Bailey said. “If a student refuses to turn in their phone, students will be assigned five days of In-School Suspension and be assessed a $15 fine. Students will have their name placed on the delinquent list and must pay the fine before being allowed to attend dances, extracurricular events or receive their diploma.” While having a phone taken is not a pleasurable experience for any involved, some students understand the point the administration is trying to make. “I don’t agree with the policy at times, but if the money collected goes towards helping, then it’s more beneficial for the students,” senior Kinzy Smithson said. “If you don’t want to pay the money, then stay off your phone.”

DON’T WORRY, IT’S JUST A PINCH Vaccine controversy sweeps nation by ALEX HEO staff writer Out of the corner of your eye, a sharp needle protrudes into your skin. Being a “big boy” or “big girl,” you try your best to bear the sharp pain in your arm. Finally your first flu shot with the doctor concludes with a ScoobyDoo Band-Aid and a cherry lollipop. Human beings have always been susceptible to diseases. From a variety of potential diseases like small pox, rubella and polio, vaccines have helped our bodies develop immunity. However, new arguments have recently come out stating that the administering of vaccinations run the risk of causing brain damage which could lead to conditions like autism and cerebral palsy. Some however, are not buying the claims. “Vaccines do not cause autism—there is no debate about that from a medical or scientific standpoint,” biology teacher Amy Baker-Kireev said. “The odds of a child having a serious reaction to a vaccine are much lower than the odds of a child having a serious reaction to one of the diseases prevented by the vaccine, so the benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks.” Even in other states, vaccines have shown through statistical analysis that they have been effective. “I’ll tell you the numbers don’t lie,” freshman Caleb Snow said. “California has the lowest vaccine rate and they have the highest number of outbreaks in the entire United States. I think the facts speak for themselves.” Contradictory to all the claims that vaccines might lead to certain conditions, the people who choose not to take the shot and receive the immunity are the people at risk and are susceptible to disease breakouts. “As far as, if I think you should vaccinate? Yes,” nurse Heather Kroll said. “Working in here, putting stuff in the computer, finding out who’s vaccinated and who’s not, it’s not ones who are vaccinated that run the risk of getting anything, it’s the ones who aren’t. The ones who aren’t vaccinated run more of a risk of contracting whatever is going around.” When deciding whether to get vaccinated or not, the safety of others could be considered. Choosing not to get vaccinated also puts others at risks, which could lead to potential problems. “The right way to convince someone to get vaccines, I would use the facts that also take an ethical stand,” Snow said. “What if there’s a situation where some kids immune systems are too weak to get the vaccine but kids who can get it and their immune systems aren’t too weak and they don’t get it, and they come to school? They can run the risk of, if they get infected, possibly killing or seriously hurting those other people who can’t get the vaccine.”

tigertimes april 17, 2015

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tigertimes april 17, 2015

SPEAK OUT

EDITORIAL

What are some improvements that should be taken care of in the restrooms?

Restrooms must have toilet paper, soap The bell rings, the race is off. Students push and shove in an attempt to beat the crowds that gather outside the restrooms across campus, only to find overflowing toilets, no toilet paper, M.I.A. soap dispensers and lines that seem a mile long, all in time to beat the tardy bell. It seems as if this has become a continuous issue for students. The line gets longer and time ticks away dreadfully. Although there’s a long row of stalls and toilets, few function properly. Students stand in line patiently as the three to four stalls that work stay occupied, but as the 7 minutes given between classes fades away and the tardy bell is soon to chime, students become antsy and irritated. The majority of those stuck in line are forced to choose one of two fates: either stick it out, accept defeat and receive a tardy or hopelessly rush to class and keep their legs crossed for the next hour and 45 minutes hoping they have better luck next time. The problems that ill-kept and unsanitary restrooms create are many. First of all, the image of the school can be affected by the condition of

“The restrooms could be better maintained by just cleaning, one of the girls on our volleyball team got staph from the unsanitary restrooms. The toilet paper really needs to be replaced often, and Skylar give us soap because that Huddleston, 10 is just gross. Students and administration should both just take better care of our restrooms.”

it’s restrooms; dirty restrooms often suggest danger, lack of discipline and adult supervision, and an otherwise unhealthy learning environment. Not keeping the toilet paper stocked and the soap dispensers filled, or at least kept attached to the wall, pose the most dangerous threat to these unkempt restrooms all across campus, presenting serious health and safety issues. Germs can easily spread because of inadequate hand washing. This is not only a health hazard for students and teachers, but those cleaning the facilities as well. Administrators may argue that the restrooms aren’t being properly equipped and allotted due to the students “not taking proper care for the property.” Though this may

be partially true and an issue, not all students and faculty should be punished for the wrongdoings of a handful of misfits. Both students and administration could work together to achieve cleaner restrooms and a better restroom system. First, administration should keep toilet paper and soap stocked regularly, as well as be a little more lenient about restroom tardiness due to the overcrowding and broken toilets. Students must also put forth an effort as well, by maturing and showing respect for the school’s property rather than taking advantage of it. Thus, cleaner, healthier and more efficient restrooms on campus shall be beneficial for both the faculty and the students.

Brett Denson, 9

“Obviously there are some sanitary issues, but I wish they would make it where kids were not able to turn off the lights in the restroom considering it goes pitch black, and I can’t see the urinal.”

“Students should be considerate when they go because it’s not fair for others to go in behind them, and it be a nasty wreck. It should also be taken into consideration that it isn’t fair to give Emily Meinzer, 10 students tardies to use restrooms that hardly have the necessities like soap and toilet paper.”

GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK

ENVIRONMENT FAST FACTS

Sophomore expresses interest in preserving environment Typically, the only people we think of as caring about global warming are hippies who haven’t washed their hair in so long that the stench itself is a direct threat to the ozone layer. That should not be the case. Logically, we all should be concerned about the environment, seeing as how we live in it. Global warming is one of the most serious problems affecting us, but, since the effect occurs over a long period of time, virtually no one cares. Some people (politicians mostly) brush off global warming as some sort of myth invented by scientists to limit the use of hairspray, or something like that.

It is the opinion of many that global warming is a myth, but facts surrounding ALEX it are nothing O’GORMAN but real. In the staff writer Arctic Sea, the ice levels are at an all time low. When the ice melts, the ocean levels go up, and Carbon dioxide is absorbed into the ocean, making it more acidic. At the rate we’re at now, coastal areas, where half the population of earth lives, will soon be underwater. Due to various reasons such as

environmental change and disease, global warming is predicted to cause the death of one half of Earth’s plants and one third of its animals. This will affect humans greatly, since we rely on crops and agriculture as a society. New diseases may also pop up. To think everyone is afraid of a future as the setting to a young adult dystopian novel. It’s pretty hard for Katniss to liberate Panem when half of it is underwater and the half that isn’t is dying from new diseases. “Oh no, Alex,” you may say. “Now that I care about the environment, I don’t know how to save it from people who are like I was five minutes ago!” Fear not, reader,

there are some simple things you can do to help salvage the planet. Really, the best thing you could do for the environment would be to switch to renewable energy and drive an electric car, but that is impossible for some, especially since there are no electric car charging stations in Texarkana. It’s important to recycle, since recycling helps reduce waste. Another thing you can do is using less electricity, and turning off lights when you leave rooms. If you already do these things, good job! Now that you’ve earned your tree-hugger status you can plant as many trees as you want. The world could always use less carbon dioxide.

-Between 1990 and 2000, Americans wasted a total of 7.1 million tons of cans. -Half the world’s tropical and temperate forests have been destroyed. -110 million Americans live with harmful levels of pollution. -Some scientists believe the earth may only be able to sustain 2 billion humans by the year 2100. -31 countries are currently experiencing chronic freshwater shortages. -Each person generates 4.3 pounds of waste per day.

Imagine the lead female in the last live action movie you saw. Is she four inches shorter than the love interest? Probably. Does she have naturally long, dark eyelashes regardless of what color her hair is? Probably.

catastrophe

Film industry teaches girls to hate their hair

LEAH CREHSHAW staff writer

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tigertimes april 17, 2015

Does she have hair that has been heat treated to exemplify bouncy, smooth curls or sleek and straight wisps? Almost definitely. Most girls in movies have either ruler straight tresses or luscious bouncy curls. Naturally straight hair looks essentially the same as straightened hair. True curly hair, however, looks entirely different from movie curly hair. True curly hair doesn’t show up in movies. The rare exceptions with genuinely natural curly hair are either too young to be love interests, the best friends instead of the main characters or subject to extensive makeovers.

Case in point: The Princess Diaries. When dorky, socially awkward and generally considered to be unattractive Mia Thermopolis (played by Anne Hathaway) learns that she is actually the princess of an obscure European principality, she undergoes a series of makeovers to make her more suited to the royal life. The first thing to change? Her hair. Mia starts the film with a riotous, frizzy mass of hair so powerful it can snap the average hairbrush in two. After learning of her royal heritage, Mia gets a new ‘do from Paolo, the royal stylist tasked with taming her hair. It becomes pretty clear that as far as the director of The Princess Diaries thinks, curly hair is not attractive. The movie uses Mia’s hair to show her transformation from weird, dorky, nerd-girl to the beautiful princess. As a rambunctious little girl growing up with an equally rambunctious mass of curly hair, it doesn’t feel good to see the princess become pretty by nixing the hair that looks just like mine. I didn’t like hearing the comically foreign voice of Paolo criticizing my hair. But that’s just one movie, right? Well no. It isn’t. This is something in every movie. Hermione Granger

from Harry Potter was described as “bushy.” J. K. Rowling wrote Hermione’s hair to be genuinely bush-like in volume and curls. The directors of the movie do a good job of portraying this in the first three movies, but then it suddenly becomes gentle waves. No frizz, minimal volume, Hermione Granger’s hair magically becomes manageable when she goes through puberty and boys start liking her. Was it really too unbelievable to have a pretty girl with frizzy hair? In a movie with wizards and dragons and literal magic, was it really so unbelievable that Viktor Krum could fall in love with Hermione Granger and her hair? According to the directors, yes. The problem is that girls are taught to hate their own hair. Curly hair on TV becomes attached to certain personality traits like general awkwardness, probably a bit of clumsiness and maybe even being straight up unattractive. It’d be nice to once in a while see a girl with curly hair who is considered pretty by someone who isn’t her mother. Us curly haired girls never wanted hear Paolo shriek when he saw our hair. Us curly haired little girls wanted to hear the prince say he loved our curly hair.

Friends come in all sizes

PetsWill...

Junior shares the joys of owning leopard gecko

Reduce stress Some colleges feature “puppy rooms” during exams to help college students cope with their anxiety.

Leopard geckos are amazing. They don’t have fur. They don’t smell bad. Plus, they only have to be fed twice a week. In addition to these things, leopard geckos are extremely adorable. Don’t argue until you’ve seen one in person, and then try your hardest to not fall in love with their silly smiles or their beautiful markings. It’s nearly impossible. Geckos aren’t for everyone. Those who tend to be squeamish of bugs should probably stick to conventional pet choices, as the leopard gecko diet consists of crickets and mealworms. However, if you’re like me, owning a gecko is perfect because they require minimal effort. My leopard gecko, Artemis, was an early Christmas present from my mom. We set up her tank, which consists of reptilesafe carpet, a water dish, a loglike structure for her to hide in

and a heating pad. Since then, I’ve cleaned her tank twice and replaced the carpet once. Believe me, it was not out of laziness, but simply because leopard geckos aren’t dirty creatures. They even poop in a corner, far away from their heat source and hiding structure. Feeding leopard geckos is a bit more complex, but still less effort than one spends on the average dog or cat. They eat either crickets or mealworms, whichever the owner prefers. Crickets provide more nutrients, but they have to be given a food and water source or they won’t stay alive. Although mealworms are less nutritious for geckos, they are easier to keep alive when they’re not being used for food. They come in small, plastic containers that can be stored in a refrigerator for several weeks. No matter the bug, however, they must be covered in calcium powder prior to being fed to the gecko.

photo by a. tyson

KRISTIN MCCASLAND

Teach children to be nurturing/ responsible Just like playing house, the responsibilities of being a pet owner teach children to be more nurturing.

viewpoint editor

Heighten the immune system When brought up around pets, children are less likely to have asthma or allergies later on in their lives because of exposure to pet dander and dirt. Reduce loneliness This is why your stereotypical lonely old lady has so many cats. Calcium is very important to the health of leopard geckos and receiving too little could result in difficulty moving or an inability to walk. Overall, I love owning a leopard gecko. When I first got her, Artemis was very small and hardly tame. She used to hiss and bite and try to be as intimidating as possible every

time I held her. Now, we have an understanding: I hold her for a little while, then she gets food. It works out great, and she’s become a lot nicer than she was before. We watch TV, do homework and just hang out together. It’s like having a best friend that can’t talk, which, I’ve learned, is one of the best kinds of friends to have.

Break the ice Conversations such as “I have a dog too; what breed is yours?” have struck up many a relationship. I mean, just look Roger and Anita in the movie, 101 Dalmatians. Be there for you Lastly, pets make great friends. This needs no explanation. Compiled by Cailey Roberson

viewpoint

219 Insults I don’t find any joy in reading books. They’re mostly too boring, and I often lack the motivation to finish them unless I have to or I feel like I really want to. In fact, I haven’t read many books at all. However, one of the few books I have read was “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” I had mixed feelings about this book as it was being described by my English teacher. She said that this book was one of the most controversial stories ever made due to the fact that many people believe that it’s terribly racist because of the numerous amounts of times Mark Twain uses the “N” word. Some think it’s not. A lot of people believe that the book is not racist because Twain was showing how everyone spoke back in that time. My teacher wanted the class to read the first

10 chapters and then tell her what we thought about it, so I started the night I got home. For some reason that word has never sounded so coldly the amount of times I read it. Sure, I’ve heard it multiple times, people have even said it to my face, but I was starting to feel uneasy about reading this book. Twain used this word 219 times throughout novel. Every time it was said by a white person it was either used maliciously or as if blacks were just property. Yeah, I get it. I know. Blacks were nothing at the time. Nothing but walking trash that served white slave owners. I understood it the first time when Twain used it on page 2, page 3, and so on. There was no reason to keep using it, the readers got the point he was trying to make, but he just kept going. Once everyone in my class was

tigertimes april 17, 2015

Junior discusses controversial content in Mark Twain classic finished reading the 10 chapters, I wasn’t surprised to hear that many of them believe that the book was not racist. A lot of them said Twain was using the “N” word to show us how people spoke in that time and that since a white boy teamed up with a black man to obtain freedom it should not be considered racist. That is one of the stupidest things I have ever heard, but people are entitled to their own opinions, and I stayed silent in that classroom as I was slightly annoyed. They say it was Twain’s word of choice to address black people as they were nothing but scum at the time. People somehow see a deeper meaning in how he was using that word, but I must be blind because I don’t see anything but racism. A couple of weeks ago I was talking to my friends about the book and how I felt toward

Twain’s use of words. One of them believed that the word shouldn’t be considered that bad anymore because nowadays people can get creative over insulting people with a mixture of swear words. He said that racial slurs are now obsolete and that nobody should be insulted by them now. However, my other friend replied with something more brutal. He said to us, “The ‘N’ word is meant to imply that you are from a race doomed to fail, a race that is inherently less intelligent and less developed. Only suited to be slaves.” I finally understood why I got so uneasy reading the book. Every time I read that word it made me think of what my friend said. It insulted me, it insulted my family, and it insulted my race. I’m sorry, but you can’t tell me that this book is not racist

CONOR DIGGS co-entertainment editor

“For some reason that word has never sounded so coldly the amount of times I read it. Sure, I’ve heard it multiple times, people have even said it to my face, but I was starting to feel uneasy about reading this book.” with the amount of times Twain uses this word. Call me an idiot, I care not, but there is no catharsis anymore. I choose to forget this book, for it should never have been made, even if it is a “Great American Novel.”

Middle Eastern TERROR

Sophomore seeks to inform about spreading problem of ISIS by JILLIAN CHENEY staff writer The Islamic States of Iraq and Syria are subjects that most people don’t know about –and no, “ISIS kills people,” is not enough knowledge to have a general understanding of this terrorist group. Attacks performed by ISIS are disconcerting at best and downright nauseating at worst. If anything, this is a group that everyone should be informed about because it’s such a popular topic in the world today and more relevant than people seem to believe. Essentially, everything began with the terrorist group al Qaeda. There were a number of events leading to it, but ISIS began branching off in 2010 when the current leader was established in a position of power in the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI). Three years later, the leader Abu Bakr alBaghdadi was joined by a military group from Syria, and ISIS was created. Contrary to popular belief, this group does not have a sole purpose of killing. Each leader and member fully believes that he or she is fighting for the Islamic faith. The ultimate purpose is to restore the correct caliphate (or ruling group) over Middle Eastern lands. In order to restore this caliphate, ISIS must conquer land all over the Middle East

Most of them met members of ISIS online and kept in contact with them for months. Some of them were Muslims who weren’t happy with the way people of their religion were treated. One such boy said in a letter to his parents that America was evil for the way it treated Muslims. However, some of them are simply joining for the purpose of joining. The girls who join are married to ISIS leaders, which gives them no freedom and puts them under the control of these ruthless men. Some are taught to fight and sent to join regular ISIS troops, but so far no American or European teenager has been automatically promoted to leader of anything. In fact, a few who joined of their own free will have been killed. Articles have not specified a certain reason for the influx of teenagers joining ISIS, but whatever it is has won over dozens–enough to highlight airport security in many cities worldwide. This information isn’t to say Illustrations by Alex O’Gorman that everyone is naive enough to think that and kill anyone who refuses to accept their live in the Middle East, so there’s no chance joining ISIS is a smart idea. It is simply a beliefs. So far they have beheaded, shot, and of getting attacked. Maybe this is so, but reminder to be cautious. performed mass killings of innocent men, topics such as ISIS are relevant to teenagers The world is constantly changing, and women, and children. more than anyone else outside of the Middle not everyone can be trusted. Not everything It is sad, obviously, to think of the East. on the internet is true. It is better to be deaths of innocent people–such a quality is Multiple teenage males and females from informed and opinionated than ignorant and ingrained in human nature. However, most across the world have attempted to join ISIS, opinionated. By knowing and understanding American people don’t think it’s something and many of them succeeded. Only now do important world issues, it is much easier for they should lose sleep over because they don’t airports do multiple checks for protection. one to hold their own.

feature

tigertimes april 17, 2015

photo by b. o’shaughnessy

MONIKER MADNESS Students shed light on origins of names by RAGA JUSTIN staff writer

resides here in Texas High, but there are some whose stories are interesting nonetheless. Some names are loaded with significance, making them doubly important to the owner. “My middle name means ‘father’s messenger’ in a Nigerian dialect, where my parents are from,” senior Natalie Onyegesi said. “In Nigeria the middle name is very meaningful to us. This means I am God’s messenger.” Onyegesi’s first name was carefully chosen as well. “I was born and raised in Italy, so my first name is pronounced ‘Nuh-TAHLay’,” Onyegesi said. “I changed it when I came here to make it easier to pronounce. It means Christmas, which is around when I was born. Also, Christmas is a time very close to my family’s heart.” Other students have names unique not for their meaning, but for how many people share it. “Me and my brother have the same name,” sophomore Sammie Brown Jr. said. “My father and little brother have the same exact name as well. I don’t really like that, because too many people get us mixed up, like teachers and administrators.” Parents often choose names associated with distinctive characters, perhaps hoping

They’re a combination of words thrust upon you, regardless of your wishes or personality. They’re the label you carry through childhood, alternately hating or loving or not caring one whit about. Names are important, even if you’re one of those who view ‘em only as something you slap down on papers and property to claim possession. They’re the single most important way of identification today, and we see them both as functional- “Hi, my name is [your name here], and I’d like a large pizza to go”- and a way to express our inner creativity- “Why yes, I did indeed rename myself Snoop Dogg to push the boundaries of normality.” Perhaps the only thing more interesting than names themselves is the mentality behind them. Some are more insane than others, like that one mother curiously compelled to name her daughter after a direction not even featured prominently on the compass rose. Another- presumably desperate to be a member of the British peerage- renamed herself Lady Gaga and went on to fulfill the promises of her title by dressing in meat. Thankfully, nobody quite as crazy

their child will grow up to emulate similar personality traits. “Adonis was a Greek god or something who was strong and got all the ladies,” junior Addonis Fort said. “I guess my parents wanted me to be like him.” Family histories are ripe with venerable ancestors, and inspiration is often derived from these legendary figures. “My full name is James Hutchings Tidwell,” sophomore Hutch Tidwell said. “My great-grandfather, Hutchings Myers, was this oil tycoon who came from England to America when the civil war started. So he joined and was a commander in the Union army. He was a cool person, I think.” Namesakes are also a way to honor

individuals, family or not. “I was named after Anne Frank,” junior Annie Hounsel said. “But my greatgrandmother had an African-American housekeeper who was like a part of the family and raised my mom. Her name was Annie, so they call me Annie.” Popular culture can also influence the future classroom roll call. “Before I was born my mom watched ‘The Bodyguard’ with Whitney Houston and loved it,” junior Whitney Abadom said. “She’d always liked [Houston’s] voice too. That’s how I got my first name.” “Names are everything,” sophomore Ricky Cooks said. “They’re how we tell people apart, recognize celebrities. Without a name, you’d be nothing.”

There’s that moment when you know you’re getting in trouble, you may not know why, but you just know you must have done something because of this uncanny sixth sense. And my mischievous self always seemed to be in trouble as a child. I saw her slinking shadow, and I could hear the crinkle of a recently graded paper as she stalked towards my desk. I felt her dark brown, beady eyes loom over my desk. They were piercing through my head, scrounging to pull out what terrible thing I had probably done earlier that day. Trying to build my defense case, my eyes cautiously peeked up but were distracted by the haphazard smear of tacky, hot pink lipstick attempting to cover the mole gracing the edge of her upper lip. Before I could cower in fear, she slammed her hand in the middle of my desk, my paper trapped in her claws. My petrified fourth grade self shrunk back as spit flew from her pursed lips. Her pinched face barked out accusingly, “Why is your name

photo by s. rogers

WHY THE Y? Junior changes spelling of name

MOLLY CROUCH feature editor

spelled wrong? It is illegal to change your name just because you feel like it.” Not being able to justify my spontaneous decision to change the spelling of my name on a homework assignment that now has no relevance whatsoever, I simply sat there dumbfounded as my classmates and teacher glared at me. I resisted the urge to cry as she continued to berate me of my felony.

Yes, I know what you’re thinking. How could I misspell my name? I was in fourth grade after all. But as a fourth grader, I didn’t understand the issue. It was my name, not hers, so why did it matter that I wanted it to look different? The fact that she lashed out over a simple switch of “Mollie” to “Molly” remains a mystery. Mollie, as it was spelled on my original birth certificate, is not a common spelling or even a common name. Any time my family visited a souvenir shop or a gas station with trinkets that were personalized, there was never a “Mollie.” If I was lucky, there might be a “Molly.” It seems so trivial now that I was always disappointed and upset when I couldn’t find my own cup or blinking key chain. “Molly” was this new, edgy way to spell my name in my younger eyes. I would be hard core and spunky and different. “Mollie” was too plain Jane for my rebellious attitude. I refused to change the spelling back for another week or so, which led to a letter

from my mother. The letter summed up was “We’re working on it.” I coughed up $36 to order a new birth certificate, thus eradicating the spectacle “Mollie” created. During the six weeks I had to wait for it to be mailed, I felt like a superstar. I, the student, snubbed the teacher because I had essentially won this silent name battle between us. When I presented the school’s copy to our principal’s secretary, it was like the final war cry. My teacher’s persistent nagging and backhand comments were sufficiently snuffed. Today, people often are bewildered when they see an old photo or project from my elementary days with the former spelling. It was never a hard decision to change my name. I didn’t like that I was different from other people, and I wanted to stand my ground to spite my overreacting teacher. Some days when I come across those old things, I miss that small piece that set me apart from others. Even as a fourth grader though, I knew I was truly me with a Y.

feature

tigertimes april 17, 2015

PUMPING awareness by MOLLY CROUCH FEATURE EDITOR

unior Kayce Welch created the “One of a Kind” project to help raise funds and awareness of juvenile diabetes, which catapulted her to be selected as The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Distinguished Finalist for 2015. The pancreas is in charge of breaking down the sugars that the body can’t digest. Welch had begun fifth grade when she noticed the signs that something was wrong with her body. “Everywhere I went I had to go to the bathroom,” Welch said. “I was always drinking water, just really sick a lot. Then one night, I got so sick that they had to take me to [Arkansas Children’s Hospital,] and that’s where they diagnosed me as a Type 1 diabetic.” Attached at the hip, Welch has to monitor her insulin through a small pink pump. Her blood sugar has to maintain between 70-150 to have a normal level. “My pancreas doesn’t work at all, so I don’t have any insulin and that’s why I take insulin through a pump,” Welch said. “It pushes it through my body so that after I eat a meal, instead of taking five shots a day, I can just type it in, and it gives me the exact amount of insulin I need.” In addition to Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes occurs when there is an excess amounts of fats and sugars. “It’s really hard to say it in a way a lot of people understand because there’s a thin line, but there’s also a big difference,” Welch said. “I don’t really like comparing them because Type 2 is avoidable. There is no way to avoid [Type 1.] If it’s in your family, then someone else will probably get it.”

Now Welch has to constantly monitor her diet every meal to make sure she doesn’t harm her body with the wrong foods. “I used to be able and go around and eat whatever I want and not feel bad,” Welch said. “Now it’s like, ‘okay, I can’t do this or eat this because I don’t have enough insulin, or I just can’t do that because it’ll be too much for my body to process, and I’ll get sick.’ Whenever I go to eat, I’m always thinking how much can I eat, how should I pace myself and what I need to stay away from. It’s a subconscious thing now.” Although being wary of everything she eats, Welch doesn’t find the task as difficult as most people without her disease would believe. “People think ‘Oh it’s probably so hard to handle or get a grasp on [diabetes,]’” Welch said. “It’s actually not that hard. Whenever you do something for so long it becomes like a morning routine. I have to check my sugar before I drive and write it down. I have a log because once a week I have to send my log to my doctors in Little Rock. They will tell me if I should change the amount of insulin I should take per hour or day.” Family friend and owner of Four States Magazine, Robin Rogers, came on board in Nov. 2013 when Welch presented her the charity plans. Together they organized a mile walk that raised $3,000 and have an upcoming gala project. “She was beyond ecstatic about the idea,” Welch said. “[Type 1 is] everywhere, four million people and counting. She was so happy, and she said we were going to have a walk and a

Diabetes can lead to heart disease and stroke. Most diabetics take pills or insulin shots. Most diabetic deaths occur in underdeveloped countries.

Kayce Welch was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 11. Now at age 17, she has used her condition as a catalyst to promote her “One of a Kind” charity and to speak out on behalf of others in similar situations. She foresees a promising, diabetes-free future.

SWEET SUCCESS Junior Kayce Welch was selected as a Distinguished Finalist for her efforts in raising funds and awareness for juvenile diabetes. photo by r. lewis

gala all on [her.] The following July, we had our first mile walk that had a really good turn out. I didn’t think [it would] because we were so new to this and charity work, but over a 100 people showed up.” For the past three years, Welch has attended a diabetic camp where they learn the ins and outs of diabetes, hang out with other kids who share their disease and have fun swimming and making crafts. She chose this camp for her first donation. “You used to could bring a friend or family member that was not diabetic with you because being new to all these things can be really hard, and you need someone there,” Welch said. “They were short on funds because it’s a free camp. They don’t have the resources to allow that anymore, so they’ve had to say no to non diabetics, unless they’re helping. The first thing our money went to was the camp, so we can supply food and different things that they need.”

As many as 29 million people

ha v

On April 25, Welch and Rogers are holding the charity’s first black and white soiree in hopes of raising over $30,000$50,000 from different events during the gala, such as entertainment and silent auctions. In a recent Four States’ Fair issue, Welch was printed on the cover, promoting their next event. “[Robin] has been contacting so many people,” Welch said. “It’s such a phenomenal feeling that you’re surrounded by people who want to help because until now, I’ve never had that. It’s just been our family, and now we have people all over the city who have something that will help.” Recently, Welch was announced as a finalist for the Prudential Presidency Community Award for her contribution and volunteerism for diabetes research. “It was a huge honor just getting the list saying I was a finalist, knowing I did something. It took my breath away,” Welch

said. “Sending it in I was really worried because I’m just a kid with diabetes and scoliosis, that’s not very much. It’s like ‘yeah, you have diabetes and scoliosis, but what have you done to alert others, to help others.’ I did a charity and went to D.C. It’s the little things that make it big. It made me feel like this was a real thing, and this is something I need to keep doing.” Although Welch didn’t win the scholarship, she gained more experience. “Just the recognition we’ve gotten from these little contributions have been amazing,” Welch said. “I never got awards as a kid, so now it’s an overwhelming feeling of what else can I do to accomplish what I need.” Despite the lack of a cure, Welch keeps a positive attitude. “It’s a disease,” Welch said. “There’s no other way to look at it. It affects someone and can’t be prevented. Diabetes is incurable, but whenever I’m at school or work, I do whatever I can to just stay where I am and just keep going.” Even though a cure seems impossible, Welch hopes one will be found. “My goal by the end of my life is to die without diabetes,” Welch said. “It’s a little weird to say, but how good would it be to say that I was part of the cure of the incurable disease. That would be amazing to feel, no more worrying, no more being scared at night. It would be all gone. Just everyday is hard, and I don’t like saying ‘You don’t know what I’ve been through lately.’ It’s been such a transition from not knowing anything to now asking what can I do to help others.” DIABETES FACTS

een

diagn

U.S. osed with diabetes in the

photo illustration by Alex O’ Gormon

community

A CO LL E

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AN K R

tigertimes april 17, 2015

EXPERIENCE TEXARKANA COLLEGE THROUGH THE EYES OF A STUDENT College life is fun. It’s exciting. It’s challenging. And to help you decide whether Texarkana College is the right place for you, we want to give you the opportunity to experience college life first-hand.

Ready to get started? Request your tour today at www.texarkanacollege.edu/TCUpClose or contact our recruitment team for details!

With a TC Up Close tour, we’ll pair you with a current TC student who is working toward the same career or educational goals as you. You won’t just tour our campus—you’ll attend classes, visit the department or academic area of your interest, have lunch on campus, meet with an enrollment advisor, and make connections with the faculty and staff who will help guide you through your experience here at TC.

www.texarkanacollege.edu

Lydia Knight Student Recruiter 903-823-3199 lydia.knight@texarkanacollege.edu DeAndre Reed Student Recruiter 903-823-3200 deandre.reed@texarkanacollege.edu

in-depth

tigertimes feb. 13, 2015

design by Caroline May & Tyler Snell/photo illustration by s. pritchard

nomophobia noun a fear of losing your cell phone signal, runnning out of battery, or losing sight of your phone. survey of 102 students

suffer from nomophobia

25% male 54% female

check phone at school 85% male 98% female

check phone on dinner date 33% male 50% female

check phone 67% male at dinner 67% female with family take to bathroom

69% male 81% female

average minutes on phone of 10 students* Sunday Monday

Tuesday

226

180

208

Wednesday Thursday 268

286

Friday

Saturday

286

212

*voluntary response

Cell phone epidemic affects students’ daily lives ROBERT HOOVER co-editor-in-chief Technology has crept into every corner of daily life. It’s no longer confined to small TV’s in the living room or personal computers sitting on work desks. Little rectangles now bulge from every pocket, purse and bag. Cell phones have become more than tools; they are extensions of their owners. Today’s teenagers have grown up alongside the cellular phone revolution. Many owned classics such as the Motorola Razor, Firefly or any of the infamous slide phones. Even though these represented significant strides at the time, it wasn’t until smartphones hit the market that the whole game changed. All of the new technology created in their lifetime, plus a little more, had been bundled up into something so small it can fit in your hand. When the iPhone was introduced in 2007, 6.1 million were sold. Since then, the line to the Apple store has only grown and wrapped around more corners. With Apple and it’s competitors gaining such immense popularity, almost 1.25 billion smartphones were sold last year. Curiosity turned into desire, desire turned into longing, longing

into obsession and now obsession has morphed into addiction. We find ourselves consumed by our devices, spending more and more time staring at bright little screens. “I feel like we’ve become obsessed with cell phones,” freshman Matt Prieskorn said. “People aren’t as creative as past generations, you’ve got to go outside and figure out things to do with your friends. You can’t just get on your cell phone and text them, you actually have to talk to them in person. Phones are a great thing but when you have to have them it’s a problem.” Many people jokingly say they can’t live without their phone, or they would be a wreck without it. What’s scary is that there may actually be some validity in this. The University of Missouri conducted a study earlier this year on the effect of taking away cell phones from regular users. The experiment consisted of a group of people, who thought they were testing wireless blood pressure cuffs, doing basic cognitive tests such as word search puzzles. Once they did one round of tests, the researchers told them they had to put their phones on the other side of the experiment room because it was causing interference with the cuffs. During the second round, the researchers noticed a significant increase in anxiety, blood pressure and heart rate levels and a significant decrease in puzzle performance. This is an example of the phenomenon known as phone separation anxiety. Regular cell phone users appear to struggle with tasks and be nervous when out of reach of their devices. Yes,

With technology becoming such an overwhelming part of our world, many are beginning to wonder just how much it consumes us. Humans are losing social interactions and are beginning to be plugged into technology.

separation anxiety, once a thing people got from being away from their home or a loved one can now be seen with Blackberries and Androids. “I get kinda nervous when I don’t have my phone because I’m afraid someone might need me or I’m suppose to do something,” senior Sidney Rogers said. “I go to a camp [during summer] for a month with no phone. The first week I keep looking for it and get worried about it. I feel like I’m in a completely different world. It just takes a while to get use to.” It has also been found that phones can become “extensions” of their users and, when separated, can cause a “lessening of self.” The Missouri researchers have urged people to keep their phones with them if they are performing anything requiring a great deal of attention or taking any kind of test, seeing as their performance may suffer otherwise. “I don’t feel like myself, it’s like somethings missing,” senior Faith Rhone said. “I’m constantly worried about where it is.” Social interaction has also been affected by the adoption of smart phones. Social media is used to connect with friends and family without actually seeing them. Users of social media can feel in touch with people they haven’t seen in person for years. While this proves useful for keeping in contact with those who can’t be normally visited, it also takes away incentive for actual human interaction. Instead of going to speak face to face with someone, or even calling, more and more people have adopted texting as their chosen method of communication.

“I text more than I call,” junior Tyler Beene said. “It seems as though people are using text messages more to contact people rather than actual human contact.” Here rises the dilemma. Do we ditch our phones and start writing letters with quill pens, or do we just keep trucking down the path we are on until phones are embedded into our heads? Luckily, there is a compromise to save us from choosing between becoming Amish or Verizon Cyborgs. People need to use phones in moderation and leave them behind from time to time. Considering that phones have been proven to cause negative effects when missing, and have become become necessary for several jobs and basic communication, this is something to ease into. “If I leave my phone somewhere I’m worried about it, but sometimes I purposely make myself set the phone down and separate,” senior Nick Richter said. “Sometimes I feel like I get too attached to it. I think being separated from my phone for a long time would be good for my time management skills and things like that, but it would also be bad because thats how my parents contact me, thats how I know whats going on, thats how I send out stuco reminders.” As we push forward with more and more technological advancements, we must also learn how to discipline ourselves. Phones need to return to being mere tools, not lifelines. It’s time to disconnect from the service providers and connect with each other.

iSelf

Junior tells experience of living one week without her cell phone KRISTIN MCCASLAND viewpoint editor A few weeks ago, I volunteered to give up my cell phone for one week as part of a small-scale experiment conducted by our wonderful newspaper staff. The goal was to determine if humans are as attached to their mobile devices as we appear to be. You may consider me insane, and I tend to agree. In fact, moments after volunteering myself, I was already regretting my decision to part with my baby. However, it had to be done by someone and I like a challenge. Here is what I experienced each day I spent without my cell phone: Day one So far, not having a phone isn’t that bad! I don’t have to worry about those annoying texts from group messages, and it’s a great excuse to escape my mother’s constant tracking. Although I’ve been utterly bored for the majority of the day, I’ll eventually find something productive to do in my free time. Maybe I’ll start reading a new book, or actually finish my homework before eleven. The week will be over before I know it, and I will have conquered the challenge that few teenagers in their right mind would ever attempt. Day two I have discovered that I have absolutely no sense of time. After checking my pockets at least 50 times yesterday, I’ve decided to break out my lifeguarding watch, which is a cheap plastic thing from Walmart. It may not be cute, but at least now I know when class is over. And so much for being productive! After binge-watching “Dance Moms” for longer than I care to admit, then doing my homework, I still went to bed at eleven. Oh well, five more days left. Day three Today, I haven’t gotten anything accomplished because I’ve been extremely distracted. Every time I try to do something productive, I last about 5 minutes before I start staring off into space or doing something else equally as stupid. I’m annoying myself. Is that normal? I don’t know, but this isn’t how I usually act and it’s frustrating. Day four I’m finally getting (somewhat) used to the absence of my cell phone. Although, I’m sad to say that I’ve completely filled every moment that I would have spent staring at my phone with TV or computer. I play online games for at least an hour when I get home from school, then I watch TV while I eat dinner. I’ve also been using my computer to listen to music while I do my homework. I feel thoroughly disgusted with myself, but I’m only trying to stay entertained, which is becoming increasingly difficult to do. Day five I’ve rediscovered my old Webkinz account and I spent the better half of two hours feeding my 23 pets and playing games. I felt like I was in fourth grade again. What am I doing with my life? Day six Today, I hardly noticed my missing phone. I spent the day by going to a movie with my mom and then later, a date with my boyfriend. I didn’t spend one minute worrying about what my friends were doing or who was posting what on social media. If living without a cell phone was always this great, I would gladly give mine up permanently. But, unfortunately, it’s not. Day seven I think I’m finally going into withdrawal, and it’s bad. I’m so tired of this. I want my phone back. Now.

community

tigertimes april 17, 2015

feature

tigertimes april 17, 2015

FROM LITTLE LEAGUE TO IVY LEAGUE

ROLE MODEL Assisting students in English teacher Robin Welsh’s class, Harvard graduate Carlton Bailey is able to share his experiences about attending an Ivy League university. photo by k. brinkmeyer

Instructional aide recounts time spend at Harvard, focuses on experiences made there, future plans by RAGA JUSTIN staff writer Numbers whirl across the page and jump off into nothingness, while the steady hum of the classroom is dulled by a fantastical daydream. With a sharp ring, the telephone heralds a welcome distraction from statistical improbabilities and current birth rates. Brought back to reality by the calling of his name, he takes the phone, bemused and presses it to his ear. A hearty voice greets him, uttering the words that will change the course of his life. “This is Tom Lo Ricco from Harvard Baseball. It’s nice to meet you, son.” Instructional aide Carlton Bailey was a member of the 2009 graduating class, a dedicated student and baseball player. Growing up, his future seemed inscribed in stone. “I grew up in Oklahoma City, and I always wanted to go to OU and play baseball,” Bailey said. “And literally into senior year that was still my plan. Through high school, I really didn’t stress about where I was headed like most of my classmates. It wasn’t an issue.” Fate intervened in the form of a phone call in his statistics class, during which he spoke to a Harvard baseball coach and first learned of the university’s interest in him. “I was like ‘What? Wait, why?’” Bailey said. “They hadn’t even seen me play, hadn’t heard of me. I didn’t know what they were going for. He was like ‘We’ve heard of you, and we’re interested in you’ and I said ‘How?’ You know, the obvious question, and he said ‘From our former coaches, and we think you’d be a good fit.’” Skeptical, Bailey kept in contact with the coach for weeks. “I was still thinking it wasn’t realistic,” Bailey said. “I was thinking ‘Yeah, this is a joke, it’ll

fizzle out, and I’ll go to OU.’ After a couple of months I was like OK, this guy keeps calling me every week, something’s real.” The real test came when he was invited to a camp in Boston to play baseball with other prospective applicants. “I went up to the camp and did really well,” Bailey said. “And that very day after my last game, they told me to apply to Harvard, and I was like ‘Woah, really?’” Elated, Bailey decided to apply but worried about the steep tuition. His fears were soon assuaged. Harvard calculates tuition with an algorithm that takes both parents’ incomes into account. If a family’s total income is below $60,000 a year, tuition is free. “As long as you’re accepted, Harvard doesn’t want money to be an issue, and millions of people don’t know that,” Bailey said. “I say I’ve gone to Harvard, and they’re like ‘Wow you have money’ and I laugh and say ‘No, I don’t.’” After the dust settled, his application was accepted and his decision was made, Bailey left Texarkana for Boston, where he quickly settled into college life. “It’s a totally different dimension,” Bailey said. “My first day on campus was awesome. I met my best friends, who I’m still extremely close with. I was walking around Harvard Yard, and I saw this group of kids next to the John Harvard statue. I walked up to them and said ‘Hi, I’m Carlton,’ I was wearing this neon yellow Fresh Prince of BelAir shirt that had Carlton Banks on it, and they looked at me and said ‘Seriously?’ I nodded and then we all laughed.” Bailey was aware of all the nose-in-the-air cultural stereotypes surrounding the Ivy League lifestyle but discovered most of them proved to be

ON HARVARD “There were people from all over, it’s not just one ethnic group. I thought originally it would be this WASP-y type atmosphere, but there were people from Africa to New Zealand, all different classes. It was diversity everywhere, not just cultural. But it’s crazy because even though everyone’s so different, there’s so much common ground. I absolutely loved that.” Carlton Bailey

unfounded. One of his closest friends was the son of the CEO of American Express, a fact he wasn’t aware of until more than a year of friendship. “He never flaunted it,” Bailey said. “There were people like that all over. I went to school with princes. My senior year, there was a Kennedy. There were some powerful people, but I never felt intimidated or looked down on. That was the great thing about Harvard.” Culture shock was imminent, but Bailey adapted and enjoyed the bricolage of heritages and lifestyles found in Boston. “There were people from all over, it’s not just one ethnic group,” Bailey said. “I thought originally it would be this WASP-y type atmosphere, but there were people from Africa to New Zealand, all different classes. It was diversity everywhere, not just cultural. But it’s crazy because even though everyone’s so different, there’s so much common ground. I absolutely loved that.” While adjusting to life in a new world was easy, managing school and a sport proved to be much tougher. “I loved my teachers here, they were great,” Bailey said. “But there’s really no way you can prepare for Ivy League rigor until you’re there. Freshman year I struggled. There were nights I was

like ‘What did I get myself into?’ My social life was nonexistent. Playing a D1 sport in college is a job. It was definitely tough, but if I had to do it again, I would. I don’t regret it.” Faced with multiple career choices- music production, corporate law, even sports marketing- Bailey is unclear about which one he’ll end up opting for. “The possibilities are endless, and the hardest thing to do is choose,” Bailey said. “I don’t want to end up stagnant with work. I like spice too much. Working should be interesting, where you’re laughing and having a good time a lot.” But it’s the question hovering on everyone’s lips that has Bailey laughing right now. “Kids always ask why I’m living here after Harvard,” Bailey said. “Those four years were tough mentally, physically. I came back here to regroup and see what I have in front of me, what I’ve done, what I need to do to get where I want to be.” Life is good at the moment, and Bailey isn’t in a rush to change it. “People are like ‘You’re scared to leave now,’ and I just laugh and tell them ‘No, I’m just waiting,’” Bailey said. “I’m young, you know. You’re not young forever. I’m just hanging out, trying to enjoy the time I have, and we’ll just see where I go.”

community

Texas High

Horticulture Department Poinsettias ~ Live Christmas ~ Wreaths Pansies ~ Houseplants ~ Garden Plants Mums ~ Homecoming Arrangements Please contact: Kim Spaulding (903) 794-3891 @ext. 2241/2254, email: spauldingk@txkisd.net or Kaye Ramirez (903) 794-3891@ext. 2241, email: ramirezk@txkisd.net

tigertimes feb. 13, 2015

feature

tigertimes april 17, 2015

NO CHOICE INVOLVED: PEOPLE DON’T CHOOSE THEIR OWN SEXUAL ORIENTATION

by BETHANY DOWD staff writer

“Everybody’s journey is individual,” James Baldwin said. “If you fall in love with a boy, you fall in love with a boy. The fact that many Americans consider it a disease Bethany Dowd says more about them than it does staff writer opinion piece about homosexuality.” Homosexuality has become one WAYS TO GET HELP. of the biggest and most controversial YOU’RE NOT ALONE. topics of the century. Everyone’s feelings are clashing with one Trevor Lifeline at another as the rights of gay people 866-488-7386 are fought for. Some constantly argue that homosexuality is a www.7cupsoftea.com condition that can only be cured National Suicide Prevention through some “fantastic” miracle. Lifeline: 1 (800) 273-8255 They honestly think that it is

contagious, an idea that was mainly spread in the ‘80s when the AIDs virus began running rampant with no cure. These people think that loving the same gender is filthy, and they relentlessly justify their beliefs with close-minded logic. You don’t get to choose your sexuality, that’s not how it works. You can’t force yourself to love someone. Imagine it this way, let’s say the social norm is dating goats. It’s all the rage right now. If you don’t love goats, you’re an outcast. Just like you can’t forge romantic feelings for a goat, homosexual people cannot forge a heterosexual relationship. Gay people are constantly fixed with dirty looks, degrading

comments, and even breaches of their rights. Constantly. This is everyday life for them. They don’t choose to make their life this difficult. They don’t choose to argue back and forth with their families. They don’t choose to deal with mocking everyday. They don’t choose to be gay. I may not be gay, but I understand. I understand that a girl can like a girl, and a boy can like a boy. That makes sense to me. What doesn’t make sense to me is when my friend comes to my house with a suitcase because his parents told him that he was dead to them and will be until he decided to be straight. They told him that he was an abomination to the human race

and that he needed serious help, leaving me wondering how you can so utterly reject your child for something they can’t fix. I can’t explain why people are so prejudiced, and I don’t understand that. I don’t think I ever will. But I do know that being gay is hard. It always has been. But you cannot deny who you are for the comfort of others. And you’re not the only one who is scared of the inevitable hate, there are millions, just like you. Millions of people who know there is nothing wrong with you. Talk to them, and if you’re having trouble finding them, I’ve left some references for you. Utilize them. No one has to do this by themselves.

ATTRACTION COMPLEX

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

In many instances, the hatred that is inspired by non heterosexual/gender conforming people is based on ignorance. This is a short, basic list for the many labels that fall under the marginalized sexualities and gender identities umbrella. The definitions of these labels may change from person to person. ASEXUALITY: no attraction BISEXUALITY: attraction to same and other genders DEMISEXUALITY: attraction after forming an emotional bond HOMOSEXUALITY: attraction to someone of the same gender PANSEXUALITY: attraction regardless of gender TRANSGENDER: not identifying with the gender assigned at birth GENDER QUEER: not identifying within the gender binary GENDER FLUID: gender fluctuates and flows

GENDER, SEXUALITY BRING UP QUESTIONS ABOUT JUNIOR’S IDENTITY

by AMANDA HACKLEMAN managing editor “Are you gay, or are you straight?” “Well...” No one would assume such a simple question could lead to the erasure of an entire group of people. Whether identifying as bisexual, polysexual, pansexual, or on the ace spectrum, many can’t really answer honestly. They’ll always lie about a part of themselves. The way our society sees people is limited. If a person is dating someone of the same gender, they’re gay. If they’re dating someone of the opposite gender, they’re straight. Any other orientation is erased or trodden upon as being “greedy” or “fake.” Junior Brittini Simmons has been on the receiving end of this many times. Identifying as a gender fluid pansexual has brought disrespect and degradation. Many people just don’t know what these labels mean, and immediately reject what they don’t understand. “When I get around to telling people or they find out about it, there’s usually like two reactions,” Simmons said. ‘Either it’s “oh that’s

I USUALLY TRY TO SURROUND MYSELF WITH PEOPLE WHO DON’T JUDGE ON OUTWARD APPEARANCE, OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR ANY OF THOSE TYPE OF THINGS.” -BRITTINI SIMMONS, 11

cool’ or it’s ‘so that means you’re gay, and you’re flying the rainbow flag’” Simmons discovered this identity and has since met people who do not understand it. The very definitions of being gender fluid and pansexual are an important part of the identity. “For me, pansexual is someone who loves someone or feels for

someone not based on gender or their sexual orientation.” Simmons said. “Being gender fluid is when you don’t really identify with either male or female but rather identify as both.” Gender fluidity causes strife as they struggle to express this identity. Each day brings with it the question of masculinity or femininity. Even clothing choice changes based on the day and is an important part of self-expression. “Sometimes it’s difficult,” Simmons said. “Some days you wake up and you’re like ‘Oh, I feel more masculine today.’ Sometimes you don’t get to express that fully. In classes I don’t get to be like ‘Teacher, I’m feeling more masculine today. Can you use male pronouns today?’ I feel like because I’m gender fluid, I want to express it, since I can’t come out and say it. The biggest thing for me is to express it however I can and what I can express it through is my clothes. That’s my one way of kind of expressing how I feel that day.” Simmons believes their friends are an important part of their life. “With most of my friends, I usually try to surround myself with people who don’t judge on outward

appearance, or sexual orientation or any of those type of things,” Simmons said. “When my friends found out, they were completely okay with it because they were more caring of my personality and me as a person than my sexual orientation or my identity. Your friends are your support system. If you have a good group of friends who support you, then you can basically get through anything. If you have a good group of friends to come to, then you can power through anything, especially with their care.” Simmons wants those out there struggling with their identity to be comfortable in whatever way they identify and to create their own friendly support system. “For anyone out there who is [gender fluid] and they haven’t come out yet, feel comfortable with yourself.” Simmons said. “You should feel comfortable with the group of friends that you’re in to be able to express yourself. You shouldn’t ever feel like you’re confined to one gender because that’s what everybody expects. You should be yourself and you should reflect, or show that however you feel necessary.”

sports

HIGH FLYING During his second attempt, senior Javon Thomas performs the triple jump at the Liberty Eylau track meet March 27. He jumped a 41.4’ and placed fourth overall. photo by s. rogers

RECORD BREAKER

JUMPING OVER HURDLES

Bad weather gives sluggish start to track season giving team members little time to make necessary improvements before heading to district meet by TYLER SNELL co-news editor

us because we feel we have to get back to their level,” Davis said. “We are realizing that we just have to work harder, and it will take work to get where they were.” Senior Javon Thomas said he feels the same about the triple jump event. “I have to work harder because there are a lot of people from other schools that are jumping pretty far,” Thomas said. “The team as a whole has to work on running hard in practice because that is what getting to us. We have to stay together as a group and work on things individually.” Despite finishing fifth in the first track meet at Hallsville, freshman Elias Thurman thinks the future is bright. “We are getting better, track meet by track meet,” Thurman said. “[Fifth place isn’t] good, but we will be higher by the end of this year.” The boys relays consist of Williamson, Thomas, senior Jarion Anderson, and Davis. At the track meet at Liberty Eylau on March 26, the team finished second to the host Leopards. The girls also finished second behind the host team after coming close out of the field events. Liberty Eylau won with 201 points over 129 by the girls. Girls also had a shakier start due to weather but look forward to advancing in the district, regional and state meets. “I think we are doing better than [where] we started out, even with the canceled track meets,” sophomore Takeba Dowden said. “We need to stay focused on getting where we need to be and work hard

and not slack off.” Freshman Ryann Williams and senior Chauzney Hooks lead the distance group, competing in the 800 and mile. “I think [distance is] doing pretty good,” Hooks said. “We will do our best, and we will get there.” The field events are just as successful as the distance events. “Field is doing really good. Everyone is getting first, second and third, so we are contributing to the points,” junior Kaylyn Coleman said. “We should all go to district, regionals and field should go to state. The jumping and throwing events have really pulled through.” Looking toward post-season meets, some feel that the relay handoffs are in need of a tune up. “Our relays did good, but some of our handoffs weren’t as great as they need to be,” Williams said. Teammates said these minor problems can be easily fixed with more practice. “We have some unexperienced people on relays, so the handoffs are a little slow, but we are getting better,” Dowden said. “We are definitely progressing.” The teams competed in the district meet Wednesday and will compete in the regional meet May 1. “I like competing and getting better,” freshman Will Harrell said. “It’s just challenging and fun to try to get better. Sometimes you can do something that most people can’t and that’s just a great feeling.”

Sophomore Grant Jarvis broke 26-year-old records in the 3200 and 1600 meters, formerly held by former Texas High runner Drew Prisner. “It felt fantastic once I broke the 3200m record,” Jarvis said. “I was behind my target pace with a lap to go and sprinted out the last lap fast enough to make it, so it was a huge a relief. I thank God for it and will have to drop 7 seconds if I want my name beside the 1600m school record.” k. brinkmeyer

The runners crouch into starting positions with feet locked against the blocks. In a split second, the gun is fired and track runners are off to the races to capture the gold. Legs and lungs burn, but they push through the pain for that sweet taste of glory every athlete strives for. Boys and girls varsity track teams began their seasons with a rough start, largely due to weather complications. “Earlier in the season, the relays kind of struggled with all the rain and lack of practice,” junior Chaz Davis said. “I feel towards the middle of the season we will be one of the best in the state again.” After the loss of Kevin Harris and Trey Walker, who graduated last year, many were doubting how this year’s team would perform. However, many current team members don’t see the loss as a setback. “Nothing has really changed since last year because we still have speed,” senior Dale Williamson said. “ It will just have to be a process that we will have to keep working at. We are getting better and better in practice everyday.” Working day in and day out, the team has been practicing even while facing complications with rain and winter weather. It has been especially hard with the pressure of last year’s state winning team over their heads. “It’s kind of putting a lot of pressure on

tigertimes april 17, 2015

FAR AHEAD Sophomore Grant Jarvis broke two 26-year-old records during the Liberty Eylau track meet. He did not compete in district because he participated in a triathlon in Mexico.

sports

tigertimes april 17, 2015

s. rogers

RUNNING IN CIRCLES Freshman juggles 5 sports by JESSICA EMERSON sports editor

to volleyball and cross country, she rarely had time to catch her breath. “During volleyball season it was hard balancing cross country and volleyball,” Williams said. “I had to get up and be at the school at six in the morning and run my eight miles, get a quick shower and head straight to volleyball practice. I didn’t really get a break.” Along with the time constraint, the physical aspect proved to be a difficult feat. “It was hard because my legs

were dead and we did a lot of leg exercises in volleyball,” Williams said. “It was difficult, but my legs got stronger throughout the year and I was able to do it.” As basketball approached, cross country and volleyball came to an end, giving Williams an opportunity to relax and enjoy the basketball season ahead. “Basketball season didn’t interfere with a lot,” Williams said. “It was like my break time, something between my other sports and it was fun to do.” As Williams’ basketball season

Pumping through the waves Junior balances life with diabetes, competitive swim by CONOR DIGGS entertainment editor A needle to the stomach and a patch on the hip. He has to keep his levels normal or face the risk of blacking out and falling asunder. At age 4, sophomore Jacob Shaw was diagnosed with type one diabetes. “It’s the same process all of the time,” Shaw said. “It’s so tedious and I hate it.” However, bearing the weight of this illness would not interfere with his dream to be an athlete in school, more specifically, to be a competitive swimmer. Like all the other swimmers,

Shaw has to wake up early in the morning for practice. However, before he is ready to go onto deck, he has to make sure his pump is secure and his patch is on. “There was a time when I jumped into the water and my pump fell off,” Shaw said. “It was kind of funny and I was okay once I put my pump back on.” Being in the pool is the closest thing to not having diabetes. “Practically, in the water, it’s the only place I don't feel sick,” Shaw said. “It’s amazing.” He truly enjoys his sport and wouldn't dream of stopping. Even though he remains positive towards swimming, he still faces

certain dangers. There are chances of him blacking out or having a panic attack when his blood sugar begins to act arbitrarily. “Sometimes when I’m done with an event, my blood sugar has chance to suddenly drop and I begin to have a panic attack,” Shaw said, “which my mom has to help me get through.” According to Shaw, if he stays in a single place for too long, he will be overwhelmed and eventually succumb to a major panic attack which he describes as being in a stasis. “At our Frisco swim meet, I was drinking an orange Gatorade and suddenly started feeling dizzy

progressed, she began to worry about the effect it was having on her varsity sports. “Although basketball was fun, I think that I should have gone straight to track,” Williams said. “I would be more in shape, because I realized coming in to track that I’m a little out of shape now, and I’m slowly getting back into it and everything. It also interfered with softball practices some. I couldn’t go to certain softball practices due to basketball games.” Out of all Williams’ sports, a. tyson

Deep breath. She sets her feet in the box. Deep breath. She places her feet on the starting line. Deep breath. With a bang from the gun, she hits a shot to the fence. Freshman Ryann Williams has ran a long course, balancing varsity cross country, track and softball, while also making room for basketball and volleyball. “It’s hard to balance track and softball, but with the help of my coaches and teachers, I have it worked out,” Williams said. “It’s hard to run miles in the morning and then go play softball. Earlier in the year I had to balance cross country and volleyball, so I’m kind of used to balancing sports. It’s a great experience to be part of both teams.” Williams’ rookie year began with a rigorous routine. Due

softball has the most prominent clutch on her time, dedicating all her efforts starting at an early age. “I started playing tee ball, and I played one year of it. Then at the age of seven, I played eight and under softball, which was kid pitch,” Williams said. “I don’t know, I just kind of fell in love with it. I just kept playing every year, and I’ve been waiting since eight and under to play high school softball. I love it, it’s the best thing ever.” Even though she is one of the youngest players within the district, she has learned to grow and adapt to the competition she faces each game. “It’s intimidating, playing with older girls. Some of the girls are really big and everything,” Williams said. “I’ve gotten used to it. I’ve learned to keep up with them, and it’s all good.” With all the new challenges she’s facing, the support system her team has provided has been an essential part of her development as an athlete. “The team was so welcoming. They treat me like I’m their little sister. They don’t view me as being little, they are just there for me. They are awesome.” As a freshman, Williams sees she has a lot to prove, working daily to grow as a player. “I have gotten faster in track,” Williams said. “I’ve been cutting time off every time I run and I’m looking forward to each meet. I’ve been getting better in softball too. I have more confidence at the plate and in field.”

“Sometimes I think it was destiny for me to have diabetes. I might not have done the things I have done today and met the people who have come into my life. Overall, I’m just happy with life right now and wouldn’t dream of changing it.” Jacob Shaw, 10

and light-headed; my mom came and got me shortly after,” Shaw said. “She told me was that I was just drinking my drink until I began to shake a lot and zone out, that’s all I can remember.” With all these hardships, Shaw still remains a positive individual. “Sometimes I think it was destiny for me to have diabetes,” Shaw said. “I might not have done the things I have done today and met the people who have come

into my life. Overall, I’m just happy with life right now and wouldn’t dream of changing it.” Even though his illness is difficult, Shaw looks on the brighter side. “It’s strange to think that if I didn't have diabetes I would probably not even be living in Texarkana, or be doing the same hobbies I love doing,” Shaw said. “So I guess I can thank diabetes for that.”

sports

Driving Ambition by MADELINE HUNLEY co-editor-in-chief

TEEING OFF Senior Emma Edwards practices for future tournaments. photo by a. olalde

Talent is seen everywhere. Whether it appears during a game or in the middle of practice, talent is what makes individuals strive to chase their dreams. As seniors approach the end of their high school journey, a few are determined to take their talent to the next level: college. “Basically it all started as soon as my dad started playing golf. I got interested in it, but I didn’t really know what else I wanted to do,” Senior Garrett May said. “It was always kind of just for fun, but I finally started putting some time and effort into it.” Growing up around the sport of golf seemed nothing but normal to senior Emma Edwards. Family gatherings at the nearby golf course, to summer camps in the hot sun only made her love for the sport grow. “My grandparents loved golf and they played every single day,” Edwards said. “When I was 10, my grandfather signed

tigertimes april 17, 2015

Senior golfers target new challenges for life after high school

me up for a summer golf camp at the PGA National and that’s where I fell in love with the game.” Goals were set and scores were lowered as May pushed himself to make his dream a reality. “I got to the point where I was pretty good and started really understanding that I can take this to the collegiate level,” May said. “After that point, I started making goals for myself. My number one goal from when I was 12 years old was to play Division 1 golf for a big university.” Edwards traveled across the nation and entered tournaments in order to broaden her experience with the sport. Placing in the top spots at nearly every tournament increased her interest in college golf. “My scores are lowering and becoming more consistent,” Edwards said. “I plan on going to the University of New Mexico for college golf as a preferred walk on.” The long hours of practice and hard work led toward May’s decision to play Division 1 golf at Baylor University. “You believe in yourself that you can

make these goals, so my first year of college my goal is to be in the top 20 in the world,” May said. “I know I can do that because I’m already in the top 200 junior division in the world and to me that’s a big deal.” The opportunity to play for a large university has been Edwards goal from the very beginning. Her talents will now be used at a collegiate level, which makes the experience more than exciting for this athlete. “I had scholarship offers to Division 2 schools, but I liked New Mexico the best because of all the help the student athletes get in the academics and the fact I will to play at a higher level,” Edwards said. “I’m still waiting to see if anything better comes up, but I think I’m aiming to be a Lobo.” Both May and Edwards are excited for their journey in college golf and hope it will lead to opportunities they never thought they would be able to experience. “To be a champion, you must hate losing more than you love winning,” May said.

PREDICTING THE PLAY by ALEX HEO staff writer Sixteen teams. 16 wins it takes to become champions. Every April, NBA teams compete for the title they worked all year for. These are the teams that have the best chance to scale the NBA mountain and become a champion.

Dallas Mavericks This is the dark horse team out of the five. When it comes to playoff basketball, the coach becomes an even more integral part of the team as seen last year, when Rick Carlisle led this team to seven hard-fought games against the eventual champions. They may not be seen as one of the elite teams of the western conference, but Portland losing Wesley Matthews to injury, Memphis struggling with Jeff Green, and center Dwight Howard being limited from recently coming back from a back injury, makes this team’s trip to the finals easier. The achilles heel of this team will be its ability to stop opposing elite points guards like Chris Paul and Stephen Curry.

San Antonio Spurs Every year, everyone seems to be writing off the Spurs, with being “too old” as the most used explanation. At the beginning of the season, they may have been right. Currently with a 49-26 record, they’re poised to be locked in the sixth seed in the tough Western Conference for the playoffs and play the Houston Rockets in the first round. They would probably prefer a better matchup, but they have a real chance at pulling off an upset, catching fire, and making a run to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the second straight year this summer.

Golden State Warriors The Warriors are arguably the most fun team to watch in the NBA. It’s an extraordinary sight watching the Warriors have Stephen Curry

and Klay Thompson, the “Splash Brothers”, absolutely destroy opposing teams with 3-pointers while also playing suffocating defense on the other side of the court. The Warriors have protected their home court well at the Oracle Arena, so with the Warriors home court advantage throughout the playoffs, its highly unlikely for any team to stop them.

Atlanta Hawks The Atlanta Hawks have probably been one of the biggest surprises in the NBA. Coming off a first round exit to the Indiana Pacers last year, the Hawks kept most of their key players on the roster intact. Now, Jeff Teague is having a breakout year, orchestrating the Hawks’ offense. The Hawks’ ball movement is similar to the Spurs due to their head coach being a former Spurs assistant coach. The knock on this team has its lack of a superstar, but critics fail to remember that basketball is a team sport.

Cleveland Cavaliers Ever since the Cavaliers swung a trade for the Knicks’ guards JR Smith and Iman Shumpert and acquired center Timofey Mozgov from the Nuggets, the team has been rolling. The trade injected a new life into the team by adding threepoint shooting, perimeter defense, and rim protection, and Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving has blossomed into an elite player of his own. However, things haven’t been perfectly smooth for the team yet. Former All-Star Kevin Love has still yet to find his niche within the system in Cleveland, and head coach David Blatt is inexperienced in coaching in the playoffs. Regardless of whatever teams are facing in the finals, the seven game series will be an exciting show to watch.

tigertimes april 17, 2015

entertainment

by MATT FRANCIS FRIEKING OUT staff writer sits in his room, staring at the OVER TECHNOLOGY Hecomputer parts scattered before him. Most days for him are spent here or on

Sophomore embraces love for advancing electronics

the internet. He is usually delving into perplexing, complex terms with equally puzzling theories surrounding them, such as transhumanism, but also little things such as product reviews. No matter what he is doing, sophomore Zach Friedman is always learning. “I first got into tech when I was around five and started using a computer to just mess around, see what I could change,” Friedman said, “I just started to look up how certain things functioned, like hard drives and computer monitors worked, and it just went from there.” But Friedman yearned to know more. He needed to see it all for himself. “I got the idea when I was ten to break open one of my family’s old computers to see what the inside looked like,” Friedman said, “It was just so interesting to see how all the bits and

pieces fit together in a certain fashion. It’s just a big puzzle.” However, Friedman’s curiosity did not stop there. When he was around 12, he began to build his own computer. “I ordered the parts after saving up money for several months,” Friedman said, “In all, it cost about $1200.” After a week of waiting, the parts arrived. For him, it was heaven. “It’s not really an uncommon thing for people to build their own computers,” Friedman said, “I was just proud that I could finally say that I had done it and the fulfillment of doing it successfully was especially rewarding.” Since then, Friedman has taken it upon himself to learn as much about technology as he possibly can. “It just fascinates me that our world could go from shoving sticks into the ground to iPhones,” Friedman said.“The amount of technological progression we’ve made in the last 100 years is more than we’ve accomplished in the entirety of our existence.” With his knack for technology,

21 Friedman hopes to one day make a career out of doing what he loves. With technology updating and changing every day, he doesn’t really know where to start. “Programming seems the most interesting right now,” Friedman said. “There’s so many categories under ‘technology’ and so many opportunities that it’s hard to make that call right now.” Although Friedman idolizes several prominent figures, the one that inspires him the most is Steve Jobs. “Jobs really knew what he was doing,” Friedman said. “The man was a creative genius. He literally forged a technological empire.” Like young Jobs, Friedman aspires to be an entrepreneur. Although he currently has no aspirations of “changing the world” per say, he does hope to start his own business one day. “Although I may not have everything planned out yet, I certainly hope my future holds technology within it,” Friedman said. “I’m just going to continue to do what I love and let my passion guide me.”

DUSTY DISCOVERIES:

PERMALINK PROMOTION

Changes in multimedia impact world of careers by ALEX O’GORMAN staff writer “If you liked this video, please like, comment and subscribe.” These are words that every youtube- oriented teen is familiar with hearing from the mouth of their favorite celebrity-like ‘youtubers.’ The rise of internet celebrities is undoubtedly a new trend, but how, exactly, did they come into existence? The “Baby Boomers” and the “Millennials” have a rather impressive relational gap between them that can be easily attributed to the internet. The internet as we know it today came into existence in the early ‘90s, which also happens to be when a decent amount of Generation Y was born. Those Millennials that were born and raised on the internet introduced a flood of new ideas and creations that ‘ye olds just didn’t understand. With those new ideas came new jobs, and thus, the generation of technology-oriented jobs was born. The aforementioned YouTube celebrities are among the most popular new ‘employees’ of the internet. Some are on the level of or are actual celebrities, examples being Grammy-winning Pentatonix members, Scott Hoying and Mitch Grassi. Others are worshipped as such by literally millions of adoring fans. Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg, more commonly

known as Pewdiepie, is on the very top of the youtube hierarchy, making $4 million a year and having 34.8 million subscribers. Youtubers aren’t the only ‘new’ celebrities, though. In the same territory are Viners. Viners are people who make popular 6 second videos for the phone app, Vine. While viners cannot actually make money from their apps in the traditional sense, big brand companies pay these pseudo-celebrities to feature their products in vines. Some Viners, such as Cameron Dallas, are beginning to star in movies, and some, such as Josh Peck, used to. Electronic music has been around for a literal century, but modern technology and internet provides a new way for electronic music groups to creatively express themselves. Bands that are literally made up of ‘digital’ people, such as Studio Killers and Gorillaz, are able to be seen as normal bands with platforms such as YouTube to upload music videos and more. These new jobs may seem to be yet another example of this generation being lazy, but it’s best to keep in mind that with the changes in technology, new jobs will pop up to accommodate it. Who knows, maybe in a few years, Tyler Oakley’s job will be to be a holographic projection who reads the news in a peppy voice. Remember, if you liked this article, please like, comment and subscribe.

Lee to release sequel to ‘Mockingbird’ by JILLIAN CHENEY staff writer Harper Lee says in “To Kill a Mockingbird” that people usually see what they look for. This may be true, but sometimes surprises come when no one is looking. In this case, it’s a sequel to one of the most beloved novels of all time. “Go Set a Watchman” is a story set approximately 20 years after “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It will be released on July 14, but is available for pre-order at Books a Million and many online stores. “When I found out about the sequel, I couldn’t help but be excited,” sophomore Robin Cooper said. “I hate it when books end without closure in a sequel, so I feel like the story will finally be complete.” Most high school students have read Harper Lee’s first novel in English class, and some sophomores began reading it not long after the sequel was announced. For many, this is an exciting opportunity to experience more of the characters they have analyzed over the past weeks. “I haven’t finished it just yet, but ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ has been great so

far,” sophomore Kevin Thompson said. “I’ll definitely be reading the sequel this summer, and I hope it lives up to its predecessor.“ When “Mockingbird” was published in 1960, the civil rights movement was in full swing, and the book was popular partially because of its main theme of equality between races and unique individuals. Because of radically changed times, the unreleased novel may not be as relatable as was the first. “I’m really curious about the sequel, but I’m not sure that it can live up to the first one,” senior Haley Rogers said. “One of the main reasons ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ was so amazing is because of the context that it was released in, and the same kind of message can’t have that kind of impact today.” The typed work was found in Harper Lee’s personal vaults after years left to gather dust. “Go Set a Watchman” was the novel Lee originally intended to publish, but her publisher said a novel set 20 years prior would bring more success. The sequel will expand on the lives of familiar characters, and develop the views of Scout’s father from the young woman’s point of view. According to one article, the title comes from Isaiah 21:6 in the Bible, and will be focused mainly on Atticus Finch’s role as moral guide. “I think the publishing of this novel is really unique and fun, in a way,” Cooper said. “Even if it may not win an award, a sequel to this incredible book will be a wonderful story to read.”

entertainment

tigertimes april 17, 2015

WATCH IT!

Age of Adaline

LIST

WEAR IT!

Starring Blake Lively, “Age of Adaline” is a tale of a girl who does not age. Follow a girl learning the difference between living and life. Predicted to be one of the year’s best, the movie will be released on April 24.

DRINK IT!

Fitbit

Frosted Lemonade

This line of fitness tools aims to help keep people fit. Coming in a variety of colors, styles and functions. The Fitbit is a pedometer that also has the ability to track sleeping patterns and act as an alarm. Starting at $59.95, this activity tracker will help anyone achieve a summer-ready body. For those who take their athletic activities more seriously, the Charge HR ($149.95) and Surge ($249.95) have the ability to monitor the heart rate of the user. The regular Charge ($129.95), the Charge HR and the Surge will sync with a cell phone, allowing the user to receive text messages through the device. The Fitbit scale ($129.95) syncs with all the devices on your home’s wifi network.

This refreshing treat from Chick-fil-a is a hand-spun combination with a little bit of heaven. The squeezed lemons and a blend of ice cream is just the right drink for warm weather to come. READ IT! Like all Nicholas Sparks books, “The Longest Ride” involves young couples who overcome confilcting paths and dreams. Will Sofia and Luke be as lucky his past characters?

TRY IT!

Flinch Try not to “flinch.” The chart climbing game is available free on the App Store. Have staring contest with your friends and even strangers. To win make your opponent crack a smile before you do and your points will start racking up.

Trinity Mud Trek 2015

DO IT!

The Trinity Mud Trek is a family fun adventure 5K run that includes 10 obstacles along trails of woods, fields and mud pits. The event is scheduled for April 25 at 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Bounce in Excitement Teenagers have a new place to find their inner child by ANNA CANNON staff writer There’s a new hangout in town. Zoohaa Adventure Zone opened Feb. 7 and caters to teens and toddlers alike. The business is located at 1801 N Robinson Road, Suite 1, and has attractions such as mini golf, bouncy houses, and even a gigantic hamster ball. “We have our fun zone, which is our bounce houses,” owner Phyllis Harless said. “We have Hooplaa basketball, putt putt golf, and our 9-foot ozone ball, which is a gigantic ball with another ball suspended in the center of it. You get inside of it and you run in it. It runs a course in the regular light and the blacklight as well.” Zoohaa continues to expand, and has several new attractions opening soon. “We have some things that are going to be opening up in the next three to four weeks,” Harless said. “We will have our

galactic laser tag arena opening up, as well as our laser fire zone.” The owners have taken measures to open their business to children of all ages, including family and school groups. “We have what we call our Zoohaa toddler world, which is for children 3 and under,” Harless said. “We also do a family event on the weekend. If there are four or more people who are going to do all the events, it would be $12 per person, which is the weekday price.” The Harless’s are finding more ways to advertise and hope to expand their business once the advertisements take off. “We are in the process of having a commercial done,” Harless said. “We’ve had some ads placed in Texarkana Parenting, and TXK Today is supposed to do a story on us. We sent flyers home to 8,000 students in the Texarkana ISD and we’re working on reaching out to Arkansas schools as well.” Prices vary depending on the events.

photo by m. morris

“During our weekday, a single event is $5,” Harless said. “For example, our bounce houses. Right now, a single event comes with the Hooplaa basketball, so you get two events for the price of one. To add another event, it would be $4, so $9 total. Monday through Thursday, you can do all four events for $12. Friday through Sunday, the single event would be $6, and it also comes with the Hooplaa basketball. To add one more event would be $10 total,

and to do everything would be $15.” For those who have been, Zoohaa has provided a fun and rewarding experience. “It’s a really cool place,” sophomore Olivia Johnson said. “It’s reasonably priced, and I think it’ll be a great hangout. I think having a place like Zoohaa in Texarkana is great because it broadens what teenagers can do in their free time. It allows us to have fun with all of our friends and add variety to our Friday night antics.”

tigertimes april 17, 2015

community

tigertimes april 17, 2015