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A&M Consolidated High School Friday, Oct. 29, 2010 Vol. 16 No. 21801 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S., College Station, Texas 77840

NewsInterfaith:

Viewpoints

Freestyling:

SportsTennis:

PeopleMilitary families:

Roarthisn

ssue

Discover the benefits of local produce on page 9

Club fosters discussion of world religions and spiri-tual issues. Page 4.

Students with relatives serving in the military share a unique life-

style. Page 14.

Junior Kristina Raphael works hard to achieve goals. Page 17.

Students practice verbal wit through improvised rap competitions. Page 19.

Trick-or-Treat:Junior Elena Edwards ex-plores the creepier side of Halloween tra-ditions. Page 5.

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

“We have work still to do in that area,” Superintendent Eddie Coulson said. “Are we moving in the right direction? Absolutely. Have we established some processes and procedures and programs that have helped us move in the right direction? Absolutely. Are we aware of the need? Absolutely. Are we where we want to be? No.”

Coulson described the district’s enrollment goal as maintain-ing the school’s demograph ic profile within the advanced

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

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

“Our goal is to take middle-of-the-road children and give them all the skill that they need to not only get into college, but succeed in college,” Dudo said. “We’re looking at the kids who are sitting in regular classes, making

Bs and Cs, but are more than capable of doing the advanced work, but they’ve been kind of overlooked.”

The AVID program targets stu-

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

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

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

by alejandra olivamanaging editor

See 'minorities' on page 2

total district population by race2009-2010 school year

58.8% 17.6% 14.3% 9.0%

advanced courses enrollment by race2009-2010 school year

66.3% 13.3% 7.1% 12.9%

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in the news Program seeks to increase minority enrollment in advanced classes to encourage high performance

“Minorities” continued from page 1

2 | news | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

Seniors named as commended scholars by College Board

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

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

Tiger Forensics team excels at Bishop Tournament

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

missed your picture in THe roar?

Although AVID is not a program only for Hispanic or African American students, according to data on AVID’s national website, approximately 69% of students enrolled in the program are either African American or Hispanic.

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

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

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

Among students at Consol who took the SAT in 2009, which, according to its website, is a “globally recognized college admissions test,” African American students scored an average of 246 points below the district average, and Hispanic students scored an average of 61 points below the district average. Both Asian and white students, scored above the district average.In addition, only 24% of Consol’s African-American graduates are considered “college ready” in both English and Mathematics, well below the district’s 70% overall college-readiness.

Not only that, but students new to the advanced-level program often find themselves unaccustomed to the course load given in these classes, Dudo said. She said that students

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

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

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

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

Not only that, but many minority students find themselves occasionally intimidated by the fact that they are the only ones of their race in their classes, Dudo said.

This comes as no surprise, given that Consol offers 33 classes that are considered “above level,” most of which are given several periods a day. However, the classes that lead to the most awkward moment are the discussion-based classes, such as History or English, Dudo said, especially in race-based discussions.

“We discuss, ‘This is how [to] answer those type of questions: ‘I don’t represent

everybody that looks like me, just like you don’t represent everybody that looks like you, but here’s my opinion,’” Dudo said. “[And I say to my students,] they’re going to turn to you, because you’re the only one, and it’s very rare that they have somebody like you in that classroom.”

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

AVID TEACHER TAMI DUDO

School district implements various policy changes the roar | news | 3friday, oct. 29, 2010

When students walked through the doors of the school in August, they noticed many major changes. New doors were added outside the office, new trophy cases lined the hallways,

and TV screens were placed above the lunch lines. However, students may not realize that equally important, albeit more subtle, changes were also put into effect over the summer, many of these affecting the district as a whole.

AcademicsAssignment options in grade viewer Pinnacle went

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

While teachers retain a degree of flexibility in how they structure their grades, a more concrete system has now replaced the previously vague guidelines, Coulson said. While some teachers have found this beneficial, others have seen some slight flaws in the system.

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

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

FundraisingFundraisers have also undergone a major change. In

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

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

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

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

Field TripsField trips have also been limited in their approval

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

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

Assistant Principal Chris Diem concurred.“For field trips, a lot of things are budgetary,” Diem

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

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

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

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

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

As these changes slowly become more prominent

throughout the district, it is important that students realize the goal that the teachers, administration and district keep in mind. “When we grow as a district, change occurs, and some people are not comfortable with change,” Elder said. “However, in the best interest of the kids, you have to look at the past years and see if the effects have been good for the children. If they’re not, you have to examine what you’re doing and just keep trying to improve.”

BY AMY ZHANG AND ANNE FINCH opinions editor and staff reporter

Want to ad-vertise with The Roar

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

com

District Policy Changes

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

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

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

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

Major and Minor grades changed to Academic Achievement and Academic Practice.

Compiled by Amy Zhang and Anne Finch

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

The 3:45 bell may signal the conclusion of a typical school day for most students, allowing them to relieve their brains from strenuous academic activity, but for Interfaith Club members, the ritualistic ringing marks the beginning of a philosophical journey into the depths of conviction.

On Tuesday, Oct. 12, club members met in English teacher Michael Williams’ classroom to participate in a philosophical chairs discussion regarding the question “are individuals free to choose their own beliefs?” Members who believed that individuals are free to choose their own beliefs sat on the right side of the classroom, and those who opposed sat on the left. Students who were indifferent or uncertain sat in the middle.Are individuals free to choose their own beliefs?JK: It really depends on how you look at it. If you look at it like you’re a baby, you obviously can’t choose your beliefs, because you don’t really have beliefs at that time. If you look at it from later, do you say, “it’s my will that I decide to be a Christian, its my will that I decide to believe in gay marriage, or am I just dictated by my customs?”NB: So, right now, can we choose our beliefs? JK: Like believing in another god? [laughs] Are you maybe on the wrong side? [NB gets up, changes sides of the room]WR: I think you can definitely choose, because someone could want to believe something and ignore all logic against it just because they want to believe this. And if people give them any reason against their belief, they’ll choose not to listen to it. If they listen to it and it changes

them, then they choose to believe something else. GC: Yeah, that’s what I was saying.JK: So do you think that the way they came to choose those beliefs was their choosing? Does that make sense?

Did they grow up around it, or were they like, “I believe this,” and then that’s the way it was? WR: That’s fate vs. free will. JK: So, do you believe in fate or free will? Why can’t it be both?AH: I think it can be both! Do you not believe that?JK: Every decision possible decision I could make is already known, so that’s a belief in fate. But if you there’s no one watching, there’s no way that anything I do could be premeditated, [and] it’s my free will that I choose to do this.AH: Oh, gosh, I’m in the middle.[scoots to center of group. GC gets up, walks to free will side]NS: Well, if someone tells you something is true often enough, then you’re going to believe it. JK: Because beliefs are basically what you believe is true, right? JK: So the fact that you can choose what you believe in—NS: You can change the way you thinkLH: So, right now, if you wanted to, you could be like “I want to be a Christian” and believe in God?NS: You can’t really choose, because it takes another person to inspire you. If you believe something, but then you hear an argument for the other side, so you change, then that person controlled your beliefs. AH: Yeah, it’s from outside, it’s not internal like I’m going to believe this.WR: Someone came in and said something.AH: Yeah, but it’s already there to begin with.

4 | news | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

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BY DINI SUSANTO AND ALEJANDRA OLIVAeditor-in-chief and managing editor

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Round Table Roster

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Interfaith PresidentGC- Graham Carter

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Interfaith club members discuss personal beliefs on religious views

firiday, oct. 29, 2010 the roar | viewpoints | 5

America has often been called the “melting pot” thanks to

the great variety of immigrants our freedom attracts. Consol, in

large part thanks to A&M, has become a small-scale reproduc-

tion of this same diversity. We boast students from all corners

of the world, and from all parts of the United States, as well as

students from all socioeconomic levels. The diversity at Consol

is indisputable.

What is disputable, however, is the equality of such di-

versity. If you’re sitting in an AP class, take a look around you

right now: how many of the kids in your class are professors

students? The income vs. academic achievement gap is huge,

not only here, but throughout the country. Unfortunately, this

income divide is also somewhat racially divided. For example,

according to texaspolitics.org, an online textbook dedicated to

Texas politics, 53% of those living below the poverty line in

Texas are Hispanic, and 16% of them are African American.

Studies have shown that poverty is a generational malady that

is most easily escaped through education. According to CNN,

college grads make an average of $22,000 more per year than

their peers who only finished high school.

In order to move society into a better, wealthier place, we

need more educated people. In order for students to value learn-

ing, we need to make being smart something attainable for ev-

eryone, not only professor’s kids or those with wealthy parents.

AP classes should be welcoming places, and learning should

not be something just for “nerds” or “geeks,” and constantly

knowing the right answer in class shouldn’t be bad.

In short, having minorities in advanced classes should be

everyone’s priority, not because we need the “black” perspec-

tive when reading Toni Morrison or because it’s the “right thing

to do,” but because we need to bring back a culture of intellec-

tualism, where everyone has a fair shot of learning and moving

up the socioeconomic ladder.

CONT

ACT

US If you would like for your opinions to be read, contact the editorial board by sending your

letter to the editor. Review our policy for let-ters before submitting.

E-MAIL the.roar@ymail.com

Minorities should pursue taking advanced courses

The Advanced Journalism class at A&M Consolidated High School, 1801 Harvey Mitchell Parkway South, College Station, Texas, 77840. The opinions expressed are those of the writers and are not reflective of the administrators, faculty or staff of the College Station Independent School District. Submissions to the editors are welcomed but must be signed and should not exceed 300 words. The editor reserves the right to edit submissions in the interest of clarity and length or to not print a letter at all. Letters containing obscene or libelous material will not be considered. The Editorial Board consists of the editor-in-chief, managing editor and opinions editor. The Roar is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference (ILPC), the National Scholatsic Press Association (NSPA) and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA). The Roar is a winner of the CSPA Gold Crown, the ILPC Award of Distinguished Merit in 1997, 1998 and 2000-2010, the CSPA Gold Medal Award in 2003-2010, the NSPA All-American distinction and the ILPC Bronze Star in 2005 and the Silver Star in 2007-2010. College Station Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex or handicap in providing education services. Glynn Walker, Director of Human Resources, 1812 Welsh, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5412) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX. Catherine George, Director of Special Services, 1812 Welsh, Suite 120, College Station, Texas 77840 (979-764-5433) has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Editor-in-Chief: Dini SusantoManaging Editor: Alejandra OlivaExecutive Editor: Alex HallSenior Editor: Emily NelsonPhotography Editor: Becca GamacheOpinions Editor: Amy ZhangNews Editor: Alina DattaguptaFeatures Editor: Faria AkramSports Editor: Anna HuffEntertainment Editor: Kate WilliamsAssistant Opinions Editor: Katy MasseyAssistant Editor: Abigayle EnglishStaff Reporters: Kimmie Cessna, Elena Edwards, Anne Finch, Kendra SpawGraphic Artist: Morgan MurphyFaculty Adviser: Courtney WellmannAssistant Adviser: Mike Williams

The Roar Editorial BoardDini Susanto- Editor -in- ChiefAlejandra Oliva- Managing EditorAmy Zhang- Opinions Editor

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

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

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

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

To avoid having to wait at the doors of popular houses for candy, we chose the streets less traveled…in other words, the more desolate streets with the majority of the lights turned off. We did this partly for the candy, but also for the thrill. Throughout that night my friends and I would

ring doorbell after doorbell, mingle with the strangers who were giving us sweets and devour our candy without a second thought.

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

A l t h o u g h nothing bad hap-pened to me, I re-alize it easily could have. I know, however, that I am not the only teenager who has had such an experience and many

more will continue to live danger-o u s l y on Hal-loween.

Ha l loween s h o u l d be a fun

experience, whether people are trick-or-treating or taking a sibling. However, we need to be cautious and careful of where we go and how we present ourselves to strangers. Although it’s a “holiday,” the rules and values that we were raised with still apply for this special night. Be safe.

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

Halloween participant realizes potential dangers of seemingly safe holiday night

The Roar 2010-2011 Staff

Art by Morgan Murphy

elenaedwards

word on the streetBy Morgan Murphy

“I dress up my dog as a pump-kin! She always looks adorable.”

-Jessica Kouba, history teacher

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

-Tim Oberhelman, senior

-Thomas Murphy, freshman

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

-Dustin Fry, junior

What are your Halloween traditions?

The Great Debate

friday, oct. 29, 20106 | viewpoints | the roar

Special connection and relationship with autistic cousin inspires personal growth

katymassey

His name is Ian. At twelve years old, he is average height, has brown hair and eyes, and the sweetest smile I’ve ever known. With his childish naïveté, he has the ability to make a joke about the simplest of subjects and also possesses the rare talent of being able to make even the most austere person smile. He questions everything and requires an explanation for the answers he re-ceives. His curiosity as well as his intelligence is astounding. However, there is one truth that most people are not able to ignore: Ian is autistic.

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

Of course, I did not spend all of my time teaching my cousin. The rest of the time was spent being a child along with him. I remember the fall afternoons while we played in the piles of leaves that smelled like mist and crisp, cool air. I remember going swimming and clapping for him enthusi-astically when he finally did a cannonball from the side of the pool. I remember congratulating him when he received a gold star on his homework at the end of the day. No mat-ter what, Ian and I were always together, whether it was for something amusing as building a fort out of sheets and fur-niture or helping him with school work.

As I grew older, I became Ian’s moral support, helping him overcome the cruel taunts and merciless jeers he faced from children his age who lacked the capacity to understand

his condition. He would come home sometimes, despair clearly evident on his face, as he sadly recounted the events of his day. He spoke clearly of how his class-

mates called him strange or weird—and at rare occasions, gay. I would listen to him, my expression remaining composed, but on the inside, my heart was twisted as I won-dered how fifth and sixth graders could be so cruel to each other. Children, who I had

formerly presumed to be innocent and sweet, now seemed just as malicious and malevolent

as the corrupt society I was immersed in—and my cousin had to endure the worst of it.

Now, Ian and I have forged an unbreakable bond and shifted the relationship of mere cous-ins to one like brother and sister. I aid him with his hardships, and he helps me realize the faults in my character. I give him support when he re-

quires it, and he gives me happiness when I need it most. We each compensate for what the other lacks. In es-sence, Ian has, and always will be, my missing puzzle piece.

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

Art by Morgan Murphy

“My family eats birthday cake

because it’s my dad’s birthday,

and we also decorate our yard

like a graveyard.”

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

-Jeana Nam, sophomore

Do you have a tattoo?

Yes!No, but I want one!

No, but I’m thinking about it.No, and I’ll never get one.

677 students surveyed

50%

3%

29%

18%

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

Each issue, students can submit responses to The Roar’s Speak Out forum. These questions will be posted on Facebook.

Discussion Board

speak out

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

friday, oct. 29, 2010 the roar | viewpoints | 7

Loss of grandfather serves as reminder of time together

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

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

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

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

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

I do not think his death would have been as painful if he had not been such a great influence on me throughout my childhood. He was the reason we visited India every year. He was the reason that our huge extended family always kept in touch with each other. Every time I met with my family in India, I heard stories of how much he loved to visit many different places and how much he enjoyed the com-pany of his loved ones. I heard stories of how he changed the lives of many people, and in many ways, he definitely touched mine.

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

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

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

because of his deteriorating health, I thought that he would not understand that we were leaving. Much to my surprise, he did. He shakily placed one hand on his heart and the other hand on my head and blessed me with a prayer. I do not think I

will ever forget that moment. Now when I speak with my grandmother over the phone, I can

sense the loneliness in her voice. It is hard for me to comprehend that someone who I knew so well is gone forever.

When I go back to India, my grand-father’s bed will be empty. I will no lon-

ger be able to share my school experiences with him or hear him call out my name.

I will never hear him tell me stories about his past when he was growing up. I knew that someday he would no longer be there, but I did not

know the kind of feeling that I would experience. It is true that I will miss

him dearly. It is true that I will miss his laugh and smile. But I know that I have

his blessing and that is something I will treasure forever.

Alina is the News Editor for The Roar. If you would like

to share your thoughts with her, email her

at the.roar.dattagup-

t a @gmail.com.

alinadattagupta

Art by Morgan Murphy

}by Kimmie Cessna, Staff Reporterby Alejandra Oliva, Mangaging Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Boobies” is not a sexual term.Both of these statements are pretty basic, and not difficult

to understand, and once they are established, there is no reason to ban the “I ♥ Boobies” bracelets currently making the rounds of the school.

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

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

Not only that, but “boobies” is hardly obscene terminology. After all, why is “Save the Ta-Tas” okay while loving boobies isn’t?

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

8| viewpoints | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

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

YES NO

{

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

Do you support the I ♥ Boobies bracelets?

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

71%

NO29%

112 students surveyed

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

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

This year, there are over 2.5 mil-lion breast cancer survivors in the United States.

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

Source: www.breastcancer.org

Do you think the I ♥ Boobies campaign is effective?

NO78%

YES22%

YES76%

NO 24%

the roar | snapshots | 9friday, oct. 29, 2010

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

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

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

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

Along with the nutritional level, flavor and taste also differ from the produce found in mainstream grocery stores.

“[The Farm Patch has] more of a variety and can have foods that grocery stores cannot,” owner Mark Scamardo said, explaining that they are more hands on with their food and can provide local famers canned goods while grocery stores cannot under certain restrictions.

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

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

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

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

Quality service is also top priority among the local markets.“I always make sure the employees take care of the customers,

from finding what they need to helping them with recipes,” Scamardo said.

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

Fresh produce from community vendors offers healthy benefits

by Anna Huff, Sports Editor

buy ng l cal:

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

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

College Station resident and frequent Farm Patch shop-per helps her son climb down after playing on a pumpk-ing on Oct. 11. Not only is the Farm Patch known for its fresh produce, but also its family-friendly atmosphere. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

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

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

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTSBY DINI SUSANTO & KATE WILLIAMS editor-in-chief entertainment editor Football creates character, generates

emotional growth through challenges

10 | student life | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

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

THIS IS IT. It’s the Crosstown Showdown, and four minutes and fifty seconds are all the Tigers have to break the 28-28 tie for a six-year winning streak against the rival

school. An interception return gave the Vikings’ Dexter Comeaux a clear shot towards the end zone, resulting

in the hundred-yard touchdown tying the game. The possibility of losing their sixth consecutive win creeps on the Tigers. Paint-smeared faces yell for their heroes and emotions intensify, heating up the Friday night football fever.

THE MOMENTS“When I run onto the field, I don’t hear anything,” senior

varsity running back Chris Nutall said. “I put all of my focus on the game.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE STORIESAs hurricanes Katrina and Ike stirred strong winds onto the gulf

coast, they also brought two strong cornerbacks to the team. “I wasn’t really scared [of the hurricane] at first, because my

family was making the best of it,” said senior Chris Ceazer, whose house was flooded when Katrina wreaked havoc on New Orleans in 2005.

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

“No one came,” Ceazer said, “and I started getting nervous.” Two nights later, the buses arrived. The evacuees were sent away

from the overflowing Astrodome in Houston. Dallas was no better. Eventually, they arrived at Reed Arena.

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

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

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

“The hurricanes definitely turned out for the best,” Ceazer said. “Now [Payton and I] are starting corner backs. I don’t think I would have had these opportunities elsewhere.”

THE DOWNSFate may have uncovered previously hidden opportunities for

Ceazer and Payton, but for senior strong safety Ray Richards, the winds of football were not on his side.

Richards said that after enduring a tackle by fellow defenseman JJ Bynum during two-a-days, he “felt like he had a dead leg” and unsuccessfully tried to jog it off, only to feel more pain. His x-rays failed to reveal a hairline fracture in his fibula, which later resulted in a broken leg that cost him a majority of the season.

“It didn’t really hit me until [I saw] the new x-rays, and the bone was completely broken in half,” he said. “Then, as I was wheeled out on a wheelchair, I tried so hard not to cry in the middle of the hospital.”

The most devastating part about his injury, according to Richards, is giving up a long-awaited moment.

“I grew up here, and ever since I was young, I’ve always imagined playing varsity at home with my friends,” he said. “Even though we won the first home game, it was hard to watch it without getting to play.”

Richards’ inability to play football also affects his father, who played the sport in high school and college.

“Football has always been a strong bond between us, and when he found out I was out for the season, it seemed like he was more upset about it than I was,” Richards said.

THE LESSONSIf there is anything the boys have learned about football, it is

that optimism is the key to progress.“Coach Frashure was always encouraging, telling me that ‘when

life throws you lemons, make lemonade,’ and it made sense to me,” Payton said.

However, when the players are dismissed from practice, they return to households that, for some, may not always constitute a safe haven.

“For some kids, [football] may be the most positive thing that they’re a part of,” Slaughter said. “This makes [some players] stronger. They become tougher and learn how to be successful.”

For Payton, this attitude also applies to difficult moments in life.“During a game, I had a family emergency and I almost didn’t

play,” Payton said, “but my mom wanted me to, so I just took out all my anger on the field. I was like another person, but it helped me.”

As their head coach, Slaughter also plays the role of a mentor.“I try to do a good job of not only teaching lessons in athletics

but also lessons in life,” he said. “I’m hoping that by being a part of this football team, [the boys] are learning much more than x’s and o’s. I hope they’re learning to be responsible adults and how to be part of a team. It’s a character check.”

THE INSPIRATIONSRichards watched as the steel doors began to close. He heard a

voice echoing in the hallway asking him to hold the doors open. He complied.

“I was on crutches and in a leg brace, and this guy walked in while I held the elevator for him,” Richards said. “I looked at him, thinking, ‘there’s nothing even wrong with this fool,’ and I was getting pissed.”

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTSFootball creates character, generates emotional growth through challenges

2Seniors Steven Etter, Garret Good-man and Tyler Ward congratulate

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

3Senior running back Chris Nutall runs the ball out of

bounds at the first home game on Sept. 3. The Tigers defeated Cy Woods with a score of 38-24. PHOTO BY AMY ZHANG

4Senior tight end Matias Grande resists a tackle by two

Vikings on Oct. 8. Grande caught three passes for 49 yards. PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO

5Junior starting quarterback Jacob Bronowski prepares his

team for the next play at Klein Oak on Aug. 27. The Tigers had their first loss at 34-38. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

6Junior running back Quinton White evades the Vikings on

Oct. 8. White ran 107 yards and scored two touchdowns that night. PHOTO BY DINI SUSANTO

7 Senior offensive lineman Ben Sherman grimaces in pain on

Oct. 8. Sherman suffered a broken leg. PHOTO BY KATY MASSEY

friday, oct. 29, 2010 the roar | student life | 11

5

1 2

6

4

3

7

THE DOWNSFate may have uncovered previously hidden opportunities for

Ceazer and Payton, but for senior strong safety Ray Richards, the winds of football were not on his side.

Richards said that after enduring a tackle by fellow defenseman JJ Bynum during two-a-days, he “felt like he had a dead leg” and unsuccessfully tried to jog it off, only to feel more pain. His x-rays failed to reveal a hairline fracture in his fibula, which later resulted in a broken leg that cost him a majority of the season.

“It didn’t really hit me until [I saw] the new x-rays, and the bone was completely broken in half,” he said. “Then, as I was wheeled out on a wheelchair, I tried so hard not to cry in the middle of the hospital.”

The most devastating part about his injury, according to Richards, is giving up a long-awaited moment.

“I grew up here, and ever since I was young, I’ve always imagined playing varsity at home with my friends,” he said. “Even though we won the first home game, it was hard to watch it without getting to play.”

Richards’ inability to play football also affects his father, who played the sport in high school and college.

“Football has always been a strong bond between us, and when he found out I was out for the season, it seemed like he was more upset about it than I was,” Richards said.

THE LESSONSIf there is anything the boys have learned about football, it is

that optimism is the key to progress.“Coach Frashure was always encouraging, telling me that ‘when

life throws you lemons, make lemonade,’ and it made sense to me,” Payton said.

However, when the players are dismissed from practice, they return to households that, for some, may not always constitute a safe haven.

“For some kids, [football] may be the most positive thing that they’re a part of,” Slaughter said. “This makes [some players] stronger. They become tougher and learn how to be successful.”

For Payton, this attitude also applies to difficult moments in life.“During a game, I had a family emergency and I almost didn’t

play,” Payton said, “but my mom wanted me to, so I just took out all my anger on the field. I was like another person, but it helped me.”

As their head coach, Slaughter also plays the role of a mentor.“I try to do a good job of not only teaching lessons in athletics

but also lessons in life,” he said. “I’m hoping that by being a part of this football team, [the boys] are learning much more than x’s and o’s. I hope they’re learning to be responsible adults and how to be part of a team. It’s a character check.”

THE INSPIRATIONSRichards watched as the steel doors began to close. He heard a

voice echoing in the hallway asking him to hold the doors open. He complied.

“I was on crutches and in a leg brace, and this guy walked in while I held the elevator for him,” Richards said. “I looked at him, thinking, ‘there’s nothing even wrong with this fool,’ and I was getting pissed.”

1Senior running back Clinton Banks argues Dr. Richard Smith’s sug-

gestion to sit out of the game despite his injury on Oct. 8 at the Crosstown Showdown. PHOTO BY AMY ZHANG

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

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

storyline.”Because of her brother’s

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

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

even though I already knew how to crochet. At one of the meetings, I met

someone who also had an interest in manga and anime,” Quiros said. “We ended up talking about that

instead and discovered that we were really into it.” After Quiros was certain that

there were enough people interested in attending anime and manga club, she

had to secure a sponsor to ensure there would be a place to hold the meetings.

According to Quiros, this was the hardest part of the entire process.“A lot of teachers have no idea what anime

or manga is,” Quiros said. “We eventually ended up asking the librarians if

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

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

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

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

AMO is not only about Japanese cartoons and comic books, however. The club strives to

cover as many relatable topics as possible,

inc lud ing t h e

production of fan fiction,

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

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

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

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

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

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

12 | people | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

Animation addictsInterest, in foreign comics leads to creation of club to study Japanese cultureBy Katy MasseyAssistant Opinions Editor

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

A. A style of Japanese cartoons/animation, similar to American cartoons, but also involve deeper storylines and characters. In America, audio is usually Japanese, accompanied by English subtitles. Sometimes, the episodes are dubbed in English.

Q. What is anime? Q. What is manga?A. A style of Japanese comic books that is read right to left and printed soely in black and white. Comics are published in Japanese and English and similar to anime, manga usually has a deeper and more profound storyline, unlike some American comics.

Compiled by Katy Massey

Source of graphics: Wikipedia.org

Anime vs. manga

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

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

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

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

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

Another honor for Sturdivant is that he currently holds the positions of both local and state president of 4-H.

“4-H is a youth development program that teaches kids lifelong skills that they can use, as well as specific skills they can use through the use of agriculture,” Sturdivant said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fellow band member, junior Dustin Fry, also comment-ed on Sturdivant’s friendly nature.

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

Even in the face of adversity, Sturdivant’s friendly na-ture has not wavered. Sturdivant’s father was

recently diagnosed with leu-kemia, and while this greatly affects Sturdivant and his family, he has not allowed his personal life to interfere with his school and extra-curriculars.

“You wouldn’t know about [his father’s ill-

ness] from his attitude,” Gregson said.

“He hasn’t c h a n g e d much in

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

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

“I have tremendous respect for Preston,” Fry said. “He’s a far-above average band member. He contributes well to rehearsals, is always on time. He’s a great person.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Being involved in a variety of activities has benefited S t u r - divant in ways that will continue to

help him, even after high school.“It’s helped me both on the

inside and outside,” Sturdivant said. “I’ve definitely become a

more aware and informed citizen because of my community service in 4-H, FFA and Boys

Scouts. [My activities] have also taught me several job skills, social skills and individual skills.”

After graduation, Sturdivant plans to attend Texas A&M University. As he leaves high school behind, his

fellow band members agree that there are some aspects of Sturdivant that are unforgettable.

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

Senior immerses self in activities, faces challenges optimistically

friday, oct. 29, 2010 the roar | people| 13

BY FARIA AKRAM features editor

Prepared to Persevere

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

A Week With Preston SturdivantSaturday

•Off; a day to relax, spend time with friends and pre-pare for the week ahead

Friday

•SAAD (Student’s Against Drunk Driving) meeting

Thursday

• A&M Consoli-dated Band prac-tice begins early, at 6:30 a.m.

Wednesday

•A day to catch up on homework and spend some qual-ity time with the family

Tuesday

•Boys Scouts

Monday

•4-H meeting

Sunday•Christ United Methodist Church services; church youth group meet-ing and orchestra practice as well

Military personnel are known for courage and sacrifice. However, the sacrifices made by their

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

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

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

turned her away from recruitment.“I think [my father’s involvement

in the military] has really pushed me away from ever joining,” Allison said. “It is important for people to serve our country but in a way, I feel as if I’ve already served.”

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

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

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

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

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

“Being a part of a military family

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

During various assignments, Allison lived on a military base.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14 | people | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

BY BECCA GAMACHE AND ALINA DATTAGUPTAphotography editor and news editor

Sanctuary, Solitude, StabilityMilitary families reflect on service around the world

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

Branches of the Military

The Army

•oldest branch of the U.S. Military

•protects the security of the United Statesand its resources

Marine Corps

•smallest branch of the U.S. Military

•often first on the ground in combat situations

Navy

•defends the right to travel and trade freely on the world’s oceans

•protects national interests overseas

Air Force

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

Coast Guard

•protects America’s waterways

•deploys with the Navy during wartime

compiled by Alina Dattagupta

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

the roar | health and rec | 15friday, oct. 29, 2010

JUNIORSColt Massey

SENIORSCameron Lovas

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

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

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

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

A girl’s team was added after the boys formed their team. Now, the three teams compete against each other on the weekends.

“[The girls] just decided that since the guys were doing it, and they would be willing to play against us, we would form our own team,” senior Marina Miller said.

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

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

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

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

The games are open to students outside of Media Tech. Senior Ron Moretz has been invited to participate in a game even though he isn’t in Media Tech.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media tech discovers new outlet for creativity with soccer teamsBYEMILY NELSON

senior editor

Who’s on the field? in charge

WOMEN’SKasey Quinn

Home of the SmartClip Techonolgy.

Friend Roar NewspaperBreaking News, Polls, Photos

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

Soure: mediatechsoccer.webs.com

16 | sports | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

Cross country runners display passion throughout racesBY KENDRA SPAW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Running this length is all mental” Mora said. They must be not only physically, but mentally be pre-

pared to run the long race. “The idea that I can get out there and run my best to try

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

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

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

The satisfaction of crossing that finish line and know-ing they have completed the race is exhilarating, said Her-rington.

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

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

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

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

staff reporter

varsity girls and boys cross country

Girls Varsity

Second Place in district on Wed., Oct. 27

Regionals on Saturday, Nov. 6, at Arlington

Boys Varsity

Second Place in district on Wed., Oct. 27

Regionals on Saturday, Nov. 6, at Arlington

Top Runners:Karis JochenLindsay BerrySadie GarzaAnikka Lekven

Top Runners:Travis BohneBrent WinemillerGus RomanChris Boardman

During the race

Laura CasperAmy BingamanChaiss Matthews

Josh HerringtonDavid MoraPatrick Alexshonis

Afterthe raceBefore

the race

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

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

After completing the timed run Thursday Oct. 21, the run-ners line up in order of who finished. After catching their breath and stretching, the team was told their times.PHOTO BY KENDRA SPAW

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

adequate and her focus is set.“I have been playing tennis since I was five,” Raphael said.

“My dad would take my sister Jessica and I out to the courts. Playing tennis when I was younger was a way that I spent time with my family and a way I got exercise.”

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

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

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

“Tennis is a lot like instincts,” Raphael said. “You don’t have a lot of time to think. You just have to go when you see the ball. A good tennis player is consistent. Tennis isn’t all about hitting winners and putting it away. You have to be able to keep the ball in play.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coach Mercer supports her decision. “The opportunities to play college tennis are very limited,

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

AceingtheServe

junior varsity and freshman tennis

Varsity Tennis

Junior Varsity

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

Team Record:4-2 in district

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

Freshman

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

Team Record: 2-1 in district

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

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

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

the roar | sports | 17friday, oct. 29, 2010

Junior tennis player dominates the court in singles

Team Record:11-6 in district

BY ALEX HALLexecutive editor

Upcoming Matches:Region 2-5A team tournament on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29 and 30

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

Junior Kristina Raphael serves the the ball to sophomore Kath-erine Miller during Thursday’s practice on Oct. 7. Raphael has been competing on the varsity team since her freshman year. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

Singles Lady

Senior Sarah Solcher:“This season we have come every day to practice ready to work and to prepare for our upcoming match. Each match we have left it all on the court. Even if it was a tough loss, we are satisfied with our effort.”

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

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

18 | entertainment | the roar friday, oct. 29, 2010

Blue Baker

Sweet Eugene’s

The Village Cafe

The Roar Reviews

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

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

Sub Culture.At the corner of Southwest PKWY & Wellborn

Free small Drink with Student ID

1411 Wellborn Rd 979-696-5137 exp: 12/31/10

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

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

Local eateries offer fall seasonal foods Seasonal Senses for the month of November

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

Taste international cuisine Nov. 13 at Worldfest in New Braunfels. The festival includes 3 stages, culture displays and demos, vendors and storytelling.

Hear the CMT Revolution tour with Miranda Lambert and special guests Eric Church and Josh Kelley Nov. 5 at Reed Arena. A meet and greet opportu-nity for Ran Fans will also be available. Time is yet to be announced.

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

Smell the Thanksgiving food at Epi-cures Catering, 2319 Texas Ave. Thanks-giving Day, volunteering to cook or deliver meals to the disabled and home-boundof the Brazos Valley. Call 979-695-0985 for more information.

Compiled by Alex Hall

By Kendra Spaw

By Alex Hall

By Emily Nelson

the roar | entertainment | 19friday, oct. 29, 2010

Students express poetic talent, create original rhythm

Daricia Henson

Muffy Harrison

“one way freestylin’

helps me in school is when

I have to study for a test,

i just use my freestyln’

to memorize a rap to the

study questions”

J-Mac Mccarthy

“one thing that helps me

with freestylin’ is to be

informed with the world

and have a wide vocabu-

lary.”

FREETIME FREESTYLIN'

“What makes me bettter at

freestylin’ is to practice.

Practic makes perfect!”

Compiled by Kimmie Cessna

Dead Rappers

“I like to start Freesty-

lin’ in the car, by gett-

ting a line in my head and

going from there.”

Bringin’ On the Beat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Letting loose and going with the beat can be relaxing. While performing, being comfortable can make the rap sound better in the end.

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

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

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

Having a positive attitude while freestylin’ can increase

the crowd’s interest in the person who is freestylin’. “Freestylin’ is a part of my everyday life,” Henson

said.”Every day I practice freestylin’ with someone.”The environment for freestylin’ has to be just right for

an adequate performance.“I like how fun it is to be unexpected,” Green said. “You

don’t want people to be expecting what you are saying. You have to surprise them.”

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

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

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

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

By Kimmie Cessna

Staff Reporter

Seniors J-Mac McCarthy and Muffy Harrison and junior Daricia Henson practice their freesylin’ after school on Oct.14. They each take turns rapping while someone else lays down the beat. PHOTO BY BECCA GAMACHE

20 | etcetera | the roar friday, oct 29, 2010

Tattoos provide outlet for personal expression, mark significant eventshen walking through the hallways and at-tending their usual classes at A&M Consolidated, stu-

dents don’t usually expect to see their favorite teachers or classmates whom they’ve known for years with tattoos on their bodies. However, it is much more common than many people real-ize, and a number of Consol attendees are sporting their own diverse tattoos, each with different stories and feelings behind them.

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

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

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

However for others, such as Eng-lish teacher Jacqueline Shoemake, get-ting a tattoo her senior year of high school was not only supported by her parents, but also seen as a way of fol-lowing in her stepfather’s footsteps.

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

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

Senior Victoria Robertson found the process uncomfortable.

“I knew it was going to hurt, so I was just like, ‘I got this,’” she said. “[But on a scale of 1-10] it hurt a ten. It’s like a bunch of needles just poking you. I didn’t cry, but I did have tear-drops.”

Taylor felt the process was virtu-ally painless.

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

Shoemake believes that, besides popular belief, tattoos are not to be re-gretted, even if one’s opinions or feel-ings do change about them. Rather, she

b.

feels that tattoos are a way of marking important moments in one’s life.

“[I would] absolutely recommend people who are considering getting a tattoo to do so,” she said. “People al-ways say ‘well, I don’t know if I want that forever,’ because people are really indecisive, and I’d say that even if the meaning changes for you, or even if it’s no longer as significant as it was at the time when you got it, it will still be always like a diary entry almost. It will be an artifact of that time of your life when that was important to you. So, it’s kind of a way to look back and mark a significant point in your life.”

Senior Brian Grimes agrees and says that he will never regret his tat-toos.

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

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

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

Taylor backs Goodwyn’s theory through her own feelings about her tat-too.

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

Which tattoo belongs to whom?

a. c.

d. f.e.

6.5.4.

3.2.1.

1.f, 2.c, 3.e, 4.a, 5.b, 6.dphotos by Elena Edwards

by ELENA EDWARDS