2019 November/December

Committee makes decision on 2020-2021 school year start times

Corporal Donny Daughenbaugh speaks at Veteran’s Day Assembly

Astroworld returns to Houston for second year in a row

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#TeamTrees aims to plant 20 million trees by 2020 Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

By Alex Martinez News Editor

is Tobi Lutke, a billionaire and CEO of the YouTube Susan Wojcicki donated $200,000 multinational e-commerce company Shopify, in support of Teamtrees, also uploading a donated one million and one dollars for video of her expressing great appreciation for the initiative. The second highest donor is the movement and her physically planting a Amid the passionate debates on climate Elon Musk, a technology entrepreneur and tree. Jack Dorsey, the co-founder and CEO change, YouTuber James Donaldson, known billionaire, donated one million dollars, of Twitter, made two separate donations, one online as Mr. Beast, suggested celebrating gaining 20 million subscribers on YouTube by planting 20 million trees. Donaldson proposed this idea casually, but soon partnered up with former NASA engineer Mark Rober, a YouTuber with more than eight million subscribers and created the Teamtrees initiative. The premise is anyone can donate to help and one dollar equals one tree planted. The goal of the movement is to plant 20 million trees worldwide by January first, 2020. The movement does not have one leader, but instead relies on support from YouTubers, celebrities, or anyone that wants to donate to support the movement.

All of the proceeds will go towards the Arbor Day Foundation, which will do the physical planting of the trees. Donaldson and Rober know that planting trees will not necessarily solve climate change, saying “The purpose of this whole thing was to have a constructive and positive way to send a message to the policy makers that this issue matters.”

As of December 2, the #Teamtrees initiative has raised over $17 million, after interacting with $200,000 donation and Photo courtesy of Unsplash equating to that same number but of trees Donaldson on Twitter a $150,000 donation. planted across the world. Donating is quick, and expressing his Mark Benioff, the easy and the cheap price of one dollar per approval of #Teamtrees. Musk changed his co-CEO of Salesforce and billionaire tree incentivizes donations. Anyone can see display name on twitter to “Treelon Musk” philanthropist, donated $900,000. Benioff the highest and most donations by going to soon after donating. ELF Development A/S, a left a message with his public donation, Teamtrees.org. Anyone who donates can leave Danish real estate company, ranks third on the saying “Inspired by Treelon,” referring to a message under it, giving supporters freedom donor list with $250,000, attaching a message Musk’s nickname in support of Teamtrees. to say whatever they like. The highest donor saying, “Because we care!” The CEO of Climate change is a hot button issue

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

right now, especially among younger generations. This was directly influenced

by Greta Thunberg, an environmental activist that orchestrated and influenced millions of student protests for the climate across the world. Recently, President Trump formally began the process of withdrawing the United States from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, an agreement that unites 187 countries and works towards lessening carbon emissions. This was met with resistance from young people across the world actively concerned about climate change and how it will affect their future.

The #Teamtrees initiative was created to convey to the world that climate change is a very real problem and that action must be taken towards ameliorating climate change. Activism helps raise awareness for a problem, marshal support for the cause, and create meaningful change in the world.

Where would America be without the Civil Rights movement, or the Women’s Suffrage movement, both people coming together to raise awareness for a cause, educating the world on why their opinion matters, and working hard to make the world a better place. Present day movements are no different, people uniting for one common cause: to make the world a better place. In this day and age, the case of climate change unites people together, like YouTuber Mr. Beast, billionaire rocket scientist Elon Musk, 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and millions of people worldwide to agree that radical change is necessary to ensure a safer, better future for the planet.

House moves forward with impeachment inquiry

By Andrew Stell Features Editor

For the past six months, diplomats have manifested their energy asking the question: “did President Donald Trump commit a crime punishable with impeachment?” The primary accusation led by democrats is that Trump refused to transfer money to Ukraine without the further investigation on the involvement of Hunter Biden, son of Joe Biden, leading democratic candidate and former vice president in a quid pro quo exchange.

As the impeachment inquiry continues, many have grown tiresome of the ongoing dispute between the two political parties. The two groups have both called upon their star witnesses, with nothing to show towards either argument.

After countless futile attempts to evoke impeachment on current President Trump, the House of Representatives has begun an intensive and full investigation, currently referred to as the impeachment inquiry. Actions taken towards impeachment most recently include a subpoena of the documents in relation to President Trump’s phone call on July 25, with Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine. Witnesses of this phone call have testified anonymously, working with the House of Representatives to verify the claims of impeachment. These witnesses have redacted all forms of identification, as these witnesses have been repeatedly attacked,

being called “whistleblower,” “crooked,” and “fraudulent,” with many of these claims coming from the president.

“Last Friday, a member of my staff told me of events that occurred on July 26… In the presence of my staff, at a restaurant, Ambassador Gordon Sondland called President Trump and told him of his meetings in Kyiv. The member of my staff could hear President Trump on the phone asking Ambassador Sondland about the investigations. Ambassador Sondland told President Trump the Ukrainians were ready to move forward,” Taylor Jr., Ambassador of Ukraine and first hearing testifier, said.

Democrats and Republicans alike have questioned the credibility of this whistleblower, as they have chosen to remain anonymous. “‘I want to know who’s the person, who’s the person who gave the whistle-blower the information? Because that’s close to a spy,’ he continued. ‘You know what we used to do in the old days when we were smart? Right? The spies and treason, we used to handle it a little differently than we do now,’” Trump said.

After receiving the news of the subpoenaed documents, President Trump and his administrative lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, stated that they would not comply with these subpoenas. There have been multiple closed-door depositions and subpoenas in relation to the impeachment of President Trump, including a subpoena for documents

from Giuliani; Sam Kislan, associate of Giuliani; Gordan Sondland, Ambassador of the European Union; Fiona Hill, National Security Council-Russia advisor; Vice President Mike Pence and Igor Fruman, another associate of Giuliani.

Of these participants, most have declined cooperation with these subpoenas, an action met with serious repercussions. After receiving news at his subpoena, Trump stated that he has received unfair treatment compared to any other president.

“We’ve been treated very unfairly, very different from anybody else,” President Trump said.

Though President Trump and his advisors are seeking sympathy from the public, this attempt has been no more than futile, receiving responses that Trump is unlike other presidents, firing back at the complaints he has accumulated. As of now, operations are at a standstill, playing a “waiting game” of who will turn in the documents requested by the subpoena.

Though many have been pushing for the impeachment of President Trump since his election, this inquiry has certainly pushed further than all other rumors.

The current inquiry began in September, when an anonymous whistleblower filed a complaint, claiming foul play between President Trump and President Zelensky.

“The White House officials who told me this information were deeply disturbed

by what had transpired in the phone call. In the course of my official duties, I have received information from multiple US Government officials that the President of the United States is using the power of his office to solicit interference from a foreign country in the 2020 US election. This interference includes, among other things, pressuring a foreign country to investigate one of the President’s main domestic political rivals.

The President’s personal lawyer, Mr. Rudy Giuliani, is a central figure in this effort. Attorney General Barr appears to be involved as well,” Whistleblower complaint, said.

This immediately sparked a riot between the two parties, as Americans bleed two distinct colors, red and blue. Trump has stayed in business as usual, seeming unconcerned as his advisors panic on account of impeachment. “…the Whistleblower, and also the person who gave all of the false information to him. This is simply about a phone conversation that could not have been nicer, warmer, or better. No pressure at all (as confirmed by Ukrainian Pres.). It is just another Democrat Hoax,” President Trump, via Twitter @realDonaldTrump, said.

Contributing to this issue, is the difficulty in comprehending, as it is forever changing, unable to be understood for the rapid pace the news moves at. This is a dangerous game, as without clarity to the public, a society such as the US cannot function according to the constitution.

2

OPINION aWhat are you most looking forward to overa winter break?

ted “I’m exci y to visit m her in grandmot e a, becaus Oklahom to see her I only get ar.” once a ye ) irney (9th B n y l h s -A

ard to a w r o f g n i k ah.

“I am loo k City Ut r a P o t ip w ski tr rating Ne b le e c e b I wi l l my family h it w e r e Years th riend.” and best f (10th) nson -Zona Joh

“I am looking forw ard to spending Christmas and New Years in Calif ornia with my grandparen ts.”

-Jordan Seybert (1 1th) “For winter break, I am looking forward to a restful, schoolwork-free time with my family.

Because I want to have a stress-free break.”

-Yvonne Mendoza (12th)

“I am looking forward to winter break becuase I get to spend more time with family and do less homework.”

-Isabella Pillow (9th) “I am excited to have a break from school after the stress of finals and to eat X-mas food.”

-Mikayla King (10th)

with my “Relaxing hat’s what cause t e b , y l i m fa on is all s a e s y a d i the hol about.”

Mosley n w a h S .

- Ms d DECA n a h c a o (Cheer C sponsor)

“I am going to see my family because they live far away and th ey always get me the best presents.”

-Blake Matthioer (9th)

“Looking forward to finishing my college apps and finding out what colleges I could be going to next year.”

-Cooper Miller (12th)

“The three pound weight allowance for wrestling and so I can finally have an acutal meal.”

-Chaz Cheramie (11th)

“I am most lookin g forward to my trip to Australia w ith my family, so that I might be able to see a koala bear.”

-Sahana Boosupalli (11th)

“Definitely listening to X-mas music on repeat for hours so I can sing Mariah Carey and annoy my family.”

-Sara Jana (10th)

rward to “I am looking fo as with my last Christm college.” my family before berg -Amber Maiden (12th)

2019-2020

HiLife Staff

Principal: Jamey Majewski

Advisor: Wynette Jameson

Editors-in-Chief: Arrington Linder Morgan Severson Assistant Editor: Leah Burnam

Managing Editor: Anabella Cooper

News Editor: Alex Martinez

Online Editor: Leah Burnam

Features Editor: Andrew Stell

Entertainment Editor: Aivry Zamora

Sports Editor: Mark Gidden Around Creek Editor: Analei Berger

Advertising Manager: Anabella Cooper

Photo-Editor: Danielle Dunavant

Assistant Photo-Editors: Carson Faulkner Chloe Tankink Reporters: Jordan Johnson Misbah Rajan Rolando Rios

Photographers: Jessica McDermand Lexin Cumby Jacob McBroom

Published at Galveston Daily News in Texas City Visit us at: www.creekhilife.com or http://clearcreekhs.ccisd.net For ad rates call: (281)-284-1889

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

3

EDITORIAL

Severson Speaks: Substantial Student Stress

By Morgan Severson Editor-in-Chief The so called, “most wonderful time of the year,” has proven to be quite the opposite for students. As anticipation and excitement builds for winter break, there is one big hurdle we must jump over before we get there: finals week. With finals week creeping upon us, stress and anxiety levels skyrocket as we try to make it through the end of the semester with satisfactory grades. But, as the semester comes to an end, I think that we should take a moment to realize the importance of mental health.

With finals making up 15% of our final grades, there is an immense amount of pressure for students to score higher on a single test than their class average. This is the only way a final can improve a grade.

When final exams stress you out, spiraling is inevitable. It is easy to think about how you are not going to get the grade you want on your exams and then your GPA will go down and your class rank will get worse

By Arrington Linder Editor-in-Chief

When looking for clothes, many shoppers are inclined to purchase what does not break the bank. Several large clothing retailers rapidly produce cheap clothes to mirror the latest fashion trends. This tactic, however, negatively impacts both the environment and the workers involved.

Brands such as Forever 21, Zara and H&M are well-known fast fashion companies. Despite their affordable products, these companies disregard how their high profit and low standards are affecting their workers and the environment.

Although the rapidly produced articles of clothing might not stay in style, they will stay on this planet forever.

According to The New York Times, “more than 60 percent of fabric fibers are now synthetics, derived from fossil fuels, so if and when our clothing ends up in a landfill…it will not decay.” The earth is only degrading and fast fashion

and that you will not make it into your dream college. It is easy to forget about yourself and how you are feeling. But it is not easy to realize when it is time to take a step back and think about your well-being and being too stressed to think straight only adds fuel to the fire.

The modern teen is more stressed than the average adult. A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that teens’ level of stress outweigh adults’ stress. According to APA, on a ten-point scale, a healthy level of stress for teenagers is three-pointnine, while a healthy level for adults is three-point-six. However, during the school year, teens’ level of stress spikes to a five-point-eight and 34% of teens predict their stress to only increase from there, at a level that is already classified as unhealthy.

It is a common belief that stress, in a way, is good for us, that it motivates us lazy teenagers to do our work. But stress motivating you to do your homework does not make your grades better, in fact, it makes them worse. Too much stress is a bad thing and being too stressed for a long period of time, is detrimental.

About one fifth of teens do not get the National Sleep Foundation’s recommended eight and a half to nine hours of sleep per night due to stress. The APA also stated that during

times of stress, 23% of teens skip meals at least once that month and 39% of teens skip a meal once a week or more. Teenagers who are more stressed out spend more time online and less time being active. Stressed out, busy teens, are only finding time to exercise

“Stress is not what happens to us. It is our response to what happens. And response is something we can choose” -Maureen Killoran

once a week or not at all. How are we expected to perform well on tests, when our bodies are being subjected to these conditions?

Being stressed effects your ability to focus and your ability to take in the information that you are trying to learn. Excessive amounts of the stress hormone, cortisol, cause the parts in your brain responsible for remembering information, to lack the amount of energy they need. Verywell Mind, an online resource providing medical advice on mental health, stress also causes exhaustion, which “can lead to cognitive impairment that includes issues with attention and working memory.” They also noted that memory impairment from lack of sleep due to stress can last up to three years

later, even after you start to get enough sleep.

On top of stress, anxiety, particularly testing anxiety, is another factor effecting students this time of year. Testing anxiety stems from the fear of failure. Effects of testing anxiety can include excessive sweating, increased heartbeat, stomach and headaches, feeling faint and feeling helpless.

One of the best ways to conquer final exam stress and anxiety, is managing your time. Sitting down and writing out a plan for when you are going to study and when your exams are, is a good way to calm yourself down. Planning beforehand declutters your mind and keeps a test from creeping up on you unexpectedly. You should study at least one week before an exam.

It is impossible to remember a whole semester’s worth of content the night before a test. Do not wait for your teacher to give you a review, be proactive and start looking at your notes from throughout the semester a head of time.

Taking a break is equally as important as studying. In an article by Social Triggers, it explains that humans are not meant to work for eight hours straight and in the span of a workday, we actually only get three hours’ worth of work done. When things get too overwhelming, take a step back. You will find that taking frequent breaks can help you think clearer, increase creativity, maintain focus and remember more information in the long run.

But most importantly, take care of your health, both physical and mental. Being an AP student myself, I realize how easy it is to drown in all your schoolwork. Test after test after test, on top of chapters and chapters of reading – it is time consuming. I cannot tell you how to treat your body, but I can tell you to listen to it.

Put down the pencil and eat, sleep or rest when you need to. Getting those three extra hours of sleep can be the difference between you getting a three-digit grade or a less than ideal one.

Linder’s Lessons: Fast Faulted Fashion

only makes the state of our planet worse.

The contaminated chemicals used in this kind of clothing production can leak into water systems, making the water undrinkable for citizens in the surrounding areas. Benzothiazole is a chemical commonly used throughout the fashion industry, however, it not only can it affect the environment, but the consumer as well. The chemical can seep into one’s skin from the fabric, increasing certain health risks, namely endocrine disruption. This can increase the risk of cancer, affect reproductive health and weaken the immune system.

Although it is known that this industry has an unfortunate impact on the environment, not many know that their carbon footprint is so high that it rivals industries such as oil and air transportation. The fashion industry is responsible for ten percent of the earth’s carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of our water supply. Washing these rapidly produced clothes can release a total of 500,000 tons of microfibers into the ocean annually, equal to 50 billion plastic bottles.

Not only is this rapidly increasing industry negatively impacting the

environment, but the employees involved in the clothing production as well. Although these companies are receiving high profits, they are somehow unable to provide their workers with a sustainable salary. While the hourly wage differs across countries

however, is not necessarily the case. The poor conditions in which their employees work in can end their lives, as the factories typically have no ventilation, causing the employees to inhale toxic chemicals and possibly causing them to overheat. Fires have occurred in numerous factories, such as the Tazreen Fashions factory in Bangladesh and the Ali Enterprises textile factory in Karachi. The exploitive conditions these workers are forced to work in put a toll on them mentally, physically and financially.

Slow fashion is beginning to rise in popularity, benefitting the producers and the consumers.

As opposed to fast fashion, slow fashion focuses more on quality, not quantity. These brands are environmentally conscious and do not exploit their workers. However, slow fashion is more of an investment than fast fashion. Some people are beginning to explore thrift shops and secondhand clothing stores to fill their closets. By purchasing previously owned clothing, the customer is able to lower their carbon footprint and reduce the amount of time a piece of clothing spends in a landfill.

Although I am guilty of purchasing from fast fashion companies, I try to purchase more of my clothing secondhand, as opposed to endorsing these corporations. Most people are aware of the unfortunate industry, but only few are acting to lower their use of fast fashion products.

By changing the way we look at the clothing industry, we can begin to invest in more ethically-produced products and put an end to this harmful industry.

“Cheap fashion is really far from that, it may be cheap in terms of the financial cost, but very expensive when it comes to the environment and the cost of human life.”

-Sass Brown and companies, employees typically do not earn more than one dollar an hour.

Unfortunately, the safety standards are just as low as the wages. Most of the workers work 10-12 hour days in poor conditions. Major companies outsource to underdeveloped countries for their employees, because they assume the workers will be happy to just have a job,

4

CORE VALUES

Trustworthiness is acting with honesty in all that a student does, according to CCISD. As captain of the golf team, senior Emma Forbes makes sure that her teammates are always involved in activities. “She has a work ethic that shows that she will do the job even better than you ask her to,” Mrs. Mary Slazer, teacher, said. Forbes’ family and friends have influenced her to be trustworthy because she wants to “make them proud and...I want to lead by example.”

Trustworthiness Respect is valuing yourself and others, according to CCISD. Elsa King, senior and President of National Technical Honor Society (NTHS), shows respect by running, “the organization and [conducting] all meetings kind and willing to help anyone,” Mrs. Shannon Herd, NTHS sponsor, said. King says that her parents have set a good example for her by reminding her, “to keep [her] values solid, but still be open minded and considerare of others.”

Respect

Responsibility is owning your choices, according to CCISD. Two-time all-state bassist and senior, Bryan Dawn, demonstrates respect daily. “He respects everyone, treats them equally, perfect student,” Mrs. Gloria Velasquez, Spanish Honor Society director, said. “When it comes to being responsible, I like to show I care about what teachers teach me. Because they’re pationate about teaching. I listen, do what they tell me,” Dawn said. Dawn has had a successful year and continues to demonstrate his core value of respect.

Responsibility Fairness is playing by the rules and considering the needs of others, according to CCISD. Emma Winn, senior, shows fairness daily to her classmates and teachers. “She always does her part and takes care of everything. She is always kind and responsible towards others and she makes sure everything is done correctly, “ Ms. Riley Warden, chemistry teacher, said. Winn has currently been spending her time working on a recycling project. “I try to act respectful towards others and help out as much as I can.”

Fairness

Caring is being kind to others, according to CCISD. Junior Jordyn Seybert is caring by volunteering her house to host a baking party to raise money for Rho Kappa. Seybert helps other students with their homework and anything else they need help with. Seybert’s grandmother has inspired her to be caring because she “always volunterred at the high school or her neighbors. I was always there with her, helping others and always inspired to see how important helping others is.”

Caring Citizenship is working to improve your school, community and country, according to CCISD. Junior Gabrielle Daughenbaugh shows citizenship by being involved in her community and encourages her teammates and club members. Daughenbaugh says that “past experiences have made [her] more sensitive to things that others may be going through.” Daugenbaugh works to help freshman divers on the diving team “because [she] knows how hard it is to learn so many dives.”

Citizenship

5

NEWS

Houston Mayoral runoff to take place December 14 vester Turner commend his humanism, way cities work. I’ve had government others present a criticism for his over- contracts. I made plenty contributions all lack of professionalism as evident in over my life. But this is the most corAs the mayoral election of 2019 multiple scenarios throughout his career. rupt administration I’ve ever seen in nears, many candidates and citizens Preliminary candidate Bill King went as my lifetime. I’ve never seen the payof Houston bite their nails, in anticipa- far as to question the ethics of the may- to-play as out of control as it is right tion of the upcoming runoff for mayor of Houston. The primary election was November fifth, determining the next mayor of one of the largest cities in the world, however, candidates Tony Buzbee and Sylvester Turner tied, concluding the primary election and preparing a runoff. The most prominent questions and issues these mayoral candidates are tasked with include the Houston Professional Firefighters Association pay debate, city budget margins, ethical practices of office members, flood protection and recovery plans and other primary agendas of candidates. While the city has watched first hand the history of current mayor Sylvester Turner, Turner was projected to have a vote percentage of 22% by KHOU11 news, the highest percentage of voters of all 11 candidates. After the mayoral debate which took place October third, general responses (to the questions displayed above) were received from each candidate with the most common response stating that Photo courtesy of Flickr now,” Bill King, the most prominent issue in Houston or of the fourth largest preliminary mayis the lack of pay for many firefight- city in the United States. candidate, said. ers, an issue which a number of candi“We need some kind of ethical re- oral Whether side or candidate voted dates agreed would be resolved simply. forms… I’ve been around this city hall While those taking a liking to Syl- for 40 years. I am not naïve about the for, prevalent action is needed to im-

prove the lives of nearly three million citizens of Houston, not to mention the billions of dollars in imports taken in through the Houston ship channel. After three major incidents of flooding in the past five years, flood prevention and protection shines through as Houston is still vulnerable to a flood each day. Firefighters suffer a lack of budget to pay their employees, the city is facing a trying time of unethical board members and finally an all-time-low education standard at Houston Independent School District (HISD).

The hard-working people of Houston deserve a proper functioning city, a respectable wage, and protection against the monsoon like weather of coastal Texas.

Though there has been a recent push to encourage voting, many choose not to participate in local elections, as ‘they don’t really matter.’ For a city as large as Houston, with as much influence on the world as Houston has, good representation is essential to a properly functioning super-city. As changed in 2015, each mayoral term lasts four years, granting reelection for a total of two terms served, a position Sylvester Turner is campaigning for currently. What could be the next eight years for our city is instrumental to the future of Houston as well as America, and your vote makes a difference in the lives of your children, and their children. Voting for the next mayor of Houston takes place on December 14, at most schools, city centers, and recreational areas (libraries, museums, etc). Your voice can be heard, your opinion matters.

appeal to all ages and interest a wide variety of people. The attendance for each organization is miniscule which only fuels the assumption that libraries are becoming irrelevant. A community meeting held in January suggested that the building be completely relocated and upgraded, but

ects taking priority, the renewal of the facility may not be a possibility until 2025.

Not only is Helen Hall being threatened by major budget cuts, but libraries across the nation are facing closure due to federal judgement. In 2011, Texas lawmakers were challenged with balancing the state’s budget in the midst of a recession that led them to make a 64% cut in the state-wide library funds. This drastic cut in funding has caused Texas to be unable to meet required obligations to its libraries for the past eight years.

With the state’s expected share reduced, the federal institute that allocates library funding is threatening to cut about 70% of its annual allocation to Texas public libraries. Texas officials appealed in June 2019 for a waiver from the state funding requirement, but the plea has so far been rejected by government officials in Washington.

Despite the non-existent emphasis on library expansion, librarians are still continuing to advocate to local officials for the funding needed to upgrade their facilities. Helen Hall staff acted immediately after the information of the budget cuts emerged, asking League City to hold a town meeting asking citizens of the community what they would want incorporated into a new building. Though the cost of a modernized building would exceed what the city can afford, the protesting of the matter is consistent enough that a bypass of the budget may be taken into consideration.

“Libraries are thought of as community spaces with study rooms, collaborative areas and other amenities, which is what League City residents indicated they want in their local library,” Maureen Arndt, librarian, said.

By Andrew Stell Features Editor

Helen Hall Library facing extreme budget cuts

By Aivry Zamora Entertainment Editor

Digital media’s rapid expansion, the rise in e-book popularity and massive federal budget cuts have caused frequent predictions for the end of traditional libraries.

League City’s own Helen Hall Library is seeing potential termination as local officials have deemed the library inadequate in meeting the city’s needs. With the number of people in attendance of the library decreasing considerably each year, the building, having been built decades before the digital takeover, is in dire need of a modernized renovation. The discussion of the topic has been a point of city council meetings many times over, yet those in office have deemed the matter irrelevant and unnecessary. Despite the stereotype, libraries are much more than dusty shelves and quiet study rooms as over time, they have become a symbol of community and an essential resource for education.

Claiming that League City does not have time to focus on something as “insignificant” as their only library is simply prohibiting the improvement of the city.

The local government has dismissed the notion of renewing the building more than once, yet librarians, educators and frequent volunteers continue to advocate for an upgrade to the facility. The two-story structure built in 1975 was originally created as a warehouse to store books, magazines and a small assortment of tapes. Though the collection of titles has expanded since then, being in the middle of a community that is

so technologically driven, leads the library to appear underwhelming. A 29,000 square foot building with 30 outdated desktops is nowhere near the most frequented building in the city, as residents of the area claim to only visit the library once or twice a year.

“The library was built in the 1970s and

is not optimal for today’s Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons the total cost of such technology,” London a drastic transforLaurence, librarian, said.

With numerous events and clubs ad- mation exceeded the allocated budget vertised towards children, students and for a “small-scale” issue. The existing adults, Helen Hall has worked persistently building may be expanded and re-conto ensure their community-based activities structed, but with other long-term proj-

6

NEWS

California wildfires burn through over 250,000 acres

By Jordan Johnson Reporter

Over the past two years, Los Angeles, California has experienced thousands of wildfires. California residents are still recovering from the outrageous fires in April earlier this year.

Although many wildfires were still out of control, The Kincade and Getty fires were the most uncontained out of the six fires that were raging. However, Kincade is the most destructive of the two.

One part that is making it so hard to contain all of the fires at the time was the destructive wind, blowing up to at least 80 miles per hour and in some areas, like the area where Kincade was, up to 100 miles per hour. Severe wind gusts are making it hard to predict where the fire will go and how fast it can spread.

Destroying over 60,000 acres and 94 structures, Kincade is the largest fires California has seen this year. Kincade is not the biggest fire that the state of California has seen in the past two years.

Mendocino Complex Fire destroyed over 200 buildings. It lasted from July second to November seventh of last year. Kincade is expected to surpass that by tens of thousands of buildings and houses.

The Kincade fire started just after a small metal link that connected Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) when a transmission tower on Burned Mountain malfunctioned.

Although an investigation is still on going to find the cause of Kincade, it is a high possibility that the malfunction is to blame. If the investigation concludes that it is the transformers fault that PG&E own, PG&E would more than likely shut down. PG&E has already

field for bankruptcy and is being closely monitored by the government and they are already on federal criminal probation for past events that have occurred.

PG&E were the reasons for 2018 Camp Fire and 2017s Wine Country fires.

Almost 130 building were destroyed, 57 homes destroyed and 20 more damaged.

The damage of Kincade is expected to reach over 90,000 buildings. The fire department said the fire should be contained by November seventh, however

Photo courtesy of Flickr By 6:30 pm on it could take weeks, if October 28, Kincade not months, to fully had consumed extinguish the fire. As more than 70,000 acres of land. At this of Wednesday, October 30, the fire was time, the fire was only 15% contained. only 45% contained and had burned more

than 266 buildings had been destroyed and at least 133 of these building being homes.

The Getty fire off of 405 Freeway in Los Angeles started at 1:30 a.m. on October 28. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and surrounding areas were put under mandatory evacuation soon after the fire started. The fire spread quickly due to low humidity, high wind and very little rainfall. The Getty fires started by a tree branch falling on power lines. Getty started out as a small brush fire, but due to the winds it became much worse for the people in surrounding areas.

Freeway 405 shut down most of Monday, October 28 and on Tuesday October 29. Many have no idea when Getty will finally be contained but like Kincade, it could take months to fully extinguish. Places that have been evacuated and free of fire could return, but there is a chance they would just have to leave again.

“We could in some places maybe have some people return tonight only to pull them away tomorrow in the middle of the night,” Eric Garcetti, Mayor of Los Angeles, said.

There are several more fires in the California area, such as the Taboose Fire, which started September fourth by lightning and is 75% contained. The Briceburg fire started October sixth and is only 15% contained and the cause is still under investigation as of October 29. Throughout the dry season in California, over 20 million people are at risks yearly for having to evacuate their homes, due to living within a high-risk area for fire. Many are never able to return home, due to their houses burning down.

Saugus High School victimized in school shooting

By Andrew Stell Features Editor

Santa Clarita bleeds dry, as the tears of parents who have lost their children, flood the streets.

Students checked in normally on Thursday, November 14. Reported to the courtyard to walk and converse with friends, talk about grades, daily trials and tribulations of a modern teen.

Students were then interrupted by the sharp pierce of gunmetal igniting, a bullet exiting the barrel at a velocity too quick to react to. Courtyard bystanders then executed a procedure known all too well by students of all ages. Ducking, taking cover behind all things near, mentally decaying in the hour-long-seconds in which the five shots were fired. Yet one bullet lay still in the chamber, awaiting its destination, sitting proudly in the machine of death, at the hands of it’s creator. The shooter, known only after as Nathaniel Tennosuke Berhow, observed his havoc, watched the death of two and the injury of an additional three. At this point Berhow, 16, turned the barrel towards himself, and fired.

This chaos ensued at 7:30 am, and lasted only seconds, giving students little time to react, yet when paramedics arrived it had become too late for two innocent students, rushing shooter Berhow to the hospital, as well as the other three wounded victims.

“We had no clue whether the shooter was on the opposite side of campus or right outside our door,” Andrei Mojica, student of Saugus High School, said.

Students and parents hold their ‘Saugus Strong’ flags high, holding a massive candlelight service for those lost in this tragedy. Of these travesties, Gracie Anne Muehlberger, 16 and Dominic Blackwell, 14, lie at rest,

peaceful in the eyes of their loved ones.

After the attack, Berhow’s home was searched, finding multiple firearms

school. The morning of the shooting, and experience with this tragedy. before blowing through the rounds in “My reaction was complete horror his .45 caliber pistol, Berhow blew and I immediately called a good friend with a daughter at Saugus. The daughter had already texted her mother, she was hiding in a locked classroom and they were waiting until everything cleared. She had heard the shots and the screams from outside the quad. She was terrified because they still did not know if the shooter was continuing. I was relieved to know my friend’s daughter was safe at the moment, and then immediately texted Leah to ensure she was safe at her school,” Cathy Modaro, mother to Leah Modaro, said.

Cathy then shared the feelings of her daughter’s safety, as a parent to two, Michael and Leah, Leah attending Rio Norte Jr. High school and Michael a Valencia High School alum.

“Leah was in school at Rio Norte Jr High (about four miles from Saugus) when it happened. She was concerned when the teacher got a call and quickly locked the classroom door. She was shocked to hear there had been a shooting at Saugus HS and they were on lock down in case something similar was planned at other schools. All schools in the district went on lockdown.

She felt safe at her school, they did a good job with the lockdown and reassuring the kids there. Many parents came to pick up their kids from the school because they panicked and wanted their kids home where they thought they could protect them. Leah felt safe amd stayed at school the rest of the day,” Cathy Modaro, said.

Cathy was then asked how she would solve the problem, and as most of us, Cathy voiced her concern of the complexity of this problem. unregistered and out the candles “I know people are talking about Photo courtesy of Bridget Boeder easily accessible to his birthday, security screenings at schools (like in (Saugus High School Student)

by Berhow. The turning 16. airports). I do think that would help, but 16 year old’s late father was a recurring When interviewed about the would cause so many associated issues like hunter, allowing Berhow experience recent shooting, Cathy Modaro how long it takes to get in to school. And and time for planning his attack on the was eager to voice opinions I don’t think it would be 100% effective.”

NEWS

7

Creek Chamber Choir performs on KPRC Channel 2

By Jessica McDermand Photographer The Astros are known for their talent as a baseball team, but in their home town of Houston, they are known for more than just that. Houston and surrounding cities had been hit hard by Hurricane Harvey, but soon after, their spirits were lifted by the Astros winning the 2017 World Series. To help show their support in this year’s battle, Creek’s own Chamber choir recorded a video of them singing Go, Go Astros, a song originally

by Mack Hayes. In the video, they wore t-shirts and other Astros inspired apparel to support the team as well.

The song was first played in the 80s at the Astros games for several years.

However, it was not heard again until 2017 at the last World Series win by some fans who had dug around and found it to play in honor of the team’s success. The song was once a staple for the team and now that it has been found, it has quickly started becoming popular again. The choir managed to capture both the original tune of the song and make it unique for all to hear. The choir’s original intent, however, was just to support their team.

The week of October 13 on Twitter, the choir’s rendition of the song had gone trending. Many people reposted the video, including ABC13 Houston News and 104.1 KRBE Houston radio station. Although it was cool that the choir had gone trending on such a big social media platform, the choir thought all the fame and publicity would stop

to perform at the news studio, where they port for the team and their upcoming games.

“I thought that it was an amazing exlater appeared both on a live stream and on the Click2Houston Channel 2 news perience and I had a lot of fun!” Gillian website. Many, including MLB.com, re- Respondek, member of the Choir, said.

Also mentioning that while growing up she was surrounded by support of the Astros, since her parents are such big fans of the famous baseball team.

Not only being on the news, but the entirety of the show was a big surprise for the choir. While on the KPRC 2 News Channel, the director of the choir, James Park, was also asked a few questions about the song choice and why he had chosen to use this song. Relating back to games he’d seen at the Astrodome while growing up, he explained his reasoning behind using this song rendition to represent the Astros and cheer them on in the 2019 World Series.

“I grew up in a time when this song was really, really hot. We would listen to it on the radio back then, we’d go to the dome games an we’d hear it there,” Mr. Park, choir director, said. He continued to say “We thought how much fun would it be to bring it back and posted the video.”

The choir and their director received a surprise shout out from the famous composer Mack Hayes, which wrote the song “Go, Go Astros.”

The World Series games took place posted the event, contacted.

KPRC Photo courtesy of Ellie Erdberg from October 22 to October 30 against the writing stories about Channel 2 news had Washington Nationals.

Although the World the choir’s dedicatalked to the direcSeries didn’t go exactly how some had tors of the choir to ask them if they would tion support for their hometown team. hoped, the Astros could count on the suplike to perform their rendition of Go, Go While on the news, the choir looked export of their fans.

Including that of Creek’s Astros, on the news to support the Astros cited and all had smiles while performing, very own Clear Creek Chamber Choir. in their World Series games. On Tuesday, once again dressed up in complete Astros October 22, the choir traveled to Houston apparel, to show off their unyielding supthere. After the Astros win against the New York Yankees on October 19, they were officially in the 2019 World Series and that’s when the Creek Chamber choir was

Plant-based protein reaches fast food franchises

By Aivry Zamora Entertainment Editor

King’s “Impossible Whopper” became the contain positive health effects is untrue. most frequently purchased item on the menu While a Beyond Burger generates 90% during the time it was offered, with Dunkin’s less greenhouse gas than a beef burger, it The hamburger, a fundamental staple “un-sausage” breakfast sandwich receiving contains far more calories than a traditional of the American diet, is being completely a massive amount of hype from vegetarian patty, making it as equally un-healthy as an reinvented after concerns regarding the nation’s buyers. While restaurants are including ordinary burger. Though plant-based products annual meat consumption have developed.

After the invention of the surprisingly popular “Impossible Burger,” more and more people are favoring environmentally conscious alternatives to regular meat products. Though targeted at vegan and vegetarian consumers, Beyond Meat’s striking similarity to authentic beef along with its organic composition have led to its popularity with traditional meat eaters. With “fake meat” and a flexitarian lifestyle becoming a trend, a significant percentage of the population is making an effort to incorporate more eco-friendly options into their diets. Using Beyond Meat as a way to provide climate change awareness without drastically altering their lifestyle, the flexitarian community has caused the plant-based protein to grow in popularity.

“Consumers are worried about the planet and want to be part of a solution, but they do not want to fundamentally change their lives,” Suzanne Shelton, Shelton Sustainability founder, said.

Animal agriculture produces 14.5% of man-made greenhouse gasses, with cows are significantly being responsible for the biggest percentage Impossible products Photo courtesy of Flickr less impactful of emission. Awareness of meat’s carbon on their menus, than the beef footprint has created an opening for products grocery stores are that appeal to lower-carbon dieters, with importing mass amounts of fake meat to be industry’s methods of production, they are Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods now sold in their stores. Even commercial meat not completely natural. Impossible product’s pitching themselves as part of a climate- companies are joining the trend, with Tyson primary ingredient is genetically modified friendly lifestyle. After the trial run of the Foods, one of the largest producers of meat soy, grown with pesticides and fertilizers product was extremely successful, Beyond in the US, announcing new meatless chicken that have their own impacts on the planet.

“There is no point in quibbling Meat has partnered with several major fast- nuggets to arrive in the summer of 2020.

Plant based proteins are unquestionably about whether Impossible Foods grows food chains such as Burger King, Dunkin Donuts and KFC, expanding the 14-billion- more beneficial to the planet than beef, our ingredients in organically certified dollar alternative meat industry. Burger though the assumption that Impossible patties vermiculture or in our backyard. Our products

lower environmental impact and use much less genetically modified soy and 80% less herbicide than patties made from cows,” Rachel Konrad, Impossible Foods Spokeswoman, said.

According to a United Nations panel on climate change, about 70% of the world’s cattle emissions come from low and middleincome countries, where inefficient production is unable to meet rising consumer demand.

American cattle grow bigger and at a more rapid rate causing them to produce more meat and less greenhouse gas. That growth, which is achieved through feeding the cows corn and soy at the end of their lives, as well as the routine use of antibiotics and artificial growth hormones, carries environmental, public health and animal welfare tradeoffs.

“The use of animals for food is by far the most destructive technology on earth.

Every #ImpossibleBurger you eat helps give our grasslands and other ecosystems a new look,” “Impossible Burger’s” official Instagram account, said.

The replacement of beef is receiving backlash as the proteins that make up Impossible foods are becoming increasingly more expensive to produce. The plants take a month to grow with the already expensive price of production spiking after the unexpected popularity of the meat. Climate experts collectively agree that America needs to make major dietary changes to its diet as statistics have shown the average American eats three burgers a week. Globally, agricultural practices need to be overhauled, so that the same amount of land currently being used can produce more food to feed a growing population. In July, WRI released a report with a 22-item “menu for a sustainable food future” that explores ways to reduce food waste, increase production, restore forests and wetlands and increase the fish supply and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, taking a step in the direction of sustainability.

8

NEWS

CCISD implements new saftey measures for next school year

By Alex Martinez News Editor In light of the increased occurrence of gun incidents in American high schools, Clear Creek Independent School District sought out improving the safety and learning opportunities students across the district. The school district enlisted the use of the 2019 School Safety Committee, consisting of fifteen parents selected at random, law enforcement officers, mental health providers, students, CCISD teachers and staff and faithbased leaders. The goal at hand was to explore all options to possibly improve school safety in the district as a whole while entirely disregarding any monetary concerns. The safety committee implored the implementation of metal detectors at school entrances, clear backpacks for students, arming of teachers and marshals in schools. They also sought ways to improve support safety systems already in place, such as increased police officers and student support counselors, enforced policies and procedures, updated training for staff and an improved emergency communications system. The CCISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to accept the safety committee’s recommendations on July 23, 2018.

Concerning the use of metal detectors at school entrances, the arming of teachers and the solicitation of marshals with concealed handgun licenses, the committee reached a wide consensus that these measures would shift CCISD from a comfortable learning environment to an environment similar to that of a prison. The committee came to this conclusion after examining and discussing research that found metal detectors to be ineffective at both detecting weapons and also stopping a motivated shooter. The committee also participated in a study at Davis High School in the Aldine Independent School District that found metal detector screening processes took too much time from a school day. For these reasons, the CCISD Safety Committee did not recommend the implementation of metal detectors in schools.

The committee agreed and made multiple official recommendations to increase school safety through people. The first was adding fifteen School Liaison Officers (SLO’s) to the security force, leaving each high school with three full

campus, ensuring safety from the outside.

The other recommendations made to improve school safety through people were increasing the number of student counselors per high school, implement a support counselor program at the

Photo taken by Aivry Zamora time officers per intermediate school campus and each level, investigate the intermediate school need for Licensed with two full time officers. Intermediate Professional Counselors to support student schools will also have an additional part needs, create a counselor to student ratio time officer patrolling the exterior of the proportional to the state average of 450:1

and to increase mental health consultants and partnerships with agencies. The committee agreed on these changes and were implemented as requested.

The CCISD School Safety Committee explored many possible facility changes in addition to the other recommendations made. These facility changes include ensuring all classroom doors can be locked from both sides, increasing the number of controlled access points, decreasing the number of uncontrolled access points, replacing obsolete cameras in campuses and on buses, increasing staff access to panic buttons and developing strict protocols for their use, evaluating and installing bullet/shatter resistant film on windows and doors in strategic locations, ensuring SLOs and area police dispatch centers can access security cameras remotely and utilizing technology and site plans to ensure exterior doors are closed during school hours.

The CCISD Safety Committee recognized that CCISD safety protocols and training could benefit from reinvigoration. The committee analyzed the current safety training district-wide and made the recommendations such as conducting more frequent lockdown and hold drills per year, expanding Mental Health First-Aid training offerings to anyone willing to participate, train all staff on basic life-saving techniques every two years, developing safety protocols for students outside the school or outside a classroom, establishing safety plans for students and staff with medical needs, developing a written policy for staff that limits electronic device usage until an all-clear is given and many more.

CCISD’s vigorous attempt to make its schools safer was successful, seeing that a multitude of impactful and necessary changes came to the district because of it.

Student-staff committee votes against new school start times

By Analei Berger Around Creek Editor

to keep the current schedule, and a slightly pm or 8:30 am to 3:45 pm. The committee smaller portion of the committee wanted to is comprised of approximately 38 people adjust the schedule by 20 minutes,” Rene which includes parents, students and district Rumors were circulating throughout the Falls, Chairperson of the committee, said. staff. They have been meeting roughly school year about school start and end times changing for the 2020-2021 school year.

Some of the district administrators debated about whether or not to push back school times by around 20 minutes or possibly an hour. The current school districts schedule is; high school starts at 7:10 am and ends at 2:30 pm, middle/intermediate school starts at 8:40 am and ends at 4:00 pm, while elementary school starts at 7:55 am and ends at 3:15 pm. The decision about whether or not to change the school start times started because parents asked the district to look into the fact that high schoolers may perform better if school started later in the day.

After much debate, the School Start Time Committee came to the conclusion that the start times are going to stay the same.

The CCISD Superintendent Greg Smith recommended that instead of changing the start times, the committee can work on ways to address some of the problems. Some of the problems they want to talk about are; the amount and how homework is being used around the district, possibly creating a flexible lunch period that allows for students Photo courtesy of CCISD The committee every week to every to get some of their homework done and more other week over the opportunities and openings for students to have members were able past month.

The personalized schedules. The end vote turned to narrow down the out to be four to three, but the committee said list of proposed start times to three potential evening of November 11, the Board that they are not willing to give up just yet. schedules. Each possible schedule had to of Trustees had a board workshop and The district said they had to consider have a minimum of 45 minutes between they voted to make their final decision things such as bus schedules before making each of the school start and end times. The beginning at seven pm on November 18.

Along with the school start and end time a decision, not only would new start times number of minutes, however, required affect the high schools, but it would also by the Texas state law, states that the debate, the district also has to decide upon the affect the district as a whole. Officials school year must be 75,600 minutes long. 2020-2021 school year calendar. People of Staff could vote for the current schedule CCISD were able to vote from November fifth were not able to come to a conclusion, so they began to take matters to the public. and two others. The two other schedules to November 22. The public gets to decide “A large portion of the committee wanted had high school starting at 7:30 am to 2:50 which days they would like to have the first and

last day of school. There are three different calendars up for debate, each calendar is fit with a different last and first day of school.

Draft number one has school starting on August 18 and ending May 27. Draft number two sets the school start date as August 17 and ending May 27. Draft number three, which has the most drastic change sets school starting on August 24 and ending June 3.

At the board workshop that was held on November 11, a few parents expressed that they felt like high schools, which currently start at 7:10 am, start too early. Many of the parents voted that high schools should start at least 7:30 or 8:30 am. Around a dozen residents, along with some CCISD attendees, gave a speech saying that the board members need to push back the high school start time.

Their argument was that teenagers’ circadian rhythms (which is the physical, mental and behavioral changes when following a daily cycle) and the production of melatonin, a natural sleep aid, begins later than adults do. The lack of melatonin makes it harder for teens to fall asleep and wake up early.

“There is no objective evidence to support the status quo of start times but that there is ample evidence that an 8:30 am start time benefits high school students,” David Brady, resident, said.

Another board member, Win Weber, said that everything is just an assumption; how do they know that pushing start times back guarantees that students will get more sleep?

Some of the committee also says that a onemonth-period is simply not enough time to make such a serious decision. They say the timeline they were given is too compressed.

Jennifer Broddle, board member, agrees by saying that the district spent a lot more time trying to change school boundaries, which does not affect nearly as many students as changing the school start times could have.

AROUND CREEK

9

Creek marching band raises money through March-a-thon more then 200 hours of hard work. gram is,” Lindsey Medina, junior, said.

The March-a-thon was a great sucThe March-a-thon’s funds directcess; In fact, the band was so in demand ly goes to support student activities, they weren’t able to complete the whole such as supplemental instruction, masCreek has just completed their Centerpointe neighborhood path. But ter teacher clinicians, local and naninth annual March-a-thon. The wildcats’ March-a-thon is CCHS band’s annual fundraiser. Starting back in 2010, the March-a-thon allows students, families, and local businesses to sponsor or help fund the band.

The March-a-thon worked by allowing students, families and local businesses to pay for the CCHS band to play a song of their off the list.

This year’s March-a-thon took place Saturday, November 9. The band played at two locations at different times. 9:00 am to 12:00 am in the Centerpointe neighborhoods. Also, from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the Harbor Park & Marina Bay neighborhoods Prices start at $40, and the choices are between Clear Creek Fight Song, Clear Creek Alma Mater, Sweet Caroline (Neil Diamond), Bye Bye Bye (‘N Sync), The Horse (Cliff Nobles), Carry on Wayward Son (Kansas), Wade in the Water (CCHS Tradition), Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes), 867-5309 / Jenny (Tommy Tutone), Low Rider (War), Land of 1,000 Dances (Wilson Pickett), Hey Baby! (Bruce Channel), Dad! (CCHS Tradition). they did left everyone Photo courtesy of Tate Fincher tional performance Starting price goes up to $100 to satisfied as they played opportunities, etc. play the fight songs of Texas A&M for the communal recreational area.

“March-a-thon was quite fun beUniversity, Texas Tech UniversiAlong with the Creek cause we were supporting the band by ty and University of Texas Austin. band, the March-a-thon also fea- showcasing what we do to the comThere was also another opportu- tured the Creek’s Color Guard. munity,” Kevin Nickl, senior, said. nity to help CCHS Band: the Sponsor“March-a-thon is an enjoyable The March-a-thon was an energetship Drive, where individuals, fami- fundraiser where the band marches and ic parade inviting people out of their lies, or local businesses can sponsor plays in neighborhoods to raise money homes Saturday morning, many pulla student to show support for their while showing kids how fun our pro- ing out their devices to record the fes-

By Misbah Rajan Reporter

tivities. Many specifically in the Centrepoint neighborhood experience their first March-a-thon as it was the first time Creek’ s Band’s March-a-thon event visit.

“March-a-thon isn’t your run of the mill Fundraiser, and that’s why I enjoy it so much. We get to do what we love, marching and playing our favorite stand tunes, and giving back to the community that has helped us progress so far this year,” William Brandt, junior, said.

For those of us who we able to be at the March-a-thon event we could all agree the energy was different.

Differences were set aside and neighbors joined with each other and communally enjoyed the March-a-thon.

“March-a-thon was a great way for the band to reach out into the community and raise money for the clear creek Band although it was tiring; it brought me so much joy seeing how everyone was smiling and happy to see us there.

The band kids know how much we mean to this community and we want our community to know how much they mean to us” Zoe Young, said.

If you have never if you’ve never experienced a March-a-thon or they did not come to your Neighborhood do not worry as it is an annual activity and one day they will come to your neighborhood and you will get the opportunity to join your neighbors to enjoy an upbeat Saturday. The March-a-thon is and event to bring communities together which it is accomplishing one March-a-thon event at a time.

The March-a-thon event raised more than $12,000. According to Band, this year they were able to raise $1000 more than the previous school year.

10AROUND CREEK

NTHS and JROTC host a food drive for No More Victims

By Aivry Zamora Entertainmnet Editor In the midst of the chaos and excitement that accompanies the holiday season, a homecooked Thanksgiving meal is a luxury taken for granted. While many families get together to enjoy a potluck feast, others’ economic circumstances cannot support the tradition of a large holiday spread. Those fortunate enough to be able to experience a traditional holiday meal are likely unaware of the nation-wide pandemic of children with incarcerated parents, whose confinement has caused them to lose the experience of a Thanksgiving dinner made from scratch.

In an effort to bring the holiday spirit to children in the Houston area, Creek’s JROTC and National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) have partnered with Houston’s No More Victims Inc. for the ninth consecutive year, to bring a Thanksgiving meal to students who would otherwise go without experiencing Thanksgiving the way it was meant to be celebrated.

“I hope that the families that are receiving donations this thanksgiving are enjoying the holiday the way it was meant to. To celebrate a warm family gathering and give thanks to the blessings in their lives.

For the drive I donated a turkey in hopes that a family somewhere can share the same experience I have with Thanksgiving. That they can enjoy the laughs and cheer my family has on thanksgiving night,” Ty Bugo, senior and JROTC First Lieutenant, said.

Having worked with the No More Victims organization for nearly a decade, the JROTC and NTHS programs at Creek have formed the annual tradition of hosting

a canned food drive with the foundation.

Students were encouraged to bring Thanksgiving food throughout the month of November in hopes that the donated goods would create a memorable Thanksgiving for families in low economic regions.

“Through our donations, we intend to provide the students of this organization and their families, with the food items required to prepare a traditional

be better citizens and this effort provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to accomplishing this mission,” Colonel Wendell Harris, said.

No More Victims Inc. is a locally based organization that benefits High School students from the greater Houston area. Founded by former probation officer Marilyn Gambrell, the foundation is dedicated to supporting the academic,

emotional and social Thanksgiving meal.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash needs of children The economic reality with incarcerated for most of these parents. The program’s families would not support such a meal. The No More motto “Get educated, not incarcerated,” Victims organization provides this meal instigates an effort to alter the distressing free of charge to each of its students statistic that children of incarcerated and their families. More importantly, we parents are only half as likely to hope to instill in our students, a sense graduate from high school and twice as of responsibility for our community and likely to face detainment themselves.

The classes provided by the provide them with a medium to positively impact our fellow citizens. The mission organization are based on the No of JROTC is motivate young people to More Victims Family concept, which

facilitates a trusting environment in which the students can openly discuss their adversities, while receiving support from others in similar situations. The foundation has been successful in their mission thus far, as every senior in the No More Victims program typically graduates; with the majority accepted into college, technical training or military assignments.

“We have been supporting the “No More Victims” organization since 2010.

I became familiar with this organization when I worked as a staff member for the U of H ROTC department in 2006. Along with Mrs. Herd and the NTHS, we have supported this worthwhile organization each year with generous contributions from Creek students, faculty, staff and their families,” Colonel Harris, said.

With this year’s drive receiving hundreds of student donations, No More Victim’s students received a meaningful Thanksgiving feast provided

by Creek’s benevolent student body.

“I hope that everyone that donated to the No Victims Food Drive can really help all the less fortunate so they can be stress free and support their families. I hope that this helps our community develop a lot more respect, care, and love for each other and that those who are more fortunate can help distribute to those who need help. I donated because it is harder to understand the shoes that others fill and what they are going through. A holiday should be a day to recharge and have fun, and those that are less fortunate deserve to have the weight lifted off their shoulders for once,” Amanda Gumban, senior and JROTC First Lieutenant Colonel, said.

CCTD performs A Midsummer Night’s Dream as first play this year

By Rolando Rios Reporter

Shakespearean plays are often said to be timeless classics, by that logic they could take place anywhere.

It seems the Creek theater department has taken that challenge. From October 24 to November second, this performance used a 1980s aesthetic to retell A Midsummer’s Night Dream. “[The audition process] was very thorough. The director is trying to build a puzzle and she’s looking at which pieces fit well in auditions,” Alex Harrington, junior portraying Oberon, said.

As of now the main concern for the cast is blocking their scenes, but that did not stop the cast from sharing how their reenactment of the classic dramatic comedy will differ from other productions.

“Since it’s a Shakespeare play it’s just a matter of interpretation of the lines setting it to the 1980s. A lot of the characters have 80s quirks; the fairies are punk goths, the troupe actors are surfers and the Athenians are 80s preps. I’m excited to put on this show and I like the challenge of Shakespeare.

Mrs. Alcala says that Shakespeare can be done in any place and any time. For example, Puck originally is easygoing and hyperactive but since the character causes the conflict of the play, the fairy is more of a classic 80s bad guy,” Anya Gollovko, senior playing Puck, said.

While the dialogue will remain mostly the same as the original, various other, small updates to the story will be made for it to fit within the time period such as changing the main location of the story’s events from a forest to a mall. The actors are encouraged to make their versions of these characters distinct from previous iterations.

“Shakespeare doesn’t translate too well as I’ve seen from No Fear Shakespeare. I’d say it’s a concept to have an 80s design and old English text…

I think this is really new compared to anything we’ve done,” Jessica Ruckstuhl senior and stage manager, said.

When the subject on why they specifically chose the 1980s and the influences they drew from, their logic went as follows.

“I think that a big trend is bringing back the 80s and it’s a fun twist on a classic play. A good reference is movies like The Breakfast Club and Heathers, to see high schoolers like us,” Ruckstuhl, said.

“Everyone is trying to figure out what their characters are like,” Jimmy Haas, senior who depicts the comedic relief character Bottom, said.

It is worthy to note that most of the cast aren’t novices when it comes the school’s productions. With that in mind, the show is surely in capable hands.

“I’ve been doing shows since sophomore year. The role I am proudest of was as a chorus member in The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” Hass, said.

Hass also plans to audition for the part of the title character’s father in the school’s production of Matilda. For now, he gave a reason for why he was drawn to this play and the role of Bottom in particular. “[It has] an interesting setting.

I really like that Bottom is always looking to be in the spotlight, which any actor can relate to,” Hass, said.

Hass explained that most of the cast share a sense of camaraderie.

“In my little group, we’re cracking jokes backstage,” Hass, said.

Even with several old faces are returning that did not prevent new talent from participating.

“Vanessa Brown is a freshman and is really proving herself with her acting skills at is really impressing me,” Ruckstuhl, said. Ruckstuhl also praised Ally De Vera; a fellow senior and the head of the costuming for the show.

“I’d say the hardest part of my job is keeping up with everyone and needing to know the show inside and out to do my job well,” Ruckstuhl, said These students are very dedicated to this project as Haas has admitted that some of them even rehearse in their off time. The rest of Creek must wait to see the results of their labor when tickets are available.

AROUND CREEK

11

Creek shows support for veterans through sixth-annual assembly

By Aivry Zamora Entertainment Editor As the American flag flew high over Veterans Memorial Stadium on November 11, principal Jamey Majewski stepped up to the podium commencing the school’s sixth annual Veterans Day Assembly. Students flooded the stands creating a sea of red, white and blue, while the band, choir and orchestra gathered in the center of the field patiently anticipating their performance.

Corporal Donny Daughenbaugh, Purple Heart recipient and retired Marine, addressed the student body and faculty with words of inspiration, recounting his experience serving in the military and his admirable work with the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes. Having gone through a great deal of preparation to create a memorable assembly for students, parents and attending veterans, Creek’s dedication to the event made for an exceptional tribute to those who have so proudly served the country.

“Last week’s Veterans Day

was one of the best I’ve had in ten years. It was truly a blessing to be able to speak to CCHS,” Corporal Daughenbaugh, guest speaker, said.

After the presentation of the colors led by the JROTC, and the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance and Texas Pledge by the student council, the band, choir and orchestra delighted audiences with a medley of patriotic songs. Having rehearsed considerably for their performance, Creek’s musical students played while the veterans in attendance were presented with carnations and recognized for their service and dedication to the country.

Though the student presentations provided a fantastic introduction to the event, the highlight of the assembly was Corporal Daughenbaugh’s influential speech on how serving the country has impacted his life. After being wounded in combat during Desert Storm, Corporal Daughenbaugh has been recovering from a near fatal injury for the past 15 years. While conducting a vehicle search in 2004, he was brutally shot directly in the face, barely escaping fatality. Despite years of medical work and operation,

doctors were unable to remove the bullet from its lodged position in his brain which has led to an excruciating and still ongoing recovery process. Though this injury is still affecting him today, it has proven to be a positive factor in his life.

“While my physical wounds have healed, I still suffer from others that are related to my cognitive and mental abilities. Regardless, I won’t let that stop me or slow me down. Being wounded in action has only shown me that being alive and having a beautiful family is truly a gift and during the recovery process, which is still underway, my family has meant everything to me. My wife is not only the mother of my kids but my best friend and without her I wouldn’t have the life I do now. My kids are the reason I keep pushing myself to keep moving through the pain I’m in and to keep striving for more and not settling,” Corporal Daughenbaugh said.

Despite facing hardship and constant setbacks, Corporal Daughenbaugh has found a passion for his current occupation as Vice President of Field Operations for the Coalition to Salute America’s

Heroes. Serving as a national spokesperson for the organization, Corporal Daughenbaugh has spent the last several years advocating for and working with the families of wounded veterans the way many did for him while he was in their position.

“I’ve had such a greater impact as a veteran that I did as a Marine. As a Marine everything I did was focused on either earning a promotion, completing a mission or even keeping me and my guys alive. As a veteran though- I’ve become a peer mentor to help others going through really tough times either emotionally or physically. I’ve been able to help lift veterans out of depression with coaching and mentoring all over the United States and I believe my life will be remembered for my work as a Veteran advocate,” Corporal Daughenbaugh said.

Veterans Day has received more recognition with each passing year as more schools continue to make an effort to acknowledge those who have dedicated their lives to serving the country. Corporal Daughenbaugh’s example of perseverance through adversity has inspired his children and presented him with the opportunities to aid those in similar positions.

14SPECIAL EDITION

15 FEATURES A ride with Ms. Ty: meet the person behind the golf cart

By Jacob McBroom Photographer While in attendance at Creek, an encounter with Ms. Ty is inevitable within your four years. Ms. Ty, or “the golf cart lady,” has duties that help maintain our school’s safety. Ms. Ty’s duties consist of general security of all parking lots, regulating parking passes and initiating discipline on those who do not follow the rules. Punishment includes tickets, boots, and even having your vehicle towed. For most students this is common knowledge, but telling her remarkable story is necessary in order to understand the wonderful woman we know and love.

As detailed by Ms. Ty, she came from humble beginnings, moving from place to place, thereby lacking the stability necessary for a child. Her family moved from San Antonio to New Orleans then from New Orleans to Galveston where she lived out what was left of her childhood. Ms. Ty found solace when her brother opened a karate shop. There she not

only learned how to defend herself, back to momma crying. The fact rebut gave her escape from everything mains true today, don’t mess with Ty. going on in her life. Boys used to Don’t let her martial arts backtease Ty, calling her a “Tomboy.” ground fool you. Ms. Ty is one of the

down to earth person that many students feel a connection to. One of her routines is helping late sleepers make the bell and make it to class on time. people. Ms. Ty’s job is to make sure that everyone in the parking lot is in their designated spots and has their parking permits. Secondly, it’s not hard to get a parking sticker, “Just take care of your stuff!” Ms. Ty said it herself. Ty may provide students with the guidance other teachers are unable to, building strong bonds and showing students what passion in the workplace can lead to.

Ms. Ty works constantly, hoping to achieve her goal of a safe and organized school, for all students to be proud of. Rain or shine Ty rides in her golf cart patrolling the premises of the building, watching loitering visitors, and maintaining exits and off campus permits for students.

She first worked as a lifeguard and worked for Clear Brook for 23 years Her humility and consistent counseling and motivation she given to students on a daily basis.

She can see through Photo courtesy of Carson Faulkner Things rarely got sweetest humans a fake smile from a mile away and physical, but when you will meet make your day that’s Ms. Ty’s way. it did the perpetrators would get sent on campus. She is a no-nonsense,

16

FEATURES

Movietopia allows fans to immerse themselves in film world

By Analei Berger Around Creek Editor

After the success of Candytopia in Houston, Planet Hollywood and Candytopia teamed up to create the ultimate movie museum. On November second, the Movietopia museum will take the place of summer 2019’s hot commodity, Candytopia. The new exhibit, Movietopia, will allow its exhibit goers to immerse themselves into some of Hollywood’s most iconic movie scenes. This miraculous museum fills a 20,000 square foot warehouse, previously occupied by Candytopia and Marq’E Entertainment. Movietopia is also set to hire over 100 local employees.

“The creation of Movietopia allows us to continue our mission of reinventing and merging retail with live entertainment, while providing guests a truly original experience.

We are thrilled to be working with Planet Hollywood and their extensive memorabilia collection to bring some of your favorite movies to life with an event like no other,” John Goodman, Candytopia CEO, said.

Movietopia will offer recreated scenes and set pieces from Forrest Gump, Titanic, Indiana Jones, The Terminator, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Tim Burton films, along with many others. The collection has over 55,000 items. It lets attendees jump in a shrimp boat inspired by Forrest Gump, slide down a half sunken Titanic onto a giant teddy bear named Jack, pose for pictures in the Flintstones car, play on a Flintstones themed see-saw or stick their head out of Ace Ventura’s rhino like Jim Carrey did in Ace Ventura 2: When

Nature Calls. Attendants can view props from iconic films like Star Wars, Blade, Superman, Beetlejuice and so many more.

The museum is located at 7620 Katy Freeway Suite 360, Houston, Texas 77024, Opening at 10 am and closing at 8;30 pm,

tickets at movietopia.com or at the door.

Movietopia is geared towards the selfie enthusiast and the cinematic connoisseurs. It is definitely an adult playground, although the kids who are avid movie watchers will likely enjoy the museum.

Monday through Saturday, Photo courtesy of Unsplash Houston is the first city with Sunday hours of 11in the world to host and see 8:30pm. Houstonians will be able to visit such a museum as Movietopia. The Chief Movietopia through January 26 and tick- Marketing Officer, Nikki Emmans, said et prices will be $28 for adults, $20 for that she chose Houston because her and her children ages four to 12 and free for chil- team grew to love the area and the people. dren under three. People can purchase “People [don’t] want to [just] be enter-

tained anymore. It’s not about just going to a movie, sitting there, eating your popcorn, and going home and discussing that movie. It’s about individual and or group participation, having a good time, and while having a good time, sharing that you’re having a good time on the social media outlets,” Matt Parsons, senior vice president of retail at JLL, said.

Parsons says that social media is the new way to advertise and market for these companies. Retail industries are transitioning into products that are more “Instagrammable” and what can provide the consumers with the best experience, rather than what can just be grabbed off of a shelf. Candytopia has two other ideas up their sleeves, Toys R Us Adventure and Hooptopia, which would be partnered with the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. But they are not leaking any details on when, if ever, the ideas would be coming to Houston.

With Movietopia moving in, Candytopia is moving out. Candytopia has opened in multiple cities across the United States, it is set to hit Philadelphia next. The candy museum has opened in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York City, San Francisco and Santa Monica.

Movietopia is quickly becoming an attraction in Houston. During the opening week when Post Malone, rapper, was in Houston, Malone visited Movietopia and took a dive into Forrest Gump’s shrimp boat foam pit, see-sawed on a dinosaur bone, slid down the Titanic slide and posed for a picture to be the ‘king of the world.’

Overall, the casual movie viewers and ‘mega-fans’ alike will find enjoyment and picture perfect moments at Movietopia.

ENTERTAINMENT 17

Joker becomes highest-grossing comic book movie

By Aivry Zamora Entertainment Editor

Despite the character emerging from a beloved comic book franchise, the newest depiction of the iconic Joker is far from fiction. Though the film continues to gross in the box office, it is quickly attracting mass controversy as the blatant depictions of carnage featured throughout the movie are offensive to those who have suffered through brutality.

The actions of the Joker’s character exhibit a disturbing resemblance to the frequent instances of domestic terrorism dominating the nation. Joaquin Phoenix’s nihilistic portrayal of the deranged clown closely parallels real-life mass-shooters and the ideologies they utilize to fuel their hate crimes. While Warner Bros. has faced harsh disapproval from critics and the families of mass-shooting victims, many are concerned that the film could inspire violence with the Joker becoming the incentive for a mass wave of terror.

“Here is my opinion of Joker: I think it is a very good film and I am worried someone is going to get killed,” Robbie Collin, Telegraph critic, said.

When interviewed on the subject, Phoenix refused to comment on the dangerous results that his depiction of the Joker could inspire, as his manic portrayal of the character significantly differs from past interpretations of the villain. Due to the brutal imagery shown continuously throughout the movie, the severe assault Phoenix depicted has potential to be a model for violent individuals to take inspiration from. Though the Joker is fictional, there are numerous individuals who are being influenced by the character with their actions having a severe effect on the nation.

“Literal pain cannot be transmitted from screen to audience, but anxiety can, and this production is a nonstop generator of anxiety, a poor substitute for dramatic intricacy and a sickening look into the mind

the exposure of this document, theaters with previous instances of shootings began closing or refusing to show the film, leaving audiences fearful of viewing the film in theaters. Though many locations

Photo courtesy of Flickr of a psychotic mass stayed open, secumurderer taken way too rity was drastically far,” Joe Morgenstern, increased with unThe Wall Street Journal, said. dercover officers placed in theaters Concern for the safety of viewers arose, during and after the premier of the movie. when a document from a U S Army base in “I am not convinced that Joker was Oklahoma circulated exposing a “potential created without realizing what it is. It is mass shooting” at a screening of the mov- a chaos-creating disaster made to cause ie in Huntington Beach, California. With a stir, I wish it was as radical as it thinks

it is,” Jake Coyle, Associated Press, said.

With the controversy continuing to escalate, the initial reviews of the movie are thoroughly mixed with the general audience reception being more positive than critic response. While many enjoyed the film, most audiences are still appalled at the gory aggression so boldly shown during a time when the subjects of mass shootings and domestic terrorism are so relevant and sensitive. The Joker is characterized as being “crazy” and “inhuman,” having been institutionalized, yet he is suffering from injustice, having been denied access to mental health medication. With the stigmatization of mental illness marking his actions as unrealistic, the reality of those with similar mind-sets to the character escalate the severity of how the film could be perceived.

“The most concerning prospect isn’t just that viewers might identify with Phoenix’s Joker; it’s that they might want to imitate him,” Drew Schwartz, VICE MEDIA reporter, said.

While it is likely the director’s intentions were not to offend such a large proportion of their intended audience, their refusal to answer the onslaught of questions from distressed viewers has not aided them in shaking the accusations thrown onto the film. Though Joker shines a gritty light onto the constantly romanticized topic of mental illness, it does so in a way that depicts those with adverse mentality as “crazy,” consequently labelling individuals in a detrimental way. This newer, drastically different Joker was meant to bring awareness to severe mental illness and psychosis but by viewing the life of an individual suffering from such afflictions through a lens of a “Thriller Horror” movie was an inappropriate method of bringing attention to the subject.

Greenhouse Academy replaces one cliffhanger for another

By Leah Burnam Online Editor

Greenhouse Academy recently released their third season and fans are ecstatic. It has been a year and a half since the second season came out and many have been awaiting the latest episodes from the Netflix Original. The newest season consists of eight, 30-minute episodes, which were released on October 25.

The show is based on an Israeli series, The Greenhouse and follows the lives of Hayley Woods, played by Ariel Mortman and her brother Alex Woods, played by Finn Roberts, at an elite Californian boarding school for gifted student leaders. The Woods’and the rest of Greenhouse are pulled into secret investigations and must stop someone from plotting earthquakes around the school with the use of a magnetite rock.

SPOILERS AHEAD: Season one followed Hayley and Alex Woods learning more about the school and the rivaling houses, The Ravens and The Eagles.

While season two began to uncover more secrets and coping with the fact that their mother was still alive, after believing she died in a rocket explosion. At the end of season two, Hayley Woods is shown dressed up and opening a door to an unknown person. However, this plays into season three as she is seen dating Daniel Hayward, played by Chris O’Neal.

The third season picks up when an incident occurs between the rivaling houses and soon leads to the headmaster, Louis Osmond, played by Parker Stevenson, getting fired. Ryan Woods, played by Selina Giles, who also plays Hayley and Alex Woods’ mother, becomes the new headmaster and

takes the place Osmond once had. Soon, secrets unravel and a new person from Sophie Cardona’s (played by Cinthya Carmona) past shows up. The season ends with Hayley Woods and Leo Cruz, who is played by Dallas Hart, running out of a cave right before it blows up and the scene immediately ends with Cruz shown having black veins, which can only be caused by the magnetite rock mentioned previously. Fans are still waiting on an announcement from Netflix

to set the release date of season four and some were even upset by the third season cliffhanger that left off on such a groundbreaking note, along with the fact that Alex Woods’ girlfriend, Brooke Osmond, has since been replaced prior to the earlier seasons. Once the headmasters daughter, she was originally played by Grace Van Dien, but is now being played by Danika Yarosh due to the fact that Van Dien left the show to star in NBC’s, The Village.

Greenhouse Academy’s newest season has received nothing less than around seven stars on IMDb and has an overall TV show rating of 80% for its average audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Although Netflix has said that they already have the fourth season filmed, they are not planning to release it anytime soon. Overall, the third season brought fun and excitement to the stories and lives of the students at Greenhouse Academy and was definitely worth the wait.

18 ENTERTAINMENT

Lea Michele brings Christmas early with new holiday album

By Leah Burnam Online Editor

Lea Michele recently released a brand-new holiday album titled Chirstmas in The City. The album came out on October 25 and is about “coming home for the holidays.” It features 11 songs, including It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Christmas in New York, I’ll Be Home for Christmas (featuring Jonathan Groff), Do You Want To Build a Snowman?, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Silent Night, White Christmas (featuring Darren Criss), Silver Bells, Angels We Have Heard on High (featuring Cynthia Erivo) and O Holy Night.

Michele, who is known for her Broadway and television roles, featured some of her co-stars, such as Groff and Criss, who both starred with her in the hit musical TV show, Glee. Billboard described “her love for music and Broadway” as what ultimately helped shape her latest album.

“I love Christmas music and it has always been my dream to make a Christmas album. When I was on Glee we did a ton of Christmas songs, and they were always the most fun to sing.

I figured this is my third record and it just felt like the right time to come out with the next one and have it be a Christmas album. I love the holidays so much and I especially love Christmas in New York, since it is where I’m

from. With all of those things combined, it felt like it was the perfect time in my life and in my career to come out with this album,” Michele, in an interview with Billboard, said.

Michele performs fun, spirited

mas’ spent in the city, as she was born and raised in New York. I’ll Be Home for Christmas features Jonathan Groff, who harmonizes beautifully with Michele throughout the entirety of the song. Do You Want To

melodies as Build a SnowPhoto courtesy of Flickr she opens her man? is a slow album with It’s the Most Wonder- version of the hit song made famous ful Time of the Year, a rendition of by the movie Frozen. Rockin’ Around Andy Williams’ song by the same the Christmas Tree, Silent Night and name. The next song, Have Your- Silver Bells are other holiday clasself a Merry Little Christmas, has a sics in which Michele’s vocals make slow tempo, but is a heartfelt song listeners want to sing along. White about celebrating and having a great Christmas is sung by both Michele Christmas. Christmas in New York, and Criss, who harmonize very simwritten by Michele, was intended ilarly to that of Michele and Groff. for her to reminisce on her Christ- Angels We Have Heard on High fea-

tures Erivo, who has a slightly deeper voice than that of Michele’s and is able to really bring out the different melodies within the song. Michele closes her album with O Holy Night, which is a song she sung on Glee and decided to remake in her new album.

“These are my favorite Christmas songs in the world. I was also able to narrow it down because like I mentioned, I did a lot of Christmas songs on Glee – we had three Christmas episodes and three Christmas albums – so I had to make sure I didn’t reuse any of those songs.

That helped me eliminate a bunch and then I wanted to pick my favorite ones of all time,” Michele said.

Michele also recently released a music video for Christmas in The City, which has racked up over 100,000 views within just the first 24 hours. The song even remained in the top ten of the album charts on iTunes for weeks and has only continued to rack up more positive reviews.

Many are excited to see Michele in her upcoming film, Same Time, Next Christmas, which is set to premiere this month. She is also hoping to return back to Broadway and release new music for everyone to enjoy.

“My goal is to make people feel like they are hanging out with me.

I want people to get to know me and I want them to feel like we’re all together, hanging out and celebrating the holidays,” Michele said.

ENTERTAINMENT 19

Astroworld hosted in Houston for second year in a row

By Chloe Tankink Assistant Photo-Editor

with Scott to help produce the event. gree weather. In front of the Astroworld In order to attend, many people had Festival was more than 50,000 blanto wait outside until it opened to get in- ket-wrapped fans, waiting for the sun When rapper Travis Scott announced side first, to find the best places to sit or to come up and the gates to be opened. that the second annual Astroworld Festival enjoy things before it got too crowd“It was really fun, and I would would be coming back to Houston, Texas’ NRG Park on Saturday, November 9, many were ecstatic for the return. More than 50,000 people were expected to attend the event and tickets were sold out within minutes of the release. Every fan was expecting to have a great time and hangout with their friends or enjoy the music, but most did not expect it to have a turn of events.

In 2018, Scott created an album titled Astroworld, which featured songs such as STARGAZING, CAROUSEL and SICKO MODE, out of the 17 total songs on the album. Following the original AstroWorld, which was a Six Flags theme park and opened in 1968, Scott also named his newest album Astroworld, nearly 51 years later. The album was released back in 2018 and eventually Scott founded the Astroworld: Wish You Were Here Festival, which differs from the 2019 Astroworld festival. Many celebrities were included in the performances such as Megan Thee Stallion, Tay Keith, Sheck Wes, Don Toliver and many more. Even with half a million fans in attendance, in a crowded space, everyone continued to have fun and make use of the night.

Before the lineup was even announced, the early bird general admis- ed. This meant that Photo courtesy of Megan Stovall definitely go again sion ticket prices began at $89, with the they had to camp out next year, but there resale price at $123, while VIP passes and face cold weathwere some things began at $250. Live-Nation and festi- er overnight just to be ahead of the line that I could have gone without.” Meval producer ScoreMore Shows worked for the festival, standing out in 66-de- gan Stovall, senior and Astroworld at-

tendee, said. Stovall had a great time at the festival, but says that it was also really chaotic, “and just to wait for food was about a three hour wait, but I did have a lot of fun, and it was a great experience.”

Before the event, a few fans knocked down the barricades, and the entire crowd came running over the fence, and heading straight for the gates. Unfortunately, a video posted on Instagram, by the “SICKO MODE” rapper, shows fans climbing over the fences and everyone knocking down the barricade to get to the gate and three people who were unidentified, got trampled by the crowd. They suffered leg injuries and were taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital, which had luckily been close to the event. After the event, the Houston Police Department (HPD) had to increase security after the people left injured.

Another man, who was also left unidentified, was arrested due to his public intoxication. His arrest was the only one that HPD made at the festival. “We are successfully working together to support Houston’s biggest music festival, Astroworld Fest, at NRG park and collaborating closely with the festival to ensure the public safety of everyone attending the event,” the HPD said.

After that, the HPD had made the festival safer for people to enjoy and have fun, whilst keeping public safety their number one priority.

“I had to practically fight to stay alive, but I loved the thrill of it all. It was a cool, crazy and fun experience,” Reagan Canales, senior and Astroworld attendee, said.

20

Days for Girls

By Leah Burnam Online Editor

Days for Girls (DFG) is an international organization and movement looking to help and educate young women in developing countries about periods/monthly menstrual cycles and the things a woman’s body is capable of, such as pregnancy.

Maria Buendia, a senior at Creek, recently helped to start a DFG chapter about one year ago, which has since been able to send out 100 kits to girls in Malawi. These kits are what help young women care for their personal hygiene and learn about how to track their own monthly cycles.

“I chose to help start DFG because to me you always have the chance to make a difference. People do not realize they can make more out of their high school experience if they wanted to. We are teenagers, but we can make our own decisions and impact those around us. DFG helps students at Creek open their eyes to how blessed they are to have an education and helps them change the lives of girls across the globe. A lot of people wish they could say that is what they did when they were in high school,” Buendia, Co-President of DFG, said.

Currently, Buendia and Victoria Loreant, a senior at Creek and the other Co-President of DFG, are working alongside nine other officers/officers in training and are only hoping to see DFG grow even more once they graduate. If interested in attending future meetings, stay updated by joining the Remind and texting @cchsdfg to 81010.

Photo taken by Lia Wilkison

Art Club

By Alex Martinez News Editor

Creek’s very own art club started meetings in the beginning of this school year, continuing the year long tradition of an after-school art club at Creek. Art club is a student-run club, mostly consisting of small art projects involving drawing, sketching and painting. Mrs. Kenzie McGoldrick, an art teacher here at Creek, is the sponsor of art club and offers her classroom to the club every other Wednesday in F-105.

“We do fun little art projects, sketch each other, and paint. It’s really fun,” Cole Sherbert, senior and member of Art Club, said.

Art club is not exclusive to art students either, anyone interested can join. There is not really any instruction, but rather hands-on activities. Art Club is about enjoying art for what it is and having a good time with friendly people, not extra classroom instruction. Questions regarding Art Club meeting times should be directed to the sponsor, Mrs. McGoldrick. Erin Gonzales, senior and the president of art club, oversees and plans future activities, coordinates potential collaborations with other clubs, and facilitates behavior among art club students.

Photo taken by Jacob McBroom

CLUBS

Spanish Club

By Analei Berger Around Creek Editor

Currently being sponsored by Ms. Lunik de Zerpa and Ms. Lisa Waligora, the Spanish Club is an all-inclusive club for any Creek student who wants to learn, appreciate and promote the Hispanic and the Latino culture.

“We had a Día de los Muertos theme for our last meeting [November 11], and tomorrow [November 18] we are going to talk about the Mexican Revolution and just celebrate Thanksgiving as a club since it is next week,” America Malacara, Spanish Club President, said.

The Spanish Club is set to meet every other Monday right after school for the whole year, the club gathers to celebrate the Spanish and the Latino culture.

The Spanish Club is an opportunity for all students who want to learn about and experience different Hispanic and Latino cultures. The club is for people who are looking for a strong family like bond and anyone who wants to make new friends over great music and equally as delicious food.

Many students consider joining the Spanish Club!

“Yeah, I would consider it a lot, I mean, I don’t really know a lot about speaking Spanish but I would definitely consider joining the Spanish Club,” Kenzee Broussard, sophomore, said.

Photo courtesy of America Malacara

Russian Club

By Aivry Zamora Entertainment Editor

Russian Club, the newest addition to Creek’s extracurricular activity list, is an opportunity for students to learn Russian, immerse themselves in Russian culture and create new friendships centered around a love for Russia itself. Every Monday in B107 students are encouraged to attend for conversation about Russian culture, and history, while learning phrases to improve communication skills in Russian.

“I started Russian Club because I wanted to share my love of learning Russian to others.

Plus, there’s no Russian classes at Creek, so it’s a place for those interested to learn,” Lee Lauderdale, Russian Club Founder, said.

If anyone is interested in learning Russian or trying to expand their knowledge in language, Russian Club is an excellent place to start. With activities like cooking Russian recipes or learning the alphabet and customs of the country, Russian Club offers activities for all who have any interest in the language or country.

Photo courtesy of Lee Lauderdale

Bowling Club

By Jessica McDermand Photographer

Creek’s Bowling team has been practicing since October 2019 after tryouts and is coached by Curtis Klages.

They usually have one scheduled practice a week, as well as one game. Games are held at either Alpha Lanes in Webster, AMF Star Lanes in Texas City or ABC Lanes in Alvin. Practices begin at three-thirty pm and end at five-thirty pm every Thursday after school. Games usually begin around four pm or five pm, depending on where the match is. The seasons official last game is scheduled to be February 18 and then a district tournament in March. The team is made up of a variety of talents. Some players are new to the sport this year, while others have been playing for years at a time. During practices, returning players help out the newbies by showing them what they might be able to fix in order to get a better game.

The team works together to improve both their work as individuals and as a team which is also important.

In the bowling matches, there are almost always two, one on one games or singles for every player. Then there are two games of Bakers Bowling, which the boys’ team would go against the opposing school’s boy team.

The girls’ team would be the same as well, and who ever had the highest score at the end, wins the game. These wins and losses tally up in the end of the year and could potentially lead to a tournament or advancing to play other teams. The team this year is working hard to do well at their upcoming matches.

Photo courtesy of Danielle Dunavant

Gay Straight Alliance

By Andrew Stell Features Editor

One of the newest additions to the large list of Creek clubs is the newfound Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA.) In this club, students of all sexualities come to meet to discuss their day to day life, living with their sexuality and meet new friends. The creation of the GSA sparked the interest of many high school students, hosting meetings every Friday at three, in the choir room. Sponsored by Mr. James Park, Creek’s choir teacher, the GSA hosts a no argue motive and a student run program, allowing all students to feel free to express themselves in front of their peers.

“Our meetings are very go with the flow.

Usually Cole [Sherbert] (our president) thinks of something for us to talk about during the club, last week we discussed LGBT representation in media and why it’s important. But it’s not really argumentative or anything, just like a bunch of friends having a casual discussion. It’s just super laid back,” Alessia Moratto, member of GSA, said.

The intent and motive of the Gay-Straight Alliance is to not only inform, but connect students of all sexual preferences in a no-stress and welcoming environment. Join the GSA every Friday at three pm in the choir room.

Photo taken by Carson Faulkner

SPORTS

21

Nationals win World Series for first time in franchise history

By Mark Gidden Sports Editor

kept the Nationals scoreless with Alex ing Jose Altuve a pitch that went deep Bregman catching a bunt for an out into left field and got George Springer and Cole striking out two batters to flip to second. Gurriel hit a double and the In October, history was made, in sides. Springer had a walk to first with score was two and zero at the end of the a fantastic series of baseball between the Astros and the Nationals. Though the Astros lost the series, watching this perfect matchup between the two best teams in major league baseball excited fans from both teams. 2019 World Series finished strong, with a thrilling seventh game. The first run of the game hit into the stands by Yuli Gurriel, made the score one to zero Astros up. Carlos Correa was up to bat in the bottom of the fifth inning, and hit the ball left field, but the third baseman, Anthony Rendon, dropped the ball giving Gurriel the chance to run into home to make the score two to zero. The top of the seventh marked a turning point for the Astros, starting with Rendon hitting a home run, making the game two to one. Eaton was up to bat, with bases loaded, hit a ground ball midfield and got Victor Robles and Yan Gomes to run home and to win the world series six to two, defeating the Astros.

The first game of the world Photo courtesy of Pixabay series, Gerrit Cole was the starting an inside pitch first. Coming out in pitcher for the Astros with a pitching from Scherzer, the the second, Ryan record of 19-0 this season. The Astros pitcher starting for the Nationals, giv- Zimmerman hit a home run, making

this his second home run this post season. At the top of the fourth inning, Soto, the youngest player to ever play professional baseball, hit a home run deep middle, which in the Astros stadium, is roughly 400 feet.

This huge run tied the game, making the score two to two. Next up to bat was Trea Turner, hit a pop fly (a ball hit high in the air, but not far enough for a home run) which gave Kurt Suzuki a chance to get to third. With Adam Eaton up to bat, he hit a base hit into right field, getting Suzuki and run in so the score became three to two, Astros losing by one. Soto, on a full count, hits it off the wall and had Victor Robles and Rendon score at the top of the fifth, making the score five to two.

At the bottom of the seventh, George Springer hit the ball dead center for a home run, making the crowd energy high for the Astros, although they still are losing by two. Springer was up to bat, with Kyle Tucker on second base, hits another ball deep center field, but does not make it over the fence, but gave Tucker a run in to make the score a one run game, meaning the score was five to four.

With fans exhausted from such a close game, the Astros went home, losing five to four at their home stadium.

22

SPORTS

Athletes of the JV Boys Basketball bounce back in tournament

By Alex Martinez month: News Editor

Coleman Kramm Junior Coleman Kramm adds to the boy’s basketball program through his work ethic and dedication to the sport and his team. Kramm chose this sport as it is a family tradition, as the basketball player continues the family legacy. “[My] dad is the biggest motivator. After games, win or lose, he always shows me what I did worst to become better. Nothing better than talking with my dad after a game.” Kramm works hard every practice, and will continue his career in basketball through high school.

tough defensive rebound, Creek possession and timsophomore Colton Jarmos- eout called by Coach Lindco scored another contested loff with 46 seconds left in In what some might call layup, adding to a four-pos- the third quarter. What was a one of the greatest comebacks session scoring streak for the 17-point deficit soon becomin Creek basketball histo- Wildcats, and reducing the ing a three-point deficit in one ry, the Wildcats turned the game around. Firing back from a fifteen-point deficit in the fourth quarter, and scoring a layup with four seconds left in the game, Creek stole the game from under Morton Ranch 6362 and earned the consolation title at the tournament.

The small crowd that attended to cheer on the Creek never stopped believing in them, even before the last crucial seconds of the game. This constant support motivated the team to work their hardest, leading to victory in the end.

Creek Boys JV Coach, Josh Lindloff, credited hustle and intense focus to the score deficit to Photo courtesy of Alex Martinez quarter, buildturn of events that occurred three points. ing momentum in the third and fourth quarA timeout call by Coach for Creek in the fourth quarter. ter. Sophomore Austin Lenz, Lindloff with one minute and In the transition into hustled down the court to tip ten seconds left in the third the fourth quarter, Morton and steal a pass, resulting in quarter instructed Creek to Ranch swiftly scored nine an instantaneous successful apply full-court pressure points, making the score 51offensive possession by Creek. to Morton Ranch, result- 45 and seemingly sealing a Creek was drastically ing in a swift eight-second victory for themselves. The losing the game 62-53 when steal and bucket by Creek. Wildcats responded by scorsophomore Johnathan Lee On the defensive end, ing three, three-point shots sunk the teams third 3-point- tough defense by Creek and a contested layup by er of the quarter. After junior and a well-timed charging sophomore David Dry, makMichael Brinsko secured a foul drew by Lenz led to a ing the score 62-56. After a

successful full court press on Morton Ranch, Creek achieved steals that led to a transition spanning the rest of the game. In the last two minutes of the fourth quarter, Morton Ranch led with a score of 62-61. Creek’s oppressive full court press forced Morton Ranch to make a faulty pass, allowing it to get stolen and driven into the basket of the opposing team with a contested layup, two seconds before the end of the game. At that point, Creek’s supporters and players all erupted in cheers, overjoyed of the obstacle they had overcome.

This comeback is so significant because the Wildcats worked hard and turned a 17-point deficit into a win against a team Creek has consistently struggled to win against.

As for the tournament as a whole, Creek lost to Strake Jesuit in the first game of the tournament 6045 but was victorious against Sam Rayburn with a score of 80-35 on the same day.

The next morning, the Wildcats defeated Barbers Hill 60-45 and Morton Ranch 63-62, giving them a record of 3-1 the whole tournament and the official title of consolation champions.

well compared to years prior.

The coaches are proud of the football team performance. The new coaches have really helped in building up their athletes to who they are today inside and outside of the classroom.

“I was very pleased with

coach and teacher at Creek for two years, going his third year and he is loving Creek on and off the field.

“As far as the receivers, I feel they played well and grew each week, we had some serious injuries and what started off as about 12 receivers vying for playing time, we only had 5 left for the playoff game,” Coach Barksdale said.

As varsity receiver coach, Coach Barksdale instructs receivers, as they are a very important part of offense, especially if you have an impressive quarterback like Andrew Dry. “There were two sophomore receivers that I think gained a lot of confidence and experience and will be very strong for Creek in the future,” Barksdale said.

The two sophomore receivers were Jeremiah Cams and David Dry, little brother of Andrew Dry, which played their hardest and pushed all throughout the season and now they are both playing basketball.

The Wildcat football program continues to blossom and the future of the program is bright.

Wildcat football season ends with the playoffs

By Mark Gidden Sports Editor

Trinity Le As stated by her coaches, Trinity Le is among many hard workers, but Le stands out for her key leadership on the golf team. While playing soccer, Le was injured, making her unable to play soccer, and leading her to transition into golf. She makes the best of her situation, stating that she is motivated and that “I don’t like to lose. I always want to do the best I can and not let my team down.” Her favorite aspect of playing golf is that even at your lowest point, you cannot give up on golf.

Le will continue her golf career the rest of high school, proving her work ethic and commitment to the sport.

Varsity football had a good run this season, which means they played better than ever, compared to the past couple years. Creek made the playoffs this year and for the past five years, they did not make the playoffs, either due to a losing record, or because of a bad start to the season. But now for the 2019 season, the coaches have changed and the players have improved at playing their positions. New coaches that came to the football program in the past few years are Coach Dwayne Lane, head coach, Coach Wayde Barksdale, wide receiver coach and Coach Jon Laque, linebacker coach. These three new coaches have been a big help this season and hopefully for years to come. This year, Creek is ranked 180 in the nation and 23 team in the state of Texas.

This year, Creek’s record was three-to-three this year in district and mad the first round in the playoffs. However, they played a very tough team for the first round which Strake Jesuit.

The game against Strake Jesuit started out really close all the first half and Creek had the lead for a little bit, but it even-

tually slipped away. Especially the second half, Creek could not score a point and the score ended up 48-14, Creek lost.

Even though Creek lost first round, having playoff experience is always good, especially for the lower classmen play-

ing on varsity Photo taken by Carson Faulkner the outcome of the season, since the variwe started ety of players on varsity goes from sophomore to seniors. working for this season back The last time Creek went to the in offseason last year and playoffs was in 2014 and their the goal was always to get district record was six and one. Creek back in the playoffs so Creek, in 2014 also lost the we accomplished that goal, first round in the playoffs but going forward the goal will it was a well fought game, los- be to go further in the playing 34-29 to Fort Bend Travis. offs,” Coach Barksdale said.

Barksdale has been a The 2019 season went

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