The Speculator December 2013

gifts that give back UNDERSCORE

04 Charity Grid Headline 05 Sports Grid Headline

COMMENTARY

GAME TIME

21 Give Back to Your Spiritual Self 22 Keys to Living Happier, Loving Yourself, and Feeling Better 23 Black & White: Christmas Music: Fun or Annoying?

24 Where is the generosity in Johns Creek?

25 Regifting Your Gift

TECH WATCH

VERBATIM

07 The Gift of a Great Sports Program 08 ROAR 09 Player Profile: Brett Bartlett 10 Pitt Returns 11 Hooch Volleyball Rises to the Occasion 12 Headline TBA

26 Headline TBA

NEWS FLASH RETROSPECT

13 The Good: “Christmas Vacation” 13 The Bad: “Eight Crazy Nights” 13 The Ugly: “Star Wars Holiday Special” 14 Finding the One: A Shelter That Makes Adoption Accessible

FEATURES

15 Random Acts of Kindness: A Challenge For Winter Break 15 Your Holiday Gift Giving Guide 16 How to React to Bad Gifts 17 After Hours

TRENDS & TUNES

27 Sending Love Through a Shoebox 28 Academic Team Makes TV Debut 29 Cougars Clean Up the Campus 30 Community Changes That Benefit You

SENIORS

32 Even Grinches Remember to Give Back 33 The Superlatives Strike Again 34 8 in 8: What Would You Do if You Saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus?

35 Senior Spots: Erin Marrow and William Yang

18 Buys That Benefit 18 ‘Tis The Season To Cover Holiday Music

IN FOCUS

19 Clash of the Clubs: Clubs Give Back

02 | Designer by Lauren MUELLER . December 2013

The Speculator: Voice Volume 24 Issue 2 Editors-In-Chief Rachel Grace Erica Petz Creative Director Front Cover Design Katie Trainer

Seniors Section Editor Lauren Tomczak Seniors Design Editor Margot Murray Online Editor Nate Harris Copy Editors Colby Hesseltine Listya Munthe

Staff Photographers Alexis Goldstein, Mandy King, Jorge Ruiz Sponsors Kylie Dayton David White

Staff Reporters Sungmin An, Amelia Beaudry, Sara Edwards, Heather Ford, Rachel Levin, Aubrey Loria, Niko Maheras, Zoya Mahmood, Bill Rettig, Dallas Shook, Neel Swamy Staff Designers Carlos Bak, Brynn Finney, Mackenzie Gaillard, Paul Hansa, Rylie Hooker, Walker McNeely, Lauren Mueller, Cailin Olver

Photo Editors Kylie Barber Natalie Robinson Sports Section Editor Danny Caplan Sports Design Editor Hannah Mills Features Section Editors Milan Revels Kristian Sandoval Features Design Editor Jenny Rim Reviews Design Editor Cassie Langmann Editorials Section Editor Shivangi Medhekar Editorials Design Editor Helena Denis News Section Editor James Tang News Design Editor Lanier Sullivan

The Speculator: VOICE is a student run publication produced four times throughout the school year. The Speculator and Imaginarium staffs work to produce the newsmagazine (both print and digital formats) and the online edition.

DISCLAIMER: All opinions and ideas expressed in the print, digital and online editions of The Speculator reflect those of the individual reporter or writer, not of the school ot The Speculator as a whole. Students, faculty, and administrators are encouraged to write in with letters to the editor or with any comments concerning articles.

Chattahoochee High School 5230 Taylor Road • Johns Creek, Georgia 30022 • 770-521-7600 • www.chattcougar.com/speculatorvision

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Charity Champs of Chattahoochee RACHELGRACE Editor-in-Chief Chattahoochee students are not just involved with their community-- they are in sync with it. The meritable and generous clubs of Chattahoochee allow students to explore their interests, while giving back the world around them.

Improve living qualities of the homeless in Atlanta.

Go to homeless shelters, pass out snacks, and just talk to them—a little conversation goes a long way.

Sell merchandise and apply all the revenue to buying the food for the events.

To promote Ecofriendliness and conservation of resources.

Rivers Alive at Chattahoochee Nature Reserve, and The Halloween Hike.

Selling friendship bracelets—all proceeds go toward beautifying the community.

President: Lisa Romanovski Vice President: Sae Hae Jeong Vice President of Activities: Biran Shah

Primarily support to Cancer Patients and raise awareness of the disease.

Relay for Life, Wizard’s Chess and the School’s annual Canned Food Drive.

Selling commodities and merchandise to finance the events.

Co-President: Richard Li and Nora Hansen Event Coordinator: Carrie Arnson

Representing a non-profit organization called, “Heart for Africa.”

Let your creative style catch the eye of fellow free spirits: wear a conversation-starting piece like a cool graphic tee, or maybe an accessory you made yourself.

Raising money through all the events in order to help the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa.

President: Paula Ruiz Vice President: Jade Thames

04 | Designed by Paul Hansa. October 2013

President: Marina Han Vice President: Adam Salaza Embassador: Holly Freeman Publicity: Amelia Scales

UNDERSCORE |

Hooch Sports Win the Winter DALLASSHOOK Staff Reporter Last year, Chattahoochee’s winter sports dominated the region. The swim team and wrestling team reached state, and men’s basketball finished second in the region. Now, with a majority of players returning for each sport, Chattahoochee looks to add to their success. Hooch expects to see even more players step up as team leaders.

The Cougars started their year with a home win over North Forsyth.

Shane Burke (10) likes the position his team is in. He stated, “A lot of people have written us off after such a great season last year, the team is working hard as ever.

We’re ready.”

Last year, the Lady Cougars finished with a record of 1012. However, only 3 players were seniors and the team looks to improve greatly this year.

Despite a decent team performance, the Lady Cougars lost to an impressive North Forsyth team in their first game.

Charity Starkes (10) has high hopes for this year. “I expect myself to step up this year and really help this team reach its full potential.”

Charity stated.

Last year, the men’s swim team finished second in the state. While the girls did not finish top in the state, they still had a very impressive year.

Chattahoochee’s quest for another trip to State started on the right pace after an impressive win over Centennial.

Lauren Tomczak (12) has been swimming since freshman year. Lauren said, “It’ll be weird knowing this is my last year, but I’m excited to finish with such a great team.”

Last year, the wrestling team qualified for state duals, and won the Traditional Area Tournament. Two Hooch wrestlers placed top 3 in state.

Sophomore wrestler Matt Picus (10) is excited for this year. “We know just how good we are,” He stated, “Our goal is state this year and nothing less.”

The Cougars finished second in the religion last year. Three Chattahoochee players were named to the All-Region Team, including Markus Terry, who won region MVP.

Last year, the wrestling team qualified for state duals, and won the Traditional Area Tournament. Josh McMahan came in second place in state, and Jordan Pitt came in third place.

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| GAME TIME

06 | Designed by Hannah Mills . December 2013

GIVE A GLANCE BACK AT HOOCH SPORTS DANNYCAPLAN Sports Editor

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hether it is in wrestling or volleyball, 2013 provided another year of Chattahoochee sports teams making a name for themselves. This was the first full year that the Cougars were in 6A, and they proved that they are up for the competition. Multiple sports teams from each sports season advanced into the playoffs, making Chattahoochee one of the better sports programs in the state.

This year’s wrestling team had one of the best seasons of all time. They won the traditional area championship and made it to team state for the first time in head CoachHick’s tenure at Chattahoochee. Jordan Pitt [Jr] and graduate Josh McMahan both placed at the state tournament, Jordan coming in third place and Josh coming in second.

The men’s basketball team provided some serious excitement for the student body this past year, finishing the season with a phenomenal 21-8 record, and went 12-2 in the region. This great record can be accredited to last year’s star Markus Terry, who is now playing for Presbyterian College.

Unfortunately, the season had to come to an end after losing to Meadowcreek High School in a heartbreaking loss in the first round of the playoffs 76-72.

The Chattahoochee men’s swim team added to the success of winter sports for the Cougars, as they went to the state championship and finished second. This was a heartbreaking loss for the team, since they only lost by eight points. The state team comprised of Nico Denis [JR], Jake Rubin[JR] graduates Kevin Mallard and Alan Rabstejnek, and of course none other than the Litherland triplets, Jay, Kevin, and Mik [SR]. The girls’ team also had great success this past season. Led by Mattie Shook, and Kati Koutrelakous [SR], the girls finished 6th in state.

The spring season for Chattahoochee was led by the success of both the guys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams. The girl’s team finished the year ranked seventh in state and compiled a record of 16-4. Unfortunately, the season had to come to an end in a playoff match up against Milton, who would

later go on to win state. The lady cougars were led by Katie Trainer [SR] and Lauren Frantz [SR]. The guys’ teams finished 7-1 in the region, and were led by seniors Jack Cioffi, Tommy Stanton and Ben Corrigan. A monumental win for the Cougars was their 11-8 victory against Lambert. Like the girl’s lacrosse team, the season ended in a first round playoff loss to Roswell High School.

Chattahoochee’s guys’ and girls’ tennis teams both had successful campaigns in the 2013 season. Led by last year’s seniors Jay Reynolds, Hunter Bivins, Mike Newell, and Andrew Lockerbie [SR], the men’s team had a great season and made a run in the state tournament, but their state ring dreams were diminished after losing to Brookwood in the second round. Chattahoochee was again put in an unlucky bracket. Brookwood would eventually go on to win the state championship.

The toast of this year’s fall season was the Chattahoochee volleyball team. The group went 50-10, and finished its season in the state championship losing to Walton High School. Seniors Claudia Coco and Haley Templeton led the Cougars to one of the greatest seasons in Chattahoochee volleyball history. One of the most impressive wins this season was the home Final Four match against Johns Creek. In five thrilling sets, the Cougars were able to seal the victory. Due to their impressive season, the volleyball team finished the season ranked 37th in the country.

Although they didn’t make the playoffs, other sports teams still provided excitement for the student body. The student section was still packed for football games against Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and South Forsyth. The softball and baseball teams were competitive in their games along with girls basketball, girls tennis, and soccer teams. Hopefully, the 2014 season will lead to more success for not only these teams, but also the whole Chattahoochee Cougars’ sports program.

MILANREVELS Features Editor photo by Mandy King, Staff Photographer

Freshman, Basketball What’s your favorite pre-game meal?

Pasta Do you have a nickname that your teammates call you?

Weezy What’s the funniest thing that you’ve seen during a game?

When my teammate slipped on the court

ISAACKINSEY

Sophomore, Basketball What’s your favorite pre-game meal?

Subway Do you have a nickname that your teammates call you?

“Key” What’s the funniest thing that you’ve seen during a game?

When Coach Quraishy gets mad, his eyes turn red and he rubs the scuffs off of the court.

AYSIAKEY

ERINMORROW Senior, Basketball What’s your favorite pre-game meal?

Chik-Fil-A Do you have a nickname that your teammates call you?

“E” What’s the funniest thing that you’ve seen during a game?

When Coach Kirkland uses funny analogies in the huddle

Junior, Football What’s your favorite pre-game meal?

Chicken and noodles Do you have a nickname that your teammates call you?

“Hoff” What’s the funniest thing that you’ve seen during a game?

Trey Hillman’s celebrations after he makes a big play

SEANHOFFMAN 08 | Designed by Hannah Mills . December 2013

GAME TIME |

PLAYER PROFILE: BRETT BARTLETT NEELSWAMY Staff Reporter

photo by Kylie Barber, Photo Editor

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rett Bartlett[SR] is known for always having a smile on his face and having a good time. He is also a strong basketball player and shows the same enthusiasm on the court.

Q: What have you enjoyed the most about playing basketball?

A: The time that I have spent in the locker room with my teammates has most definitely been the highlight of my basketball career.

Q: What has been the most memorable moment in your time playing for the Cougars?

A: Sophomore year, when I scored on our senior night against Northwest Whitfield, that was crazy. When I scored the crowd went insane.

Q: Have there been any players in the past that you have looked up to?

A: Jordan Wilkins, he was a senior last year. He was an allaround good guy as well as a positive teammate. He was always optimistic.

Q: Do you have any goals for this season?

A: I want to be the best player I can be.

Q: Which year at Chattahoochee has been the most enjoyable?

A: Sophomore year, because of Coach Singeltery. He made the season enjoyable for me.

Q: Why did you choose your number?

A: My number is 5 and the reason I chose it is because everyone in my family has worn the number 5 dating back to my grandfather.

The time that I have spent in the locker room with my teammates has most definitely been the highlight of my basketball career.

Q: How do you think your team will do this season?

A: I feel positive about this season and I think we will be decent this season.

Q: What other hobbies do you have outside of basketball?

A: I like to hang out with my friends, play Xbox and eat food. I just really like to chill outside basketball.

Q: How would you feel if you were vine famous?

A: I would love to be vine famous that would be pretty awesome.

Q: Do you think that you will keep basketball as a hobby after high school?

A: Yeah I do want to keep basketball in my life. I am going to be killing it at intramurals at Liberty University.

Q: How long have you been playing basketball?

A: I have been playing since second grade. I was introduced to basketball at Camp All American and I really enjoyed it.

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| GAME TIME

STILL IN THEIR CORNER

DALLAS SHOOK Staff Reporter

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photos by Michael Fusco, Guest Photographer

hroughout the school year, Chattahoochee has rallied behind Coach Pitt and his battle against Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The rumors of his plans to return for the second semester have been flying around Hooch for the past couple of weeks, and support is at an all-time high. No group of students are more ecstatic than the wrestling team, who have long awaited the return of their fearless leader.

When people think about Coach Pitt, the words “courageous” and “inspirational” come to mind. Coach Pitt has successfully fought cancer and kept his head up the whole time. Another word that comes to mind when thinking of Coach Pitt is “loyal”. Sean Hoffman (11) recalled, “Coach Pitt has been in the corner of every single one of my wrestling matches since I can remember.

It’s weird not having him around, but I know he wants to be there.” Sean went on to say, “It’s my time to be there for him now; I’m ready.”

Daniel Amran (11) is also very close with Coach Pitt. Daniel said that, “Throughout his battle, Coach Pitt hasn’t complained. He hasn’t claimed that everything is unfair at all; he accepted his battle and that’s how he can fight it so well. Coach Pitt leads by example.” Joey Reihing (12) is one of the most experienced wrestlers on the team. “Coach Pitt would always tell me that attitude means everything.

10 | Designed by Walker McNeely . December 2013

Now he’s living proof that attitude truly is everything.” Joey explained, “when you see a picture of him wearing a hat that says ‘I Pin Tumors’, or hear about him walking 12 miles after his chemo treatment... Now that’s some serious inspiration to live your life with a positive attitude.”

Matt Picus, a sophomore wrestler at Chattahoochee, is very close to his coach. When asked about how much Coach Pitt means to him, Matt stated, “He is simply one of my favorite people. He’s so much fun to be around; he always lightens the mood and never lets there be a dull moment.” Noah Panzarella (12) also looks up to Coach Pitt. He believes, “Coach is a huge inspiration to the whole team and everyone he meets.”

Noah went on to say that, “Seeing him [Coach Pitt] fight through all of this just gives us more motivation to be good this year, to work harder. If he can be brave in such a huge battle, nothing should stop us.”

Coach Pitt’s success in his battle against Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma can be credited to not only his unwavering courage and strength, but also to the strong support of everyone around him. When walking around Chattahoochee, almost every student sports a blue bracelet with “Team Pitt” written on it, a fundraiser by Hooch earlier this year. There is no doubt that the entire community is supporting Coach Pitt, as they have proved time and time again throughout his battle. Chattahoochee awaits his return.

OLLEYBALL SARAEDWARDS Staff Reporter

With amazing players, awesome coaches and crazy fans, Hooch volleyball was the sport to watch this fall. Finishing the year with a 44-10 record, the team excelled in all areas of the court. The team had an amazing win against Johns Creek in the playoffs by beating them in the fifth set. Players Claudia Coco and Haley Templeton also set state records and were named allstar athletes. Congrats to the girls on being the state runners up of 2013.

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photo courte sy yton

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| TECH WATCH

GADGETS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS KRISTIANSANDOVAL Features Editor

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ith the holiday season approaching, companies like Google, Apple and LG are preparing their new and revised devices so that they can be the perfect gift material for someone you love (or even yourself ).

Google Glass Google has slated an advanced version of their Glass product. Owners of the previous product will be allowed a free upgrade and also will now be allowed to invite friends into the program. This rendition will include a new earbud accessory and will support prescription frames for a cost of about a grand.

LG G Flex LG has recently released a futuristic phone that experiments with new features. It is an extremely curved phone that also has a self-repairing back that can heal itself from daily scratches that unprotected phones usually receive. It costs a heavy $940.

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Google Nexus 10 After relaunching the Nexus 7 earlier this year, Google has moved on to the Nexus 10. The device will receive updates to its hardware and also run the most recent Android OS, KitKat. It will be available for around $450.

iPad Air Apple has revised the iPad line for this holiday season. Overall improvements have been made to the hardware and it will automatically run iOS 7. The lowest storage and Wi-Fi only version costs $400.

12 | Designed by Cassie Langmann . December 2013

RETROSPECT |

COLBYHESSELTINE, Copy Editor You’ve Been Good this Year You Get-

You’ve Been A Bad Child You Get-

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Christmas Vacation aking good Christmas movies is certainly no laughing matter, as combining quality storytelling with that holiday warmth key demographics are into is difficult. Christmas Vacation could have accomplished this feat by resting on its laurels, but it exceeds expectations by being genuinely funny regardless of the season.

Chevy Chase returns to the iconic role of Pierce Hawthorne Clark Griswold, master of the family vacation, as the Griswolds decide to stay home for the holidays. Clark is determined to have a good Christmas despite the lack of a work bonus, his problematic extended family and hazardous levels of Randy Quaid. Regardless of his best efforts, the Rockwell-esque dream of a quiet holiday get-together turns out to be a ho-ho-horrible time. The straw that breaks the reindeer’s back comes in the form of Clark’s Christmas bonus: a free membership to the Jelly of the Month Club. It would appear to the uneducated viewer that Christmas has been ruined forever, but wait, who’s that? It’s Randy Quaid!

And he’s brought Clark’s boss down to the party!

Also a SWAT team. There’s been a kidnapping don’t ask. Touched by the Christmas season, the boss gives a better bonus, and Christmas for the Griswolds ends on a rare high note.

Christmas Vacation, unlike other holiday movies, manages to be genuinely humorous. Just watch it. Maybe not in front of your parents, but still.

You Killed Santa You Get-

Eight Crazy Nights

The Star Wars Holiday Special

uring the holiday season, religions outside of Christianity are notoriously underrepresented.

While Kris Kringle reigns supreme, the only popular representations of Judaism involve Rugrats and Ezekiel the Hanukkah Zombie. Eight Crazy Nights does nothing to remedy the situation.

Written by and starring Adam Sandler (commence groaning), Eight Crazy Nights is steeped in the tradition of Christmas specials past, animated and centered around Davey, who’s current status is down and out. Formerly a child basketball prodigy, Davey turned to alcoholism after the death of his parents. After his latest mishap breaks the town’s combination Menorah/ Santa ice sculpture (with song accompaniment; I forgot to mention this is a musical affair), Davey is sentenced to community service at the behest of senior citizen Whitey Duvall (Sandler voice #2). Volunteering to referee the youth basketball league, Davey initially makes a drunken mess of himself, but with the help of Whitey and his sister Eleanor (Sandler voice #3), he turns his life around to the surprise of the film’s assuredly captive audience. Everything is resolved, Davey moves past his demons and Whitey has a seizure.

I know.

If done by anybody else, Eight Crazy Nights could have been a good movie. However, Sandler’s guiding hand drags the movie down into forgetfulness, with the plot wholeheartedly ripping off multiple Christmas movie tropes and hastily replacing them with those of Jewish origin. Stay away from this mesuggah and have yourself a merry little Passover - sans Sandler.

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kay folks, this is the big one: A work so horrible it almost brought the entire Star Wars franchise to its knees. A film so God-awful that even George Lucas doesn’t want to touch it.

Remember, this is a man who begat Jar-Jar-Binks unto the world, and he thinks that the Star Wars Holiday Special is bad. Strap in.

The Special starts out with iconic characters Han Solo and Chewbacca tossing out all of that useless character development from A New Hope as they travel to Chewie’s home planet of Kashyyyk to celebrate a Christmas-like holiday called “Life Day.” It’s all downhill from here, as Han and Chewie are forced to outrun Imperial Cruisers, leaving us with the waste-dump that is Chewie’s family: Itchy, Malla and Lumpy (short for Attichitcuk and two other equally irrelevant names). With a mockery of cooking shows, a cartoon rehash of Episode IV and Jefferson Starship (which dates the film to 1978), the Special is, to quote Spinal Tap, “a mystery best left unsolved.”

I would ask you to watch it yourself and develop your own opinion, but that’s impossible.

Lucasfilms has destroyed every copy and refuses to re-release it. The next best things are hazy clips found on the Internet, but it’s not worth the effort. During these holidays, if relatives you’ve never really liked bring out the Special, you’d be better off distracting them with candies and the antics of late-Eighties Chevy Chase.

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| RETROSPECT

AUBREYLORIA Staff Reporter

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s we near the holiday season, chances are that

you are thinking about the people on your “nice” list – your parents, your siblings, your favorite teachers – but what about the best friend who you have yet to meet? There are millions of dogs and cats who just want a home and a new friend this year. Feeling generous? Luckily, some of the best pets in the world are waiting for you at adoption centers right now, so read on and find your newest friend today.

The Atlanta Humane Society is a local group

who shelters animals in need and provides medical care and training for adopted pets. They only euthanize pets that are medically or behaviorally unfit for adoption; their full-time staff and volunteers are focused on finding a home for every adoptable animal in need. The adoption process is designed to make sure that the adopting family will be able to keep their pet healthy and happy while considering the animal’s needs in addition to the family’s lifestyle.

Dhanusha Subramani (SR) is a supporter of

the society, where she adopted her puppy over the summer. She reports that the building is clean, well-kept and comfortable for visitors. Although the adoption process was a bit lengthy since they were first-time puppy owners, she was very satisfied by the process and she recommends rescued pets to those who want a new companion this season.

Unable to adopt right now? Volunteers are

never taken for granted and there are tasks that anyone can manage, from washing the dogs to taking pictures of new animals for the website. Visit the Society’s website at atlantahumane.org to search for pets in your area or read more about volunteering.

14 | Designer by Cassie Langmann . December 2013

| FEATURES

KINDNESS:

random acts of ERICAPETZ Editor-in-Chief

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A WINTER BREAK CHALLENGE

t can be tempting to just chill over winter break, but doesn’t an empty vacation make you feel, well, empty? Here is an easy way to make this your most rewarding break yet: a “random acts of kindness” challenge, inspired by a friend of mine who celebrated her seventeenth birthday by performing a random act of kindness for each year of her life. You can perform seventeen acts too, one for each day of the break: 1. Saturday, December 21: Spread the warmth by donating your winter clothes from last season to a nearby Goodwill or Salvation Army.

2. Sunday, December 22: Leave extra money in the vending machine. The next customer will delight in a free snack.

3. Monday, December 23: Stop by the local police or fire department and thank them for all that they do.

4. Tuesday, December 24: Introduce yourself to someone you always see around.

If you see someone who looks familiar while last-minute Christmas shopping, say hello.

5. Wednesday, December 25: Call someone you haven’t talked to in awhile. Do not text or email. Call. This conversation could rekindle a valuable connection.

6. Thursday, December 26: Send someone a handmade card; an artsy note is a gift itself.

7. Friday, December 27: Make sandwiches and hand them out to the less fortunate.

8. Saturday, December 28: Donate gently used books to your local library.

9. Sunday, December 29: Cook dinner for your family. No matter how simple your supper is, the fact that you volunteered to make it will make everyone smile.

10. Monday, December 30: Surprise your mailman. He opens your mailbox every day, but there is never anything for him—until today when he finds a wrapped treat and a note.

11. Tuesday, December 31: Smile at five strangers—a cinch if you’re at a New Year’s Eve party filled with people.

12. Wednesday, January 1: Place pennies heads-up around the city; give people some good luck to start off the new year.

13. Thursday, January 2: Make blankets for an orphanage; tied fleece blankets are easy and fun to make.

14. Friday, January 3: Stop a negative conversation. If your friends start bashing on themselves or other people, lead the conversation in a more uplifting direction.

15. Saturday, January 4: Leave kind and/or funny post-it notes in unexpected places.

Write on the bottom of the note for someone to take it and pass it on anonymously.

16. Sunday, January 5: Go for a walk and collect trash as you go.

17. Monday, January 6: If you go on a trip, give a souvenir to someone who wouldn’t expect it.

This challenge only scratches the surface of random acts of kindness; there is an entire organization dedicated to the subject. To learn more about the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation and get more ideas, visit: www.randomactsofkindness.org.

HOW TO REACT TO GIFTS

BAD

RACHELGRACE Editor-in-Chief

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omething ought to be said about bad gifts; though it is the “giver” of gifts that is the assumed perpetrator, it is not exactly their fault. In their eyes, there could have not been a more perfect gift to give to you, and so unfortunately, they gave. The catalyst has spawned its action, and now it is time for the reaction… Just know that an uncomfortable smile and meekbeyond-meek thank you will in fact, not suffice.

Now this isn’t the time to start fake crying tears of joy or anything, it is a cassette tape version of Britney Spears’, “Hit Me Baby One More Time” album, not the cure for cancer. It is important to maintain an elegant façade of gratitude post-unwrapping, something that supposedly takes years of acting classes to master. Have no fear, this artful skill can be taught in a mere few minutes using techniques and body language innate to polite mannerism.

First things first, open the gift calmly; if you furiously open the gift, you have put yourself at a disadvantage—you won’t have time to keep your composure, plus it’s a sure sign of a bad gift if your prior enthusiasm does not match the later. Once the gift is opened, react as soon as possible (hesitation usually indicates unsureness and repulse); the reaction should not be too extravagant, just slightly open your mouth and smile, as if you were a baby bird about to be mouth fed, or something like that. Note: do not say phrases like, “wow,” or “interesting,” or the infamous, captain obvious catch phrase, “Well…that’s a gift.” Just don’t.

Now the wheels are set in motion; you cannot simply say, “I love it!” you need to get a little bit meaty with it, elaborate on why you love it, or muse about just how useful it is (even if it is not, but that is why it is a bad gift). There is a formula, it goes as follows, “How did you know I wanted this [GIFT NAME HERE], I have been meaning to purchase this for myself. Now I can finally [PURPOSE OF GIFT HERE].” Obviously, you will have to create variations of the phrase in order to maintain a certain level of incognito, but all should mirror this structure.

If you follow these steps, instead just saying you do not like the gift, you are committing to an act that will have to be performed for years to come.

Questions will be asked, “Where is that fedora I gave you?” or “Why do you not ever wear those sparkly Ugg boots?” and you most likely will not have the answers. Well, unfortunately there is not much you can do at this point so it looks like you will just have to add fedoras and sparkly Ugg Boots to your wardrobe; tis’ the season for bad gifts and even worse reactions.

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BUYS THAT BENEFIT

| TRENDS & TUNES

AUBREYLORIA Features Editor

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ver-privileged. Rich. Spoiled. The wealthy are often accused of taking their cushioned life for granted and of being oblivious to

the struggles of the less fortunate. When we make purchases, we rarely consider where the gifts are coming from or where the profits go. This year, what if we bought goods that gave back to something and paid attention to the message behind our purchases? What if, this holiday season, you gave the gift of change?

If the miracle of internet shopping is appealing to you, this might be the year that you do your research and look into some

groups that donate portions of their profits to charities. Simply find a charity that you want to support, such as Susan B. Coleman, and shop their products or the products of their sponsors. There are also charities that sell their own products, such as Krochet Kids, who use their profits for their cause.

If internet-shopping is not your thing, another option is to clear out the local Goodwill, located on the corner of Jones Bridge

and State Bridge roads. Goodwill donations are sold to customers and the majority of the profit is used in their career training and education programs, helping empower those in need.

It may be difficult to beat the stereotype of the rich suburban youth, but, by using your funds to give back, this year can be a

meaningful way to make the most of the season.

18 | Designer by Mackenzie Gaillard . December 2013

photo by Alexis Goldstein, Staff Photographer

‘Tis The Season To Cover

Holiday Music KRISTIANSANDOVAL Features Editor

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othing says “holiday season” much like the music that it brings. The jolly lyrics bring out the glee in all of its listeners.

While classics are always appreciated, popular artists of today are covering their favorite holiday songs to release to the masses.

She & Him - Consisting of actress and singer Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward, She & Him released their holiday album, A Very She & Him Christmas, two years ago, but it has since become timeless. The album includes classics like “Sleigh Ride,” “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.”

Mariah Carey - If you want your Christmas music to have heavy vocals, then Mariah’s Merry Christmas II You album is just for you. Carey uses mainly her voice and a piano to make simple but hearty Christmas music. The album includes worship songs like “O Little Town Of Bethlehem/Little Drummer Boy Medley” and “The First Noel/Born Is The King” alongside originals like “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

Justin Bieber - Bieber’s Under The Mistletoe is a 15 song album featuring nine originals. Throughout the collection, Bieber uses his talent for catchy pop music and incorporates it in. He features artists like Mariah Carey for “All I Want For Christmas” and Busta Rhymes for “Drummer Boy.”

Artists have not truly explored their talent until they add their own unique spice to classic holiday music.

oto Editor

ie Robinson, Ph

photo by Natal

Designed by Mackenzie Gaillard . The Speculator: Voice | 19

AFTER HOURS

BILLRETTIG Staff Reporter

Y

ou see them in the hallway; you see them in class; you may even catch a glimpse of one at the super market every now and then, but what do teachers do on their own time? Yes, they have lives too, and they are quite interesting. In fact, some of the teachers you may know have these things to say:

Against popular belief, teachers are not robots, nor are they alien space pirates; they are people just like you and me. Converse with a fellow teacher, and you may be surprised to learn you share some hobbies.

MR. WHITE, a language and litexpressed his interest

COACH PETERSON,

in road biking. He likes

a world history teacher

to participate in charity

and family man, spends

erature teacher, has

events such as the MS Bike Ride. Of course, he

MR. ROBBINS, a physics teacher, says

oversees the school’s

he likes to play tennis

newspaper, the Specula-

when he can. Although

tor, in which he devotes

times are slow right

a great portion of his

now, with school being

time. He is, in his terms,

a top priority, he said

“an avid concert goer

he used to perform in

and likes to dance and

a type of karate while

get funky!”

working as a

20 | Designer by Kylie Dayton . December 2013

computer programmer.

his time with his two daughters: a two-year old and a one-year old.

These girls may occupy his life now, but he still enjoys man time whether he is on the golf course or a driving range or watching Texas A&M during Football Saturdays.

MR. MERVICH, Chattahoochee’s leader in the engineering department, had an especially interesting time working with his grandson to complete a recent tree house build. In class, he shows mockups of scale tree houses that he has built over the years.

IN FOCUS |

CLASH OF THE CLUBS: CLUBS GIVE BACK LISTYAMUNTHE Copy Editor

Every year, Chattahoochee students create

new and exciting clubs; however, clubs have been receiving growing amounts of criticism about their lack of activity. Students and teachers stated that clubs need a “reinvigoration.” Well, the reinvigoration has come – Clash of the Clubs has been formed.

Created by Ms. Bryant, Clash of the Clubs is a way to motivate clubs to be more committed and active through competition with other clubs. The winner of the Clash not only receives a prize from the administration, but they also gain the pride and recognition of doing something worthwhile and creating positive change within the community. Although it is the first year Chattahoochee has done something like this, the Clash is already proving to be very successful.

Designed by Jenny RIm . The Speculator: Voice | 21

22 | Designed by Jenny Rim. December 2013

Chattahoochee High School provides the student body with wonderful opportunities, and we are fortunate to have a diversity of clubs. The student body is familiar with popular service-oriented clubs such as Beta and National Honor Society, but several students have criticized how some of our most popular clubs lack activity. Whether those clubs lack a membership base, committed leaders or volunteer projects, clubs have been asked to step it up. Especially with the holidays coming up, now is the time for clubs to take initiative and coordinate a gift drive or visit a shelter. After all, the holidays do make us think about all the things we are fortunate enough to have, so we should take time to think about the things we can do to give back to others.

Of course, there are active clubs at our school, but there are also clubs that need a push to step up their game. Ms. Bryant and Ms. Lange have created a way to get clubs to be more active in community service: Clash of the Clubs, an option for any Chattahoochee club that wants to compete with other clubs through service projects. The competition is based on a point system: smaller projects (like picking up trash after a lunch period) will gain the club five points, while larger projects (like organizing a gift drive) can rack up 100 points.

When asked about why she wanted to start Clash of the Clubs, Ms. Bryant replied, “I started it to draw attention to the hard work our clubs do each year and to offer a spirit of healthy competition among the clubs with a common goal of recognizing those clubs that are really active versus those that start, meet a few times and then vanish into obscurity.” About 14 clubs, including 121 Reach, Career Explorers, Cupcakes for the Cure, Key Club and SADD, have joined the Clash, and there are clubs who already have hundreds of points by doing different projects since the start of the semester.

One of the clubs Ms. Bryant highlighted was MD Junior; they are not a club that many have heard about, but they jumped on the chance to get points by working on the BIG THANKS program, an opportunity promoted locally by Honeybaked Ham to write letters to soldiers during the holidays. Other Clash members have participated in November’s Cougar Colors on Campus event, a school beautification project, and World Language Club volunteered to design the club bulletin board in the main hallway to share with students all the fun events clubs host and highlight some of our outstanding clubs for giving back to the school and community. The Clash’s big project for the semester is Toys-forTots, a collection drive run by the U.S. Marine

Corps to provide less fortunate children with new toys for the holidays. Participating members have been collectively working together to ensure that the toy drive is a success.

Not every club at Chattahoochee decided to join the Clash, but Ms. Bryant predicts that the numbers will increase next year, reasoning that, “those clubs that didn’t participate will definitely want to jump into the fray!” President of HOSA, Camelia Malkami (JR), decided to participate in Clash of the Clubs because “it’s a great way to gain recognition for our cause and an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the school.” Participating clubs members agree with Camelia. There are numerous clubs at Chattahoochee that do a lot to give back, but they do not get the recognition they deserve.

With the Clash, they can finally receive that recognition, while also spreading awareness about how everyone should give back in some way. When asked about the Clash, Camelia responded, “I think Clash of the Clubs is great because it will motivate organizations at our school to rise up to the occasion and come through with the service projects they have talked about. I think if this competition is successful this year, it will set a precedent for the future and will continue to be successful.”

Ms. Bryant envisions that the Clash will make clubs deliberately seek out ways to be recognized on campus beyond their required club activities, which will showcase our real “go-getters.” She wanted a competition that equalized the contest so that it’s not about the size of a club but more about a club’s overall efforts to be creative, commit to volunteer work and show Hooch pride. There are major point opportunities for clubs that participate in the HELPING HANDS or ADOPT-a-POT programs -- both of which are about giving back to Chattahoochee.

Chattahoochee is lucky enough to have many resources that other schools do not have, and we should never take that privilege for granted. Many of us will receive new gifts over the break, but have you ever stopped and thought about how you are going to give back to the school, the community and to those who do not have the ability to relax and enjoy the lifestyle we live? This is about the gift of giving back, and Clash of the Clubs is oriented around that theme. If you want to give back and help the Clash’s big holiday project, look around your home for unused toys that you can donate to the Toys-for-Tots drive!

| COMMENTARY

Keys to

LIVING HAPPIER, LOVING YOURSELF, FEELING BETTER and

RACHELLEVIN Staff Reporter

W

inter has arrived at last, and so has the time to say goodbye to fall memories and the last dwindling leaves that painted the trees different colors.

As people prepare for approaching holidays and finals, priorities change and other factors begin to dominate: studying, shopping for others and losing weight for winter break are just few of many. However, in the bustle of the “home stretch” month, people start neglecting the most important asset of the season: themselves. It’s easy once you are bundled up to also bundle up your positivity, self-confidence and determination. Scars from self-harm become easier to hide, and being alone with your thoughts occurs more often as you sit inside, hiding from the cold. Winter doesn’t just carry cooler temperatures anymore—it carries a certain coldness within yourself and toward yourself. My tips and suggestions come from personal experience, observation and the help of an anonymous self-help blogger, that when combined, will hopefully help you dig yourself out of that dark, dismal pit and turn the cold winter into a warm, promising one.

Stop asking everyone for opinions. Love your choices.

Change. Become better than you were before.

Eat healthier, but remember: you have permission to eat. Even if you haven’t exercised, ate too much today, gained weight or feel like you don’t deserve it.

Write down a list of things that make you happy. Hang them up. Do them: make them more prominent in your life than they were before.

Find something to appreciate in everything you do.

Become your own best friend. Buy yourself a coffee and drink it alone in a café. Take your time.

Get up early and watch the sunrise.

Learn to love every bit of yourself.

Wear soft clothes, take a bath, drink something warm.

Now, for the last tip, don’t let the cold weather make you cold toward yourself. Do things that make you happy. And, finally, climb out of the trench.

Become closer with the ones you love. Tell everyone how much you appreciate them.

Keep your room clean. Let the natural light in.

Make a list of why you’ll be better off without them. Believe they are true, because they are. Get rid of the things they gave you that make you sad. You will never be happy if you hold onto them.

Wake up every morning and tell yourself you’re going to have a good day.

Make new memories. Meet new people.

Listen to new music.

COMMENTARY |

GIVE BACK TO YOUR SPIRITUAL SELF

NIKOMAHERAS Staff Reporter

T

he mindset of the majority of the world today is to constantly give back to others. This is absolutely a great habit to have, but something of great importance has been forgotten lately. Everyone seems to forget to give back to themselves. The problem is not the actual act of being kind, but rather the fact that they cannot find happiness within. Many do not realize that they are not at their full potential when it comes to mental happiness.

One aspect that may be a heavy contributor is social media; English teacher Mrs. Whitley whole-heartedly agrees: “I think too many of us are so attached to social media, and they serve more of an obligation than simply another medium of communication.” People of all ages are abusing the power of social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. So many people feel the urge to constantly be connected when it is perfectly fine to be disconnected. As a matter of fact, it is probably healthy to get a break from online drama and be with your thoughts. We feel obligated to respond to that Facebook message or retweet the overused and cliché quote to make us feel like we are philosophers. We feel guilt and withdrawal when we aren’t connected in some way, shape or form when in fact it is beneficial to not be connected every once in a while, considering how much everyone uses social media. If social media users took a whole day off of the internet, they could get away from a virtual world. Their focus could then be used to simply ponder.

It is great to talk and interact with friends and family. Often times we encounter boring days when we have seemingly nothing to do; this is a chance to take some time to tinker and play with your thoughts. Embrace them and label them as opportunities to connect and give back to your spirit and mind. Use it as a time to simply relax and be alone with your thoughts. You can listen to music, paint or just sit and reflect on anything; whatever you choose to do, though, ensure that you will be alone, especially away from your ever-so-tempting iPhone. “It is a difficult sensation to describe,” Reid Gimla (Sr.) explains, “you just have to do it. I think everyone should be with themselves everyv once in a while.”

It is the season for giving. Do not limit that to physical items and do not forget to return the favor to yourself. You won’t know what it is like until you try it. Be yourself, be with yourself and simply be.

Black White SARAEDWARDS Staff Reporter

W

e have all heard the songs and everyone has the famous tunes memorized…but how many people really enjoy the music heard this time of year? More than you would think according to billboard.com; over 54.9 million units of Christmas music were sold in the last year. Kylie Aiken (SR) explains Christmas music is loved by so many people because of its uplifting spirit: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is to sing loud for all to hear.” Christmas music is known for its catchy lyrics and memorable melodies. Who wouldn’t love a good Christmas song?

The music puts its listeners in the mood to celebrate the holiday season. Sometimes as a society, people need to be reminded that the point of the holiday season is to give more than receive. Songs with encouraging lines such as “Silent Night” tell society that Christmas is a reflective time. Because it reminds people that holidays are supposed to be a happy time, “Joy to the World” is another song that reminds people what the holiday season is about. “Why don’t you give love on Christmas Day? Even the man who has everything would be so happy if you would bring him love on Christmas Day. No greater gift there is than love.” Do these lyrics sound familiar?

This Christmas song, “Give Love on Christmas Day” by The Jackson 5, is known for its message that the ultimate holiday gift is love. More songs than you would think have inspiring messages along with catchy tunes.

Even if Christmas music isn’t on your list of favorite genres, it is only here for a short time. AP Psychology and AP US History teacher, Ms. Falk, agrees; “It can be overplayed and can be annoying at times, but it only comes once a year.”

It’s a special time of year with special music to go with it. So whether you like Christmas music for its memorable melodies or its appealing lyrics, don’t forget to take the time to listen to what the music is actually saying.

26 | Designed byCarlos Bak. December 2013

COMMENTARY |

Christmas Music: Fun or Annoying?

NIKOMAHERAS Staff Repoter

O

ctober 5 is the date that Christmas music hit the air in Syracuse, and it had hit many more stations by November 1. What’s worse; hearing the same song done by 50 different artists, or hearing them as early as October?

It is appropriate to play this music at this time of the year, but someone should do something original. No one wants to hear “Holly Jolly Christmas” done by 10 different singers in the same exact style. It should only be played if it’s Burl Ives (if you even know who he is).

Twisted Sister, a metal group from the 80s, put out an album titled “A Twisted Christmas” in 2006. Dee Snider and Company turned happy carols into head-banging tunes with face-melting guitar licks, thunderous bass lines, explosive drums and banshee-screaming lyrics. This is creative, unique and it has turned some heads. It sounds crazy, but Miley Cyrus should cover a Christmas song.

She would absolutely make it edgy and memorable, but at least it wouldn’t follow the same cycle of repetition.

There have to be more who think it is insane to start playing these songs as early as eleven weeks before December 25. Come on people, we should have at least gotten through fall first. It also makes sense to say that playing it too early will make it less enjoyable by the time it’s December. Who wants to hear “Frosty the Snowman” over 300 times by December 1? Christmas music should be played strictly from the Friday after Thanksgiving to December 26 (I’ll be generous and give the Christmas addicts an extra day). That makes listening to it more special and enjoyable.

I won’t lie, I enjoy a Burl Ives tune here and there, but only when it’s the season. All I need is one or two of his tunes and I’m good until next Christmas. Today, the obsession is too out of hand. Radio stations need to start playing Christmas tunes later, and throw something different into the mix.

W H E RE I S T H E

GEN

| COMMENTARY

RE O

S N C H R O E J E K N I SITY ERICAPETZ Editor-in-Chief

I

magine this: you are collecting for your club’s charity during lunch. You walk up to a table of ostentatiously wealthy girls. You kindly ask them if they have any spare change to donate to your cause.

They all say no without even glancing in their designer wallets sitting right there on the table. Sound frustrating? Well, it happened to me.

I immediately thought, oh, you don’t have any money? You live in Johns Creek, GA. According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, we live in the third richest city in Georgia; we have plenty to give. Even though I overheard some girls in the restroom agree that it is a “must” to spend $200 solely on concealer, I disagree. Buying some concealer is fine, but I believe it is a “must” to use some of that money to help those around us instead.

However, this lack of generosity isn’t just about money. I find it heartbreaking that the only reason some students do community service is because they need the hours for some club, and they only joined said club because it looks good on a college app. For example, I attended the Fall Cougar Colors on Campus, a school cleanup event, and was dismayed to see several students standing around, complaining about how they did not want to be there. Yet if these kids were at home, they would be complaining about being bored instead; one of the most common criticisms of Johns Creek is that there is nothing to do.

People around here have preconceived notions that service is boring or lame, but if they were to drop the selfish attitude, they might find that they enjoy giving back.

Getting a group offriends together to serve at a soup kitchen, a nursing home, or anywhere, beats sitting on your couch playing Candy Crush. Likewise, donating a couple bucks to a good cause trumps buying that thoughtless purchase you don’t actually need. As privileged citizens, it is our responsibility to cultivate a passion for service and find the generosity in Johns Creek.

28 | Designed by Julia Jagmin . December 2013

COMMENTARY |

KRISTIANSANDOVAL Features Editor

W

hen you are given a gift that could be of no possible use to you, what are you supposed to do with it? Provided you are on good terms with the gift

giver and plan to stay in a healthy relationship with them, chucking the gift into the garbage can isn’t generally the route of action that should be taken.

Instead, think not of how useless the gift is to you, but how great of a person you would be if you let someone else have it.

Say you have an uncle. Let’s call him Uncle Jimmy for anonymity’s sake. Uncle Jimmy is that kind of uncle who shows up in your life only once a year

during the holidays. Knowing this, Uncle Jimmy feels as though his distance from you will be solved with a last minute gift wrapped in newspaper with the tape that shouldn’t really be called tape because it couldn’t stick to anything to safe it’s life. This gift is possibly the ugliest Christmas sweater ever created.

Even worse, the company even thinks the sweater should have been destroyed in a fire. However, you receive the gift with smiles and laughter but only because that is what you were taught. The second Uncle Jimmy turns his back, though, you are filing through your mind all the possible friends, neighbors or stores that might consider your “handmade and knitted with love” sweater if they are also bribed a Benjamin or two.

Many places and people would love your uncle’s gift to you. They, unlike you, see it as a protective article of clothing to combat the cold and gusty

winter. The patterns and decorations mean nothing to them. Unless, it is the type of of people who hoard clothes to win the competition of most tacky that no one else is playing. Foundations like Goodwill and Salvation Army will happily take your horrid sweater and give them to someone who would actually wear it.

photo by Sophia Howard

, Guest Photographer

Designed by Sophia Howard. The Speculator: Voice | 29

| COMMENTARY

A GIFT TO THE UNDERCLASSMEN SUNGMINAN Staff Reporter

W

hen I first heard the rumor, I was shocked. How could the administration be so cruel?

Supposedly, the administration is planning to end the seniors’ finals exemptions next year. This plan could spark an opposition from the student body fiercer than the one induced by the “Norts” Rebellion. Final exemptions are our privilege, and we have earned it by suffering through four years of high school.

I first heard the rumor in Coach Crooks’ second period class. Not surprisingly, everyone in the class was enraged by it. Because the administration had passed the new dress code policy just a few months ago, this news added fuel to the anger. Alex Ho (JR) voiced the general opinion of the juniors when he remarked, “I hate it [the plan]. I’ll skip school anyways along with everyone else.” Rohan Mandavilli (JR) was more passionate in voicing his dissidence: “That’s stupid! We’re basically done with school. We have been accepted to college, so we should be able to skip school.”

But all this protest has been in vain. Indeed, our faculty is not so harsh as to deprive the upper classmen of their rightly-earned privilege. Before writing a biased article on the stupidity of taking away our right, I emailed Mr. Corrigan to verify the validity of the rumor. As it turned out, the whole thing was false, a conspiracy on the part of Coach Crooks to induce despair and everlasting misery out of his students. Actually, this was bad news for me because the topic for my sensational article had been rendered into dust, and this article turned out to be rather unexceptional. But to the class of 2015 and beyond, this happy news is a reassuring gift. May the seniors’ final exemptions live forever, and may no teacher go around spreading false rumors!

e d i u G g n i v Gift Gi A

HEATHERFORD Staff Reporter

ll of us spend the holiday season searching and panicking in hopes of finding the perfect gift. Whether it be for your parents, your best friend, or your sibling, it can be difficult to find them the gift that will fulfill their desires. How many times do you find yourself at a store thinking, “What would be the gift that they would absolutely love?” and still never finding something? Well, the process becomes much easier if you keep in mind their personality and the role they play in your life. Anything you buy will bring cheer to their day just knowing you care.

Moms: creative, personalized gifts such as scrapbooks or homemade house items Grandmas: homemade gifts such as collages, mugs, picture frames Siblings: something they have always wanted to show how much you pay attention Boyfriend/Girlfriend: long cards, pictures of good memories, or even a nice simple date Dads: items for their favorite sports team that they go ballistic over Friends: gifts that show your love such as jewelry with meaning, or gift cards for them to pick out exactly what they will love

The holidays are not a time to completely obsess over what gifts you want to give, but simply just show you care.

Anyone will be filled with compassion and happiness knowing that you went out to purchase or make a gift. Anything is loved no matter what it is.

30 | Designed by Helena Denis. December 2013

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Designed by Cailin Olver . The Speculator: Voice | 31

| NEWS FLASH

AMELIABEAUDRY Staff Reporter

O

peration Christmas Child has been

a huge success since it was started in 1993

by Samaritan’s Purse. Serving more than 100 million children in over 130 countries, this group has been gaining more and more support each year. According to Samaritan’s Purse, if you stacked 100 million shoeboxes on top of each other, they would be 26,000 times higher than the Empire State Building. This year’s collection week occurred from Nov. 18 to 25.

Operation Christmas Child’s main

goal is to send shoeboxes with fun items and necessities inside to make less fortunate children happy over the holidays. To begin the process of donating to the children, participants bring their shoeboxes to a location in the community that sponsors

Duluth, GA 30097, Johns Creek Baptist Church- 6910 McGinnis Ferry

the charity. However, some locations do provide their own shoe boxes so

Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30005, Ed Isakson/Alpharetta YMCA- 3655 Preston

make sure to check ahead of time. Boxes for male recipients can include toy

Ridge Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30005, Forsyth County Community YMCA-

trucks, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, hygiene items, t-shirts, socks, ball caps,

6050 Y Street, Cumming, GA 30040

watches, flashlights, and a personal note. Those for females could include

dolls, stuffed animals, harmonicas, school supplies, sunglasses, hair clips,

Child in the Graphic Design program when one student was participating

toy jewelry, and a personal note.

in it with their church. Severalstudents broought in shoeboxes which were

taken back to the church for delivery. Although it is too late to participate

The two main supporters for this charity in Johns Creek are churches

and YMCAs. Some that sponsored this charity are: Johns Creek United Methodist Church- 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd,

32 | Designed by Lanier Sullivan . December 2013

Students at Chattahoochee got involved with Operation Christmas

this year, there is more time to plan ahead for next year.

NEWS FLASH |

Academic Team Makes TV Debut JAMESTANG News Editor

O

n Nov. 10, 2013, the Chattahoochee Academic Team appeared on WSBTV’s High Q, a local high school quiz show. The team was comprised of Aditya Duddikunta (So.), Nirav Ilango (Jr.), James Tang (Sr.), and Julia Tallant (Sr.), and they competed against the academic team from Norcross High School in Gwinnett County.

The program, hosted by Heather Catlin, featured a series of short questions being read to the competitors in its first segment, and at any point, a competitor could buzz in and attempt to answer the question.

Each correct answer earns ten points for the team, but if the answer is incorrect, the team would no longer be able to buzz in. Despite the team’s persistence and frequent buzzes, Norcross earned a slight lead at the end of the first segment.

That was followed by an extra credit question, where the competitors were given a category and had to make bet 0-50 points based on

their confidence. The answer was “Esmerelda,” the character from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and both teams answered correctly and bet 50 points.

The second segment followed the same pattern except each question included a series of 3-part bonus questions, and the team that correctly answered the original question had the ability to answer first on these 3-part bonuses. If they got a part incorrect, the other team could choose to pass of play the bonus. If they passed, the question would go dead, and the answer would be revealed. If they played, then they could answer the question, but if they got the question wrong, the points would be deducted from their score. Once again, both teams buzzed in evenly, but Norcross maintained a slight lead going into the lightning round.

During the lighting round, teams must answer as many questions as possible in one of four categories in one minute. Because they had fewer points, the Chattahoochee team selected the category about sports. The first question on Jeremy Lin was quickly snatched up

by Senior Julia Tallant, and the team ended up scoring over 100 points in the round. However, Norcross also did extremely well in their lightning round and scored more points.

After a few more short questions, there was another extra credit question, but teams could bet 0-100 points. Both teams answered correct with “Caldecott,” but Chattahoochee bet 100 points while Norcross only bet 80 points. From that point to the end, short answers were read, but they were worth 20 points. For the first time in the game, Chattahoochee had more points than Norcross during the first half of the final round, but Norcross earned 20 points on the last tossup read and clinched the win by 5 points.

Although Chattahoochee didn’t win, they were still excited to appear on television. Senior Julia Tallant stated, “Yeah, it’s sad we lost, but it’s really for the best because coming here on a school day is just a pain.” Even though this year wasn’t a success, the Chattahoochee High School team might be back to compete on High Q next year, so there may be good news to come.

Designed by Lanier Sullivan . The Speculator: Voice | 33

| NEWS FLASH

Community Changes That Benefit You

SHIVANGIMEDHEKAR Editorials Reporter

I

t is the season of giving, and as you think about giving back to the community, remember that the city has ways to give back to you, too.

After sixteen years, the GA400 tolls have finally come to an end.

Although you will save money, traffic in this area will remain slightly slower until demolition and reconstruction is complete late 2014. However, this influx of traffic will be offset by the completion of the I-85 extension in mid-January. Starting this holiday season, the ride across Georgia is now free northbound and southbound (11alive.com).

For those in search of a job, Johns Creek—followed closely by Alpharetta—was rated the top city for jobs in Georgia by the consumer advocacy site Nerdwallet. The local group, The Johns Creek Advantage, aims to promote economic development in the city until 2017 by bringing in new businesses, large and small, into the city which will help the job market.

Top employers include Kroger, Publix, Life Time Fitness, and Whole Foods Market (johnscreekhearld.com).

After the array of mass public shootings—particularly those in schools—The Fulton County School Board introduced the idea of installing a locked-door security system to the county’s 100 public schools earlier this year. The motion passed October 15 with the first installations begin-

ning as early as November. This new system will require visitors to ring a buzzer and talk to the secretaries in the front office over an intercom.

Secretaries will also be able to see the visitor on camera before allowing him or her access to the school. Installation of these 100 systems across the county is expected to cost nearly $427,000. This change follows a motion the Fulton County School Board passed in early 2012 to add more cameras around high school campuses. This motion changed the number of required security cameras from 48 to 60 cameras per high school.

The School Board has also recently voted to devote money to the improvement of many area schools. Within Chattahoochee upcoming renovations will include building restoration and modification. This includes, but is not limited to: replacing furniture (cabinets, lockers, fixed seating), floor finishes, ceiling tiles, water heaters and coolers, emergency generators and fire alarms. Elevator controls and intercoms are expected to be upgraded while parking lots and sidewalks are to be resurface and repaved.

Perhaps the most striking improvement, a new and redesigned entrance to the school is also included in the project. The Fulton County Board began the design this past spring with construction to begin either next summer or summer 2015. The project is to be completed no later than fall 2015 (fultonschools.org).

Although these benefits may seem unrelated, think of it this way: if you choose to get a job or internship outside of Johns Creek, you will not have to pay extra to get there. With a new security system and upcoming renovations Chattahoochee is slowly becoming an even safer, friendlier environment. This is the community’s gift to you.

photos by Paula Hansa, Staff Designer

Kevin La, Anna Julia Timoteo, Nico Denis, Daisy Guitron (pictured) as well as many others volunteered their time to help clean up our campus.

COUGARS CLEAN UP THE CAMPUS ERICAPETZ Editor-in-Chief

O

n Saturday Nov. 2, students united to give back to the school in the annual school-wide service event, Fall Cougar Colors on Campus. From 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., students from a wide range of clubs, organizations and classes worked together to beautify our campus by cleaning up trash, raking leaves and renovating landscaping. The event was organized by the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Mrs. Bryant.

When students arrived, they signed their names on the list for their group’s “team,” and each team was assigned an area to clean up, such as the outside eating area, the stadium or the entrance by the gym. Groups that participated included the AP Environmental Science class, Key Club, the basketball teams, the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), Spectrum and several others. Adult volunteers, including the PTSA and a local church group, spruced up the ARCH outdoor classroom.

Cougar Colors on Campus made its debut in 1999, and the event has since grown into a school tradition. The idea popped into Principal Tim Duncan’s head when he observed that the school’s sports teams often coordinated cleanup days, bringing students, coaches and parents together to maintain their athletic areas. “The baseball players cherish their field because they take care of it. It would be great if all of us had that same ownership for the entire campus,” he mused.

Besides tidying up the campus, other goals included “providing community service hours, building fellowship and demonstrating our citizenship by working to improve our community,” Mr. Duncan explained, “I think that when people pick up trash, they may become more conscience of their impact on the environment.”

Since Chattahoochee was established in 1991, the construction of new schools in the area urged the administration to improve the campus in order to compete. Cougar Colors has become a crucial strategy in keeping our campus well kempt.

Currently, FBLA organizes the yearly Cougar Colors on Campus event. Club president Maher Saadeh [12] explained the planning process in short: “FBLA organized the Cougar Colors Committee by gathering a bunch of members, and we sat and organized all the necessary plans for the cleanup.” Aiding FBLA in the planning was Assistance Principal Debra Bryant, who would like to thank Mr. Duncan, the church volunteers, the adults who stayed past noon, and the club members who participated. She expressed “special thanks to Paula Davis and FBLA for organizing and to Melissa Beasley of the PTSA for going above and beyond to makeour new landscaping project a reality.” By coming together, these dedicated Cougars gave our campus a fresh makeover. If you were unable to attend the Fall Cougar Colors on Campus and wished to participate, remember that you do not need to be part of a formal cleanup to pick up trash.

Designed by Kylie Dayotn . The Speculator: Voice | 35

| SENIORS

ZOYAMAHMOOD Staff Reporter

R

emember that scene from How the Grinch Stole Christmas when the Grinch stumbles around, stealing all the presents and holiday spirit from

Whoville? Imagine the same scene, except with 246 green, furry bodies creeping around surreptitiously plucking the ornaments from trees and the stockings from fireplaces. Sometimes — especially to underclassmen — seniors do begin to resemble the Grinch: stealing not presents but attention.

Seniors at the end of first semester are a special breed. Frustrated because school is not quite over and graduation seems so far off in the distance,

they become grumpy, moody and generally unpleasant. Those waiting for college verdicts from the later decision rounds are equal amounts sickeningly optimistic and horrifyingly pessimistic, while those already accepted seem to think that the only way the decision will stick is if they tell everyone they know, just in case the college forgets. In some ways, they deserve the attention that they are freely given because it is their last year of high school and they are taking the first step on the winding journey that is the rest of their lives, but most quickly grow tired of it and of high school in general.

Surprisingly (or maybe not so surprisingly), most seniors forget to think about giving back to their school in their haste to leave it. They fail to

realize the importance of the senior gift as a way of leaving a lasting imprint on Chattahoochee and enriching the place that witnessed their transformation from gangly teenagers to self-assured adults. If giving back is such a wonderful thing to do in one’s personal life, then is it not even better to do it as a collective class? Keeping that thought in one’s mind can change the perspective on the senior gift and can generate a whole new appreciation for the previous gifts, including the trophy cases, the art gallery, the senior lounge and the blue D-Hall couches. Passing by these fixtures and realizing that they were not always there, that someone thought of them specifically to benefit all of the following classes is a startling thought that gives the senior gift a significance that it did not have before.

That leaves this year’s graduating class to keep the ball rolling with a senior gift that will be just as useful as the art gallery or the blue couches. If

the gift is awesome enough, maybe the seniors will start to resemble the Grinch when he is returning Christmas cheer, because in the end, even he can recognize the importance of giving back.

Lia Zheng “What is going on...am I dreaming? What?”

John Headlee “I would bring him some milk and cookies.”

38 | Designer by Margot Murray . December 2013

Kyle Witt “I hope I will follow in my “father’s” footsteps.”

LAURENTOMZACK, Seniors Editor photos by Mandy King, Staff Photographer

Nigel Jones “Now that’s what I call a close shave.”

Vanessa Chambers “I would call my dad and die inside.”

Sydney Lehotan “Does this mean I don’t get any presents?”

Designed by Margot Murray . The Speculator: Voice | 37

| SENIORS BEST PERSONALITYDANIEL SHMIDT

“I always knew I was a fashionista. With my title, I’m going to bring back cargo shorts and crocs.”

“I wanted to twerk my way down the red carpet , strike a pose, and say Vogue. Hello, hello, good morning -I’m proud of that.”

“Itwas humbling and I am very honored. I was so excited I ran into my favorite teacher, Mrs. Patti Pair.

I celebrated at TMac with the Cambridge Crew” BEST ALL AROUND- COLIN ZWEBER

BEST DRESSEDJUAN CASTILLA

THE SUPERLATIVES STRIKE AGAIN / reactions to Senior Superlatives LAURENTOMCZAK Senior Editor

“I thought Brett was going to win class saint. I’ve been friends with my dad since I was born. I guess you could say we are pretty tight.”

CLASS SAINT AND CLASS INSEPARABLES- BEN CORRIGAN (with ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORRIGAN)

“I’m asexual, sorry everyone got the wrong impression.”

CLASS FLIRTLOGAN LINDY

CLASS FLIRTETHAN WOODARD “I don’t go to school anymore.”

“Was there any competition? Girls need a map when they look into my eyes.”

BEST EYESCARMELO BARONE

BIGGEST INTERNET PERSONALITY- DANI LUTIN “Oh dang, I need a life. I deleted my Twitter app, cried a little bit, and seriously reevaluated my lifestyle. I ate a lot, a lot of chocolate.”

BIGGEST INTERNET PERSONALITY- KOREY BRYANT “I knew I was going to win it. The voting pretty much came down to me and Malik. Malik did not have a chance; he’s never said anything funny ever in his lfe.”

“Wow, I really need to grow up. At the same time, I don’t like taxes, and I love wearing footie pajamas.”

FOREVER YOUNGRACHEL GRACE

38 | Designer by Katie Trainer . December 2013

“It felt good to know that others thought I was nice enough to take home to their mother. I hadn’t known I was up for it until I saw the nomination list. However, I have yet to be taken home to anyone’s mother, so there’s that. *tear*” TAKE HOME TO MOMCOLBY HESSELTINE

MOST DESIRABLE- ALLI FLORY “I was shocked to win it. In middle school I was awkwardly tall, had unruly hair and my face would turn bright red whenever I was embarrassed. Thank God for puberty...and for my cousin Jordan who taught me how to use a straightener.”

MOST DESIRABLEADAM PERLEBERG “I was actually rather surprised. I could’ve sworn someone rigged it, but then I looked at myself and thought, ‘hey, they’re right.’ I am desirable!”

SENIOR SPOTS William Yang NEELSWAMY Staff Reporter William Yang exemplifies what one must do to be the best student he or she can be, which has led him to be number one in his class. He has had major triumphs at Chattahoochee High School by taking multiple challenging courses and doing exceptionally well in them. William has set an example of what hard work and success can do for you and how one must accomplish their goals. His work ethic and time at Chattahoochee will be reflected by the model he has set for the grades below him.

Erin Morrow LAURENTOMZACK Senior Editor

Q: What has been your motivation for academic success?

“Go to a good college where I’ll be surrounded by people like me which will be fun.”

Q: What was your biggest accomplishment throughout high school?

My first biggest accomplishment would be beating Creekview High School when I was a sophomore. It was funny because it was their senior night. We beat them by three points, and the excitement in the locker room after the game was unreal.

My second biggest accomplishment would be committing to play basketball at Columbus State University. Playing college basketball has been my long term goal since middle school.

Q: What has been your favorite class?

“AP Chemistry with Miho (Mr. Mihordea) because it is taught by Miho.”

Q: What motivates you the most?

Coach Q, my team, my family and my friends motivate me the most. I don’t think I would be where I am without them supporting me.

Q: What do you want to be when you graduate college?

“I want to do something in the engineering field, but I’m not exactly sure what kind of engineering.”

Q: Do you have a class that you look forward to in your day?

“I look forward to Physics C because I enjoy it and I have a lot of friends in that class.”

Q: What is your dream college?

“I would have to say Stanford, because I love the California weather and atmosphere.”

Q: What has been your hardest class that you have taken?

“AP Spanish, because Spanish isn’t my first language, which makes the class challenging.”

Q: What are some other clubs and hobbies that you have?

“I occasionally play tennis but I have been playing piano for 12 years.

I have actually played in the Carnegie Hall for piano. In school, I am in Science Olympiad, math team, 121 reach, National Honors Society and beta.”

Q: What impact does basketball have on your life?

Basketball has been my life since middle school. During the season, I spend more time with my team than with my family. It is so fun to meet new people and know that they will have your back through everything.

Q: What do you plan on doing in college?

I plan on playing basketball at Columbus State University. I am going to study physical therapy and exercise science.

Q: What is your average day?

My average day consists of weightlifting at 6:30 a.m. before school.

After that, I go home to get ready then go to school. After school, I have another practice for two hours. Somewhere in that short period of time, I eat, study and sleep.

Q: What’s your favorite subject/teacher and why?

I enjoy AP Psychology, even though it is a lot of work. My favorite teacher is Coach Q because he’s pretty cool.

Q: What do you plan on doing for winter break this year?

I can’t go anywhere because I have a basketball tournament, but when I am not playing, I will be eating, sleeping and spending time with family.

Designed by Margot Murray . The Speculator: Voice | 39

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF HIGHWAY SAFETY

AWARDS SADD GRANT

TO CHATTAHOOCHEE HIGH SCHOOL

The Students Against Destructive Decisions Club (SADD) at Chattahoochee HS is trying to reverse the trend of teen drivers being the source of bad press in their community due to tragic texting and driving deaths or crashes involving speed and alcohol.

In an effort to involve Georgia students in reducing injury and death to young drivers, Chattahoochee HS in Johns Creek, GA is proud to announce their receipt of a $1,780 Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS).

Because car crashes remain the Number One cause of death for teens, drivers ages 15-19 have a higher rate of crashes, injuries and fatalities than adult and elderly drivers. In 2012, there were an estimated 156 crash deaths of drivers ages 15-20. That represents 13 percent of all traffic fatalities in Georgia. While that represents an overall decrease from 17 percent in 2007, Georgia is still projected to reach that 13 percent mark by the end of 2013.

This grant will enable Chattahoochee HS’s existing SADD chapter support the idea that student input into the solution will

help alleviate the problem of teen driver fatalities in Georgia.

“While our teen driver fatality rates are slowly declining, there are still far too many young people dying on our roads as a result of avoidable factors like distracted driving, speeding and underage alcohol consumption,” said GOHS Director Harris Blackwood.

“Things have to change and I believe SADD club members can make a difference in their community to help bring teen crash rates down statewide. These students know that sometimes, one of the best ways to get through to teenagers is with teenagers themselves.”

The CHS SADD chapter plans to conduct seatbelt checks, demonstrate the dangers of texting and impaired driving, share facts and statistics about teen driving, and promote alternatives to destructive decisions.

In addition, the Chattahoochee SADD chapter will send its president and advisor to a statewide leadership-training program each fall along with the representatives from other high schools that received similar grants.

For more information on how to obtain a SADD grant, contact: Eshon Poythress at 404-657-1955, epoythress@gohs.ga.gov.