2305 East Main Street League City, TX 77573
Basketball pg. 19
*UT sued pg.17
New park pg.9
Nov/Dec 2012 Volume 89, Issue 3
Senior class girls dominate in the Pink Bow Classic Leilani Boren
included a t-shirt and pre-game meal. In
The Pink Bow Classic is an annual event held by Clear Creek High School in which girls had the opportunity to partake in all the fun of playing a football game. In the event, 11th and 12th grade girls compete in a tag team football match between two teams divided into seniors and juniors. The game is used to raise money for the Senior Prom in May. The game was played at CCISD District Stadium at 7:00 p.m. on December 5. Students, family, and friends were encouraged to come out and watch the event despite the chilly weather. While the girls were playing football, the boys on the other hand were performing as the all boy dance Swaggalier team. They were able to show off their dance moves during the halftime show, which they traditionally do every year. “Being one of the coaches for the Swaggaliers was so much fun and an unforgettable experience! It was a pleasure coaching such hard working boys. They pulled off a very crowd pleasing performance and I hope they know their coaches are extremely proud of them!” Casey Dervay (12th) said, as a captain of the Cavaliers and a coach of this year’s Swaggaliers. Students who wished to participate paid a registration fee of $25, but this also
addition, students had to fill out Photo By Sierra Kemper cleared, along with D-Halls and get their parent or guardian and suspensions. If a student to sign a permission slip and emergency received suspension the day before or the form just in case any accidents did occur. day of the Pink Bow Classic game, then Participants were required to meet the they were not allowed to participate. Lastly, UIL eligibility requirements stated in any student with any major disciplinary the CCISD handbook, since the game is incidents was not allowed to play. a school-sponsored event. Anyone who The permission slip and all the required wanted to participate whether as a player forms and information had to be returned or as a swaggalier had to be sure all of to the D-100 office by November 13, 2012.
their debts and fines to the school were
Reporter
*Logo for the University of Texas Longhorns; can be used with NCAA basketball and other college sports stories.MCT 2008
The game itself consisted of two, twenty five minute halves, with a running clock that only stopped at the two minute warning at the end of each half, and incomplete passes or running out of bounds. Two timeouts were allowed for each team per half of the game, each timeout being one minute long. If a team decided to call a timeout within the last minute of the game, the game clock stopped, but it did not stop for any timeout called prior to the one-minute mark. Just like the regular rules of the boys’ football competition, the game was aimed to be clean and safe. This included zero tolerance of profanity, pushing, hitting, tripping, spitting, flipping, clipping, clawing, and no throwing of one’s elbows. Tickets were for sale at the gate that night for $7.00, but presale tickets were also available on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday that week during all lunches for only $5.00. The Pink Bow Classic ended in victory for the senior class, as they defeated the juniors. The game had a great turn out, with many students and teachers who participated in the event. “I can not wait until I am a junior so I can play too,” Nicole Johnson (9th) said.
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Opinion What is your favorite family tradition for the holidays?
FRESHMEN go biking together “My family likes to d Fugleberg Christmas.” -Jarre
“We celebrate Hannukkah.” -Tori Gellman
on
“We go hunting, th en we feast around the table al l night long.” -Grayson Clemons
“We listen to holid ay music, really really loudly.” -Sop hia Freedman
SOPHOMORES my mom, he Nutcracker” with “T e se go I ar ye “Every r.” -Bayley Tamblyn grandma and siste
“My Aunt has a Christmas pa rty, then we all have smores and op en presents.” -Uva nte Clemons
“My family does a yearly Secret Santa gift exchan ge.” -Jesus Hernandez
“My family has a party and my dad dresses up like Santa and gives presents.” -Dylan Hartstred
JUNIORS lie watches Char “My family f bakes a lot o Brown and ay R n ry .” -B pumpkin pie
“We all watch Chevy Chase in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” -Jessica Leach
“In my family all the guys cook breakfast and the girls make dinner for Christmas.” -Laura Spiegle
S ENIORS ith big dinner w “We have a eat Spanish familia. We e Lucena food.” -Jorg
“My whole family gets together and goes to Mexico.” -Dillon Tovar
games “My family plays video Wyer together.” -Clayton Egan“All the kids get on e ornament a year for Ch ristmas.” -Bethanie Edmonds
ing “All the girls pick someth to k oo kb out of the family coo ela tar Ka make.” -Brandon
2012-2013
HiLife Staff Principal: Scott Bockart Advisor: Wynette Jameson Proofreader Jan O’Neil Editor-in-Chief: Valerie Hellinghausen Design Editor: Hannah Brinsko Management Editor: Madison Williams Features Editor: Leticia Suarez News Editor: Madison Williams Teen Interest Editor: Kristina Koonce Sports Editors: Greg Brotzman Dylan Hill Around Creek Editors: Rachel Duncavage Jenan Taha Advertising Managers: Bailey Clelland Evelyn Shanks Photo Editors: Gabrielle Renwall Sierra Kemper Online Editor: Monica Jackson Sydney Matthews Arlen Addison Audree Hall Lisa Nahn Leilani Boren Breanna Jeffcoat Jessica Sieling Mallori Flanagan Molly Johnson Natalie Steele Jasmine Garza Lilli Lara Rachel Wolfe Hannah Gellman Shelby Lyles Published at Mirror Publishers in Texas City Visit us at: http://clearcreekhighschool.ihigh.com For ad rates call: (281)284-1889 Fax: (281)316-0587
“We celebrate Hanukkah for eight nights.” -Solomon Beretin
Editorial
Madison’s Musings
Valerie’s Voice
major, it is neither convincing nor motivating to take AP Calculus when I do not need the class to graduate and will, in spite of challenging myself, have to take Statistics in college no matter what score I receive on the AP exam for that class or what grade I make on any of my assignments. This raises the question of to drop or not to drop classes, which, for some students, are unnecessary evils. Part of me sees lightening my class load as giving into weakness, and part of me just sees it as one less thing I have to keep killing myself to put effort into when it is late at night, and I still have way too much to humanly accomplish By Valerie Hellinghausen before school. Editor-in-Chief As I write this, I cannot help but stress that I by no means am suggesting that With holiday events, finals, and so many students, who like myself are way too deadlines on my mind, I find myself in low, stressed out, should drop everything and unmotivated spirits despite the amount accept a well-known of holiday hustle and Because if you are mak- fallacy that senior bustle going on around me. December 1 has ing mistakes, then you are year, or any year is a blow off. Although passed, and with that making new things, try- December 1 and has left many college deadlines and brought ing new things, learning, almost a semester many holiday joys. With living, pushing yourself, are behind me now, there are still dozens my house all decorated, of scholarships to changing yourself, changholiday gatherings apply for, college planned, and vacation ing your world. You’re acceptances to wait on the horizon, I feel as though my mind has doing things you’ve never for, and assignments that will be due. My already retreated into done before, and more time in high school Winter Break mode, and I am left to merely importantly, you’re doing is undoubtedly brief, tread water as some of something. -Neil Gaiman and I cannot describe how frustrating it my most intimidating is to have so much deadlines draw nearer. to do, and so much I want to do with no These four weeks after Thanksgiving motivation to do any of it in spite of break and before Winter break have become looming deadlines and only one semester some of the most frustrating weeks I have left in this school year to make my senior ever endured. In spite of all that I need to year experience what it should be: the time accomplish, I have no energy to write the I made my dreams come true and truly left mini thesis paper for AP Literature due my years at Clear Creek with a legacy I am in just a few days, study the 121 practice proud of, not a blow off year in which I questions on my AP Biology final review never challenged myself to do more or be or practice the same music I have had for three months for what may as well be the more just because as a senior I felt some biggest individual music competition that silly entitlement to a supposed year off. I hope that in the next few weeks and band students compete in. In spite of what semester I will begin to feel some positive I have struggled in vain to avoid, I feel the holiday energy and show myself and “senioritis” starting to creep in now that others that senior year, if anything, is what I have been accepted to my top choice photojournalist, artist, and social activist colleges and already tasted the first of my Dan Eldon would have called a “year on.” holidays. For those who do not know who Dan Eldon The degenerative disease that is is, or what he accomplished in his year on, senioritis is something I never felt I all I can say is, like Dan, make this next would experience. I have goals, and lots semester the time to accomplish all the of them, but lately I am struggling to see crazy dreams and goals you have worked the point in all the deadlines, projects, and rushing to cover everything on our thus far to accomplish, and not submit to finals that, in reality, I may never need to the frustrating disease that senioritis is remember again. In spite of the relaxed, for some. For Dan, this led to starting a carefree perception some seniors, and even charity, exploring Africa, and many other underclassmen, have of senior year, I am “safaris” or adventures. For me, this may continuing to see that, half way through my mean struggling another semester in AP own senior experience, this year is nothing Calculus, actually answering all 121 of Mrs.. Brownson’s study questions, and practicing close to stress-free. I have never been one to throw in the the music I know inside and out to finally towel, drop a class, or be unmotivated to make All-State on clarinet. Some have said accomplish even what I know must be that this is it— the end of the world, but I done, but I am starting to see the flip side think it would make for a better “year on” of senior year. It is absolutely true that to find some motivation somewhere and at some point we all see the absurdity in continue working to accomplish my own taking classes or putting effort into things goals, meet my deadlines, and enjoy this that will not contribute to our overall goals. crazy holiday season even if it is all for For instance, as a prospective journalism naught.
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By Madison Williams Management Editor As the fall semester comes to a close, Clear Creek seniors are busy applying for colleges. As students are forced to pick their major, possible career, and where they want to spend the next four years of their life they are also forced to sift through the advice of others to determine what they really want out of their college experience. As I finished my college applications, it had dawned on me that this is happening. It really is. In less than a year, the place where I spent the first 17 years of my life will no longer be home. As this begins to sink in, I begin to panic and ask myself a series of questions. What college is right for me? What town do I want to live in for the next four years? Do I have to decide everything right now? And what in the world is true when it comes to picking the right school for me? On my hunt to create a series of guidelines for picking the best college for me, I’ve considered the following factors: school size, importance of a college town, and how AP credits and dual credit courses really transfer. While many students do not consider the size of a college an important factor in their decision, it should be. But not in the way many students think. Students should focus on the size of the department with in the college that they are interested in. Many colleges may have a large business program but a small classical music department. The smaller the class sizes, the more you can stand out without relying purely on test scores. When considering a school with a larger student population, you also have to ask yourself, do you prefer larger lecture classes or smaller classes where there can be a relationship with your professor? If you are indifferent, then school size may not be a factor. For students who cannot learn in a large classroom environment and need more hands on attention, a smaller
school or a school with a small department may better cater to your learning style. Another important factor to consider is the location of the school. Schools like UT boast about their urban atmosphere. College Station is more rural, but the town is dedicated to college life. Basically if you don’t like where you are living, your time in college can be a miserable experience. On average, it takes upwards of four years to earn a degree. School will be your focus in college but there is also the social aspect that must be considered. If you choose a college that is known to reside in a “party town,” then you must be able to resist the distractions that often cause students to flunk out. Pick a town where you would want to spend your free time to escape the stresses of schoolwork. According to college tuition prices, the price of college is on the rise, so the quicker you can earn a degree and enter the job market, the better. This has placed a huge importance on the transfer of dual credit courses and credit earned through AP tests. As a general rule of thumb, most state schools will accept AP test credits of 4 or higher. Scores of 3 are accepted at some schools but the majority only accepts 4 and up. Most state schools will also accept dual credit courses. You must have a C or higher in the course to gain the credit. Dual credit courses will not factor into your college GPA. If you plan on going to medical or graduate school, these courses might be factored into the college GPA for that admission process. If you plan on attending an Ivy League school, well good luck. Most Ivy schools only accept a score of 5 on AP tests and dual credit courses would be scoffed at and considered not eligible to transfer. Also many schools will only transfer credits outside of your major. I plan on pursuing pre-med so my AP Biology credit will not get me out of that course like it would if I was in an education major. The test will, however, grant me access to upper level biology classes rather than being forced to go through the freshman biology weed out course. Check with the specific institutions for their policies regarding credit transfer. Don’t stress about college. The right college is out there. Consider looking into the lesser-known schools, sometimes they may be a better match than a bigger state school. Remember to consider all the different aspects of a school before making a decision. No matter where you choose to go to school, the effort you put in there and not the school’s name will determine your success.
“The essence of education is, in the words of William James, to teach a person what deserves to be valued, to impart ideals as well as knowledge, to cultivate in students the ability to distinguish the true and good from their counterfeits and the wisdom to prefer the former to the latter.” -William J. Bennett
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News
Meningitis outbreak spreading through country By Leilani Boren Reporter
CNN Health has recently reported that a fungal meningitis outbreak is infecting and claiming the lives of Americans across the nation. Meningitis is an infection that most often affects the spinal cord tissue or the brain, inflaming the protective membranes. It is usually acquired through viruses and bacteria, but in this unusual case, it is spreading in its rarest form, as a fungus. The fungi that are altering the medication are exserohilum and aspergillus, commonly found in dirt and grasses but do not usually lead to meningitis. Fungal meningitis infections are extremely harsh, invading blood vessels leading to clotting or bleeding, and causing traumas that resemble a mini stroke. Sometimes it is difficult to identify which type of meningitisis present as each strain may may have one or two of the multiple symptoms. Common syptoms include nausea, headache, fever, and stiffness of the neck. Fungal meningitis patients may also experience dizziness, confusion, and discomfort due to bright lights. Those who were treated for sore joints experience severe redness, pain, and swelling in the treated joints. The good news is that fungal meningitis is not contagious, even though viral and bacterial meningitis is. Unfortunately fungal meningitis is spreading throughout the nation due to a release of a steroid vaccine given to over 14,000 Americans all across the country. Centers for Disease Control released statistics on October 18, 2012 reporting that 233 people are infected, and there have been 15 deaths from the disease. Fungal meningitis has been reported in 15 states, Tennessee being hit the hardest with 53 cases and six deaths. But it has also been found in New Hampshire, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Pennsylvania according to CBS News. “We will see more patients in ill and
medical blood tests. The result of her tests is unclear, which may impact whether her chance of winning her case. The woman has demanded that she receive an indefinite amount of compensation, and looks to institute classification status so others like her can receive compensation also. Congress has launched an investigation of the pharmaceutical company responsible for the outbreak. Apparently the New England Compounding Center has been previously inspected in 2006 U.S. map showing the states where people have been sickened or have died from rare fungal meningitis linked to contaminated steroids; by the Food and map also shows the 23 states that received the tainted drug; with facts about the disease and the outbreak. MCT 2012 Drug Administrawe’ll have to treat many more,” Infectious the patient has to survive. Most suspected tion, which has disease expert at the Vanderbilt University cases of fungal meningitis are given two indicated suspicion. In a letter to the MasMedical Center in Nashville by the name strong anti-fungal medications. The theory sachusetts Board of Registration in Pharof Dr. William Schaffner said. The drug, is to treat those who may have the form macy. methylprednisolone acetate steroid, was of meningitis as if they have it for certain. “Included in the list of violations was originally shipped to 23 different states and Doctors hope that this will help keep death the NECC’s (New England Compounding 76 facilities. But the product was licensed and infection rates down, as they try to fig- Center) manipulation of a sterile injectable for all 50 states. There is a possibility that ure out the mysteriously unusual case of product, which caused FDA to be conthe treatment has been used in all 50 states. fungal meningitis. cerned about potential microbial contamiBut some victims are outraged, includ- nation,” the FDA said. The back pain medication has recently been recalled by the specialty pharmacy, ing Barbe Puro from Minnesota who filed a According to CNN, the fate of the New the New England Compounding Center, lawsuit against the Massachusetts pharma- England Compounding Company is uncerbut it cannot recall the shots that have been cy, New England Compounding Center on tain, and they could be forced to pay monThursday of October 11, 2012. CNN Health ey to the hundreds already infected, and the given to 14,000 or more people. Doctors are taking extra precautions to reports Puro was injected with the infected possible thousands that may fall victim to help people overcome the infection. The steroids in September, and when informed the bad drug. earlier doctors can treat it, the better chance of the mistake, she underwent multiple
Record-making space skydive breaks sound barrier By Jenan Taha Around Creek Editor
On Sunday, October 14, 2012, four world records were broken by one man— Felix Baumgartner. The 43-year-old Austrian daredevil skydived over 24 miles above the earth, about four times as high as Mount Everest, and four times higher than the altitude of a regular passenger airplane. Baumgartner reached speeds of 834 miles per hour, faster than the speed of sound at 761 miles per hour. He broke the record for fastest free-fall, highest skydive, breaking the sound barrier without an aircraft. The record for highest skydive belonged to now 84-year-old Joe Kittinger in 1960, who was present in Baumgartner’s team’s control room and awarded him with the new world record. Since Baumgartner took off using a 55-story helium balloon, he and his team also broke the record for highest balloon flight, at 128,000 feet, or 24.24 miles. “The exit was perfect, then I started tumbling…” Baumgartner said, when describing his jump in a later interview with the Telegraph. According to CNN Baumgartner did
not feel anything while falling through the vacuum of space; it was as if he was floating. 35 seconds into the free-fall, and he began to tumble violently. Since the atmosphere becomes extremely thin at high altitudes, there was not enough friction to slow Baumgartner down. Because of this, it was almost impossible for him to stop tumbling. If he had not figured out a way to control his fall, he could have been knocked unconscious and fail to open his parachute. “I thought for a few seconds I’d fall unconscious,” Baumgartner said. He stopped tumbling and began a controlled free-fall, which lasted about four minutes and 20 seconds. After reaching the Earth’s atmosphere, he opened his parachute and began a slow descent toward the ground. He successfully stuck the landing feet-first, in Roswell, New Mexico. “I could barely stand a couple of minutes in [my suit],” Baumgartner said, referring to his extreme claustrophobia when putting on his space suit. In fact, he almost quit the mission entirely according to CNN, because of his
extreme fear of small spaces. The suit had four protective layers, each of which had to withstand the freezing cold vacuum of space. Otherwise, a number of things could go wrong—his blood could literally evaporate, his eyes could bleed, he could break his neck, or air bubbles could stop his blood flow. Baumgartner sought therapeutic help with the support of his sponsor, Red Bull. He learned to relax in claustrophobic situa-
tions and was able to deal with the confines of his suit. According to the Huffington Post, Baumgartner made a promise to his family that this was his final free-fall feat, and now he is retiring from extreme sports. He hopes to become a helicopter pilot and rescue people from disasters.
News
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SpaceX collaborates with NASA on new project By Leilani Boren Reporter
On October 7, 2012, a private company by the name of SpaceX based in California launched a space capsule named the Dragon from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station located in Florida. The Dragon, built on top of an aircraft named the Falcon, fell back to Earth on October 10, 2012 off the coast of Baja California early in the morning.SpaceX captured it with the help of a robotic arm and brought it to a docking port on the station. So far, the take off has been credited as successful, which was expected after a victorious test run earlier this year in May. According to Voice Of America News (VOA), it is documented as the very first delivery capsule to be transported from a private company to the International Space station. The company, SpaceX, owned by Gwynne Shotwell, has recently made a $1.6 billion dollar agreement with NASA. NASA has looked to other sources of funding, and private companies such as SpaceX have readily sponsored the new space station projects. According to Dan Leone from SpaceNews, a meeting of the U.S. House of Representatives held back in May decided that $17.56 billion would be given to NASA in the year of 2013, which is the lowest funding for Nasa since 2008, and is also $150 million less than President Obama had originally asked for. According to VOA this agreement between Space X and NASA puts the United States at an advantage compared to other nations such as China or India, and allows the U.S. to assume leadership again in the exploration of space. The combination of industry and government gives NASA the opportunity to look forward to the future, and continue
their studies. The Dragon carried 455 kilograms of supplies and frozen samples, intended to be put to use and studied right here in
After the journey of the capsule is completed, the Dragon won’t be quite done yet. NASA has made plans to send it into space, so that it may transport almost twice
of the space reserved for the astronauts. The Soyuz is priced considerably high for American astronauts to ride. On October 10, 2012 SpaceX released that the landing had been successful, and the Dragon was finally attached to the NASA space station. A crew of 33 specialists grappled in the aircraft, completing the first cargo supply mission. This feat has only been achieved prior to this mission by four governments, but not a program like SpaceX. The Dragon plummeted through the atmosphere and touched down on Earth’s water at seven in the morning, and was attached to the space station about two hours later. The exhibition was considered a success, and the Dragon is set to sit in Houston for about two and a half weeks. In the 18 day time period, NASA prepared and then launched the Dragon on a resupply mission to southern California. That trip had also been successful, with the Dragon landing in the Pacific Ocean two days later. Eventually SpaceX and NASA will under go 12 supply flights from CaliGwynne Shotwell, left, president of SpaceX and Charles Bolden, NASA administrator,smile after Falcon 9 rocket fornia to Houston, and the next takeoff carrying a Dragon blasts off Sunday, October 7, 2012 on a historic launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force will take place in January 2013. Fox Station. This is the first commercial re-supply mission to the International Space Station. (Red Huber/Orlando Sentinel/MCT) News reported NASA has also made a deal with the Orbital Sciences Corporation located in Virginia for a $1.9 Houston said VOA. The contents included as much cargo back down to Earth. In three billion dollar contract to build another set vital experiments, fragile gear, and some years time, NASA should also be able to of eight space capsules that will eventually complimentary vanilla and chocolate swirl send up astronauts within the Dragon, go up into Earth’s orbit and transport more ice cream for the space station crew. which is crucial due to the fact that all the materials using the new Antares rocket The Daily Republic reported that by other space shuttles have been retired to and Cygnus spacecraft. Their first launch the end of it’s orbit the Dragon held over various places in the nation such as Wash- is anticipated to be carried out sometime 500 blood and urine samples of astronauts, ington D.C. and the recent flight to L.A. in the next year. The scientists and engiimportant for NASA testing which has NASA does not have to depend on Rus- neers working for NASA, SpaceX, and the been stored in freezers since the Atlantis sian capsules like the Soyuz, because the Orbital Sciences Corp. are working to conmade the last shuttle flight back in July of problem with the Soyuz is that it does not tinue space exploration and the eventual 2011. have an enough room for samples because successes of space capsules in the future
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Around Creek
Creek Drama presents They’ve Been Wrong Before... By Lisa Nhan Reporter
For this year’s annual winter production, theater department is putting on a show unlike any other they’ve done, an original work called They’ve Been Wrong Before… This is the first time that Creek is working with a new original work and the playwright is not too far away. Mr. Hewlett, tech director and theater teacher, has written his first original work for high school students just for Creek. The show is made up of five different comedic stories that range from love to squirrels. The first is called Art, which is a comedic parody of modern art. Many characters will be in this short, using actors from all grades such as Sierra Boudreaux (9th) and Savannah Beatty (10th). Already Married is described as a “cosmic love story”. This short will star Justin Gibbons (11th) and Ashley Haas (11th). Sympathy for the Squirrel takes the form of a silent film. With a Whimper is about the 2012 Mayan prediction of the end of the world. This short has two male actors that have
ing them the actually been double answer. With castes, Christian Campa complete bell (10th) and Justin new character Gibbons (11th). War to take as their on Lighting is looking own, many of at how Americans apthe actors are proach their problems. eager to face This short will require this experithe most amount of acence. tors. “This is Hewlett decided to my first high use this show as a chance school producfor his students to learn tion to perform more about developing in. It’s really characters. exciting,” said “They’ve never Emily Berthidone this before. They aume (9th). are the first ones to ever play these characters... Set dethey have to develop the sign in this characters themselves,” show will be said Hewlett. very different As the playwright compared to and director of the show, the elaborate Photo by Hilife Staff Hewlett will try to lead bookcases in the fall production of Those his actors as they face this new challenge. Hewlett states that he tries to lead Learned Ladies. Since the show is made his actors in the right way rather than giv- up of five different stories, all the sets will
have to change to accommodate all the shorts. Hewlett, who will also be in charge of crew, predicts that the technical side will be much easier than that of the previous work. Since the show only has one month to prepare, this show is taking a pace that is much faster than the previous. Along with the five different stories that all need to be rehearsed, things are moving quickly. Actors who worked in the fall production barely have anytime to adjust. “I accidently used my accent when I was auditioning actually,” said Christian Campbell (10th) who was casted for the previous show. Despite this, the cast and crew are working to make this show this best they can. “I’m actually more excited than nervous,” said Berthiaume. The show will open their doors for the first time December 13 and have two more showings on December 14 and 15. Tickets will cost $5 for students, senior citizens, and Creek staff. Tickets for general admission will be $7.
Around Creek
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George Lucas sells Star Wars franchise to Disney By Leilani Boren Reporter
World Disney in Florida and Disneyland in CaliAfter a year and a half of negofornia, will be undergoing tiating, the creator of the well-known major changes to accomStar Wars series, George Lucas, has modate for new Star Wars sold his Lucasfilm franchise to Disney rides and theme parks. in a $4 billion contract. USA Today Nevertheless, Disney reports the agreement has enabled is even further expandDisney to integrate the characters ing Star Wars by aspiring from the world famous movie series, to take advantage of the Star Wars, like Princess Leia and potential the series has as Luke Skywalker, into the large Disney a television show, which family. Not only this, but Disney has would most likely air on galactic sized plans to jump-start the Disney XD. It would be an popularity of the series and the sucattempt to get the younger cess of Disney as a business. generations a part of the fan The deal has been recorded as the base, and not just the older fourth largest negotiation in Disney’s people who most likely history, trailing behind the $19.7 bilsaw the movies when they lion, $7.6 billion, and $5.2 billion were first released. contracts that gave Disney control Disney hopes that the over ABC, Pixar, and Fox Family. The new Star Wars merchan“Star Wars Deal,” some have called it, dise, parks, shows, and has even outdone the price tag of Marmovies will help them vel that Disney paid for $3.96 billion recover from recent disin 2009. The contract also includes appointments like Mars George Lucas’ other smaller comNeeds Moms and John panies like the special-effects house Carter. Industrial Light & Magic, Skywalker “We actually deterSound, and the video game company mined that we’d be better LucasArts. off as a company releasing But Disney will not be paying the a sequel to Star Wars than high bill by itself. Close to 40 million probably most other, I’ll shareholders will be responsible for call them ‘not yet deterabout half the $4 billion, while Disney mined’ films,” said Disney will only pay for the remaining due. CEO Robert Iger. Star Wars is a science fiction seBut not everyone is ries first released in 1977 with the entirely certain Disney fourth movie, then later releasing the will have as much success fifth, sixth, first, second, and finally as they claim they might the third in 2005. George Lucas had have in the future. deliberately made the movies in this “There’s no way of particular order to spark the auditelling where this is goence’s curiosity, and because he was Chart showing estimated revenue of Lucasfilm and other Industrial Light & Magic properties in 2012, plus worldwide box office sales ing at this point…but dissatisfied with the lack of technology for all the Star Wars films; Disney has agreed to acquire Lucasfilm and all other properties from George Lucas. Los Angeles Times/ MCT it remains to be seen if available to create what he had envi- 2012 they revive the characsioned. He released Star Wars IV so that ters. There are a lot of The plans that Disney has for Star Wars in a “galaxy far far away” in which a group technology would be able to create the first of rebels fight to gain back freedom and are nothing short of amazing, as they have unanswered questions,” said Leonard Malthree movies up to his expectations. Star already started to begin making prepara- tin, an experienced film critic. power from the evil empire. Wars is basically about other civilizations Experts have also speculated that tions for a new movie, which would be the seventh in the series. Disney has projected George Lucas definitely got the better end that Star Wars VII will be released in the of the deal, even taking into consideration year 2015, even though it is only in early the potential Disney has to make a profit stage development right now. But Disney from the plans ahead. Lucas had never asdoesn’t plan on stopping there, in fact, pired to grow his company but had looked they claim they will eventually make an for a “big hit” like Star Wars to allow him eighth and a ninth movie. Star Wars VIII to plant roots in northern California. He had would be completed two or three years af- never intended to be a part of movie makter the seventh, and Star Wars IX two or ing Hollywood. Peter Sealey, California Professor and former president of marketthree years after the eighth. Yet even the creation of at least three ing and distribution for Columbia Pictures, more sequels to the original six movies believes it was beneficial to everyone that will not be enough for Disney. They have Disney bought Lucasfilm. decided that their legendary theme parks,
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Around Creek
Hurricane Sandy: Lost pets need your support Jenan Taha Reporter Hurricane Sandy devastated more than the east coast’s businesses and seaside homes. Several lives were impacted and even lost. In all this chaos, many forgot about other issues, like the almost 30 million pets inhabiting the New England area. Many residents were told to leave their pets at home with food and water while they evacuated. Thanks to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and several lost and found websites, many families have been reunited with their pets. However, thousands more are still looking for their lost family member. According to the ASPCA, only 400 animals have been rescued and put into 40 different shelters in the New York area. New York City has a scant total of 76 shelters. Pet shelters could only take in a few animals, because even before the storm, they were overflowing with stray animals. Due to the inability of animal care facilities to fit more animals in their already packed shelters, thousands of animals are left wandering in the streets, unable to find their owners or shelter. “When they said leave her, I just couldn’t help it…” said Arletta S. from New Jersey in an interview with CNN, after she was told to leave her home with out her beloved dog. After the devastation of hurricane Katrina, New York and other east coast states mandated that pet owners may break the usual rules concerning pets in the city. All public shelters are required to allow pets, and owners may take their pets onto public transit—like taxis and metros—
during a hurricane evacuation. Photo courtesy of American Humane Society pets stuck Several hotels also allow pets. Some together, they schools have become save havens for pets, are just as unfortunate as if they had lost like Roxborough High in Pennsylvania. their pet, for now they do not have the Still, thousands of pets are currently essentials to care for the entire family. homeless, and though the storm is over, the While most shelters are required to allow winter cold has just begun. Temperatures pets, many that are not located in the inner are expected to drop to the low 20’s. city do not. Many are forced to choose With all of the citizens of New York whether to save themselves and leave City and other eastern cities struggling behind their pet or stick together and risk not to keep warm, it is easy to forget the finding shelter in the now freezing weather. stray animals who also need shelter. “I would not leave my pet dogs, cats Other residents of the east were or my guinea pig behind if I had to leave able to evacuate with their pets, but now for a hurricane,” said Shelby Stevens, a they are missing something else—their tenth grader at Creek when asked what house. Although some families and their her decision would be if a hurricane hit.
“I would definitely take my puppy in the car with me, because I wouldn’t want to rely on a shelter, in case something happened to it,” said 11th grader Leilani Boren. There is still hope for some lost pets. Several Facebook pages have been created to help owners find their missing loved ones. One Facebook page, Hurricane Sandy Lost and Found Pets, had over 20,000 it in two days . Hundreds of pictures of pets have been put up and hundreds more have helped people find their pets. By sending a text message, $10 can be donated to an animal relief fund that supports the areas of New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York. Two organizations accepting donations are the Humane Society Disaster Relief fund and the ASPCA. To get more information, go to their websites. http://www.aspca.org/ w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / SandysPetspictures of pets have been put up and hundreds more have helped people find their pets.
Around Creek
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Those Learned Ladies brings satire to Creek stage Madison Williams Management Editor
The set design of the play was so impressive for a high school level
Those Learned Ladies premiered as the Creek drama department’s first production of the school year in early November, 2012. The play focused on a headstrong mother and her wish for her daughter, Henriette, to marry the man of her choice. Unknown to the mother, Henriette had already fallen in love with Clifford and rejects the idea of marrying her mother’s pick. Henriette’s refusal to become a “learned lady” like her mother and sister adds to the hilarity of the situation that this dysfunctional family finds themselves in. This satirical play kept viewers entertained as the witty banter between characters had the audience chuckling and rolling on the floor with laughter. Judging by the title and sadly yes, the cover of the play, I had very low expectations for me genuinely liking Those Learned Ladies. Instead of coming out of the auditorium feeling like I had wasted $5 and my Saturday night, I found that I thoroughly enjoyed myself. When the first lines of the play were spoken, I knew I was in for something different than I had imagined. Each character had perfected their own Southern accent. Their long drawn out syllables transported me back into a time of plantation farms, sweet tea, and southern aristocracy.
production. I marveled at all the books that had been painted, and the molding detail that had been added above the archways. At times I found myself focusing more on the set design and wondering how much time they had put into creating such a spectacular set than I did on the play. The costumes of the characters with their full skirts and suit vests also helped
Photo Courtesy of The Den
Park opened to public Leticia Suarez Features Editor
A new Eastern Regional Park facility opened here in League City to the public on Monday, October 22. The 28-acre park features three international-sized soccer fields and a new 32,255 square foot recreation facility with multipurpose rooms, two gymnasiums, restrooms, lockers, and offices with room for future expansions. Youth soccer, youth basketball, adult basketball, adult volleyball, exercise classes, tournaments and senior programs will be held here in addition to open-gym time, making this venue family-friendly. This new recreation center will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Located on the south side of state Highway 96 at 2105 Dickinson Avenue, the park was approved by the city council in 2009, but it wasn’t until this year that it finally opened. The original park plans included a pool as well and a price tag of $16.3 million that would come from money collected from a quarter-cent sales tax, commonly called 4B money. To keep construction and operating costs down, city leaders decided to stall the construction of the park. The city spent more than $11 million on phase one of the construction, according to information provided by the city. “As a city, we have so many street and infrastructure improvements we need to make,” Councilman Mick Phalen said. “We need to have a serious discussion. When you have all those issues that require general
to create the ambiance of the Old South. The characters were all perfectly cast and
fund money, how do you maintain parks?” The budgeted operating cost for the park for the fiscal year of 2013 is $617,000, which will include the pool that was left for phase two. It will be either a twenty-five yard competition pool or a 50 meter/25 yard combination pool. Since the fields and gyms opened before the pool, the city will have time to generate user fees from sports teams and summer programs. About 40 percent of park maintenance money will come from user fees. Park Director Chien Wei said that the 4B corporation, which funds amateur athletic projects using a 1/4 cent sales tax and is funding construction of the Eastern Regional Park, brings in about $1.7 million of sales tax revenue per year. The recreation center is expected to produce $50,000 in revenue in 2012, with the park and soccer fields bringing in about $25,000. Those numbers are expected to bring in $247,500 by 2014. “Once the design is finalized, it will be brought before city council for funding approval for construction,” said Chien Wei, League City’s parks and cultural services director. The Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), which is an internationally recognized green building certification system, will assure residents that operating costs will be low and the net value of the project will be enhanced. Proactive energy and water conservancy will be used, which will reduce the amounts of waste sent to landfills. Additionally, with the LEED® certification, the project should qualify for tax rebates, be healthier and safer for all park users and dramatically reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
I found myself entranced by the performances of Kara Watson as Beatrice, Rachel Petitti as Patricia, and Carina Monteleone as Amelia. Watson played the Aunt of Henriette that is full of a little too much confidence and at times is misguided in her enthusiasm. I was sold on Watson’s character as soon as she managed
to convince herself that Clifford played by Christian Campbell was really in love with her and that his love for Henriette played by Ashley Haas was merely a ruse. Her constant interruptions that drove the rest of the characters insane also added humor to the parts of the play that tended to be too drawn out. Rachel Petitti’s performance as Patricia was so perfectly matched that I found myself wanting to check and make sure that I had cleaned my room so that she would not use her commanding mother voice on me. The thing that tied Petitti’s role together is something I like to call “the look.” When her husband would attempt to stand up to her, Rachel would quickly silence him with one menacing look that had him returning to his original cowering state. Christian Campbell nailed his performance. I found myself laughing at the likelihood of the situation he was thrust into and feeling sympathy for his character as he tried to gain the affection of Henriette’s strong-willed mother. Overall I was highly impressed with the play. The performance of all the cast and crew was obvious in the quality of play produced. I can not wait to see the next production put on by the Clear Creek Drama Department.
12 Teen Interest Boy Meets World returns in a new spin-off series By Kristina Koonce Teen Interest Editor
Cory Matthews and Topanga Lawrence are coming back to TV, but this time as parents. The popular 90s TV show “Boy Meets World” is getting a spin off series, that will show the problems Cory and Topanga’s daughter will face as she grows into an adult. The spin off series, “Girl Meets World,” will be starring two of the stars from the original series. Ben Savage and Danielle Fishel who played Cory Matthews and Topanga Lawrence have signed on to pick back up the roles that they played a little over a decade ago. “I’m going to be a father! Well, on TV at least. The “Boy Meets World” sequel is officially happening!” said Ben Savage on his twitter confirming the rumors that had been floating around about the spin-off. The show will be told from, Riley, Cory and Topanga’s 13-year-old daughters point of view as she grows up in this
day and age. Similar to the original series that showed Cory Matthews grow up into an adult, deal with family issues, relationships, and other issues that teenagers faced growing up in the 90s. Another similarity that the spin-off will have is Riley’s best friend, Maya. Maya is Riley’s edgy best friend. The character sounds a lot like Shawn Hunter, who was Cory’s edgy best friend. The pilot episode is still in early stages of its development. The producers of the show are still searching for the right girl to play Riley. “Boy Meets World” fans have expressed their worries that the spin-off series will not be up to the “Boy Meets World” standards given that show will air on the Disney Channel and may not be as relatable as the original series. Danielle Fisher wrote to the fans of the show, in a thank you note for their support, that she will put the best efforts into making the spin-off as good as the original.
“Because I have known Michael Jacobs, Ben Savage, Rider Strong, Will Friedle, and Bill Daniels for 19 years, I know we share many of the same feelings regarding the seven wonderful years we spent making BMW. Those years were among the most warm, hilarious, insightful, educational years of my life and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. Another thing I wouldn’t trade for anything is the integrity and the heart with which BMW was made. I promise with the entirety of my heart that we will make GMW with the same honesty, innocence, and intelligence that you learned to expect from BMW,” wrote Fisher on her Tumblr page. Fisher also said that “Girl Meets World” is not “Boy Meets World” brought back to life, but it’s a present day version of the characters life. “GMW is a new show. It isn’t BMW brought back to life but in current day... please keep in mind that this there will be episode 1, of season 1, of a brand new
show. For those of you who knew and loved BMW, please allow this show to evolve as well. Stick with us. Give us a chance,” Fishel explained. The producer of the original show will also be producing the spin-off series, which is another thing that gives the fans hope that the show will be just as good as “Boy Meets World.” Other characters from the original cast have not been scheduled to make an appearance on the new series, but some have stated that they would not mind making an appearance. Anthony Tyler Quinn, who played Mr. Turner, said he would be interested in appearing on the show. “’Boy Meets World’ was and continues to be these beautiful brushstrokes in my life It was a wonderful experience, and I think Michael’s going to create something fresh. I’d love to be a part of it,” Quin said. More details of the spin-off series will come once all the characters have been officially cast.
Pandora Radio app proposes Internet Fairness Act By Rachel Wolfe Reporter Pandora Radio is stirring up a movement to get its 150 million listeners to stand behind the Internet Radio Fairness Act, which was proposed to the House and the Senate in September. The Internet Radio Fairness Act plans to lower royalty fees paid by the online radio stations, and put Internet radio on the same playing field as cable and satellite radio stations, such as Sirius XM. Radio stations are required to pay a fee called a royalty fee in order to play songs. The fees are determined by the Performers Rights Organizations (PROs). These organizations work with the artists and the companies that wish to stream their music, like radio stations, TV programs, and even restaurants. The PROs use many factors, such as the time of day when the song is being played, how it is being used, and how popular the song is, to come up with a certain amount of credits for a song. The more credits a song has, the more expensive it is to play it on the air. The PROs deduct money for operating expenses, and then give the rest to the artist. In short, radio stations pay the PROs to play the music, and the PROs pay the artist for creating the music. However, online radio stations are required to pay dramatically higher royalty fees than satellite or AM/FM radio stations.
Last year, for example, Sirius XM radio only paid eight percent of gross revenue fees, while Pandora paid nearly fifty percent of its revenues. These rates are nearly driving Pandora and other online radio stations out of business. As a result, Pandora has proposed the Internet Radio Fairness Act. This bill should level the playing field of the radio industry by setting a national royalty-setting standard. They are promoting the bill using similar tactics that other big Internet sites used to stand against the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in January. In between songs, Pandora’s smartphone app shows an ad that reads, “Stop discrimination against Internet Radio”, as well as messages encouraging listeners to call their local representatives in congress. The ads are personalized to each individual’s location, and tapping the ad will allow the individual to instantly call his local representative. Pandora has also dedicated a website to the issue. Tim Westergren, Pandora’s founder, is featured in a video encouraging listeners to ask their local representatives to stand behind the bill. “I think Washington is coming to understand that there is a whole huge world on the web that is paying attention and ready and willing to get involved, and be communicated with effectively, and that mobilizes,” said Westergren. However, not everyone is in favor of this proposal from Pandora. The music in-
dustry claims that Pandora’s real problem is “the bottom line, not fairness.” The MusicFIRST Colation, a company that advocates performance rights, labels the bill as a “money grab.” “Another argument against the bill focuses on Pandora’s advertising. “Pandora could easily make more advertising time available. This would make the percentage of revenues paid out as royalties dramatically lower,” Richard Greenfield, BTIG analyst said. Pandora is hesitant to do this. Having the limited advertising is a huge pull factor for listeners, and helps keep Pandora competing against satellite and over-the-air radio stations. “So Pandora is effectively asking the government to intervene and reduce its cost structure, helping it remain a viable
business because it knows its business model only works while running limited advertising. “Why should the U.S. government allow musicians to be harmed simply to help Pandora and its investors generate enhanced returns?” Greenfield asked. Westergren counteracted that argument. “Even if Pandora monetized its service as well as broadcast radio with its 13 minutes of advertising, its glut of advertising, we’d still be paying north of 25 percent of our revenue, which is still multiples higher than our competition,” Westergren said. The bill was proposed to the House and the Senate in September, but a decision regarding the bill has yet to be announced. Internet Radio Fairness Act.
Teen interest 13
Skyfall pleases audience with a surprise plot twist By Valerie Hellinghausen Editor-in-Chief
the heart of London’s ancient tunnel system. Bond, not dead, has been lying low and much to the surprise of the MI6 returns very much alive only to fail his tests to be
ing him everywhere from China to London’s subway system to Bond’s childhood After 50 years and 23 films of James roots to recover the computer drive and upBond, the latest espionage thriller Skyfall hold the MI6’s reputation. is an absolute must-see that both die-hard In the midst of his mission, 007 fans and moviegoers looking for Bond is given a pistol that a riveting action film can appreciate. shoots only for him and a radio Skyfall relentlessly surprises its viewtransmitter from Q. While these ers with a twisting plot line that delves gadgets are “not exactly Christinto the personal lives of M and Agent mas” to Bond or the viewers Bond from beginning to end. All of this who are expecting all the luxury and top-notch acting, subtle humor, and and gadgetry that is typical of suspenseful action makes Skyfall less more recent Bond films, these of a mandatory addition to the Bond two devices and the other tricks series, and more of a stand-out film that 007 has up his sleeve are more feels refreshing and necessary to the than enough to satisfy audience series. members with a balance beSkyfall launches its audiences into tween developmental plot and full-blown, heart-racing action in the suspenseful action. In fact, the first few scenes as Bond and his partner most remarkable scenes in Skydesperately try to recover a stolen comfall are the ones in which Bond puter drive that contains top-secret MI6 and M are left without help from information that has the potential to enHQ or gadgets to save the day. A look at the past James Bond movies and the actors who have danger all of its active agents. As Bond played British agent “007”; “Skyfall,” starring Daniel Craig, is the In the end, classic espionage tricks struggles to recover the computer drive first Bond movie in four years and the 23rd film in the 50 year run result in just as big of an explosion in hand-to-hand combat, Bond’s partner of the series. MCT 2012 as any high-tech weapon could have Eve Moneypenny is given orders from M produced. Skyfall reminds viewers to shoot without a clear shot. Bond is shot put back on active duty. In spite of his test of the romanticism of espionage with a redown off the train, and believed to be dead results and M ordering Eve to shoot Bond freshingly cunning, cool, and clever James for several months. After the drive is lost to in the train-top brawl, Bond agrees to ac- Bond who requires little more than a few enemy hand, the British government puts cept a mission to track down who has the sticks of dynamite, light bulbs, and a wellpressure on M to retire, but M refuses to stolen computer drive and prevent them laid trap to complete a mission. leave until the issue is completely resolved from continuing to use it against the MI6. Interestingly enough, this new Bond and turns to HQ for help. As soon as M arWhile vague, Bond’s mission requires that movie’s most exciting moments take place rives at HQ, the building is bombed and the he sift through M’s and his own past, lead- in some of the most unexpected and perMI6 is forced to relocate underground in
sonal areas for the characters. While the luxurious skyscrapers of Shanghai were impressive on screen, the best scenes took place in the heart of London, a forgotten island left in ruin, and in Ireland at Bond’s childhood home. While Bond has definitely taken us to luxurious destinations, Skyfall is refreshing in that this film truly drives home for Bond, and the disposable, decadent hotel rooms have no hold on the personal costs it takes for Bond and M to face some of the darker parts of their pasts. This may not sit well with audience members who are accustomed to the luxury of more recent Bond films. The refocused aspects of Skyfall are what makes it one of the best Bond movies to date by concentrating its energy in the acting, riveting plotline, and constant forward motion that take this series to new heights and levels of dimension, rather than extravagant locations. With all of that being said, the common elements of a Bond film are not ignored. There is still luxury, romance, and definitely action in Skyfall, but in newly balanced amounts that turn the spotlight from the best gadgets or the best shots to an intense plotline and acting that both holds audience members on the edge of their seats and diffuses tension with several, subtle one-liners. For these reasons and countless others, Skyfall will not be lost in the series as just another 007 film, but stands out as an essential, original part of the timeless phenomenon that is James Bond.
Apple releases the third generation of the iPad By Kristina Koonce Teen Interest Editor
Year after year, the Apple company always has something new to release to their users. Rumors were spreading around the internet that Apple would be releasing a smaller version of the iPad. When Apple
sent out the invitations for their event there was a hint towards the iPad Mini. “We’ve got a little more to show you” to the invitations. On October 23, Apple debuted the Ipad Mini. The iPad Mini, sold out three days after being available for pre-order. In late 2010 Apple put out the first ever iPad, starting the trend for tablets. Other
brands such as Google put out their ver“It is a far classier, more attractive, sions of the thinner machine.” It was also iPad, givcalled in some reports “Aping Apple ple’s best tablet yet” and “the another best small tablet,” according reason to to Mashable push the Features people love limit with about the first two iPads are something still available on the iPad new. mini is, just on a 7.9 inch The screen. Alll of the apps that sizes of are made for iPad are also the first made for the iPad Mini. The and seciPad comes with built in ond genapps such as Facetime and eration Ask Siri. iMessage is another of the iPbuilt in app on the iPad Mini ads have that allows users to send mesall been sages to iPhones, iPads, iPod larger touches, and other iPad minis than othcompletely free and unlimiter tablets. ed by sending the messages Photo courtesy of Apple Those who worked through Wi-Fi. The iCloud is built on at Apple have talkto the iPad mni, so that you can access ed about releasing a smaller version of any on their iPad mini on any of their other the iPad since the mid 2000s but the man Apple products. behind the entire Apple Company, Steve There is a 5-megapixel camera on the Jobs, was never for the idea. It was said back of the iPad and an HD camera in the that he did not believe it would be useful front. but since the iPad Mini has been avaliThe iPad Mini is 23% thinner than the able most critics have been labeling it as original iPad. According to Apple it is as “perfection” or at least close to it. thin as a pencil and so light that you can “Good alternatives are available hold it in the palm of your hand without a for less money. If you want the full, problem. polished Apple tablet experience in a The starting price for the Ipad Mini is smaller package, the iPad Mini is worth $329, and comes with a one year hardware the premium price,” Scott Stein, editor repair coverage and 90 days of free teleof CNET, said. phone technical support. The iPad Mini is The NY Times is also a fan of the currently available in stores today. iPad Mini
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TUTS’ Jekyll & Hyde: the Musical returns to Houston By Valerie Hellinghausen Editor-in-Chief
After its premiere four years ago, nonprofit musical company Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) brings four-time Tony Award nominee Jekyll & Hyde: the Musical back to Houston at the Hobby Center for the 2012-2013 “A Lot to Love” season. This musical features an all-star cast whose dynamic vocals and theatrical skills work to modernize this timeless story of good and evil, but fail to provide a completely enjoyable experience for audience members in each aspect of the show. Jekyll & Hyde tells the story of Dr. Jekyll, a young scientist struggling to gain support for his research on the duality of man’s good and evil natures. Despite his efforts, Jekyll cannot earn the stamp of approval for his experiment from the Board of Governors at the hospital, and is forced to take measures into his own hands. After a late night out and receiving some inspiring advice from sensuous prostitute Lucy, Jekyll decides to use himself as a test subject for his experiment, and successfully separates his evil side into that of Mr. Edward Hyde. The experiment starts to fall apart as Jekyll starts to lose control over Hyde and his sinful desires, and struggles to kill off Hyde for good after Hyde is suspected of multiple murders. This modern production of Jekyll and Hyde is brought to life with an extraordinary cast including Tony award nominee and American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis who fills the dual roles of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Female vocals are led by Grammy nominee and R&B star Deborah Cox as Lucy, a poor prostitute who dreams of a better life. Broadway veteran Teal Wicks who starred in Wicked as Elphaba on Broadway performs as Emma Carew, Jekyll’s fiancée. John Utterson, Jekyll’s lawyer and closest friend, will be played by Laird Mackintosh who previously
starred in the first national tour of Mary covering their ears. Despite this, Maroulis Poppins as George Banks. Richard White, still managed to provide the audience with remembered for his lead roles in TUTS’ a dynamic contrast between the soft-spoken Zorro and Phantom as well as several Dr. Jekyll in songs like Lost In the Darkness other appearances on Broadway, plays and the gritty rock ‘n roll Mr. Edward Hyde Sir Danvers Carew. The cast is finished in Alive! Throughout the show, the most out with David notable songs Benoit, Stephen were the Mitchell Brown, duets. Cox Jerry Christakos, and Wicks’s Dana Costello, v o i c e s Wendy Fox, blended Brian Gallagher, masterfully Sean Jennes, in their duet Mel Johnson In His Eyes, Jr., James Judy, which was by Ashley Loren, far the best C o u r t n e y performance Markowitz, in Act 2. Aaron Ramey, S e p a r a t e l y, Emmy RaverCox and Lampman, Rob Wicks still Richardson, shined in solo Blair Ross, Doug performances Storm, Haley of A New Swindel, and Life and James Wooten. Once Upon The 2012 a Dream conception of respectively. Jekyll & Hyde combines Photo courtesy of TUTS Robert Louis Stevenson’s renowned short Theatrically, the show novel The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and was fairly cohesive and transitions ran Mr. Hyde with music from Frank Wildhorn smoothly between scenes with the help of and Leslie Briscusse’s original musical several song reprises from ensemble and production of Jekyll & Hyde and new supporting characters in the show. The use musical additions to give audiences a fresh of doubled props and visual projections take on a classic tale with contemporary also added new dimensions to the show music and reorchestrated classics added without slowing down the overall pace of to the line up. With a reduced orchestra the performance. The set and staging of composed of only 12 musicians, seven of the show while simple drew the audience which are local, the vocals on stage were into the dark, mysterious atmosphere of the still frequently overwhelmed by heavy bass, performance completely. Dark lighting and guitar, and sound effects to the point that little color in the characters’ costumes and some of the singing was unintelligible and in the set added to the musical’s theme of some songs had audience members like me the contrasting natures of man. The use of a
smoke machine and train whistle as well as other effects made the performance more of an experience than just a show to be watched and applauded for. Some effects, however, missed the mark completely. The diary entries used as transitions were far too loud, barely discernible, and the projection on the backdrop of the set was hard to read. Overall, the staging and performance was well done, but I would have seriously reconsidered the way the music and sound effects were balanced so that this still felt like a musical, and not a heavy metal concert that required ear plugs in order to clearly hear all the aspects of the show. While this version of Jekyll & Hyde has its faults, it does offer the audience a somewhat enjoyable experience and leaves them with a fresh performance of a classic tale. This show was obviously designed with younger generations in mind, but despite its energy there were some aspects of the show that completely missed the mark. Wildhorn has definitely modernized this show, but failed to focus on some of the serious questions about humanity and sin that the classic story poses to the audiences that I have seen from this show before in play or novella format. While I personally enjoyed this classic more as a short novel and a play, this new conception of the musical brings a much-appreciated modern version to Broadway that is certainly not to be missed by those looking for edgier, heavier rock ‘n roll musicals with the same caliber of theatrical excellence TUTS never fails to offer its audiences. Although Jekyll & Hyde made its last Houston appearance of the season on October 21, TUTS will premiere its upcoming production of Peter Pan on December 11 and will offer more showings through December 23. For more information on showings, tickets, and Theatre Under The Stars, go to www.TUTS.com.
Taylor Swift releases latest music album: RED By Hanna Brinsko Design Editor
Two years after her Speak Now album Taylor Swift released her much anticipated new album Monday October 22, Red. Swift proves that she has progressed lyrically in the first half of her album, going against her tradition of finger pointing and name calling her many exes. Instead she admits that she has a tendency to choose bad boys. “I knew you were trouble when
you walked in/ so shame on me now” she sings in the forth track “I knew you were Trouble”, similarly she sings “This path is reckless/ this slope is dangerous/ and I, I, I like it” in the previous track Treacherous. “I’ve been waiting forever for this new album to come out. It took two years, but I think it was completely worth it. Taylor’s music has changed, but so has she, and I think it’s all for the better,” Joel Mancini, junior, said. Taylor’s style has not only progressed lyrically but also musically. The first single
released from the album, the breakup anthem We are never ever getting back together, came out in a pop and a country version. Though she got her start with her country twang music singing of love, most songs on her new album have moved on past banjos and guitar. The opening track State of Grace has an U2-esque sound, with heavy drumming that would be ideal for a stadium play. Other songs that successfully strayed away from the country genre were the teen pop song I Knew You were Trouble which seems reminiscent to some Katy Perry lyrics with it’s annoying catchy lyrics, and “22” a fun sugary song about Swift’s twenty-somethings. There were several songs, however, that did stay true to Swift’s Nashville roots. All Too Well and I Almost Do are both heartfelt country pieces, ideal for listening to after a bad breakup, just like Swift is known best for. On a more upbeat note is track 9, Stay Stay Stay shortly followed by the equally optimistic track 11 Holy Ground. “I am really happy that Taylor kept some tracks on the album that were true to her country side. It’s cool that she is playing around with other genres, but I think she
does the best writing her relatable country love songs,” said Kate Richter, junior. The new album also features two highly anticipated duets. Swift sings a sad heartfelt duet with Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol in The Last Time. The song Everything has Changed Swift cowrote with the British singer-songwriter with Ed Sheeran. One stand out song is the fifteenth track, Starlight. Swift spoke to the Wall Street Journal, revealing that her rumored boyfriend Conor Kennedy’s grandparents, Robert and Ethel Kennedy, inspired the song. With lyrics like “I’m a Barbie on the Boardwalk, summer of ‘45” the song chronicles two young teenagers falling in love in the 1940s. Though Swift strayed from her country breakup songs of love and loss, she has proved successful trying her hand at new genres. Record sales for Red on the first day of its release topped 500,000. Her RED Tour will start in March, with stops to 45 cities, including a performance in Houston on May 16, 2013.
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Student files lawsuit against University of Texas By Rachel Wolfe Reporter
In February of 1946, Herman Sweatt, a man of African decent, was denied admission to the University of Texas. Then, the state law required schools to segregate students by race, and since the university did not have a school building for African Americans to attend on campus, Sweatt was denied admission. Determined to get the best education possible, he filed a lawsuit against the school, and eventually won, receiving the title of being the first African American admitted into the school. Now, 66 years later, race is still a huge issue in the admission process for the University of Texas, as well as many other schools. Abigail Fisher, a white woman who just graduated from Louisiana State University, is filing a lawsuit against the University of Texas, claiming that she was denied admission due to her race. “I’m hoping that they’ll completely take race out of the issue in terms of admission and that everyone will be able to get into any school that they want no matter what race they are but solely based on their merit and if they work hard for it,” Fisher said. However, the University of Texas is claiming that Fisher would not have
been admitted even if race were not considered in the admission process. The university is also defending its right to assemble a “varied student body as part of its academic and social mission.” The Supreme Court agreed with the school on this policy in a previous case regarding the same issue. From this case, the school was denied the ability to use racial quotas in the admission process, but race could be a factor in looking at a students “holistic” qualities. Since Fisher missed the cut off for the schools famous “Top-Ten program,” which guarantees admission to the top percentage of any Texas high school, she was placed in a competitive pool of students fighting for acceptance. The admissions office determines whom to accept from this pool based on the individuals “holistic review” where race and academic achievement are among many factors considered before the student is granted, or denied, admission. The university’s officials endorse the idea that diverse students make for a diverse campus. They say students from diverse backgrounds “learn from each other, overcome stereotypes, and in so doing prepare them selves for leadership positions in society.” Many students
agree with the schools current program. “The different perspectives help a lot. It makes it really interesting,” said Joao Eloy, a student admitted outside of the Top Ten program. The Top Ten program has produced a decent amount of racial and ethnic diversity. Last year, freshman enrolled under the program were 26 percent Hispanic, and 6 percent black. However, the university claims, “the Top Ten program is a blunt instrument and that classes in many subjects have little or no minority students.” Therefore, in order to give all applicants an equal opportunity, colleges should have the right to consider a students ethnicity during the admissions process. Fisher’s lawyers disagree. They believe that allowing colleges to do this will give a disadvantage to white applicants with similar qualifications as minorities whom apply to the college. Others are questioning the constitutionality of the schools program. According to the first section of the 14th amendment, “No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities if citizens of the United States.” By preferring minorities to white students
with similar qualifications, some say the colleges are in violation of this amendment. “We want diversity in terms of economic background, first generation, geography, inner city, suburban middle class,” said the university’s president, William C. Powers Jr, when interviewed about the case. When asked about what he would say to Ms. Fisher, who comes from a middle class family, he paused, and said “we look at everyone’s holistic characteristics.” Abigail Fisher was interviewed in September, where she told reporters that she was working in Austin as a financial analyst. She said she had liked Louisiana State, and enjoyed the camaraderie of her bowling team. “The only thing I missed out on was my post-graduation years. Just being in a network of U.T. graduates would have been a really nice thing to be in. And I probably would have gotten a better job offer if I had gone to U.T.” Fisher said. The court heard her case on October 10, and their decision could dramatically affect affirmative action policies worldwide. No final decision has been made, and it is unlikely that one will be reached before the beginning of next year.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower film does book justice By Lisa Nhan Reporter
Being a teenager can be some of the hardest times of people’s lives. It is when people first start to become aware of who they really are and begin to grow up. The image of teenagers is can be twisted with misconceptions in the media, leading some people to believe that some adults don’t remember what it feels like to young. Stephen Chbosky, author, screenwriter, and director of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, does not just remember what it feels like to be young but captures that feeling perfectly in both literature and film. The recent movie The Perks of Being a Wallflower is based on a book of the same name. The storyline, in both the book and the movie, is narrated through letters that a 15 year-old boy, taking on the fake name Charlie, is writing to a stranger about his life in an attempt to feel heard. It is revealed that Charlie suffers from much emotional distress and goes “bad” often. Having lost his best and only friend to suicide, Charlie tries to find some friends and meets Sam and Patrick who bring him into their “island of misfit toys.” The plot follows these three characters as they struggle through many aspects of growing up such as bullying, break ups, drug use, and love. The Perks of Being a Wallflower has been one of my favorite books for years. For this reason, going into the film I had mixed feelings. Authors are not always the best person to adapt their work into film. There is a huge difference between writing a novel and a film. Not all authors are screenplay writers, but this author is. Chbosky is an experienced screenplay writer, having written for films such as Rent and his own TV show called Jericho. Despite this, I was still skeptical of how this film would keep the integrity of the
book intact. Chbosky did not let me down. While the book and the movie were not exactly the same, the story and characters still resonate the same depth and realness that is found in this coming of age story. The format of the movie is still the same of the book, as if they were a series of letters. However the film does not rely on voiceovers to narrate the story. It was very well done and kept the flow of the movie going. For fans of the book, they already know what’s going to happen but for those who were not familiar it was a different experience. “I could tell there were parts missing, but the parts were cohesive and came together in the end,” said Sarah Hart (9th) who went to see the movie without having read the book. While Chbosky did impress me with how well he could write a screenplay, as well as direct the movie, there were a few parts that didn’t transition very well and shot that stood out due to their awkwardness. Despite these factors, the movie still held it’s own. Ian Buckwaiter, film critic for the Atlantic, explained it best when he said, “Perks seems like the work of a much more experienced director, maintaining fidelity to the source material without sacrificing any cinematic qualities, triggering genuine sentimentality and nostalgia through interaction between sound and image.” Chbosky was not the only person to impress me in the film. By far, the best actor was Erza Miller. Miller played Patrick, a gay senior who is tries to hide his struggles with comic reliefs. He didn’t just provide laughs throughout the movie, but he showed incredible depth into what it was like to be a struggling teenager. Miller has a great talent for really becoming a character. Emma Watson, who played Sam,
step-sister to Patrick and love interest to Charlie, did a great job as well. Her character is so vastly different from her well-known role as Hermione that it really showed off her skills as an actor. The biggest shock to me in terms of acting was Logan Lerman who played Charlie, the main character. Charlie is such a complex character that I doubted that Lerman could handle it. He showed me wrong. Lerman became Charlie within a matter of minutes on screen. The casting on this film was a really well done job because the best part of this movie was the characters and the
connections they made with the audience. There is something for everyone in this film. Whether it is a teenager going through the same situations or an adult who’s lived through it, there is something to connect to. Chboksy and the actors did a wonderful job of making that happen. Overall, I loved this film. It gave the book a justice and had me swept away with the same story that gives a honest view into the world of teens.
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Sports
Clear Creek football ends great season Athletes of the Month By Dylan Hill Sports Editor
For the first time in ten years the Clear Creek football team is 4-0. The last time the team was even close to 4-0 was two years ago when Tevin Jones and C.J. McElroy lead the team in offense. The Wildcats final step to being undefeated in pre-district is beating Baytown Sterling and they did. They won 33-7 ,and they scored 20 of those points in the first quarter. Jarrett Hildreth (11) threw three touchdown passes and had a total of 259 yards and completed 12 out of 16 passes. C.J. Green, Kaliq Kokuma, and Bane Bilc all had reciving touchdowns during the Wildcats victory over the Baytown Sterling Rangers. The defense had an amazing night too. They only allowed four first downs in the first half and held them to just one touchdown. Matt McCullough had an interception and a fumble recovery. The half time score was 33-0. Wildcat offense showed that they could put up points. While the Wildcat defense showed they could keep their opponents in check. E v e n though the team started out the season 4-0, it was predistrict so it didn’t affect district standings and play off chances. After wining four straight games, the Wildcats kept their first place spot in Galveston County . The Wildcats are among one of the best in the Houston area as well. The next week the Clear Creek Wildcats had their district opener against the Clear Lake Falcons. They won 42-5 and that makes them 5-0 for the first time in more then ten years. Jarrett Hildreth had another impressive game. He threw for over 300 yards and completed 24 out of his 32 passes for a passing percent of 75%. He threw to Jorge Spagnuolo five times for 118 yards.
He also through to Bane Bilc 7 times for a total of 71 yards and a 13-yard touch down reception. Jarrett’s impressive performance Saturday advanced him to the first ranked quarterback in Houston and the second ranked quarter back in all of texas. Our H back C.J. Green had a great game with two touchdowns he ran one in and caught and ran the next one in. Kaliq Kokuma had an amazing game with 10 carries for 93 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also had 5 catches for 49 yards and 1 touch down. Our offense wasn’t the only thing doing well against the Falcons. Our defense also had a great game that night. They help them to just 67 passing yards and 99 rushing yards. Our defense only gave up 3 points throughout the night. The other 2 points came from a safety that the defense has no control over. With this win the Wildcats advance to 7th in the Houston area. This win also tied us with Dickinson and Clear Spring for 1st in district. The next week the Wildcats played
Photo by Jasmine Garza
the Clear Falls Knights. It was the Knights first year in our district and the Wildcats welcomed them with a 4214 victory. After that win the wildcats moved to 6-0 and get their mind right for their next game against Dickenson. Even though the Gators didn’t have a winning record they put up a fight to the very end. The Wildcats were down the entire game and scored on their last drive to win the game. It was a battle all game long but the wildcats pulled out with the victory.
Next game was against the Clear Brook Wolverines and the wildcats had two weeks to prepare for it. It was also homecoming week witch just ads another big reason in why they have to win. It was a great game all night and the wildcats came away with a 41-28 victory to make them 7-0. The quarter back Jarrett Hildreth through for 283 yards and had 3 touch downs on the night. Junior running back Kaliq Kokuma had 96 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. Next the Wildcats went down to Clute Texas to face the Brazoswood Buccaneers. It was a fight all night long and going into half time the wildcats were tied with the Buccaneers 14-14. After half time though the Buccaneers went up in the 3rd quarter and the wildcats could never catch up. The final score was 35-28 with the win going to the Buccaneers. The wildcats fought all night long to the very last drive where the pass was incomplete, which ended the game. After the loss to the Buccaneers the Wildcats has to get their head ready for the biggest game of the year against the Clear Springs C h a rg e r s . It is always the biggest game of the year and this wasn’t an exception. It was completely sold out for both teams and was even almost v o t e d Houston’s game of the week. The Wildcats fought all night but it just wasn’t enough to come out with a victory. The final score was 40-13 with the Chargers coming out with the victory. After losing the last 2 games of the regular season the Wildcats put their sights on the postseason. There first game was against Ft. Bush and the Wildcats were looking for some revenge after their first round lost to them last year. The Wildcats had a long hard week of practice and were well prepared for their first playoff game. The night started well with Dusty Maes getting an interception and running it back for a touch down. But after that the Wildcats didn’t score again tell the last quarter of the game. The Wildcats were in it the whole game and they never showed signs of quitting. The defense had a great game that night and the offense could never get anything going. After a long night of playing the wildcats walked away with a loss and an end to a great season. Even though it didn’t end the way the Wildcats would of hoped it still was a great year and the look forward to rebuild in the spring and come back next year to show everybody who the Clear Creek Wildcats are.
Photo By Breanna Jeffcoat
Mitchell Becker started off the year as a rare returning varsity starter in not one, but two sports. Mitchell returned as the punter for the Wildcat’s football team, and as the lone returning starter, and player, from last year’s basketball team. Mitchell provided a consistent presence for the Wildcats during football season pining opposing offenses deep inside their own territories throughout the season. Mitchell’s performance earned him the of being named to the first team all district team as a punter, proving his value to the Wildcats football team. Mitchell is also the only returning starter for the Clear Creek basketball team and was named captain of the team. Mitchell is coming off a year in which he averaged nine points and six rebounds a game and shot 51%. Mitchell is hoping to improve on these stats in the upcoming basketball season and will try to lead the Wildcats basketball team to the playoffs for the 3rd time in the past fouryears.
Photo By Breanna Jeffcoat
Ashley Smith came into the 2012 volleyball season with high expectations after a 2011 season in which she was named First-team All District, and she committed to TCU on a volleyball scholarship. Ashley helped lead the Wildcats to a 5-0 start to the season including games against Dawson, Fort Bend Celements, and Martin, in which she had 18,22, and 24 kills to lead the team in every game and set the pace for her great season before district games even started. Ashley continued her dominance throughout the season, eventually leading the district in kills with 6.3 kills per game and finishing second in the district in hitting percentage with 39%. Possibly her greatest performance of her Wildcat career came in the first playoff game in which she had 32 kills, 16 digs, 3 blocks, and 2 assists, and willed the Wildcats to a 3 sets to 2 victory over Fort Bend Austin. All of Ashley’s accomplishments throughout the year led to her being named to the first team all-district team and to the allstate volleyball team with only 30 other players. Ashley’s last accomplishment was most likely her greatest as she was named an Under Armor All-American and recognized as one of the top 100 players in the nation. She is one of only nine players from Texas to be given this prestigious honor.
Sports
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Wildcat basketball starts with playoffs in their sights By Greg Brotzman Sportrs Editor
The Clear Creek Wildcats basketball team came into the new season hoping to build on the programs success over the recent years. Two out of the last three years the Wildcats have finished runner up for the district title, before finishing fifth last year and barely missing out on the playoffs. The Wildcats were faced with a challenge from the very start though as they only returned 1 varsity players from last years team, Mitchell Becker. Instead this year the Wildcats will be filled with many new players that they hope will all contribute, despite being their first year of varsity experience. The Wildcats team will be made up of five seniors, three juniors, and two sophomores, all trying to achieve the same goal of winning a district championship for the first time in over 5 years. The Wildcats are coming off a down year by their standards. Last year Wildcats finished with a record of 14-20 and and a 5-9 record in district. This was the first year the Wildcats failed to make the playoffs in 4 years, and gave the players motivation coming into the new season. All offseason
the team worked, all with a common goal The Wildcats then traveled to Cinco in mind, trying to Ranch to play the Cougars. The return back to the Wildcats got off playoffs. to a slow start and The season fell behind early finally started on 14-9 after the November 13th first quarter, and when the Wildcats were plagued by opened their turnovers and a season traveling lack of offense in to Pasadena High a second quarter School to take on in which they the Eagles. The were outscored Wildcats got off to 18-7. Even with quick start gaining an improved effort an 18-9 lead in the second half midway through the Wildcats were the second quarter, forced to away and taking a 32-23 with their first loss lead into halftime. of the season 59But the Wildcats 42. The Wildcats came out strong had problems in the second half shooting the ball all and outscored the night and ended up Eagles 33-23 and Photo By Jasmine Garza finishing with just a earn their first win of the season, 65-46. The Wildcats were led 29 percent shooting percentage. Though in this game by Senior Mitchel Becker who the game did have some bright spots with scored 23 points and had eight rebounds, Junior Solomon Berezin scoring ten points and sophomore Tyquan Jordan who had 15 and fellow Junior Lippincott scoring nine points. points and four rebounds.
The Wildcats could not let their first loss linger as they quickly had to turn around and face the Ball High Tors. Hoping to put the first loss of the season behind them, the Wildcats again got off to fast start, but again hit a cold streak shooting the ball and faced another halftime deficit, 27-19, and eventually losing the game 4233. The Wildcats again were undone by poor shooting (33%), and turnovers (15) as they could not overcome these mistakes for the second game in a row. The 1-2 start has not been a cause of concern for the team though as many players are still confident that they will be able to compete during district, and the slow start is just a result of all the new players gaining their first experience. Next up for the Wildcats is the Carlise/ Krueger Classic that is full of competitive teams such as Clear Brook, Clear Springs, Clear Lake, and Spring. Clear Brook is the defending champ as they won the tournament last year by defeating Clear Lake in a thriller in overtime. The Wildcats are hoping to defend their home court in this tournament and will open against South Houston, with a potential game against Clear Lake lingering if they are able to win their first round game.
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