Tennis District Champions pg. 23
HiLife Exclusive: One Direction films music video at NASA pg. 16
Homecoming Wrap-Up pg. 11
Creek volleyball team takes District title over Springs By Emily Ruthven Around Creek Editor Since August 11, the Clear Creek varsity volleyball team has been on the road to success. The team has defeated Seven Lakes, Dawson, Deer Park, Woodlands, Katy, Ridge Point, Clear Brook, Clear Falls, Brazoswood, Friendswood, Clear Springs, Dickinson Clear Springs and Clear Lake. Their current record is 37 wins and five losses. This year, the team’s goal is to make it to the state tournament. Currently, they are ranked fourth in the state. In the overall history of Creek volleyball, the team has advanced to playoffs 23 times in the last 25 years and has won nine district championships within the last 15 years. This year’s lineup consists of thirteen girls. Danielle Holmes, Erica Kropp, and Haley O’Dell are this year’s defensive specialists. Olivia Rigby and Maddie Flora are also defensive specialists as well as liberos. Kelsey Childers is a setter as well as a defensive specialist. Mariah Pardo is a right side hitter, as well as a setter. The team’s middle blockers are Alle Garland, Hannah Froeschl, and Caroline Reed. Outside hitters include Mellissa McNeil, Jenna Metzinger and Caitlyn Burroway, who is also a right side hitter. “We don’t lack in any positions on the team. We are very well-rounded,” and
are always “hungry for more,” Reed said. The Creek volleyball program has an intense practice schedule with practices
An average practice consists of warm up drills and target drills that focus on a variety of skills such as serving, hitting
every Monday, Wednesday, Photo by Alyssa Hutchison and passing. The practice is and Thursday from seventh period to about then usually concluded with a scrimmage. 4:00 pm and every Saturday morning. Creek has played many games so Games are scheduled on Tuesdays and far, and each one certainly requires the Fridays. After game days, the next day girls to give their all. Clear Springs usually includes going over statistics and has been by far one of their toughest the scouting report for the next game. competitors. The team has won both of
the two games against Clear Springs, however both were extremely close. “We were down zero to two and had the most hostile crowd we had seen that year directly behind our bench,” according to defensive specialist O’Dell. For the first game, the team did not give up and fought back for the win. “It is a game I’ll never forget,” O’Dell said. Creek’s second game against Clear Springs was by far one of the most intense games of the season. Creek lost the first two games, which caused spirits to fall. The Springs crowd was “loud” and when Creek was losing the Wildcat student section was “pretty quiet” according to libero Rigby. Springs’“hitting and blocking was really good,” Rigby said, “they have some of the best offense in the district. They’re pretty solid in most parts [of volleyball]”. The game was so close because Springs is “kind of like us,” Rigby said. The loss affected the girls, however they were able to shake off their mistakes and push through the adversity. “There were “definitely times of frustration because were down 2-0, but I had a lot of hope. I believed that we could win because we had done it before,” Rigby said. Once the third game came, the team started to come back, resulting in a win. (continued on page 8)
Two students qualify as National Merit Semifinalists By Troylon Griffin II Managing Editor Two of Clear Creek’s students have qualified as semifinalists in the 61st annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These two seniors, Emily Berthiaume and Christina Morrison were just two of twenty students that qualified in the Clear Creek School District. This included two from Clear Brook, one from Clear Falls and fifteen from Clear Lake. The academically talented seniors who qualify have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,400 National Merit Scholarships worth more than 32 million dollars that will be offered in the spring. The National Merit Scholarship Program was founded in 1955 as an academic scholarship competition for recognition and university scholarships administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The program is one that all students can participate in. Entry is based on the score one receives on the Preliminary SAT, or PSAT. The standard score required to be a national merit semifinalist varies with each state and Emily Berthiaume and Christina Morrison both succeeded in surpassing the cut-off for Texas, which was 220 this year.
Both students had been a part of both the Future Scholars and the National Merit Prep Course headed by AP English and Academic Decathlon teacher Kenneth Fontenot. Mr. Fontenot explained how he wasn’t surprised at all that Emily and Christina were semifinalists. “I know Emily and Christina to be very hard workers,” Fontenot said. “I’m very happy for them.” Berthiaume and Morrison, on the other hand, expressed much surprise. “It’s crazy,” Berthiaume said. “I didn’t expect it. The highest I ever made on a practice test was a 191 so I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was in Mr. Fontenot’s Future Scholars and National Merit prep course for two years, and when I got a 191 on the final practice test, I thought it was all a waste of my time. But then I took the PSAT and I actually felt pretty good about it.” Berthiaume was in Mr. Fontenot’s class when she received her scores. “I thought, ‘is this real?’” Berthiaume said. “It was so unexpected.” Christina Morrison had a similar reaction when found out she was a semifinalist. She described the news as “surreal”. “I got my scores back last December, so I knew I might be able to get it, but I wasn’t
certain,” Morrison said. “So being officially named a semifinalist was awesome.” Morrison and Berthiaume have a chance to earn a $2500 scholarship and become finalists for the competition. “To become a finalist, you have to submit an application, which includes your SAT scores, extra-curricular activities and an essay,” Berthiaume said. Berthiaume and Morrison have already taken the SAT and both feel very confident about their scores. Their application and essay were due on October 7, so now the two are waiting to learn if they are finalists or not. What the two get if they become finalists depends on the school they decide to attend. If declared a finalist, some schools, like the University of Alabama and University of Oklahoma, will offer the two full rides, while others do not. Most notably, the two could receive a $2500 scholarship from a college of their choice, but that’s only if the college is registered with the National Merit Corporation. The two won’t know whether or not they are finalists until February. Along with the other 15,000 qualifiers, they will be notified by mail. Their high school principal will then be notified and provided with a certificate to present to the finalists. Meanwhile, both are planning
and evaluating their futures for when they graduate in June. “I’m not committed to any school yet, but I’m definitely interested in A&M,” Morrison said. “I also applied to UT, Baylor, and Tulsa. As of right now though, A&M’s my top choice. As far as careers go, I want to major in political science, minor in economics and go on to become a lawyer.” Berthiaume, on the other hand, plans to major in early childhood education and become an elementary school teacher. She is considering the University of Texas and Vanderbilt. Now the two wait to learn if they shall advance to the next level. “Statistically, my odds are pretty good. Anyone’s odds are good,” Berthiaume said. She noted that of the 16,000 semifinalists, around 15,000 become a finalist last year. Mr. Fontenot says he is without a doubt confident that Emily and Christina will qualify. The two semifinalists also have great faith in themselves, in their title as semifinalists, and potential to become finalists and National Merit Scholars. “Christina is one of my really good friends, so it’s really awesome that we both got it, so we’re in this together,” Berthiaume said.
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Opinion
What is the best Halloween costume you have ever worn? o
ost face.” - Eric Sot
gh “I dressed up as a
da “Mulan, I ha and replica dress everything” - Jada Scalez
t to a n e w e we ee if they s u a c o be Bells to s s.” c a t “A taco aco e T e r f f o s h bunc uld give u Ellis in wo - Nev “I wore a tux and drew a cat face. I was a tuxedo cat.” - Allison Cox
“Grim Reaper, with the robe, scythe, makeup and all.” - Jaden Styla
“I went as Jack Skellington from the night before Christmas.” - Kaja Ptt
“I was Dora the Explorer when I was about five and I kept asking people ‘where’s my map?’” - Iana Preston
rt with i h s e t i h w a “I wore hen I T . t i n o n e t t ‘Life’ wri emons.” handed out l aschtel - Cameron B
” when I was a baby in k p m u p a as w “I - Chase Hildreth
om tary school, my m en em el in as w I n “Whe Sam Turner d I as M ‘n M’s.” an in tw y m d se es dr
orn witch, “ I was a Candy C ause it and it was cool bec y favorite combined two if m orn and bethings… Candy C ing witchy.” - Nicole Matthys
“I was once a cow as a toddler, and when you pressed my chest, I mooed.” - Brandi Isadore
“I was a yellow period, a litera l yellow dot, when I was you nger.” - Alex B arba
in e from Aladd in m s a J s a w “I ought carpets th y ll a tu c a I and lly Bently A .” y fl ld u co
and I t s o h g a s a “I w lecloth b a t a e r o w t jus wo holes t t u o t u c d n a a day.” and called it r - Shail Gajja
“An egg yolk costume because I wanted breakfast themed.” - Alexia Tehos
2015-2016
HiLife Staff Principal: Advisor: Editors-in-Chief: Managing Editor: Design Editor: Features Editor: Teen Interest Editor: Sports Editor: Around Creek Editor: News Editor: Advertising Manager: Photo Editor: Online Editors: Photographers: Paola Argueta Alexsandra Godoy Alyssa Hutchison Jose Mares Jr. Hannah Pearson Katie Rodriguez Aleida Solesky Justin Staton Alexis Tijierina Asiel Velasco
Jamey Majewski Wynette Jameson Emily Berthiaume Kelsie Sullivan Troylon Griffin II Kelsie Sullivan Emily Berthiaume Alyssa Lobue Troylon Griffin II Emily Ruthven Tiffany Wade Issac Villarreal Evelyn Salinas Evelyn Salinas Leo Solis Reporters: Cody Bassett Kyndal Dillehay Madison Hutchins Lindsey Loechel Ava Manuel Anna Scheuring Madeline Williams
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Editorial
3
Emily’s Editorial: College decisions
By Emily Berthiaume Editor-in-Chief
It really is a cliché that applying to college and making decisions as a high school senior is terrifying and stressful. I’ve seen many of my friends and my sister go through it, saw how upset they got as they talked about it, listened to many rants about the complications of college applications and about how ridiculous it is that they are expected to know where they want to spend the next four years of their life. The one thing I never expected was for it to all be true. I maybe thought I would be better than everyone else at meeting deadlines and managing my time. I possibly assumed the stress wouldn’t affect me. I probably thought everyone was overreacting, that all you had to do was make a calm, rational decision and not let your emotions control you. I definitely knew I could
rise above the situation. I was wrong. I am sixteen years old. At sixteen, you are supposed to be getting your driver’s license and having fun with friends and being young and carefree. You are not supposed to be making major decisions that will affect the next four years (and probably more) of your life, which is what I find myself doing. Frankly, I feel unprepared. M y dream college has one of the best programs for my major, an absolutely gorgeous campus, and is in a great city. I would love to go there, except for the fact that it is 801 miles away from my home. A twelve-hour drive or two-hour flight over three different states. I cannot imagine being 801 miles away from my family, from my mom, from my bed. All my friends will be off at college as well next year, but most of them are going to stay in Texas, stay closer to familiarity.
Going to a college in Texas seems to be the safe decision. It would certainly be less scary. I would be at the same college as my sister, who is my best friend, and only a couple-hours drive away from both my home and most of my friends. But
erase the past and begin a new future? It does sounds tempting, however scary. Being completely in control of my future is as enticing as it is scary. No one is telling me what to do or where to go and, while that sounds nice, I have learned it isn’t all it is cracked up to be. If someone tells me how to make a decision and it goes horribly wrong, I can blame them. But with complete control comes complete responsibility, which terrifies me. I must be prepared to face the consequences of my decisions, something I have never been faced with before. Making decisions like these is the farthest thing from easy. For the first time ever, I am being forced to make a decision that will significantly alter the course of my existence, and, as dramatic as that sounds, all I can think is “what if I screw up?” Is making the wrong choice possible? And how will I know if I chose the wrong path? Will I ever know? I know that I will be fine, regardless of my choice. Which college to attend is not the biggest decision in life, and I realize that, regardless of the stress and pressure I feel now. I will be okay, because no matter where I end up, I will still be myself. Yet another cliché.
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go.” - Dr. Seuss maybe this isn’t the time to play it safe. This is the first time in my short sixteen (almost seventeen) years when I have had complete control over my future. Would starting over be terrifying? Absolutely. But how many times in a life is there the opportunity to almost completely
Kelsie’s Keepsake: To Be Honest
By Kelsie Sullivan Editor-in-Chief Pain isn’t always something you can see, but it’s real. Pain cannot be categorized on a scale with numbers and faces, nor can it be explained by the endless amount of words. My life soon became a foundation in which everything was unseen and broken. When I resigned from volleyball and basketball, my coaches became very disappointed in me. From their eyes, they saw nothing wrong with me except that I was moving slower and I was missing practice. The day after I quit, my basketball coach made me run four miles, leaving me to beat my set record of 39 minutes.
While running, the spasms and cramps worsened. I ran two miles in 45 minutes because every muscle in my body felt like it was going to fall apart, and left me in misery from the run. They sent me home as if I was no longer an athlete but a teenager that lacked endurance to push forward. The next day, I decided to go to school with the sole purpose of explaining myself during seventh period. As third period arrived, my legs began to tremble and the lack of circulation to my feet turned them extremely cold and purple. When I reached the classroom, I collapsed. All of my peers watched the tears fall from my face, because from that point on I could no longer feel anything from the waist down. The teacher yelled down the hall for help. The first one to arrive was my basketball coach. She began to ask me a series of questions. During this time, my teacher was directed to call 911 to request an ambulance. Next, the
nurse arrived and started to assist the situation. Approximately five minutes later, the paramedics came rushing in. They contacted my parents and rushed me to the emergency room. I saw the struggle that my medical problems was having on everyone around me. I put a smile on my face
as disabled for the rest of her life (with or without a wheelchair) to choose how her wheelchair would be designed for graduation? After that appointment, I became angry, but stronger than ever. I had to show people I was no longer going to be confined to my wheelchair or classified as broken. It took me two hard and relentless years to relearn how to walk. I have realized that you cannot change what happens to you, but you have to live through it to overcome it. The pain never ends, and since the day that everything happened, I have yet to go through a day without pain. There are still some days when I wake up and cannot walk or move because of the cramps and spasms throughout my body. I have to limit myself and try to understand what my body needs and wants. I have also had to change the fake act and smile and to understand that people are there for me and it is okay to not be okay. I have crashed and fallen, but through everything my faith stood in place where I could not.
“Our lives improve only when we take chances - and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves.” - Walter Anderson even when I felt like crying and told everyone that I was going to be okay even when I felt like dying, because I knew the pain would never stop. Six months later, I was being fitted for my permanent wheelchair. The man taking the measurements said “be sure to pick a wheelchair you want to roll across the stage during graduation in.” I was suddenly dumbfounded. How could a man tell a thirteen year old who just found out she was classified
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News
NASA equipment discovers signs of water on Mars By Anna Scheuring Reporter
In late September, NASA released the statement that liquid water has been found on Mars. This monumental discovery gives hope to scientists that life possibly exists on Mars. NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) provided the new evidence of water on Mars. The MRO detected hydrated minerals using an imaging spectrometer. The images captured by the MRO show slopes on the planet that are inferred to be created by flowing water. The slopes, named Coprates Chasma, have dark streaks called slope lineae that are evidence of the effects of flowing saltwater. “We found the hydrated salts only when the seasonal features were widest, which suggests that either the dark streaks themselves or a process that forms them is the source of the hydration. In either case, the detection of hydrated salts on these slopes means that water plays a vital role in the formation of these streaks,” Lujendra Ojha of the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta and the lead author of a report on these findings published September 28 by Nature Geoscience, said. “The presence of hydrated salts in these flows means that the streaks are forming due to contemporary water,” Ojha says. The discovery was not a fast process. The MRO began scanning Mars in March of 2006. According to NASA, Mars research began to determine if life ever arose on Mars, to characterize the climate on Mars,
to characterize the geology on Mars, and eventually prepare for human exploration. “It took multiple spacecraft over several years to solve this mystery, and now we know there is liquid water on the surface of this cold, desert planet,” Michael
the odds of other habitual life potentially on Mars. Many ask “Does life exist beyond Earth?”, and the liquid water provides some direction. The head of NASA’s hiRISE highresolution Mars camera said he is confident that life will be found on Mars one day.
Scientists using images from NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity say they’ve found evidence for a river in Gale Crater. (NASA/JPL-Caltech/ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/MSSS)
Meyer said, lead scientist for NASA’s Mars Exploration Program in Washington. Scientists have known that water has been present on Mars for a long while. However, the water has existed in polar ice caps, though. Mars is also covered with large patches of bare lane that once held oceans, rivers, and lakes billions of years ago. The liquid water discovery improves
“It’s very likely, I think, that there’s life somewhere in the crust of Mars, microbes,” he said. Finding evidence of liquid water on Mars is not as simple as it seems. Since water is a critical element to life, the discovery is a step closer for scientists to further research the opportunity of life on Mars. “This is tremendously exciting,” James
L. Green, the director of NASA’s planetary science division, said. “We haven’t been able to answer the question, ‘Does life exist beyond Earth?’ But following the water is a critical element of that. We now have, I think, great opportunities in the right locations on Mars to thoroughly investigate that.” The discovery does not come without conflict. A major set back to the Mars research is because of treaty signed in 1967. Due to the 225 kilometers that the Mars rover Curiosity had to travel from Earth to Mars, there are possible contaminants that the robot picked up along the journey. While scientists sterilize the rover as much as possible, there is not a 100 percent guarantee that Earth life wont be contaminated. Even though there are pictures from the MRO showing evidence of flowing liquid water, the Mars rover cannot physically come in contacts with the source. The 1967 Outer Space treaty forbids those that signed the treaty around the world from sending a human, robot or spacecraft to a celestial source of water within a certain distance. Therefor, the obstacle must be worked around by other means of exploration, such as sending humans to Mars. Undoubtedly, there will be bumps along the road of exploration. While the scientists have not discovered the source of the liquid water on Mars, the breakthrough creates hope for future research on Mars. Mars is still a mystery to scientists in most aspects, but liquid water might be the first of many discoveries to come for Mars research.
News
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Pope Francis makes a statement by visiting Cuba
By Cody Bassett Reporter
Pope Francis has boldly gone where no Pope has gone before: Holguín, Cuba; and he’s not stopping there. While he is not the first Pope to visit country of Cuba, he is the first to enter Holguín, the center of Cuban music, where Fidel and Raul Castro grew up. Communist controlled Cuba has a history of dictatorships and antiAmerican propaganda, but all that appears to be behind Cuba as they make attempts to change their future. Since April 11, 2015, U.S. and Cuban relations have become more open and friendly. President Barack Obama and Raul Castro met and shook hands, the first time this has happened since 1961, and even though the Cuba and U.S. embargo set in 1961 is far from lifted, Cuba and the U.S. have made a prisoner swap. Holguín, Cuba stands as a testament to just how much Cuba is changing. Pope Francis visited and attended a celebration of Mass at Plaza de la Revolución on Monday, the final day of the Pope’s visit to Cuba. To fully understand why it is so important that the Pope was allowed to enter Holguin, Cuba, it must be understood that Cuba was a communist country, and ruled under an iron atheist fist like all other communist countries like China, the USSR, and North Korea. So the Pope’s visit could be considered a major turning point in Cuba’s’ history.
“A Pope has never been here before,” Cuban resident Marta Betancourt, age 61, said. The sweltering heat did not stop Pope Francis from opening Mass at
flag along the popemobile’s route were the gold and white colors of the Vatican’s flag. The Pope did not stop preaching in Cuba either; he flew to Washington D.C. to address the homeless situation
Pope Francis greets seminarians as he walks the loggia to his address to the bishops at St. Martin of Tours Chapel at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015. (Tom Gralish/Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS)
an outdoor alter with a prayer and a chorus singing hymns in celebration. The streets were adorned with decorations and posters welcoming the pontiff. Doors, telephone poles, and even taxies brandished Cuba’s’ red, white and blue flag. Accompanying Cuba’s national
and
other issues with Congress. “We can find no social or moral justification, no justification whatsoever, for lack of housing, we know that Jesus wanted to show solidarity with every person,” Pope Francis said. His attempts were to break the
stalemates between Republicans and Democrats and promote unified thinking, much like Abraham Lincoln desired to unify the North and the South, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who helped unify those of different ethnicities. Pope Francis also questioned why arms trades were still being held when it was well known what the buyers planned to do with the weapons once they acquired them. “Why are deadly weapons being sold to those who plan to inflict untold suffering on individuals and society? Sadly, the answer, as we all know, is simply for money — money that is drenched in blood, often innocent blood,” the Pope said. The Pope challenged Congress and the rest of America to break free from the spell of political paralysis and begin to use their power for the common good; to heal the open wounds of a planet torn apart by greed, hatred, poverty and corruption. He concluded the meeting with a phrase familiar throughout the world: “God bless America.” He then visited New York to continue preaching and to speak to inmates, the homeless, and anyone else who wanted to see him. Pope Francis is consistently changing the way the public views the Pope. He is the first Pope to address Congress and truly offer assistance for the problems facing not only America, but also the rest of the world; and he does not appear to be stopping anytime soon.
Shooting at Umpqua College leaves eleven dead By Tiffany Wade News Editor
There was a shooting rampage at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon on October 1. The victims who were killed out of 13,600 students at the school were Lucero Alcaraz, Treven Taylor Anspach, Rebecka Ann Carnes, Quinn Glen Cooper, Kim Saltmarsh Dietz, Lucas Eibel, Jason Dale Johnson, Lawrence Levine, and Sarena Dawn Moore. The shooter,
26-year-old man named Chris HarperMercer, later ended up committing suicide. A timeline released by investigators shows that the first 911 call about the shooting came at 10:38 a.m. that day. Six minutes later, Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin said, two Roseburg police officers and a state trooper arrived on the scene. At 10:46 a.m., the officers exchanged gunfire with Harper-Mercer. Two minutes later, there was a report of “suspect down,” according to the timeline. Hanlin said
the state medical examiner determined the gunman’s death was a suicide. State police are investigating the shootout. The father of the shooter, Ian Mercer said he had no idea that his son would kill anyone and was completely devastated by the news. “I had no idea he had any guns. I have no idea that he had any guns whatsoever,” Mercer said. “And I’m a great believer you don’t buy guns, don’t buy guns, you don’t buy guns.” He also said that his son lived in Oregon with his mother and he hadn’t seen his son since they moved two years ago. They had a good relationship and did things fathers and sons would do. One thing he would not claim is whether or not his son had any mental or emotional issues. However, the gunman handed a writing to a survivor and told them to give it to the police. The writing portrayed the shooter as a student of the past mass shootings. The gunman identified with the perpetrators of those rampages and expressed frustration the other mass killers did not take on police. He also vowed
he would kill police along with others. Bonnie Schaan said at a news conference Saturday that her daughter, Cheyeanne Fitzgerald, witnessed the shooter handing an envelope containing the writing to one person in the room and told that student he was the lucky one and to stand in the corner. Fitzgerald was asked her religion and when she didn’t answer, she was shot in the back, her mother said. The bullet clipped one lung and lodged in a kidney, which doctors removed. Investigators found 14 firearms connected to the shooter and six were found at the college. Police proceeded to search his apartment and found two pistols, four rifles, and a shotgun. It was discovered later that another handgun was found at the shooter’s home. A flak jacket was also found next to a rifle at the school with five magazines of ammunition as well as additional ammunition at the residence. The shooter was said to have also exchanged gunfire before he died that day. He committed suicide during a gunfight with the on scene police following the shooting.
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News
Speaker of the House John Boehner formally resigns By Emily Berthiaume Editor-in-Chief
government open throughout the rest of the fiscal year, preventing a government shutdown. However, the fractious and increasingly conservative Republican members of Congress have declared that they would not approve a bill that continued to provide funding for Planned Parenthood, leading to a stalemate. Boehner could have sought reelection
religious leader’s address to Congress was a very emotional experience for him. “So before I went to sleep last night, John Boehner, the former Speaker of I told my wife, I said, ‘You know, I might the House of Representatives, formally just make an announcement tomorrow,’ ” resigned from the prestigious position Boehner said at a news conference in the on September 25, citing the increasing Capitol. “This morning I woke up, said pressure and discord in Congress as a my prayers, as I always do, and thought, result of the fractured Republican caucus. ‘This is the day I am going to do this.’ ” Boehner wanted to end his Many hopeful Republican run last year, but was worried candidates for president about destabilizing the House’s publicly do not approve of Republican caucus. Instead, he many of Boehner’s actions. decided to stay and step down When candidate Marco on his birthday in November. Rubio announced Boehner’s However, a visit by Pope resignation at a rally, the Francis to the U.S. Congress crowd cheered loudly. in late September sped up “It’s time to turn the the date of his resignation. page,” Rubio said, deviating “I decided today is the day from his script in order to I’m going to do this, simple appease the audience, whose as that,” Boehner said at a views align with many who Capitol Hill press conference, wanted to oust Boehner. saying his decision came after In late October, Republican a night of sleep and prayers. Paul Ryan announced he Boehner’s nearly six-year was running for the next tenure was characterized by House speaker. More than 70 repeated fiscal clashes with the percent of the House Freedom White House and failed dealCaucus voted in favor of makings with President Obama Ryan’s candidacy, short of and Senate Leader Harry the 80 percent required for an Reid. He became Speaker official endorsement which of the House in 2010 in part House Speaker John Boehner (R- Ohio) speaks at his weekly news conference on Capitol Hill, Thursday, July 10, 2014 in Ryan demands. He is now Washington. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) because of the power of the waiting for two other key Tea Party candidates, but his House GOP caucuses to make actions were then severely limited by their in the fall, or stayed as the speaker and him the most,” said Representative their support known before he officially influence. They often wanted Boehner be faced with cutting fiscal deals that Lee Zeldin from New York. runs. Ryan has said that he wishes to be to “take a harder line” with Obama and would prompt a Republican revolt. A major reason for Boehner’s the “unity” candidate for House speaker. Democrats, which he didn’t always want to. “It’s become clear to me that this departure is that he wished to go out on “I can be a unifying figure in our Most recently, Boehner has prolonged leadership turmoil would do a high note. The Pope blessed his new conference, I’m willing to step up and struggled with wanting to keep the irreparable harm to the institution,” Boehner grandchild just a day before, and the do that, it’s just that simple,” Ryan said. told reporters. “This isn’t about me. It’s about the people, it’s about the institution.” The announcement stunned the House’s GOP conference, which was meeting to discuss funding legislation when Boehner announced his decision. The room immediately became very somber. “A lot of grown men and women were crying, especially those who know
Suicide bombing attack in Turkey kills over 100 By Kyndal Dillehay Reporter
A suicide bombing took place in Ankara, Turkey on October 10, 2015. 102 people were killed in this attack and 250 more were seriously wounded. The attack was one of the deadliest in recent history, with two explosions taking place at the same time. The target of this attack was a protest movement in Turkey’s capital against the violence happening between authorities and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), a Kurdish military group. The PKK is fighting for cultural and political rights for citizens as well as the ability of selfdetermination. The protest was largely meant to be peaceful, but the twin suicide bombings interrupted it. The Turkish government claims that no group or party has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack and it is believed to be the work of individuals, despite other attacks earlier this year. The people of Turkey have not responded well to the series of attacks. They are angered by the deaths of so many citizens, claims that “scum” attacked them and that the long-term goal is to “divide the nation”. Others are spending their time “mourning for peace” and the lives lost. The Turkish president urged his people to be “against, not on the side of, terror”
and promised to find and deliver justice to anyone connected to the cause of the attack.
to be against it together.” Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the Turkish president, said.
Oct. 11, 2015 - Ankara, Turkey - The family of Korkmaz Tedik, who was killed during the bomb attack in Ankara, mourn at the funeral as thousands of people gathered in the centre of Turkey’s capital to mourn the victims of twin bomb blasts which killed at least 95 people on Oct. 11, 2015 in Ankara. (Tumay Berkin/Zuma Press/TNS)
“I strongly condemn this heinous attack on our unity and our country’s peace. No matter what its origin, aim or name, we are against any form of terrorist act or terrorist organization. We are obliged
This attack may also have an ISIS, or Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, connection. One of the bombers, identified through DNA testing, was Yunus Emre Alagoz. He has been reported to be the brother of
Şeyh Abdurrahman Alagoz, the perpetrator of a bombing on Suruc on July 20. The Suruc suicide bombing was a targeted attack by the ISIS on workers attempting to rebuild Kobani. However, the ISIS has not claimed responsibility for either attack. Some people blame the rally that had been taking place itself. A few individuals claim that the peace rally disturbed a situation better left alone. It created unnecessary aggravation and provided a prime chance for terrorists to strike. Others place the blame solely on the shoulders of those who organized the rally. “Our people need to be careful of such provocateurs that organize terrorist demonstrations in order to incite discord in social harmony.” Veysel Eroglu, minister for forestry and water, said. Germany, Russia, and the United States have all offered their condolences to Turkey and the U.S. has confirmed that they will stand with Turkey against these attacks. Over 10,000 people marched down the streets of Istanbul in protest of the attacks. Three cities in France- Paris, Strasbourg, and Marseille- and one city in Switzerland, Zurich, also had thousands on the streets denouncing the attacks.
news Journalist held in Iran now convicted By Tiffany Wade News Editor
Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian, who has been held in Iran for over a year on charges including espionage, has recently been convicted. Officials said that an Iranian revolutionary court issued a verdict in Rezaian’s trial, but did not say what it was. “He has been convicted, but I don’t have the verdict’s details,” said judiciary spokesman Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejehi. He said that Rezaian and his lawyer are eligible to appeal the conviction within 20 days. The Isna news agency also reported Sunday that Rezaian was convicted, quoting Ejehi. Rezaian, an IranianAmerican Washington Post correspondent in Tehran, was detained by the Iranian government, along with his wife and two others on July 22, 2014. The 39-year old Californian, now held in the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran, has been in an Iranian jail longer than any other Western journalist on charges of espionage and other crimes. His Iranian wife and journalist Yeganeh Salehi and the others detained with him have been released. Rezaian’s lawyer, his family and the Washington Post denied the charges. His lawyer also told the AP that she has not received the verdict and was unable to reach for further comments. “Iran has behaved unconscionably throughout this case, but never more so than with this indefensible decision by a Revolutionary Court to convict an innocent journalist of serious crimes
after a proceeding that unfolded in secret, with no evidence whatsoever of any wrongdoing. For now, no sentence has been announced,” Martin Baron, the Washington Post’s executive editor said.
detained in Iran in 2012 and sentenced to eight years in prison on charges of attempting to undermine the government. Rouhani wants the U.S. to free Iranians convicted of violating sanctions against Iran.
Screenshot courtesy of The Washington Post
“ W e are working with Jason’s family and Iranian counsel to pursue an immediate appeal, and we expect Jason’s lawyer, Leila Ahsan, also to petition for Jason to be released on bail pending a final resolution of the case.” Although the trial was closed to the public, Iranian news outlets have revealed that Rezaian was accused of, among other so-called crimes, identifying companies that may have evaded U.S. sanctions against Iran. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has said in recent weeks that freedom for Rezaian and two other Americans being held in Iran could be expedited if the U.S. would release Iranians being held here. The other Americans are Amir Hekmati, a former Marine sentenced to death in January 2012 for espionage, and Saeed Abedini, a pastor
The U.S. State Department and free speech and media advocacy groups have been among those demanding Rezaian’s release. John Hughes, president of the National Press Club, accused Iran of conducting “a sham trial from the beginning” and that “no nation should be allowed to behave in this manner”. The State Department said Monday that it had no official confirmation of a verdict against Rezaian. “Unfortunately, this is not surprising given that this process has been opaque and incomprehensible from the start,” John Kirby said. “Regardless of whether there has been a conviction or not, we continue to call for the government of Iran to drop all charges against Jason and release him immediately”.
7
A Win for the ‘Stros:
a new era for Houston By Emily Ruthven Around Creek Editor For the first time in ten years, the Houston Astros advanced into their first post-season series. The success of the team this season has been a huge shock to both the players and fans. The last time Houston experienced immense baseball success was in 2005, when the Astros played against the Boston Red Sox in the World Series. Ever since their loss, the Astros were on a steep, downward slope until they finally hit rock bottom when they were named the worst team ever in MLB in 2012, with a record-breaking record of 55-107. Going to baseball games in Houston was not a common occurrence. In a way, Astros fans were left with nothing to root for. The team had minor rises and falls throughout the next four years. Still, the love of baseball was missing from Houston. When the 2015 season began, no one thought much of the Astros. They were assumed to be the same as they had been for the last decade. When the Astros starting winning most of the games they played, Houstonians began to pay attention. Soon enough, the Astros were the best in the western region of the American League With the success of the team, Houston began to slowly fall back in love with baseball again. People went to games and it was not uncommon that Minute Maid stadium held a significant amount of people. Superstars’ such as Dallas Keuchel, Collin McHugh, Carlos Gomez, Jose Altuve, Evan Gattis and Colby Rasmus began have their last names to appear on the back of bright orange and navy blue t-shirts. Actually, wearing an Astros shirt casually to school or out became pretty common. Houston was then dubbed “Crush City” by B Bun, a Texan rapper, in response to the home run hitting power of the Astros. The name stuck. It was evident the something was different this year; the era of success had returned, and Houstonians were loving every bit of it. Despite losing their last game of the official season, the Astros got the very last playoff spot and won the Wildcard game against the Yankees. They were then advanced into a five game series with the Kansas City Royals. The two teams went back and forth, winning and losing, until Kansas City won game five, concluding the season for the Astros. It would be a lie to say Houstonians were not heartbroken by this. However, Houston experienced the beginning of a new era of baseball. The Astros are only on an upward climb, and Crush City should be excited for what’s to come in the future.
8 Around Creek
FFA leaves Pasadena Livestock show with awards
By Lindsey Loechel Reporter
The Clear Creek High School FFA attended the Pasadena Livestock Show, the first of the year, on September 14 and 15 at the Pasadena Livestock and Rodeo Fairgrounds, returning to school with several titles. The team brought home wins in several of the animal categories, a very satisfying outcome this early in the year. “The show was very successful,” Ralph Stokley, FFA teacher, said regarding the show’s outcome. A livestock show consists of many different animal categories, including heifers, goats, lambs, turkeys, and broilers, more commonly known as chickens. Each animal is scored by judges individually, and the score is based on different characteristics that are unique to each animal species. For instance, heifers, young female cows that usually have not had a calf, are judged based upon muscling, rib shape, structure, and femininity, whereas goats and lambs are judged on muscling and fat. Broilers and turkeys are judged based upon muscling and fat as well. The Pasadena Livestock show was well attended by the Clear Creek FFA members who showed heifers, goats, lambs, turkeys and chickens, allowing them to bring home prizes in almost every category. In the heifer category, Zoe Womersley earned Grand Champion Heifer and
Jordan Adams earned Reserve Champion Heifer. In addition to the top two places, Sidney Velasquez brought home first place, Aspen Haberman got second place, and Sara Propes got eleventh place.
Jordan Adams was fourth in class. Madi Lawrence, Ally Humphrey, Sabrina Sorensen, Beth Smaistrla, and Sidney Velasquez all showed chickens, but unfortunately didn’t place.
Also placing were Photo courtesy of yearbook. Lexi Herd and Morgan Ally Humphrey who Randecker assisted their received first place in the goat category, fellow student and FFA member Sidney and in the lamb category Becca Low Velasquez at the show. The girls showed earned Reserve Champion Lamb, and chickens, one of the more tedious as
well as entertaining animals to show. “We didn’t do so good.” Morgan Randecker said regarding the successfulness of their endeavors, adding, “ I loved getting to spend time with all the animals though.” Despite the fact that the girls were not particularly successful, they were still able to enjoy the opportunity to have the experience. The birds were not a complete loss however thanks to Becca Low who earned 8th place in the turkey category. Mr. Stokley is very pleased with his student and how they performed at the show. “I’m proud of all the dedication and hard work that they put into this show.” Mr. Stokley said when asked about his students’ performance at the show. He went on to say that, “Winning and watching the kids participate and seeing their hard work pay off.” was his favorite part of the whole process. Overall the first livestock show was a resounding success for the Clear Creek FFA members, with not only prizes for the top spots in many categories but also the experience had by all. The next show for the Clear Creek FFA will be the Clear Creek Livestock Show held in January at the Clear Creek campus.
Creek volleyball takes district title (continued)
By Emily Ruthven Around Creek Editor
Creek was still in the game. crowd was going wild. “I haven’t been to a game where it was that hyped, especially since the The
score was so close. But the last game was just crazy,” Jason Huffman, a senior who attended the game, commented. The team was then able to claw their way to victory by winning both the fourth and fifth game. “I’m really proud of those kids,”
Scott Simonds, head coach, said in an interview with the Galveston Daily News. Creek could possibly play Clear Springs a third time in the fifth round to go to state. On top of the other challenges this season, the girls have “endured many injuries, but with State in mind, we keep
pushing through,” according to Reed. Among all of the hardships of the sport, volleyball has many benefits, even beyond the sport itself. “I have made some of my best friends in volleyball and getting to spend a lot of time with the team is awesome,” Reed said.
Around Creek
9
CCTD performs annual fall show The Good Doctor By Alyssa Lobue Teen Interest Editor
The first production of Clear Creek’s 2015-2016 school year was The Good Doctor, a play made from 9 scenes with no connecting plot or theme between, written by Neil Simon and based off of writings by Anton Cherdyakov. “I chose this play specifically because since last year, the thought of performing The Good Doctor had been running through my mind. It also fit the setting of Clear Creek Intermediate’s smaller theatre we had to use due to reconstruction,” Clear Creek Theatre Department director Bradley Hewlett said. Auditions for actors and actresses were held September 8, and callbacks were September 9. The final decision for the roles was made on September 10 by Mr. Hewlett, with the help of Mr. Samson, Creek’s technical director. The play consists of two acts. Act One has five scenes, The Sneeze, The Governess, Surgery, Too Late For Happiness, which was the only musical scene, and The Seduction. Act Two has four scenes, The Drowned Man, The Audition, A Defenseless Creature, and The Quiet War. The lead role of the show, a comedic version of Chekov who also functioned as the narrator, was cast as Tanar Yokum, a senior theatre student. “For not having acted in four years, coming to the show was an
interesting experience. I felt at home. I never felt any lesser for not having acted in such a long time,” Yokum said. The theatre department decided to
keep the production
close to the original, although one scene was removed due to content and was replaced by a scene written by Neil Simon titled The Quiet War.
Michelle DeMoss and Alex Gardner perform in The Good Doctor. Photo by Justin Staton.
Due to the renovations
being made to Creek’s main theatre, the technical department had to overcome many difficulties in order to stage the play at Clear Creek Intermediate. Members of the CCTD had to reexamine the placement of the stage as well as adapt to the performance area for a more intimate experience, with the audience ‘living through the scenes’. The CCTD members worked hard for many weeks during and after school, and the students felt very proud after seeing what all they had achieved. “The Good Doctor brought many challenges to our theatre department this year, but that allowed us to get closer to each other and collaborate more. This show has felt like an experience shared between a big family. We had fun overall,” Holly Hough, light co-crew head said. CCTD president London Strickland agrees. “There were a lot of setbacks with construction and having to adjust to a different stage,” Strickland said. “But that only made the company stronger and we overcame the major obstacles and put on a great show.” The Good Doctor was a funny, lighthearted production done exceptionally well, and certainly a testament to the large amount of talent that students at Clear Creek High School have.
Around Creek 10
Creek’s new Culture Club aims to raise awareness
By Alyssa Lobue Teen Interest Editor Throughout the past, students from other cultures have struggled to understand the American education process, but the development of a Creek Culture Club has begun due to the efforts of Mrs. Underwood, Creek’s French teacher, and Mrs. Baca, Creek’s ESL English teacher. Teachers as well as students are able to visibly see the detachment between our school and students from other customs. Kids struggle to be themselves due to bullying at school as well as pressure from family to continue traditions. “Around three or four years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting a Jordanian girl whose name I will keep disclosed. I remember the first time I saw her and she wore her keffiyeh, a gender-neutral headdress worn by Arabs, but sadly there were students questioning and making a scene about her attire,” Mrs. Underwood said. “I watched this girl live a double life for several months, wearing her traditional attire to school to please her family, but changing at school and before she went home. Her father eventually found out which led to her parents divorce and the father disowning his daughter. It was truly a miracle that girl graduated,” She continued. Our school culture club will have the goal to teach students in similar situations to understand the American culture while having pride and respect for their own culture and appreciating both. Once a month, they will have an open potluck to all members and even visitors to make acquaintances and experience the
variety of different meals from cultures. “As someone who is JordanianAmerican, this really warms my heart to know that people care and are eager to learn about other cultures,” Justice Alhmoud said. The first meeting will mostly be a greeting for all the students to experience
culture diversity in our school, and results in more rounded individuals, encouraging our students to see things from different perspectives and helping them to make informed decisions, acquiring transferable skills that will be useful to them and will remain with them for life,” The letter states.
Photo Courtesy of The Catskill Chronicle
the relaxed environment. The students will receive a letter to take home for their parents to read and approve of. “We believe that your participation will help our students be aware and appreciate
There will also be Culture sensitivity questionnaire that the students will fill out. This survey will have questions such as; ‘How do you forgive someone who has seriously hurt you?’, ‘What do you do when a friend does
something you very much disapprove of?’, and ‘What do you have when you have a strong belief?’. The questionnaire will help Underwood and Baca decide exactly how to organize the activities and conversations the students would benefit from. “We want to help them to understand the resources available to them at Creek and be able to use them to benefit their schoolwork,” Mrs. Baca said. Students can also choose to be paired up with a native speaker to help them around the school, with language, homework, and simply to have a friend. “The kindness and warm welcome will go a long way! Creek students also want to expand their knowledge on the worldly cultures these new students came from,” Jude Quaddumi said. The club has plans on going on field trips around town to explain simple places for teens to help them succeed such as driving school and local Houston collages. “It’s very hard for certain cultures to become accustomed to how we work. Even things like showing emotion through body language, and politeness of actions differ from culture to culture,” Baca said. A specific day for the first meeting has yet to be chosen, but students have already been expressing gratitude towards Mrs. Baca and Underwood and her kindness towards every student. “If all goes well, we hope clubs like this will spread throughout all of Clear Creek Independent School District,” Mrs. Underwood said.
Creek JROTC hosts veterans appreciation day By Cody Bassett Reporter
To show appreciation to the prior servicemen of the United States military, the Clear Creek High JROTC helped set up and attended a veterans appreciation day at Ellington Field Air Force Base on October 6. An air of elation surrounded the whole event. All around, veterans reminisced war stories and shared advice with those wishing to enlist and serve. The volunteers showed up at approximately 6:30 AM to begin preparations and to set up. Those who volunteered finished and were relived by 9:00 AM after a breakfast of fruit, bagels, and juice had been served. The entire event lasted until 1:30 PM. Clear Creek JROTC cadets helped set up booths and chairs, and JROTC cadets from other schools assisted at doors and as security. Booths were set up with the hopes of bringing awareness and donations for various causes, organizations, and committees.
The Clear Creek Color Guard was given the honor of showing the servicemen just how much they were appreciated. “I feel that it is necessary to show our appreciation for those who put their lives on the line so we may live the free life that we live today,” JROTC Battalion Commander Allyson Reed said. The Color Guard began the ceremony by marching out carrying the colors, the American flag and the Texas flag. Although the event was near perfection, there are always way to improve these events and ways to ensure that things run smoother. After the national anthem, the pledge of allegiance, the Texas pledge, and the presenting of the colors, the veterans talked about their respect for America and about the sacrifices they made to keep her safe. During their speeches, it was clear to see that they were proud of what they had done. They knew what they were fighting for and were proud to be around to see it all unfold, to see the virtues of
freedom and the democracies instilled within the American people live on. “What made it so special was seeing camaraderie between all the service members gathering together to celebrate their service to our great country,” Reed said. Afterward, the guest speakers took to the stage. Among the topics discussed were wills and inheritances, signing and verification, but the most prominent was the conditions of the VA, or Veterans Administration. The Veterans Administration is a government run veteran benefit system. Medical expenses, disability claims, insurance, etc., are all supposed to be covered by the VA. Unfortunately, many of those in need are still struggling and many more are afraid to seek help. The amount of rejected claims has been estimated to have had a reduction of almost 88% within the last few years. But there is still quite a way to go. Even though the claim rejections have been
reduced, many of those whose claims have been taken up are still awaiting treatment. There are many groups with the intentions of changing the VA and improving conditions for our wounded soldiers. The Clear Creek high JROTC happily and willfully attends any events they can to support the soldiers, both new and old, wounded and unharmed, active and reserve. Although no monetary rewards are ever given, cadets do receive medals, ribbons and recognition in class for their services. JROTC cadets also learn valuable service learning techniques and a certain amount of merits. Upon reaching 350 merits they can purchase a letterman jacket. The Clear Creek High JROTC always does its best to support the community; every military event they participate in is non-profit. From carwashes to parades and appreciation days; they are always ready and willing to help out.
Around Creek 11
Successful Homecoming week 2015 comes to a close By Anna Scheuring Reporter
On October 2, Homecoming week wrapped up. The silly dress up days, creative homecoming proposals, announcement of Homecoming Queen, and the candlelight and homecoming pep rallies all led up to the exciting win for the football team, therefore making the 60th Homecoming for Creek one to remember. The week of homecoming kicked off with a college dress up day. Students filled the hallways wearing the school colors of A&M, UT and various other colleges. On Tuesday, the school spirit continued when students dressed as members of a fraternity. On Wednesday, the Wildcats took a blast to the past dressed in neon colors of the 80’s, poodle skirts of the 50’s, and even old dresses of the 1900’s. On Thursday, students became festive, dressed in red and green for Christmas in October. To end the week, it was ‘Creek Out’. Students proudly wore maroon, and seniors flaunted their overalls. Thanks to Student Council, the dress up days for Homecoming week were fun for all who participated, and it amplified school spirit. Monday night consisted of the annual Candlelight Pep-Rally. The parade, including of the Clear Creek Band, Cavaliers, football team, volleyball team, color guard, wrestling team, cheerleaders, and the 2015 Homecoming court marched through the parking lot, waving to fans and throwing candy to children. The pep-rally, organized by the Student Council, ended with the word CREEK lit up on the visitor-side of the stadium, outlined by the night sky. It was, to say the least, a fantastic beginning of the homecoming festivities. On Friday, the event that students and teachers had been anticipating had finally arrived. The moms of Clear Creek students met at 8 a.m. for a breakfast. Parents of booster clubs begin setting up in the courtyard on that beautiful, crisp
morning for the carnival. Soon after, the smell of fried food filled the air. The Clear Creek Choir provided the music to energize the atmosphere of the carnival, providing its very own talented students to sing the popular songs. Students had the opportunity to take Polaroids with their friends, get temporary tattoos, purchase
Cavalier seniors put on a great hip-hop show, followed by the cheerleader’s well-practiced and well-executed routine. The Student Council acted out a skit, which included our very own principle Mr. Majewski dancing. Thanks to all of the participants, the pep-rally did its job of getting students ready for game night.
Photo by Justin Staton
school spirit wear, and play a variety of games. The carnival had a variety of booths that supported school clubs and local restaurants. Some of the most popular booths were the Clear Creek choir’s fried Oreo booth, the PTA ChickFil-A booth, and the Kona snow cone booth. Students walked around the tightly packed courtyard sporting their mums and garters. Thanks to PALS, the 2015 carnival was a successful way to celebrate homecoming. After the carnival, students flooded into Carlisle Field House for the pep-rally. Each student sat with his or her respective team or his or her grade. The
On Friday evening, the eight homecoming court nominees walked onto the field, escorted by their fathers. Amber Neal was announced Homecoming Queen, and 2006 alumni Candice Davis passed the crown on to Amber. Following the tradition of Clear Creek High School, the crowned Homecoming Queen from 10 years ago crowns the new Homecoming Queen. Candice Davis was a talented volleyball player for the Wildcats, lettering for 3 seasons and leading the team as captain for her junior and senior year. Candice finished her senior season ranked in the top-10 for
Houston area players in both kills and digs, and she was a part of the District 24-5A first team honors for 3 seasons. Candice’s talents in volleyball earned her a scholarship to Southwestern Mississippi. She was named the Most Athletic Female for her 2006 senior class. The Creek alumni left behind a memorable 4 years of high school, and the 2015 Wildcats were honored to meet her on Homecoming night. After the Homecoming Queen was announced, the Clear Creek Wildcat football team entered the field, ready to battle the Clear Falls Knights. The Wildcats quickly responded to a Knight touchdown when senior running back Da’von Smith tied the game. Senior wide receiver Andrew Wiesen then scored on a 33-yard touchdown pass from QB Chase Hildreth to advance the Wildcats to the lead, one they would easily maintain throughout the game. The fans of the Wildcats also aided in the liveliness of the game, packing the stands to cheer on their team. The offense, defense, and the improved special teams played strong throughout the game, delivering a victory to the fans to end a memorable Homecoming week. “Our motto this year is brick by brick, and they’ve bought into it, so we’re just taking things one game at a time. This game is behind us now so we’re looking at it as putting the next brick in the foundation. We’ll evaluate it and talk about it. But if you don’t show up to play every night, somebody will sneak up on you and beat you. So we talk about that all the time,” Head Coach Darrell Warden, said. The 2015 Clear Creek Homecoming will go down in the books as one to remember. For many students experiencing their own high school homecoming for the last time ever, it was a great way to close the final chapter. All of those who contributed to the eventful week of homecoming amplify the motto “Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat”. Until next year, homecoming!
14
Features
Teenager’s homemade clock mistaken for bomb
By Anna Scheuring Reporter
the situation was handled incorrectly. The police and teacher denied that the situation had any ties to race, and they said that Ninth grader Ahmed Mohamed’s day the exact means of procedure would be took an unexpected turn on September 21 taken for any student in the same scenario. due to a creation of his that he brought “We always ask our students and to his Irving, Texas high school. staff to immediately report if they The teen had a background observe any suspicious items and/ in robotics, and had won many or suspicious behavior,” a statement awards in his middle school robotfrom MacArthur reads. “If something ics club. Mohamed had utilized his is out of the ordinary, the information talents to build a homemade alarm should be reported immediately to a clock, which he proudly brought it school administrator and/or the police to MacArthur High School, excited so it can be addressed right away. We to show his engineering teacher. will always take necessary precautions “It was an alarm clock that he made. to protect our students and keep our He wakes up with it most mornings,” school community as safe as possible.” the boy’s father, Mohamed Elhassan Since the incident, Ahmed has reMohamed, said. According to received support from all over the counports, Ahmed showed his engineering try, with many leaders and celebrities teacher the alarm clock. She then told posting their support for the teen. The hashtag #IStandWithAhmed origihim to put it back in his backpack. nated quickly after the incident, and During another class, the alarm clock thousands of people used it in support beeped. Ahmed showed the teacher the clock, and she had a suspicion that of Ahmed. Ahmed was invited via it was a hoax bomb. The teacher reTwitter to visit the headquarters, and ported Ahmed and he was arrested for Facebook founder Mark Zuckerburg stipulation of creating a hoax bomb also sent support by inviting the teenoffense, which in definition is when ager to visit the Facebook main center. an individual “knowingly manufac- Irving MacArthur High School student Ahmed Mohamed, 14, poses for a photo at his home in Irving, Texas, on Tuesday, Ahmed was even invited by President tures, sells, purchases, transports, or pos- Sept. 15, 2015. Mohamed was arrested and interrogated by Irving Police officers on Monday after bringing a homemade Obama to pay a visit to the White House. clock to school. (Vernon Bryant/Dallas Morning News/TNS) sesses a hoax bomb with intent to use”. “Cool clock, Ahmed. Want to Ahmed was then handcuffed and bring it to the White House? We escorted to the police station for question- to my son and they told me, ‘No, not parents are immigrants from Sudan, and should inspire more kids like you to ing. According to CNN, the police knew right now’ because they were taking the family practices the Islamic religion. like science. It’s what makes Ameriafter investigation that the clock was not his fingerprints and asking him ques“My son’s name is Mohamed ca great,” President Obama tweeted. a bomb, but he was arrested nonetheless tions,” Mohammed said about when he -- people just think Muslims are terAhmed and his family have not decided for the reasoning of creating something arrived at the station. “I asked if I could rorists but we are peaceful, we are what further action to take with the school. that caused other people to fear. Ahmed see the thing they were calling a bomb. not that way,” the teen’s father said. Ahmed was invited back to MacArthur was kept in police custody for a couple The police never let me even see it, but After the news broke about how High School, but the teen will not be returnhours while he was questioned. Reports I knew what my son brought to school”. Ahmed was treated, his high school and ing to that school. He hopes to use his skills say that Ahmed responded to the police’s Ahmed was released from the po- the police station received many hate- to become an engineer and inventor one day. questions by restating that his invention lice station after investigation proved ful messages from people who believed “was just a clock”. Ahmed’s father, Mohamed Elhassan, came to the police station after receiving a phone call that his son was in custody for creating a hoax bomb. “I asked if I could talk to or speak
the teen was innocent. He was then expelled from his school for three days. The situation brings rise for the country to inevitably to ask if the incident was racially motivated. Ahmed Mohamed’s
Features
15
Apple announces iOS 9 technology and iPhone 6s By Ava Manuel Reporter
On September 17, Apple released the new iOS 9 software update available to all Apple products, dating all the way back to the iPhone 4 and iPad 2. The update is free of charge to all owners of Apple products, and has made the smartphones more resourceful, along with a smarter virtual assistant and improved battery life. The solution to better battery life is called low power mode. Whenever a phone is running low, rushing to settings to turn off the Wi-Fi or other amenities can be a hassle, but now the update ameliorates that by providing a single switch that will pop up on the screen automatically when the phone is 20% or below. The low power mode can last up to 11 hours by turning down the brightness to 35% and closing apps. Even without the lower power mode on, iOS 9 provides an extra hour of battery life. Not only does the update save battery, it also saves time. Apple understands that time is valuable, and people want to spend less time searching for apps and more time using them. As a result, Siri now suggests points of interest. These areas are found by using the “Nearby” tab bar. This new feature is meant to help the user find the local hot spots, such as food, shopping, gas stations, and bars near them. Not only does it suggest these places, it also navigates and times how long it will take the user to reach the desired destination. Anther efficient way the update saves time is by launching the Music app automatically when the user plugs in their earphones. The iOS 9 can also set the song to one that the user is most likely to listen to at that time of day. Although the two primary changes to the software were battery life and time sav-
ing, Apple has also added small, exciting these photos. Also, circular contact elements to their products. The update in- thumbnails of the contact’s face, or cludes a dedicated selfie and screenshot fold- other picture was added in Messages. er, in which Apple automatically separates “iOS 9 brings this feature to all the p i c iPhone tures models based so now on how you can they put a face were to the taken. name,” T h e Oscar device R a y c a n mundo, detect the Staff whethWriter er the of Macuser is world taking states. p i c Also, tures note that o n on the front iPad pro, or back iPad Air cam2, or iPad era. It m i n i is im4, the portant update t h a t gives you people an extra a r e feature aware called t h a t S p l i t Apple View. does T h i s not use g i v e s face you the detecability to t i o n use two CEO Tim Cook introduces the iPhone 6S and iPhone 6 Plus S during a media s o f t - Apple apps at event at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco on Wednesday, Sept. 9, ware one time. 2015. (Karl Mondon/Bay Area News Group/TNS) to sort For
online shoppers, the update can make their purchases easier by using Apple Pay. Stores such as JCPenny, Kohl’s, Walgreens, and BJ’s Wholesale Club have Rewards programs and special benefits for people who use Apple Pay. For the first time, Apple Pay can be accepted outside the U.S. They will start with the United Kingdom, where 250,000 locations await. Also Apple has announced that they will introduce the new credit card reader called The Square. This device strives to make Apple Pay more accepted among smaller businesses. The new Newstand app is now changed to fit the user’s interests. People can pick and choose the articles they want to read about, and their iPhone will alter their news feed according to their preferences. Other changes include a now six-digit passcode and, with iOS 9.1, over 150 new emojis. This wasn’t the only display function was adjusted in the update. Apple made their keyboard clearer by adding a Shift key. The key makes it easier to see whether or not the caps lock is turned off when the entire keyboard displays the letters in uppercase or lowercase. At Apple’s annual media event in San Francisco this September, the new iPhone 6s and 6s Plus were also announced. The slogan of the new phone’s sale was “the only thing that’s changed is everything” and, true to the catchphrase, many new features have been added. 3D Touch is by far the biggest addition, which senses how deeply a user presses the display, allowing for real-time feedback in the form of subtle taps. A more advanced camera that is now equipped to take 4K video and an enhanced front camera is also available.
Record South Carolina rains bring damaging flood By Lindsey Loechel Reporter
Deadly flooding in South Carolina caused by record amounts of rain has left fourteen citizens dead. Although the rain let up after a few days, the flooding persisted. Authorities prompted citizens of South Carolina to stay home from work on October 5 to avoid danger. Dozens of roads and miles of intestate highways were closed on October 5 due to excessive flooding. The South Carolina area hit the hardest with the downpour stretches from the state’s capital of Columbia, located in the middle of the state, all the way to the east coast, from Georgetown down to Charleston. Sunday, October 4 was recorded as the rainiest day in Columbia’s history, according to the National Weather Service, leaving most of the state and surrounding areas drenched by more than two feet of rainfall. At least six hundred National Guardsmen, eleven aircraft, and eight Swift Water Rescue teams worked to rescue citizens from dangerous floodwaters over the weekend. Over 200 water rescues were carried out between Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, according to the state Emergency Management Division. State officials described it as a 1,000year storm, referring to weather terminology describing a storm with a 1 – in - 1,000
chance of happening in any given year. “This is an incident we’ve never dealt with before,” South Carolina governor Nikki Haley said.
“It’s all the result of a weather that funneled tropical moisture into South Carolina and refused to move on,” CNN meteorologist Chad Myers said, adding, “some rivers
D e - DNR officer Brett Irvin and Lexington Co. Deputy Dan Rusinyak carry June may not crest spite the Loch to dry land after she was rescued from her home in the Pine Glen subdi- for possibly fact that vision off of Tram road on Oct. 5, 2015 in the St. Andrews area of Columbia, two weeks.” S o u t h S.C. Residents are having to abandon their homes because of flooding coinWhile ciding with release of water from the dam. (Tim Dominick/The State/TNS) Carolina they made is not used to such extreme weather condi- progress in the area of successful rescues, tions, the state was well prepared, since they the state of South Carolina is struggling recieved notice well ahed of time. The state to begin rebuilding their businesses and was able to warn citizens, saving the lives of homes. Meteorologists are studying the those who were able to evacuate in advance. weather patterns involved with this dangerThe extensive amount of rain- ous rainfall and the flooding it has caused. fall and flooding made history, leav“I have never seen rainfall this intense, ing many meteorologists stunned. in this large of an area and during this short
of a period in absence of direct impact from a tropical storm or hurricane.” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Elliot Abrams said. The mass amounts of rainfall were the result of a strengthening non-tropical storm in the South, a strong area of high pressure in Canada, and converging tropical moisture from Hurricane Joaquin. Among those who have perished due to the storm is Timothy Wayne Gibson, age 45. He was killed by quick-rising floodwaters while overseeing traffic in Columbia, according to the South Carolina Department of Transportation. One person died when a tree fell onto Interstate 95 and struck their vehicle, killing the passenger. “Pretty much everyone down here has lost everything…our vehicles, our clothes, everything.” Columbia resident Angela Williams said, adding, “what I got on my body is what we have.” In addition to the state’s efforts to assist and protect their citizens, help is being offered from all over the nation. On October 3, President Barack Obama signed a statewide emergency declaration retroactive to Thursday, authorizing federal aid in anticipation of more rain. Despite the difficult situation they are in, the citizens continue to have a positive outlook. “The best thing is that we still have our lives,” Williams said.
16 Teen interest
Maddie and Tae release debut album Start Here By Emily Berthiaume Editor-in-Chief Maddie and Tae, an up-and-coming female country duo best known for their hit single Girl in a Country Song, recently released their debut album, Start Here. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard Country Chart and number seven overall, and received positive reviews from critics. The young duo – Maddie Marlow, 19, and Tae Dye, 20, – first broke onto the scene in the summer of 2014 when they released Girl in a Country Song to instant success. The song, which parodies the popular theme of “bro-country” music, led to a conversation about the role of women in today’s country music and reached number one on the Country Airplay chart. USAToday called the song a “feminist rallying cry”, because it calls out the men of today’s country music who tend to demean women to nothing more than short-shorts and bikini tops who like to climb into pick-up trucks. However, Maddie and Tae view their success differently. “I would not say that,” the duo responded when asked if they were feminists. “You know, the whole thing is just us wanting to come at this from a different perspective and making sure that the girl in these songs these guys are singing about gets a voice, ’cause you very rarely ever hear from her.” They seemed eager to mend any possible hurt feelings by the song, and clarify their intentions. “We love all the guys that we poked fun at in Girl in a Country Song”, Marlow said. “But there’s just been such a lack of female perspective and female storytelling. So
we’re just happy that the playing field’s a little more even now, and you’re getting the guy’s perspective and the girl’s perspective. It’s not just one-sided like it used to be.” The girls followed their massively successful first single with Fly, another song off Start Here. The acoustic ballad is less sassy and more introspective, and while the lyrics
terrifying experience of leaving home and falling in love, and After the Storm Blows Through seeks to comfort a grieving friend. The duo also sings about young love in an innocent, first-kiss way, as wishful Right Here, Right Now demonstrates. No Place Like You, a travel anthem about making your way across America, features
Taylor Dye, left, and Madison Marlow of Maddie & Tae perform on the Mane Stage during the final day of the Stagecoach Country Music Festival on Sunday, April 26, 2015, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/TNS)
may not be as clever, they are just as solid. Overall, the album is a mix of upbeat anthems and heartfelt ballads, all while exploring the experiences of early adulthood. For example, Downside of Growing Up, the final song on the album, chronicles the often-
the lyric “Sometimes I wish I could close my eyes and click my shoes/cause there’s no place like you.” The slower Smoke discusses the frustration of a love gone wrong, as Maddie and Tae sing, “Every time I reach out, I find there ain’t noth-
ing to hold/Boy you’re just like smoke.” Their signature sass, in the style of Girl, is showcased effectively on bootstomping, revenge-seeking Your Side of Town and smug Sierra. While Town insists on permanent separation from a former lover, Sierra is a classic bad-mouthing expose of a school bully that warns her of the danger of bad karma, complete with curse words clearly implied. Shut Up and Fish is one of the most memorable tracks of the album, as it tells the story of a first date gone wrong when the boy has more on his mind than just fish. It flips a classic country music script again, just like in Girl, demonstrating their signature clever lyrics and excellent story telling. Rolling Stone gave the album three and a half stars, and said that the album “veers from topical sass, instead painting a picture of powerfully confessional, youthful, feminine solidarity.” Billboard awarded the album four stars, stating that it is “not all sass… and decidedly reflective bent with effervescent acoustic textures.” SPIN said, “With their subtle feminism and downto-earth humor, Maddie & Tae often feel like makeshift mentors, providing aspirational advice wrapped in country tropes,” while NPR agreed that “the production is bright and ready for the radio, but the songs always return to a tone of reflection and gently nurtured hope.” Overall, the album is decidedly light and hopeful, even when discussing more serious subjects. However, Marlow insists, “it’s not just love and boys and rainbows and that kind of stuff. It’s deeper and it’s meaningful, and that’s something that we try to thread through every single song that we write.”
Teen interest
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One Direction releases Houston filmed music video and teasing everyone the entire time. Louis was hilarious with Liam and Niall, he and Liam were definitely the most talkative. One Direction, a global boy band Harry seemed to keep to himself the most based in London, chose to have their new of the four. He seemed pretty much like music video for the single Drag Me Down a free thinker, often walking ahead of the filmed at The Johnson Space group,” Loechel said. Center. The buildings used Few people are aware were Building 9 Space Vehicle that Horan actually came Mockup Facility, Robotics Lab, to visit JSC during August and Building 49 Vibration and of 2014 alone. He came Acoustics Test Facility. This is for a tour of the space where all of the filming with the center, and some news props and Orion mockup scenes sources state that he loves occurred. They also filmed all to learn about NASA and the vocal scenes at Ellington space overall. This leads Field, an airport used by the pufans to believe that Niall’s bic and military. When watchvisit was the inspiration of ing the video, you can slightly the exploration of space notice the cut differences. The theme behind the Drag production film shoot only Me Down music video. The JSC SWAT team took two days, one day at Elmembers provided selington Field and one at JSC. curity for the boys while It has been confirmed by Jeff Loechel, current NASA working. Only a select employee and witness of the few people could enter 2-day film shoot, that all props the filming areas and they used for the music video were were required to have spereal National Aeronautics cial wrist bands worn at and Space Administration, or all times. It was kept seNASA, hardware. The props cret and the people workused were T-38 Jets, Roboing at NASA could not naut, prototype Lunar and Mars disclose any information Rovers, and training and exeruntil the date of the video cise equipment that had been release to avoid crowds. used by astronauts. The or“Did you know JSC has ange suits worn by Harry Styles, Niall a fully trained SWAT team?! You don’t One Direction performs at Soldier Field in Chicago on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2015. (Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune/TNS Horan, Liam Payne, and Louis Tomlinmess with those guys!” Loechel said. son were real flight training suits as well. Although production time was so “It was great to see how the producLoechel continued by de“The smoke or fog for the build- short, crew from Fulwell 73 came to scribing each of the boy’s person- tion mixed the band with a story about ing 49 scene was used to make the lights scout locations to film and plan scenes alities and attitudes while on set. real life space exploration soon to come, show up better and to screen out the ele- weeks before the band showed up. The “Niall seemed to be fairly quiet, but using Orion’s spacecraft. The song’s vator floor. It kind of helped give off the crew and band worked days as long as laughed quite a bit. Liam was cutting up pretty great too!,” Loechel continued.
By Alyssa Lobue Teen Interest Editor
whole thought of larger than life heros,” Jeff Loechel, laboratory manager, said. “The film crew used our industrial looking freight elevator because they wanted something that looked believable as a launch gantry,” Loechel continued.
13 hours but were able to stay confident and happy through the dragging days. “The band members were pleasant, you could tell they were all pretty excited to be at NASA. All four were very spirited, full of energy and fun,” he said.
18 Teen Interest American Horror Story premieres fifth season, Hotel By Alyssa Lobue Teen Interest Editor
American Horror Story’s fifth season, Hotel, premiered on October 7 on FX. The new season has been said to be extremely horrific with new faces and faces the audience has grown to love, or fear. “The upcoming season that we are doing has been much more horror based. It’s much darker. It’s about a theme that’s very close to my heart. It will be straight horror for the upcoming year,” creator Ryan Murphy said. Multiple trailers have been released and many of them showcase the new lead actress, Lady Gaga. In one of them, the newest version of the theme song is played, which was remade for more enchanting and disturbing entrance. Some of the new hotel characters, like Lady Gaga’s character, Countess Elizabeth, are featured. Countess Elizabeth has been described as ‘an ancient blood virus’. She runs Hotel Cortez and has 10 vampire- like children. “It’s not exactly vampires. There’s no capes or fangs. She’s sort of a wealthy social doyenne who’s consumed with art, fashion, and people. She has a nefarious plan revealed in the first episode,” Ryan Murphy. Lady Gaga, one of the newest actresses, has told reporters she has always embraced the shows graphic, gruesome
content of the show, even from the start. “It’s been so so fun. Everyone on this cast has been really open and available to me no matter what. I am able to be myself so much more than I feel like I have for the past several years. I love being a
Bates. Bates will come back to play as Iris, a bitter hotel concierge with a lifetime grudge against Hypodermic Sally, Sarah Paulson. Evan Peters has received the role of Mr. March, whose contribution to the show has yet to be discovered.
Lady Gaga as the Countess in “American Horror Story: Hotel.” (Frank Ockenfels/FX/TNS)
part of someone else’s vision. It’s really so exhilarating,” Lady Gaga said. Several familiar faces are coming back to the show as well, such as Kathy
“I think this is Evan’s best role we’ve ever done. Usually Evan’s the tortured good guy or the tortured ingénue. But this year we decided to go a very different route
and just make him perhaps the worst human being to have ever lived,” Murphy said. Lily Rabe will be playing Aileen Wuornos, a serial killer whose story was brought to the big screen in the acclaimed 2003 drama Monster. One of the most mysterious characters revealed yet has been “The Addiction”, who has yet to have a character analysis or explanation. One of the most difficult changes was the departure of Jessica Lange, who has had lead roles in Murder House, Asylum, Coven, and Freakshow. “Yes, I’m done. We’ve had a great run here. I have absolutely loved doing these four characters that I have had the opportunity to play. In all the madness, I’ve loved the writers, my actors, Ryan and the whole, I mean, insanity of it, shooting here, shooting in New Orleans, the stories, everything,” Lange said. “I feel like maybe then it’s time to start something brand new in life. I just don’t want to keep doing what I’ve been doing. Not that I don’t love it because I do. It’s been one of the great passions in my life, but I also feel like I want to try something I’ve never done before,” she continued. Ryan Murphy has regarded Lange’s leave with optimism, showing his faith for a speedy return. “She’ll be back- She’s not gone forever. She really does want to come back, but we have to come up with something first,” Murphy said.
The Martian movie adaption becomes box-office hit By Anna Scheuring Reporter
The sci-fi drama The Martian, based on the 2011 novel of the same name by Andy Weir, hit the theatres on October 2nd. The film takes place in the future in a world where space travel to Mars is commonplace. While the crew of the Ares III is researching Mars, the planet is hit with a severe Martian storm, forcing the astronauts to leave the planet in a hurry. The crew decides to leave missing crewmember Mark Whatney, played by Matt Damon, behind, and he is presumed dead. Whatney surprisingly survives and, left alone on the deserted planet, is forced to find ways of survival on the cold, stormy planet. With few supplies, Whatney adapts to Mars and finds a way to contact NASA. The world unites in order to bring Mark Whatney home. With witty humor and cunning demeanor, Whatney’s survival tactics make The Martian an exciting film to watch. The Martian is a star studded film featuring Academy Award winning actor Matt Damon, Golden Globe winning actress Jessica Chastain, and other stars such as Kristen Wiig, Jeff Daniels, Michael Peña, and Sean Bean. On opening week, The Martian made $54,308,575, ranking #1 in 3,831 the-
atres for almost 2 weeks. Since its release to the big screen, the film has made a worldwide gross of $248,796,941. The Martian had a higher gross on opening weekend of
other humorous change from the book to the movie was the decrease of cuss words that author Andy Weir included in his novel. “I guess there’s only so many
45.4%, outMatt Damon in “The Martian.” (20th Century Fox) cuss words doing Interyou can say stellar, which had an opening weekend gross in a PG-13-rated movie,” Weir joked. of 25.3%, according to Box Office Mojo. Despite some changes, most Just like every book to film installments, agree that The Martian keeps the majority there were a couple changes to the movie. of the popular science-heavy theme intact. The journey from the Hab to the Ares IV The Martian had high expectations folMAV is different in the movie, changed for lowing the success of a movies with a time purposes. The subtle romance between related theme, such as Interstellar and two crew members was more distinct in the Gravity. The Martian earned 8.3 stars out novel than in the movie, surprisingly. An- of 10 total stars while Interstellar earned
8.7 stars out of 10 total. The Martian received 93% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes and 81% on Metacritic from critics. “If you had to boil Ridley Scott’s The Martian down to five words, you could do worse than this: ‘Matt Damon lost in space.’ Thankfully, I have more room than that. And I’m glad I do, because Scott’s sci-fi adventure is the kind of film you leave the theater itching to tell your friends to see. Like Apollo 13 and Gravity, it turns science and problem solving into an edge-of-your-seat experience,” said Entertainment Weekly. “Imagine George Clooney’s wisecracking character from Gravity fetching up on Mars, only to be the subject of an Apollo 13-style rescue mission, and you get a sense of what part of fictional outer space The Martian occupies. Refreshingly irreverent but unapologetically worshipful when it comes to honoring real-life science, this bracing riff on exploration, gumption and ingenuity shows what Big Movies can do when they resist taking themselves too seriously,” said Ann Hornaday of The Washington Post. To say the least, The Martian made the audience feel inspired and excited. It was the perfect combination of science and adventure, and is definitely worth the watch.
teen Interest 19
Andy Samburg hosts the 2015 Emmy Awards By Emily Ruthven Around Creek Editor
The Emmy Awards is consistently one of the most viewed television events every year, and this year’s 67th show upheld that standard on at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. Andy Samberg, this year’s host, delivered an overall satisfactory performance, according to USA Today reporter Robert Bianco. Samberg is known to have two sides, “the sometimes gratingly smug performer who broke out on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, or the assured, charming and generous actor who has garnered critical acclaim on Fox’s Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Bianco said. Fortunately, the Brooklyn NineNine Samberg showed up as host, which allowed him to, “keep the Emmys moving nicely,” according to Bianco. For the opening of the show, Samberg stuck to what he knew best. After years of musical shorts on Saturday Night Live, Samberg channeled the same talent and opened with a musical number that mocked the volume of the popularity of television shows such as Game of Thrones. Samberg kept the show going with lighthearted jokes about stars such as Bill Cosby, Donald Trump and Jane Lynch. In short, the Emmy Awards celebrate and reward excellence in the realm of television and general media. They are awarded from three organizations: the Television Academy, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, and the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The number of nominees usually ranges from five to six candidates. The overwhelming theme for this year’s show was HBO, especially Game of Thrones. Entertainment Weekly writer James
Hibberd said, “Game of Thrones is the kings of the Emmys.” The cult hit show was
series also was also awarded for its writers, direction and actors. Peter Dinkladge
Viola Davis backstage at the 67th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/TNS)
awarded Outstanding Drama Series. The
won Outstanding Supporting Actor, David
Benioff and Dan Weiss were awarded for their Outstanding Writing and David Nutter was awarded for his direction of the show. In doing this, Game of Thrones broke the long held record held by The West Wing, taking home more awards in one year, more than any other show on television. The award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie went to Richard Jenkins from Olive Kitteradge. The same award for actresses was given to Frances McDormand from the same show, Olive Kitteridge. Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series was awarded to Jefery Tambor from Transparent and the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series was awarded to Julia Louis-Dreyfus from the television show Veep. Jon Hamm from Mad Men was awarded an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. One of the most memorable moments of the show occurred when two-time Tony winner and two-time Oscar winner Viola Davis became the first African American female to be awarded Outstanding Lead Actress in a Lead Drama for her role as Annalise Keating in the popular television show How to Get Away with Murder. Her speech addressed the lack of racial diversity in strong leading roles in Hollywood movies and television shows. “In my mind, I see a line,” Davis said. “And over that line, I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful white women with their arms stretched out to me, over that line. But I can’t seem to get there no how. I can’t seem to get over that line.” She then mentioned several African American women that have helped break the racial wall over the years, such as Harriet Tubman. She then closed with, “Thank you for taking us over that line. Thank you to the Television Academy. Thank you.”
Matilda the Musical comes to Houston to perform By Emily Berthaiume Editor-in-Chief
Tony award winning show Matilda the Musical came to the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston from October 6-18 as part of its nation-wide tour. The musical, which has run on Broadway since March 2013, began its touring shows in May 2015, complete with a new touring cast. Matilda, originally a book by Roald Dahl, is the story of an “extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life… armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny,” according to Broadway.org. The titular character is a brilliant and precocious young girl who has been born into an extremely unfair situation, and fights back against her parents and principal to change her life. Dennis Kelly wrote the book and Tim Minchin the music and lyrics for the musical show, which originally debuted on West End in London and was a Royal Shakespeare Company production. The cast of the U.S. touring production was impressively talented, especially the young actors and actresses. Three young girls rotate playing Matilda, and Gabby Gutierrez was slated to play the titular character on October 8. Gutierrez is the first-ever Filipino actress to play Matilda, and did so wonderfully. Her charm and beautiful singing voice, accompanied with her faux British accent, made for an adorable performance.
T h e rest of the cast includes a very talented child chorus that plays the rest of the students at Crunchem Hall, as well as an adult chorus. Matilda’s greedy father and materialistic mother were played by Quinn Mattfeld and Cassie Silva, respectively. Bryce Ryness, a man, played Miss Trunchbull, the evil headmistress, which led to many laughs as he
Gabby Gutierrez as Matilda Wormwood. Photo by Joan Marcus.
pranced around the stage. The role of Miss Honey, M a t i l d a ’s kind-hearted teacher, was played by Jennifer Blood. The set consisted largely of Scrabbleesque block letters arranged in various patterns to occasionally spell words, such as “story” and “alphabet”. Reading and spelling were a vital theme throughout the show, because Matilda learns to read at a very young age
and tells a fantastical story throughout the play which contributes to the main plot. One of the best dance numbers is entitled School Song and revolves around older students telling the brand new kids what their time at school will be like. Each line they sing starts with the next letter of the alphabet, and the block letters appear in fence of the school as they sing them. At the end of the show, Miss Trunchbull declares a spelling bee, the loser of which must go to The Chokey, and the children sing Revolting Children, in which they repeatedly spell out the word “revolting”. When I Grow Up is another one of the best musical numbers. The choreography involves the child and adult chorus swinging on swings that are hung from the ceiling of the stage as they sing about what their life will be like when they are older. Naughty, Matilda’s solo, is equally haunting and heartbreaking, and is sung beautifully by the little girl. When the musical first opened on Broadway, it received rave reviews, with TIME Magazine calling it “the best musical since The Lion King.” New York Post called Matilda “a treat for ears and eyes, brain and heart… the glorious Matilda has it all.” The touring show certainly does justice to the original Broadway musical, showcasing amazing talent and moving, bright musical numbers alongside the universal truth that you can change your destiny and stand up for what you believe in.
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From how it’s made to how to throw it, everything you need to know about the football
A spiraling football pass is a thing of beauty, and learning to throw one takes long practice, but these are the basic skills:
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American football evolved from Ivy League schools. Princeton and Rutgers played the first intercollegiate soccer-like game in 1869, where the ball could be advanced only by kicking or batting it with the feet, hands, head or sides. During the next seven years, rugby became popular with major eastern schools and modern football developed from both.
Grip
• Spread fingers lightly across laces • Thumb, forefinger form “U” holding end of ball • Grip firmly with thumb, middle and ring fingers
2 Stance
• Feet under hips; side opposite throwing arm faces target • Cup ball lightly with non-throwing hand • Hold legs and trunk steady and focus on target
3
Start throw
• Turn hips, then torso, then shoulders toward target • Cock ball behind your ear, with its nose pointed behind you
MANFRED SCHOTTEN ANTIQUES
Early 1800s: A round ball was made of heavy canvas saturated with rubber.
ST. FAGAN MUSEUM PHOTO
ANTIQUE ATHLETES PHOTO
Early 1870s: The leather rugby ball was used, making it easier to carry because running with the ball was allowed.
NFL PHOTO
1940s to present: Pointier ends helped establish the passing game and made it easier to tuck the ball away when running.
Early 1890s to 1930s: With the forward pass introduced in 1906, the easier-to-throw “watermelon” ball became popular.
Wilson’s Ada, Ohio, facility is the only football manufacturing plant in the United States. It produces more than a million handmade footballs every year. The hour-and-a-half process involves about 50 steps.
2
1
The logos are stamped on two of the four panels using oil-based paint.
Stencil
Cutting machine
Four equal football shapes are cut from one piece of cowhide. Each set is trimmed to the same thickness and weight to meet official specifications.
Wilson logo
3
A synthetic lining is sewn into the underside of each panel to help the ball retain its shape and to protect an air bladder that will be inserted.
Specially tanned, water-resistant leather
Panels are sewn together inside-out on a heavy-duty machine.
Synthetic lining
Holes for laces are punched; extra lining is added around the air valve ring and lace holes.
4 End and release
• Move arm overhead; forearm crosses over elbow as hand extends in direction of throw • Let go with thumb so fingertips can make ball spiral
4
The football is manually turned rightside out. There are 21 men at the factory who can perform the task, which requires strength and dexterity. Each turner is equipped with a steam box to warm and soften the leather as well as a vertical steel bar to provide leverage.
Wrist-flick: Crucial to good spiral; turn hand and wrist to increase spin; palm faces ground as you follow through SOURCE: MEN’S FITNESS, TNS
PAUL TRAP/TNS
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A three-ply polyurethane bladder is inserted through the opening in the lace area, providing air retention and moisture control.
Bladder
To complete a long pass, a quarterback must control the ball’s spin, angle of attack, trajectory and velocity.
Like an airplane wing, ball gains lift from lowpressure airflow over its top.
The ball must spin around its axis; air passing over the football causes drag. If the ball wobbles, extra drag will slow it. The faster it is thrown, the lower the drag. For maximum distance, the axis of a football should point 10° above its line of flight.
The ball is pre-laced with a heavy linen thread. Like turning, lacing is an accomplished skill. Only the most experienced lacers handle the NFL footballs.
Lift
Lacing slows spin, causes drag and shifts the center of gravity
Low pressure zone
Spin axis intersects center of gravity
Spin axis
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Airflow separation zone
� FAST FACT: Each of the balls produced for the Super Bowl is used at least once during the game and is specially marked for authenticity. 10° angle of attack
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The football is inflated with 80 pounds of pressure to stretch the linings and leather, straighten the seams and identify potential bladder problems.
Flight path High pressure zone
Weight If spin and angle are correct, the pass remains stable throughout its flight. A pass with a high trajectory and too large an angle of attack will wobble in the late stages of flight. SOURCES: NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, POPULAR SCIENCE, TNS
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Before a final check, the ball is reinflated with 150 pounds of pressure for a minute. The pressure is then reduced to the standard 13 pounds.
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The balls are partially deflated and double laced with gridcord — cotton thread covered with vinyl — that won’t tear or crack under adverse weather conditions.
HIRAM HENRIQUEZ/SOUTH FLORIDA SUN-SENTINEL
The ball is subjected to stringent quality-control checks. During the final inspection, each ball must meet standards in appearance, stitching, length, width, shape, weight and end seams.
SOURCES: HOWSTUFFWORKS; MANFRED SCHOTTEN ANTIQUES; JASON YOUNG, PSYCHOMEDIA; ST. FAGAN NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, WALES, ENGLAND; SUPERBOWL.COM; WILSON
THE FOOTBALL
TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE
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Before being shipped, the ball is partially deflated to take the strain off the seams. It is placed in a plastic bag to protect the leather from changes in temperature and humidity.
Game balls are inflated to 12.5 to 13.5 pounds before game time (right Patriots?).
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Athlete of the Month:
Tyler Martin Tyler Martin is a cross-country runner. He recently qualified for regionals and plans toto running both track and crosscountry at the University of Incarnate Word. In his free time he enjoys watching TV, chilling out with friends and family and eating.
Sports Astros look back at their best season in years By Troylon Griffin II Managing & Sports Editor
and nine RBI’s. Gomez has also struck out only five times. Both players have helped ensure the Astros’ recent victories. The Astros gained a winning record on September 17 and celebrated one of their biggest victories on October 4 through a wild card berth.
Despite this, the Astros made the playoffs through a narrow margin. They lost 15 out of 22 games down the stretch and The Astros have hit a high point in only got their slot by winning six out of their 2015 season. It’s been ten years eight of their last games. Their final game since the Astros had last gone post-season, before the playoffs was against the New which was in 2005. For a York Yankees with the end team that’s experienced score being 3-0, securing poor seasons for the their place in the playoffs. last few years, the suc Game 1 of the cess is a breath of relief. ALDS (American League Over the previous Division Series), the Astros six seasons, the Astros faced off against the Royhave averaged 98 losses. als on October 8 and won However, they quickly 5-2. Their first game and established themselves recent success in the games as a team to be reckoned seemed to ensure a good with this season. Their chance during the playstreak began on April 18 offs. However, in their next and turned into a 13-1 game against the Royals on tear. They haven’t spent October 9, the Astros lost a game under .500 since 4-5. Not to be deterred, the then. Managed by A. J. Astros secured another win Hinch, the Astros took over the Royals in Game first place in the Ameri3 of the ALDS on October can League West until 11 with the final score sitthe Angels took the title ting at 4-2, Astros. This in the All-Star Break. Not would be the last game the to stay down for long, Astros would win against the Astros reclaimed the the Royals with Games 4 first-place on July 29. and 5, occurring October Two new members The Kansas City Royals celebrate after eliminating the Houston Astros 12 and 14 respectively, resultjoined the team on July with a 7-2 win in Game 5 of the ALDS on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015, ing in a loss. The final score in 30: Mike Fiers and Carlos at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. (Jill Toyoshiba/Kansas City Game 4 was 6-9, Royals, and in Gomez. The act paid off Game 5 it was 2-7, Royals. The Star/TNS) well for the Astros. Fiers Royals will be continuing to the threw the eleventh no-hitter in Astros his“We’ve been in a good place all year,” American League Championship Series. tory and Gomez hit safely in 13 out of 14 player Jed Lowrie said. “We do have The Astros must wait until next seagames. He has had several multi-hit games. a lot of confidence in ourselves. We’re son to get another shot at the playoffs, but Gomez has contributed three home runs pretty good at eliminating distractions.” their record this year offers some hope.
Topgolf announces new Webster location By Troylon Griffin II Managing and Sports Editor
Mariah Pardo Mariah Pardo is a senior volleyball player. In her recent games against Clear Springs and Dickinson, she had 75 assists in her team’s victories. “She’s ranked fifth in her class academically, so she’s taking care of business on the court and off,” Coach Scott Simonds said. “She’s our leader.”
In the golfing world, a new Topgolf facility in Webster will be making its grand opening in November. Construction of the facility is under way at 21401 Gulf Freeway, which will be Topgolf’s third Houston-area location. The previous two were opened in Katy and Spring, Texas earlier this year. “Webster is an ideal destination for a third Topgolf location in the Houston area,” Zach Shor, Real Estate Director of Topgolf said. ‘Webster is a fantastic, fast-growing community with remarkable demographics. Its location allows us to make our mark in the southeastern Houston region and draw in visitors from Clear Lake and Galveston.” The new Webster location will be the company’s eighth Texas location, modeled after the Spring and Katy buildings. Topgolf was founded in 2000 by brothers Steve and Dave Jolliffe. Its headquarters are in Dallas, Texas and has founded locations in both the US and UK. Since then, its popularity has soared, with more than 4 million people attending the centers in 2014. Topgolf has been ranked among the top
15 most popular recreational activities in the area and is the only entertainment center of its kind. The center offers competitive golfing games for people of all ages and skill. The reception to news of this upcoming facility has been positive. “The buzz for Topgolf Webster has
Photo courtesy of Topgolf been fantastic,” Holly Barragan, director of the operations for Topgolf Webster, said. “Webster is a fast-growing community... [and] we can’t wait to open our doors and bring another option for entertainment to the south Houston and Galveston region.” The new facility will be three levels and will include 102 climate controlled hitting bays that can host up to six players at a time. The facility will offer
competitive golfing games for all ages and skill levels. It even utilizes advanced microchips to track every player’s shot. There will be more 230 high-definition flat-screen televisions, pool tables, shuffleboards and Xbox Kinect games for those who simply wish to relax. An extensive food and beverage menu is provided, with most of the food being prepared from scratch daily. The building will also include 3,000 square feet of private event space for private parties and gatherings. There is even a driving range, in which its trench target is 250 yards away, instead of the usual 420. “We’re more than a driving range,” Don Bachman, director of operations at Topgolf Spring, said. “It is a place where you can work on your short game.” Officials at the company expect the Webster location to pull in 450,000 visitors in its first year. They also expect the facility will bring in hundreds of jobs to the area. During September and October, the company plans to fill more than 450 positions. The economic output in the area is expected to exceed $793 million over a 10-year period. The center will be the company’s eighth Texas location and is set to open on November 6, 2015.
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Varsity tennis team soars to District championships By Troylon Griffin II Managing and Sports Editor
Creek’s Varsity Tennis team is currently seven and zero in district. On October 6, the team clinched the District Championship with a 15 match to 4 win over Clear Brook. The team currently ranks three in the Houston area and 15th in the state and is moving onto the playoffs for the 31st time since 1983. The team started off its 2015 fall season with a good preseason, winning two out of three of their games. They succeeded in defeating Dobie High School with a score of 18 to 0 and Cinco Ranch with a score of 11 to 6. The team lost to Seven Lakes High School by just a point in score that ended up being nine to ten. The real season, or district, then began with much success as the team pulverized Clear Springs with a score of 18 to 1. Their victories heightened as they prevented Brazoswood from scoring at all with a score of 19 to 0. Following their sophomore victory, the team combatted Friendswood and won with a score of 17 to 2 and beat Creek rival Clear Lake with a score of 15 to 4. The team found themselves not allowing their next two opponents, Dickinson and Clear Falls, to score at all as the beat them 19 to 0. Their final district game was against Brook in which they were victorious in winning against Clear Brook 15 to 4.
Varsity tennis coach Patrick Marrie attributes this year’s success to the hard work and talent of this year’s players. “[They’re] one of the best groups
Raji and Jessi Nifong as some of the players that truly stand out on the court. Players on the team also highlighted female players Julia Brito,
of players and teams Photo by Aleida Solesky Maya Fraser, Ava I have coached Manuel and Sydney in my 22 years at Creek,” Marrie Albright and male players Safe said. “We have tremendous depth Rhaman and Brian Martin. of talent on both the girls and boys Marrie noted the team’s goal for this year and it has made us very this season: to be regional finalist tough to beat. Both the boys and girls with an opportunity to go to state. teams are very strong this season.” “We were district champions Marrie highlighted Ford last year and made it to the regional Cunningham, Tyler Norman, Michael semifinals,” Marrie said. “We
plan to make it farther this year.” The team recently went to bi-districts, which is the next step in going to regionals. “District is the best in your district and if you’re in the top four of your district, you go to bi-districts, where you get matched up against other schools who are in the top four in their district,” Ava Manuel said, explaining the difference between districts and bi-districts. Despite losing to Clements in the finals with a score of nine to ten, the team has still qualified for regionals due to being one of the top two teams in district. “Our players are still extremely focused on doing extremely well at regionals. They will regroup and be tougher next week,” Coach Marrie said, speaking at the time of the loss. “The loss [was] a bit disappointing but doesn’t overshadow the tremendous effort displayed on the courts tonight.” With the team still advancing forward despite the loss, the team is confident and feeling good about their season. The season has been one of the most successful seasons that Creek’s varsity boys and girls have experienced. “It’s an honor to be a part of such success and I couldn’t be more proud of my team, myself and my coach,” Ava Manuel said. Coach Marrie and his team are proud to have such a great year and look forward to achieving their goal.
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