The Marquee Volume 30 Issue 3

t h e m a rq u e e

m

Volume 30 • Issue 3 • Dec. 11, 2015

Concussions: Changing The Game www

8

Senior reflects on the loss of his mother

20

Cross country girls commit to college top ten program

24

Guide to making an ugly Christmas sweater

Edward S. Marcus High School • 5707 Morriss Road, Flower Mound, TX 75028

The Marquee Staff EDITOR IN CHIEF Rachel Ramirez MANAGING & SPORTS EDITOR Darci Walton DESIGN EDITOR Anna Kate Hutton PHOTO EDITOR Brooke Wyant cover & photo brooke wyant Mitch McKie works to fix the Robotic team’s robot after a minor mechanical error. McKie is a senior and this is his first year in robotics. He drove the robot at the club’s competitions.

CONTENTS

3

ONLINE EDITOR & BUSINESS MANAGER Jacob Fontaine GRAPHICS EDITOR Taryn Welch NEWS & FEATURE EDITOR Sanika Sule ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

News

NEWS BRIEFS A quick run down of hot topics in the media

Katie Burton OPINION EDITOR Cara Crocker REPORTERS

Feature

A NEW JOURNEY Senior commits to West Point Academy on a baseball scholarship

12

10

Bailey Crocker, Andrea Garza, Michelle Mullings PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Fineran, Abby Schlichter, Vanessa Davis DESIGNER Madeline Stanfield ADVISER LaJuana Hale PRINCIPAL

Sports

CAUSING A RACQUET Coach reflects upon the impact tennis has made on his life

Entertainment

SNOW WORRIES How to handle the cold weather this winter season

22

Gary Shafferman The Marquee newsmagazine is a student-generated publication of Marcus High School. It is produced, edited and maintained through the efforts of the school’s advanced journalism class. The Marquee is designed to serve the school and community as a forum for open discussion and student expression.

The Marquee encourages letters to the editor as part of its mission to educate, inform and provide an open forum for debate. All submissions must be signed.

The staff reserves the right to edit all material. Editorials reflect the opinion of the staff, not necessarily that of the administration. Signed columns or reviews represent only the opinion of the author. Advertising rates are $70 per 1/8 of a page, with discounts available. Patron ads are available for $100. Online advertisements are also available. For more information call 469-713-5196.

The Marquee is a standing member of ILPC, TAJE, ATPI, CSPA, NSPA, JEA and Quill and Scroll.

Marquee News Briefs

news

3

story Darci Walton

Cruz overtakes Trump in polls Texas senator Ted Cruz has gained momentum in Iowa and with 24% he is the current front-runner according to a new poll released by Monmouth University. Donald Trump has lost 13 points within the last month, dropping him, to second with 19%.

The new poll also shows Florida senator Marco Rubio in third. Dr. Ben Carson has dropped in the last month to 13%.

Currently, the two most important

issues for voters are terrorism and foreign policy due to the November attacks in Paris.

Of those polled, nearly a third stated that these two factors are driving their decision on who to vote for.

Cruz’s criticism of Obama’s handling of ISIS’ rising threat and his belief that America should not allow Syrian refugees within the borders of the country has made him more appealing to Republican voters.

Updates to The Shops of Highland Village complete under

construction:

Shops of highland village

The multi-million dollar renovation of The Shops of Highland Village is now complete. The project included upgrades to store fronts, reconstructed common areas, new landscaping, public art and new signs throughout The Shops. The most notable change is the removal of the fountain area between Barnes and Nobles and the AMC movie theater.

The Shop’s operating partner,

Trademark Property Co. Announced the construction plans in June. According to The Shops of Highland Village’s press release on their website, Trademark met with many architects, city representatives and an on-site management team to develop a plan to ensure a “best-in-class” shopping experience for the community.

The construction was complete in time for the Our Village Glows tree lighting ceremony on November 20.

Trials begin for police involved in death of Freddy Gray The trials for the six cops involved with the controversial death of Baltimore resident Freddie Gray began November 30 and will continue through March. Gray’s death is controversial because of a cell phone video that was shot of policemen dragging him to the police van after he attempted to run.

The first officer on trial is 26 year old William Porter. Porter is being tried for manslaughter, assault and reckless endangerment, which, according to CNN, are not the most serious charges of the six police officials. He pleaded not guilty.

On April 12, Gray was arrested for

having a switchblade. Gray also had a history of criminal charges related to drugs. During his ride in the van, Gray was not secured by a seatbelt and stated that he was having trouble breathing, pleaded for medical assistance. By the arrival time at the substation Gray was unconscious and died a week later in the hospital. His death was attributed to spinal injuries.

Protests and violence erupted in Baltimore resulting in hundreds of arrests and over 100 injured policemen.

In attempts to calm the city, a curfew was imposed and governor Charlie Baker called in the National Guard. Protesters

DESIGN katie burton & Taryn welch

continue to support Gray as they could be heard inside the courtroom chanting “All night, all day, we’re going to fight for Freddie Gray.”

The van driver Caeser Goodson is the next to be tried. His trial is set to start January 6.

DEc. 11, 2015

4 news

Guide to the conflict and events in Syria story Jacob fontaine

What started it all?

Pro-democracy protests began to emerge in Syria after teenagers who painted revolutionary artwork on a school wall were arrested and tortured in 2011. Syrian security forces opened fire on demonstrators leading to a large wave of opposition.

As protests grew, the amount of civilian fatalities resulting from governmental force also steadily increased. In response to the violence, nationwide protests demanding the resignation of Syria’s President, Bashar al-Assad, began.

By 2012, Syria had descended into a full scale civil war between the Syrian rebels and the those loyal to the Assad regime.

Over time, the conflict has also developed into a sectarian war between the groups representing differing branches of the Islam-

ic State such as ISIS. During the Arab Spring, or the time that many Arabian countries began to protest and overturn oppressive regimes, Syrian protesters criticized Assad and demanded a reinstatement of civil rights. Violent government crackdowns led to more citizen led opposition until many countries began calling for the resignation of Assad. Over 5,000 civilians were killed by the Syrian army and 1,000 by the anti-Assad forces by 2012.

In 2013, chemical weapons used against Syrian rebels by the government were discovered by a UN investigation, causing worldwide outrage. Further investigations showed that both government and rebel forces had engaged in using civilian suffering, such as blocking access to necessities like water.

Should we allow Syrian refugees into the country?

Ty Kelly, AP World History

“The way the current system is flowing, no. The refugees from Syria should not be fast tracked just because they’re from Syria when other countries are having the same type of issues.”

“Yes, they’re refugees because they’re fleeing political turmoil. Should there be trepidation when anyone is allowed in the country? Yes, but it’s not the Syrians’ fault to what’s going on in their country.”

photos vanessa davis

Recent Paris Terrorism

Emily Worland, AP Gov./Psych.

Nov. 13 Paris, France: Multiple terrorist attacks on Paris left over 129 dead. The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) claimed responsibility, referencing France’s participation in the United States led international coalition against the Islamic State.

In addition, France has been a leading supporter of Syrian opposition since the early protests against Syrian president Bashar al-Assad.

In a meeting with French lawmakers in Damascus, Assad commented, “We said, don’t take what is happening in Syria lightly. Unfortunately, European officials did not listen,” referring to France’s involvement in the country’s civil war.

Though the gunmen came from different backgrounds, at least one of the gunmen has been identified as having traveled through the Syrian refugee stream, causing fear of refugees worldwide. mhsmarquee.com

From a Christian view point we should take in the refugees, but we know that in any given group of refugees there’s going to be people that disguise themselves to get into the country. It’s tricky.

Melisande Santos,

Latin

Yes, humanitarian reasons aside Lebanon has been able to take in one million refugees who have grown their economy by 2.5%...Syrian refugees continue to improve the economies of the countries in which they resettle.

Mia Beischer, 11

How is ISIS involved?

Also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, ISIL (or ISIS) has taken control of large portions of Northern and Eastern Syria. Defined as an Islamic extremist group, their fighters are involved in the sectarian war between the Muslims and are also battling rebels, Kurdish groups, and Assad’s loyalist troops.

ISIS desires to establish a worldwide “caliphate,” or state governed by Islamic law. The group also seeks to eradicate obstacles that could prevent the creation of this global Muslim community (such as the bombing of ISIS soldiers).

The US-led coalition has been viewed by ISIS as an omen to the showdown between Muslims and their enemies described in certain Islamic apocalyptic prophecies. The apocalyptic predictions do not come from the Koran, but from a body of literature known as the Hadith, a compilation of sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad by his followers more than a hundred years after his death.

DESIGN rachel ramirez

The Syrian Civil War : Who’s who

news

5

Gulf States

Russia

VS. Syrian Rebels

Syrian Gov. Iran

Turkey

Hezbollah

How is Russia involved?

Russia directly supports President Assad’s regime by supplying weapons to the Syrian military.

In September 2015, Russia began launching air strikes against rebels and members of any terrorist group. Russia’s terrorist policy views all jihadist groups as the potential to be dangerous to their country.

The risk of Syria becoming a proxy war between the United States and Russia grew last month when Turkey and Syrian jihadists used U.S.-built weaponry to shoot down a Russian warplane and rescue helicopter, killing two Russians.

How is the United States involved?

Since September 2014, the United States has been conducting airstrikes on ISIS and other jihadist groups in Syria. In addition, the United States is the leader of the nationwide “Coalition” fighting jihadist groups in the Syrian region. Supporting the main opposition alliance, the U.S. government has provided weapons to rebels.

On a trip to Turkey, Obama told reporters the coalition was made up of 65 nations. According to the Pentagon, the United States had conducted 6,471 of the 8,289 airstrikes against the Islamic State. The United States has also accused President Assad for much of the violence in Syria. A United States led program to train and arm 5,000 Syrian rebels to fight ISIS has ultimately failed given few rebels have even reached the front line.

Who is Assad?

Bashar al-Assad became president of Syria in June of 2000 following the death of his father and former Syria president Bashar Hafez al-Assad. Previously a practicing doctor in London, Bashar had no intentions of becoming a politician. Though

US-led Coalition

his brother Bassel was originally next in line for the presidency, he died in a fatal car crash and Basher was recalled to Syria. After being pushed through the ranks, the Syrian parliament voted to lower the age of presidency for Assad.

Influenced by his Western education and medical practice in London, Bashar was seen as a leader capable of transforming his father’s strictly ruled government into a modern state. In his first year of presidency he promised to reform the corruption of the government and trigger a Syrian technological revolution.

Refugees

Over 4 million Syrians have fled their country since the beginning of the civil war. Neighboring countries have received heavy flows of refugees, most of which are children and women.

Over 5 million Syrians have also been displaced within Syrian borders. By mid-2014, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, estimated that 10.8 million of Syria’s 22 million population was affected by the conflict and in need of humanitarian assistance Republicans in Congress are preparing legislation that threatens to suspend a United States refugee program for Syrians in fear that ISIS members could easily gain access to the country through the refugee stream.

Many state governors have also threatened to block refugee’s entrance including Texas governor Greg Abbott. In a letter written to President Obama, Abbott commented that, “opening our door to [Syrian refugees] irresponsibly exposes our fellow Americans to unacceptable peril.”

Obama opposes the refusal of entry to the refugees. Speaking in the Philippines while attending a regional summit, he commented that, “We are not well served when, in response to a terrorist attack, we descend into fear and panic.”

Sources : The Washington Post, The Daily Telegraph, BBC News, The Daily Telegraph, Terrorism Monitor, Vol. XIII, The Daily Star Newspaper – Lebanon, Biography.com

Sectarian conflict within greater war VS. Shiite: Iran, Alawites (Assad), Hezbollah DESIGN Rachel ramirez

Sunni: ISIS, Gulf States, Rebels

Dec. 11, 2015

6

NEWS

What the state constitutional amendments mean and how they affect Texans story rachel ramirez

On Nov. 3, voters across the state cast their ballots on seven proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. All of the amendments were ratified, and here’s how the new changes affect citizens.

Amendment #1 Proposition one raises the homestead tax exemption from $15,000 to $25,000. One is eligible for a tax exemption when owning the property of his or her residence. When homeowners would previously pay property taxes to local schools, they would take the value of their home, subtract $15,000 from that number and then pay whatever tax percentage from that new value. Taxpayers will now be paying less in property taxes, but many parents are concerned how schools will make up this tax loss.

Amendment #2 This amendment exempts the property of spouses of completely disabled veterans from taxation. If the property owner is the spouse of a totally or 100% disabled veteran, they will not have to pay taxes to local schools based on the value of whatever home they own.

Amendment #3 This largely affects the politicians in the state. This proposition repeals a previous requirement for statewide elected officials. Now, these officials don’t have to reside in Austin while holding office. mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN anna kate hutton & madeline stanfield

NEWS

7

Amendment #4 This one allows professional sports teams to host charitable raffles. This is significant because of several groups’ opposition to gambling. Now, pro sports teams can increase the number of raffles they can hold from the previous two per calendar years.

Amendment #5 This amendment primarily benefits counties with smaller populations and particularly targets infrastructure. Counties that have populations of 7,500 people or less are now able to build and maintain private roads. It should be noted that this is different from funding for public road construction and maintenance.

Amendment #6 With this new proposition, Texas residents can now hunt, fish and harvest wildlife that is “subject to laws that promote wildlife conservation”. This amendment simply serves to protect the right to engage in these practices.

Amendment #7 The final proposition deals with transportation. The state congress allocated a specific fund to address non-tolled highways and transportation-related debt. This money is derived from sales and motor vehicle sales tax.

DESIGN anna kate hutton & madeline stanfield

dec. 11, 2015

Senior’s family comes together after mother’s sudden death

photos submitted Nan and Glen sit on the floor in front of their decorated Christmas tree along with their children. In their family, Christmas is always a big deal. story sanika sule

The warm August sun beat down against the windows as senior Caleb Smoot rode with his sister and dad to Panama City Beach. They were once again returning to visit the Florida beach that they were so familiar with. As Caleb looked out he knew they would be revisiting the same sun, the same sand and the same water. But for the Smoots, nothing was the same.

Caleb drew a card from a stack of Table Topics to fill in the hours during the long car ride. As he answered the prompt on the conversation stimulating card, he did not talk about himself.

Instead, he thought about what his mom, Nan Smoot, would say, like who her favorite school teacher was. As the family moved through the deck, they answered through her perspective to recall the little things that made Nan the person she was.

Still healing from the events earlier this summer, Caleb and his family used this opportunity to come to terms with the loss of mhsmarquee.com

his mother.

“It was, I guess not final closure,” Caleb said. “But it was really nice to go and remember her that way.”

On June 16, just over a week after the last day of school, Nan passed away. Because the summer passed in a whirlwind, the family decided to return to Panama City Beach, one of Nan’s favorite destinations. They recreated their past vacations, making it a point to do all of the things that Nan enjoyed doing.

“My mom was always really attached to the beach,” Lexie said. “She liked the calming soothing sound of the ocean, and the way the sand felt on her feet. Since she always worked a lot it was kind of relaxing for her.”

The family returned to her favorite restaurant and shopped at all the stores she loved in the nearby shopping center.

During their last visit, Nan had heard about a bakery that she was eager to try, but would never have the opportunity to go to, so they made it a priority to visit it. Caleb’s younger sister, Lexie, an eighth grader at Lamar, said that everything they did in remembrance of her mother helped her gain an increased appreciation for the life that Nan lived.

••• As Lexie raced down the soccer field, she was able to distinguish her mother’s voice from the cheers of the entire crowd. Determined to help her daughter the best player she could be, Nan shouted words of encouragement and advised her on how to play the game. Lexie said that even though her mom wasn’t well versed in the rules, her cheers proved to her how much her mom cared.

“She was probably my number one fan,” Lexie said. “She didn’t even know the sport very well, but she was still trying to help me become better at it.”

Even beyond Lexie and Caleb’s activities, Nan was known to be an advocate for others. She would write checks to those who needed it and help foster other people’s careers.

“She was very generous in giving her time and money to people who really needed it,” Caleb said. “She saw needs in our community, and if we could do something to help that person out, we’d do it.

As the school year was winding down and Caleb was preparing to leave for Boys State, he was stunned to hear that his mom had suffered a colon blockage. Though the news was initially shocking, the family soon realized that the blockage was easily treatable, and nothing to worried about.

“We actually thought that even if it was some kind of severe blockage, surgery takes care of that,” Caleb’s father, Glen said. “[It’s] not a big deal, we had been through that more than once.”

When the medicine was not effective, Nan was admitted to hospital, yet doctors still did not perform a surgery. Her initial admission was a sign of hope to the family.

“Getting into the hospital meant at least we’re going to DESIGN taryn welch & madeline stanfield

FEATurE move along here, something’s going to take place, something going to change to make this better,”Glen said. “That’s anyone’s expectation going into the hospital. [But] nothing was being done to actually fix the problem.”

On a Tuesday at 4:00 a.m., Caleb was startled when he received a call from his dad. Glen explained that one of their closest friends would be coming to pick him and Lexie up from their house because their mom had gone into surgery due to further complications. Though the news worried Caleb, he was sure that his mom would pull through because he had seen her health improve throughout the week.

When he arrived at the hospital, Caleb soon realized that Nan was in a much more serious condition than he had previously believed. The pressure in her stomach area pushed back on her heart, causing her aorta to split. After hearing this, Caleb immediately took to social media to ask his friends and family to pray for his mother.

“I absolutely relied on God throughout all of that and I still do today,” Caleb said.

Caleb and his family still had faith that if Nan made it into surgery it would be successful. When a surgeon approached the family, they thought nothing of it. The surgeon then delivered the news that Nan hadn’t made it. Lexie said that she initially thought that the surgeon was making a joke. Only when he repeated it, did the family realized that Nan had passed away.

After absorbing this reality, Lexie reached for the comfort of the multitude of friends and family that had gathered to support them.

“My uncle was there from my dad’s side, and I ran into his arms and I wouldn’t let go,” Lexie said. “I cried and screamed, but after that, after a few minutes of crying, I decided that I needed to be strong for my dad and brother, and I didn’t break down after that.”

The many people that Nan had touched throughout her life

photo vanessa davis The Smoot family holds an old photograph of their late wife and mother, Nan Smoot. Not a day goes by where they don’t miss their mom.

DESIGN taryn welch & madeline stanfield

9

Lexie, Nan, Glen and Caleb Smoot visit Colorado for thier yearly summer vacation. They enjoyed spending time together outdoors.

were also there for her family. Caleb found support among his shooting team members, the team that Nan regularly supported. The week that she passed was the same week that Caleb had his state shoot. Knowing how important the team was to Nan, the shooting team decided to dedicate the weekend to her.

One member of the team even bought small pink ribbons which the entire team wore in support of her. Though the wound from the loss of his mother was still fresh, the comfort that he had received from his team led him to bring his team to second place. Caleb said he was astounded by the amount of support the team gave him, and was deeply touched by their actions.

“The shooting team was specifically amazing,” Caleb said.

“That meant a lot to me because it was like my family.”

••• As Caleb pulls out his phone, he scrolls to a saved voicemail recording. He hears his mom’s voice play through the speakers, reassuring him that everything would be okay.

As she tells him that he does not need to return to the hospital, he is reminded of how she maintained her strength until the end. Though this is the last thing Nan said to him, Caleb continues to hear his mom’s words of guidance.

As time passed, the family has come to terms with the loss of Nan. Glen has had to take charge of things that Nan normally did such as paying bills and keeping schedules, forcing him to reorient his time and energy. Though Nan’s passing was a major loss to their family, Glen said that the only way to move on was to continue to operate as a family.

“Because the family was strong to begin with, we just kept being a family,” Glen said. “We were already doing everything we needed to to, we cared for each other, we loved each other, we looked out for each other.”

Caleb said that though he struggles with it from time to time, he has his friends, family and faith to rely on. He thinks back to times like his days spent at Panama City Beach with his mother, and remembers her kindness and all the values she passed on to him. Though he occasionally feels the pain of his loss, Caleb knows that Nan is still with him.

“People always say I’m so sorry for your loss, but I didn’t lose her,”Caleb said. “I know exactly where she is, and I talk to her almost every day.” dec. 11, 2015

10 F E A T u r E

Senior's future looks ‘all bright’ Academy, known as West Point, offered Albright a baseball contract for his capability he’s shown on the varsity baseball team. This contract would give him the chance to play for the academy’s team for the years he earns his education there. This contract allowed him to skip all of the strenuous admission processes that other applicants had to complete, but he decided not to.

Although Albright was already story cara crocker admitted into West Point for baseball, he didn’t want that to be the sole reason Holding the letter from the United for his entrance into college.

“I did the entire application process States Military Academy in his hands, senior Alex Albright knew that this just like everybody else,” Albright said. document held the results of the last “That was pretty cool. Just knowing that I’m going to go in just like everybody month’s worth of effort.

His days had consisted of writing else even though I get to do something I essays, obtaining recommendation love along with it.”

Albright’s success not only shows on letters, completing fitness assessments and even acquiring a congressional the academic field, but also the playing field. In addition to playing varsity nomination.

Albright knew what this letter said baseball, he’s been on varsity football would not affect his admission into the since sophomore year.

“He works A c a d e m y, hard,” Sherman but it would said. “He does affect how “It was pretty cool, because I didn’t everything you he felt about ask of him and going there. even know I was going to get in He knew he because I applied as a student, rather he produces at a high level.” already was than an athlete.”

The offer accepted for -Alex Albright, 12 from West his baseball Point was career, but he given to was trying for what was important to him. Also being Albright over the summer, and even then he was unsure if he wanted to go accepted for his academics.

Opening the letter, Albright’s eyes to the school. After visiting the school, scanned for those promising words. Albright knew that he wanted to go, but After reading the document, realization he wanted to get in for his academics, as well as his athletics. So he started came to him. He made it. the process that other applicants had ••• The United States Military started by junior year. While others were mhsmarquee.com

given multiple months to complete the application, Albright had to squeeze this process into one month’s time.

During that time, he had to endure many tests that would examine his capability to enter the academy and test the physical demands he was required to enter. He also obtained a Congressional nomination, which he was awarded

by District 26 House Representative

DESIGN anna kate hutton

FEATurE Michael Burgess.

“It was pretty cool, because I didn’t even know I was going to get in because I applied as a student, rather than an athlete,” Albright said.

After the lengthy procedure it takes to complete the application for West Point, getting in is still the most tricky part. The acceptance rate for West Point is 9%, which is lower than some of the Ivy League schools, so baseball coach Jeff Sherman said he is proud of Albright for being chosen to attend the school.

“I think it’s awesome, I think it shows a lot of character of the individual who’s going,” Sherman said.

West Point is renown not only for its academic program, but for its students’ involvement with the Army. Because each student’s education is paid for, the academy calls for students, or cadets, to serve active duty upon graduating.

During the summers at West Point, the officers-in-training are given leadership and teamwork skills that help to further their experience of serving in the Army. Albright said he is honored to have the chance to fulfill this opportunity.

“It’s cool to think that they want me there supporting our country,” Albright said.

Each year around 1,000 cadets graduate out of the 1,300 admitted.

After the academy, students can further their education at another university of their choosing with the rest of their school paid for by funding of the Army.

Albright’s goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon will involve him in many more years of school after the academy. Once he graduates from a medical college, he intends to serve in the Army as a doctor to soldiers.

Albright said this exposure will give him the experience he needs to start his journey in the medical field.

“I’m doing this for a purpose. It’s not just for the now, it’s for what am I going to be in the future,” Albright said.

11

photos vanessa Davis

THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY • The university is located in West Point, New York • It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960

• There are 45 majors, such as foreign language, economics and mechanical engineering

DESIGN taryn welch

dec. 11, 2015

12

FEATurE

Coach dedicates life to tennis, wins awards story Andrea garza

at his first tryout. But the coach gave him a second chance. After more practice and a second tryout, he earned a spot on the team.

“I wasn’t this natural tennis player because I had no formal training, I didn’t have a whole lot of lessons and everything was real raw,” Langdon said.

“I just knew that it was a lot of fun and I enjoyed it.”

He then began training and improving his skills.

Despite all his friends playing football and basketball, he stuck with tennis and played it all throughout his high school career. He ended his high school career with a trip to state.

After high school he continued to excel in tennis as well. As a kid, Langdon recalls people complaining a bDavis o u t their jobs which he photos vanessa found strange. This Tennis coach Kelly Langdon flashes a smile while holding his further cemented his racket at pratice. He has been at Marcus for 15 years. commitment to the sport because it was Tennis coach Kelly Langdon began his sport hitting the ball at the something he loved.

“When I finally did start taking tennis courts by his house when he was in middle school. He didn’t even know lessons, I thought, ‘That’s a pretty much about this sport except that he cool job, I mean there’s a lot more to it in the background than what I saw liked it.

When he was in seventh grade, his being on the court, but you’re outside, school started a tennis team. No one you’re working with people, helping else in his family played tennis, so his people, and it’s a sport that I enjoy,” parents didn’t see the significance of Langdon said.

By the time Langdon taking lessons. Because of his lack of experience, he didn’t make the team was 19 he became an mhsmarquee.com

assistant professional coach in tennis.

Once he reached the age of 25 he was a head professional, the youngest in the Fort Worth area. His commitment to the sport continued to grow.

“Things have always rolled along for me as far as my career and my enjoyment of the sport,” he said.

He has won numerous awards during the 15 years he’s been at Marcus. This is his third year to be named the United States Professional Tennis Association Coach of the year.

He was also named Coach Of The Year by the Dallas Morning News and Fort Worth Star-Telegram in 2004.

But despite earning all these individual awards, he views the awards he’s earned as group efforts. He believes he wouldn’t have been able to do it without the help of his players and assistant tennis coach John Schildt. He takes pride in the fact that his awards recognizes others as well such as the school and administrators.

“I always feel very proud that it’s going to shine a light on that many people,” Langdon said. “At the end of the day there’s a lot of people, coach Schildt, that make that award happen, so I’m always happy that some more people are able to get some accolades out of it also.”

Langdon is a strong believer in giving back to the community. Besides coaching at the school, he gives tennis lessons throughout the Dallas area as well. He pushes his players to help out in the community likewise.

“O utside of the on court stuff

DESIGN jacob fontaine

everybody kind of remembers that we highlight of my career here for sure always make it a special point to help just for him to have that opportunity out others,” Langdon said. “Especially and him excelling too,” Langdon said. the local community.”

Langdon said he has learned that Langdon says he takes pleasure patience has become an important in seeing his players improve their aspect in working with such a diverse skills and enjoy the game. He hopes to group of kids in regards to age, gender, inspire them enough to play tennis for and skill level. He has also learned a lifetime. different coaching styles and has “There’s not a lot of 60 year olds become skillful in figuring out how to playing football but there are plenty of work with players so they can improve.

60 year olds that play tennis,” Langdon However he still feels he has said. “What I do hope that they’ll take room for improvement. Creating a have gotten from me is a joy of the team atmosphere has been a bit of game and improvement of their own a challenge for him. It’s a difficult game.” mentality to generate when tennis Senior Raj Landry is now in his doesn’t involve playing as team. fourth year with Langdon. He says “One of the biggest challenges Langdon has every year is to taught him instill some kind the skills he “He uses his past experiences, of ‘everybody for needs to win not only as a coach but in life, everybody’ mentality,” and reach Langdon said. “Over his goal. He’s to inspire us on and off the the course of 15 years encouraging court.” we’ve done a better job to his players.

- Raj Landry, 12 at that and it definitely “ H e shows in our results uses his past that year in year out experiences, not only as a coach but in we’re one of the top programs in the life, to inspire us on and off the court,” state.”

Landry said. “He makes people feel Despite the few bumps in the road good about their strengths.” that come with coaching tennis and As much as Langdon prompts a loss every once in awhile, Langdon to positively influence his players, he continues to reflect how to give says he is amazed by things they have incentive to his players so they may accomplished on their own. During improve and be the best that they can. the spring, the tennis players miss a lot Junior Kelly Mowery can attest to this. of school playing tournaments, about “He puts a lot of heart into it,” once every week. Yet that doesn’t stop Mowery said. “And he takes a lot of them from excelling in their school time to think about ways to push us work. The program has had a number and how to motivate us and let us of National Merit semi-finalists and grow.” even a salutatorian.

“For these students to commit themselves to a top rank program and then also have the academic success that they have I think is very inspiring,” Langdon said.

His son, Sebastian, was a part of the tennis team. He graduated last year, and is now a Division 1 tennis player at Abilene Christian University.

Langdon defines having had him be a part of team as the most rewarding thing during his time at Marcus.

“That’s single handedly the Langdon gives pointers to JV player, Kevin DESIGN jacob fontaine

Dockendorf so that he can improve his skills.

He lifts his racket anticipating a forehand hit.

FEATurE

13

60 Seconds

Daniel Clifford, 11 @dannycliffy photo & compiled Amanda Fineran

1. If you could be any superhero or villain who would you be and why?

“Antman so I could be super small and like climb through vents and such.”

2. Who would you want your celebrity parents to be?

“I would want my dad to be David Beckham because he’s basically a Greek god and I would want my mom to be Selena Quintanilla.”

3. If you had the power to create a national holiday what would you create?

“National Spaghetti Day because I think spaghetti is underappreciated.”

4. If you could participate in any Olympic event which would you choose?

“Soccer? Is that an Olympic thing?

I’m not athletic. Maybe men’s gymnastics because I am really flexible.”

5. If you could have any animal in the world as a pet which would you choose?

“Prairie dog because when I was in elementary school I went to this science camp and they had a prairie dog named Bailey, and it was fantastic.” dec. 11, 2015

This year the Robotics team had to maneuver the robot through a mine shaft themed obstacle course while it completed predetermined tasks in under three minutes.

On Nov. 14, the team placed in the top third of all teams in the state with their robot named Qi Khan.

DESIGN AND PHOTOS BROOKE WYANT

Senior Conner Dimoush drives the robot with a remote. The team worked on the robot mid-September through November.

Senior Mitch McKie prepares the robot for its next course. There are 15 total members of the team.

“ADS DON’T WORK.” THEY JUST DID. OVER 3,500 PEOPLE WILL SEE THIS AD. CONTACT

MHSMARQUEEAD@GMAIL.COM TO PUT YOUR BUSINESS’ NAME HERE

Headline TAN EVOLUTION

Strong Like Helm

972-691-1453

Strong Like Helm

VERSA SPA SPRAY BUY 2 GET 2 FREE $70.00 (LIGHT) medium/dark $5 extra

$75.00 Get 5 TANS AT ANY LEVEL + 1 VERSA SPRAY TAN SESSION (LIGHT ONLY)

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

214-718-8975

cindy_helm@yahoo.com

Cindy Helm - ACE Certified Personal Trainer NIKE SPARQ Certified Trainer

Get your head out of the game

PHOTO & DESIGN BROOKE WYANT STORY BAILEY CROCKER

The NFL has recently been embroiled in controversy over concussions. With the passing of Frank Gifford, former New York Giants football player, on August 9, the arguments have only heated up. After their deaths multiple

NFL players like Gifford have been diagnosed with CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

This is a disease caused by concussions and has symptoms such as loss of memory and depression. But concussions don’t just happen to the pros­— they happen to high school and middle school athletes too.

Bench the brain?

Experts warn concussions require rigorous treatment

C

Story Bailey Crocker

oncussion specialists keep pushing that the public stays updated about the impact of concussions on the brain and body so that they can be more aware of the dangers.

Concussions are not only caused by head-tohead collision. According to school trainer David Ortmeier, concussions can be caused by a head colliding with anything, like a knee, a sports ball or the ground.

Another trainer, Diana Lichtenstein, said there is no severity rating system for concussions.

“Even if someone has a lot of symptoms they may get over it quicker than someone who didn’t have a whole lot of symptoms,” Lichtenstein said.

Having a concussion means that certain activities are off limits. Because the brain needs rest, doctors recommend eliminating things that are going to stimulate the brain like technology. No physical activity is allowed because of increase of heart rate and increase of blood pressure.

Also, teachers are notified about the student’s restrictions so they can help keep them caught up in school. Junior Laura Meade had concussions in both middle school and high school from soccer. In middle school, after she had gotten her first

concussion, she chose to go back and play and a few days she later hit her head again, which caused a double concussion. Though this was a hard time for her, she said that her teachers worked well with her. But she still found it hard to do school assignments.

“Whenever you get a concussion, you can’t think, you’re not supposed to think,” Meade said. “If you think, you’re not healing.”

Ortmeier said that one of the biggest issues that the trainers at the school face is that doctors have different ways of managing concussions. With new understanding of the severity of concussions, the trainers also see problems with others not treating these injuries seriously enough.

According to Lichtenstein, old coaches or other people who aren’t updated with the concussion rules established in May 2011 might claim the player just has a “ding.”

However, Ortmeier said that coaches are aware now more than any time before about symptoms. This is why students feel more confident about speaking out about their concussions, even if it does mean missing out on a few games.

“The competitive [athletes] are ones that won’t play if they recognize it’s serious enough,” Ortmeier said.

Though her concussions have now passed, Meade still has to deal with side effects almost every day. At the beginning of

Symptoms of a concussion

Drowsiness mhsmarquee.com

Nausea

Dizziness Design Katie Burton

in-depth her healing process, she would get a migraine every day but eventually they lessened. However, she still has to live with the fact that she can no longer play contact sports. To Meade, as the years have gone, she’s learned to cope with it.

“The news of not being able to play soccer anymore or any contact sports was very devastating just because I wanted to continue,” Meade said.

Many people believe that there is a rule that states that if an athlete has more than three concussions, they can no longer continue to play the sport. Ortmeier said that no governing body or the UIL has come out and said this is a rule. Instead, there are guidelines that are better understood by doctors about how many concussions they should allow.

According to Lichtenstein, it’s still up to the doctor to recommend if the student should or shouldn’t continue to play.

“It’s still individual to that physician how they want to handle it,” Lichtenstein said.

No one can be forced out of a sport and that is why Meade believes that it is all up to the athlete and his or her family whether they should continue to play the sport after a concussion.

“I do agree with my doctor that if you do get a concussion you should be wary of playing any more contact sports,” Meade said.

Out of

17

96% Of deceased former NFL players have been diagnosed with the brain disease, CTE. The disease causes memory loss, impaired judgement and a gradual onset of dementia.

subjects that played 165 tested college football 131 were positive for CTE.

statistics compiled by Cara Crocker

Source: Concussion Legacy Foundation

photos Amanda Fineran

W

E A BDRK FX GS

Slurred Speech Design Katie Burton

Delayed Responses

Light Sensitivity Dec. 11, 2015

18 i n - d e p t h

After the injuries Junior gives up soccer for tennis after concussions Story Michelle Mullings

she found her true passion.

“I liked soccer the best, no matter what,” Claire said.

She started playing soccer to follow in

Claire said.

Claire remained committed to soccer, joining increasingly difficult oung Claire Gaber was tottering teams to challenge herself. When she across the soccer field when she was 10, she tried out for the Olympic noticed her shoe. After stumbling, Development Program, which trains the 4-year-old girl looked down at select athletes from each age group to “It’s one thing to break your arm, her feet and noticed that the sole compete internationally. She made it of her cleat had separated, flopping you know, but this is something that onto the age group two years above her. awkwardly under her with each step could affect her for the rest of her life. After achieving this, Claire couldn’t that she took. Alarmed, she hobbled I mean your brain is more important stop envisioning the possibilities ahead to her father, the coach of her of her--playing high school soccer, than your love of the sport, plain and then college soccer and maybe even team.

“Dad, dad, my shoe!” she yelled, simple.” professional. But she never envisioned pointing down at her tattered cleats. that her dreams would be jeopardized -Nicky Gaber, mother “Score three more goals and then in only a few years.

I’ll take you out,” her father replied.

“I just kept wanting more and And she did. more,” Claire said.

Claire’s love for soccer outweighed her older sister’s footsteps. They played the Her mother, Nicky Gaber, said everything else. After starting organized same position, often competing together Claire’s dedication made her a role model sports at 4, she continued to compete on the field. Ever since she was young, to her teammates, because she wasn’t the in countless teams over the years. Claire Claire dreamed of playing soccer for years type to give up. played soccer, basketball, track, cross to come alongside her older sister.

“They’d be losing and she’d be like, “We just imagined that they’d say, ‘No, we could still win this,’” Nicky said. country and volleyball. However, while she enjoyed every sport, soccer was where ‘The Gaber sisters scored another goal!”

And even when her team did lose,

Y

1 in 5 high school athletes will get concussion during their sport’s season Source: headcasecompany.com

mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN Katie Burton

Claire stayed positive. After all, that’s not what was most important to her. What was important was playing the game.

“She cared about the wins and the losses,” Nicky said. “But she’d rather be playing and lose than not play at all.”

••• Claire suffered her first concussion during eighth grade basketball practice. After misinterpreting a play, Claire and her teammate mistakenly ran in the same direction, ramming into each other headfirst.

Ringing drowned Claire’s ears for what felt like forever. Lying face up on the court, she was filled with a sense of stunned fear. Her vision was spinning and her mind was blank.

“It was such a blur,” Claire said.

She was quickly sent to the nurse’s office, where her mother was called to pick her up. Claire was told by her doctor that she had a concussion and should rest her brain as much as possible, avoiding schoolwork and sports in order to minimize her symptoms. When she did return to school, she struggled to focus.

“I was so out of it, I was so delirious,” Claire said. “My teachers would be like, ‘Just go home, you’re not learning anything.’”

Despite the scare of the injury, Claire was cleared to return to soccer two months after the concussion. This quick return would ultimately play a part in ending her soccer career for good.

Claire’s final soccer game was one of the last games of the season. She was almost finished with the school year, and prepared herself to move on to high school soccer. In the middle of the game, a player bumped into her, causing Claire to fall and hit her head lightly on the ground. Instantly, the ringing started all over again. She knew exactly what was wrong. Though she was in shock, she knew the team needed her. So she blew it off and continued to play.

photo amanda fineran Claire Gaber played soccer since she was 4 years old. After suffering two concussions and having to quit soccer, Gaber found a new love for tennis.

Continued on page 21

1/3 of all concussions happen during practice

DESIGN Katie Burton

Dec. 11, 2015

20 s p o r t s

From Marauders to Razorbacks Seniors commit to running for top college program story darci walton

The warm Orlando sun beamed down on the podium of the AAU Club Championship for track and field. The award ceremony for the 1500 meter was about to begin. Two strangers stood next to each other as the redheaded fifth grader began to make conversation with her neighbor.

“Hey, are you from Texas?” she asked.

The brunette fifth grader responded that she was and the two discovered they lived a mere 28 miles away from each other.

At the end of sixth grade, the redhead joined Lake Cities Cross Country Club, the same team the brunette was a part of. Since so much time had passed, the girls did not realize they had met before in Florida. It wasn’t until they found a photos submitted picture from that day on the podium that the girls realized they’d been running Coach Brad Brevard, seniors Payton Brown, Ashton Hutcherson, Maddy Reed and coach Steve Telaneus together for longer than they originally make the hand signals of the schools the girls signed to run at on Nov. 11. Brown and Reed will attend the University of Arkansas and Hutcherson will run for Texas A&M. thought.

Before the pair’s freshman year, the redhead, Maddy Reed, moved from her her next four years in Fayetteville, Maddy I immediately just loved the campus and home in Arlington to Flower Mound and spent last summer visiting multiple everything,” Payton said. would now attend the same high school schools across the country with her father.

The girls will have two other familiar as Payton Brown, running for the same “I went to keep my options open faces on campus next year besides Sydney. team once again.

Their former teammate and 2015

••• graduate Emily Jeacock and 2015 Now seniors, Maddy and Payton “We look for great character and Flower Mound graduate Safee sat next to each other in the MAC Belbina are a part of the Razorback passion and motivation for the sport. anxiously awaiting to place their family as well. signatures on contracts before them. Both [Maddy and Payton] have those Though the girls are excited to The girls were surrounded by their assets.” run for such a successful program, friends, family and coaches that have nerves always settle in when it comes -Lance Harter, Arkansas Cross supported them throughout the years to joining a new team.

Country Coach to get to where they are today.

“Everyone wants to be on the It is unusual to have two members National Championship team and of the same high school team commit wants to help the team,” Maddy said. to the same university, but on Nov. 11, and make sure I didn’t narrow down my “But it’s also scary knowing that there Maddy and Payton devoted their talent options too fast, but it narrowed down are that many girls on the team that are of running to the University of Arkansas. to Arkansas and I’m really happy about already that good.”

According to the girls, they never that,” Maddy said.

Despite being nervous about their expected to end up running at the same For Payton, the decision came a little talent and what they’ll be able to college but now that they have, Maddy easier. She considered Texas A&M but contribute to the team next year, the girls and Payton plan to be roommates in the discovered she liked Arkansas’ program have seen firsthand how college running athletic dorm next year. By the time they and coach more, plus her sister and 2014 helps them become better athletes. graduate from college, they will have been graduate, Sydney Brown also runs for The “Everyone that goes to college to teammates and friends for over ten years. University of Arkansas. run, they improve so much,” Payton said.

Prior to making the decision to spend “I would go up and visit [Sydney] and “Every college person that has come back mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN madeline stanfield

sports

Brown and Reed were joined by family, friends and coaches when they signed their contracts. The girls will join other Marcus graduates Sydney Brown and Emily Jeacock next year on the cross country team at the University of Arkansas.

to visit us has been so much faster.”

One of the main reasons college athletes improve so quickly is due to

the coaching staff and it is evident that Arkansas has a winning coach. Head women’s cross country coach, Lance

After the injuries “It’s really scary honestly to see how quickly something else that has impacted you can make that much of a difference,” Claire said.

Her parents were scared. They told Claire that if the injury turned out to be a concussion, she would have to find another sport to play; soccer was simply too risky. So she delayed seeing a doctor in fear. A couple days passed before the symptoms became unbearable. Before long, Claire visited her doctor, who confirmed the family’s worries - another concussion. Claire’s parents determined that she could no longer play soccer.

“It’s one thing to break your arm, you know,” Nicky said. “But this is something that could affect her for the rest of her life.

I mean your brain is more important than your love of the sport, plain and simple.”

Claire was devastated. She didn’t want to let go of her goals. She wanted to be DESIGN madeline stanfield

21

Harter has been named SEC Coach of the Year 24 times, the National Coach of the Year four times and has already been admitted into the USTFCCCA Coaches Hall of Fame. Since they have committed, both girls have kept in contact with Harter on a regular basis.

“After most of the bigger races he’ll call us and say, ‘hey good job’ and after state he told us congrats and everything and he will ask us how the race went,” Payton said.

According to Harter, both Maddy and Payton possess the qualities he and the University of Arkansas looks for when it comes to recruits.

“We look for great character and passion and motivation for the sport,” Harter said. “Both [Maddy and Payton] have those assets.”

Rather just having input on opinion about recruits from the coaching staff, Harter said that he gets the whole team involved. He lets the current runners decide whether they like the recruits and if they would be a good for the team.

“Our team was unanimous in evaluation of those two individuals,” Harter said “We are so excited to have them as Razorbacks.”

Continued from page 19

out on the field. Frustrated with her lack of control over the situation, she found it hard to accept her new reality.

“It’s not like I wasn’t good enough or I failed, just I couldn’t do it,” Claire said.

“I always felt like I overcame anything that would come to me, and I couldn’t overcome this.”

While soccer was no longer an option, her parents didn’t want to take away sports completely. They knew how big of a change it would be for Claire.

“She loves her friends and she loves school, but not like soccer,” Nicky said.

“So we wanted her to develop another passion.”

So they began to suggest non-contact sports. They brought up swimming, but Claire hated it. It was too late to start gymnastics. And at first, when her father suggested tennis, she refused. But after thinking it over, she decided to try it.

She convinced a close friend to join her. Because both were unsure of which sport to do in high school, they took it as a learning experience. The two practiced diligently over the summer, determined to master the new sport. They tried out for JV together in freshman year and both made the team.

Then after only having a year’s experience in the sport, Claire was able to skip JV1 and make the varsity tennis team as a sophomore.

“This proves that I started from nothing and I got this far already,” Claire said.

While she misses soccer and the friends she made while playing, Claire admitted that starting over only gave her more opportunities.

“I’m able to do this just in a short amount of time, so who knows what’s going to be out there,” Claire said. dec. 11, 2015

22 e n t e r ta i n m e n t

The weather outside is frightful story darci walton

The Pacific Ocean gave us an early Christmas present of an El Niño year. This temporary climate change increases oceanic temperature causing powerful thunderstorms on land. The United States is expected to encounter heavy rains and cold fronts every six to eight days which means countless hours spent cuddled inside this winter. Here’s some tips to survive the next few cold and wet months.

Layer it on

For those brave souls that want to face the elements, be prepared. Living in Texas isn’t the best training to be outside in sub 40 temperatures but if there’s a will, there’s a way. Don’t be afraid to wear multiple layers of any and all clothing. There is no shame in wearing two or even three pairs of socks in attempts to keep your toes toasty. Flannel over a long sleeve shirt or sweater with a scarf can ensure upper body warmth. Plus, fashion rules do not matter in extreme events, such as snow in Texas. If clothing layers don’t suffice, have no fear Target and Walmart are here. These stores sell hand and feet warmers for less than two dollars and last up to 10 hours.

Love your mug

To be warmed up from the inside out, find a hot drink that will satisfy taste buds all winter long. A freshly brewed cup of coffee is a classic but spice it up by adding a special holiday creamer. From Frosted Sugar Cookie to Eggnog Latte, there’s a flavor to appease any craving. If caffeine is not your thing, hot chocolate can easily be amped up as well. Customizing coco is as easy as adding peppermint or vanilla extract or spices such as cinnamon. To make your winter Snapchats perfect, garnish the top of the mug with a dollop of whipped cream and a festive candy cane.

Embrace the fuzz

Fleece and winter go together like popsicles and summer, they create a sense of balance to the craziness that is Texas weather.

Winter, like fleece, is all about warmth and comfort while you binge watch Netflix on the couch, so get some fuzzy items that represent your personality. The great thing about fleece is that it can come in almost every form to stabilize winter shivers. Another plus is that fleece can come in any color or pattern. Want a Chewbacca throw blanket, Elsa fuzzy socks or a Hotline Bling Christmas sweater? You can get one.

Sites like Amazon and Etsy have winter gear to appease any fandom.

mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN taryn welch

f l l l avor are e B e u l B y h c o u? i h W e n t e r ta i n m e n t

23

story darci walton

1. What is your favorite way to enjoy Blue Bell?

A. In a cookie sandwich B. Straight out of the carton C. Sundae all the way

2. Which is the tastiest Starbucks holiday drink?

A. Peppermint mocha B. Pumpkin Spice Latte C. Chestnut Praline

3. How do you like to warm up in the winter?

A. Snuggled up by the fire B. Blankets on blankets on blankets C. Warm? Nah, you thrive in cold weather

4. Whose Christmas album will you be jamming to this season?

A. Pentatonix B. Michael Buble C. Kenny Chesney

5. What’s your must see movie this year?

A. The Good Dinosaur B. Star Wars: The Force Awakens C. Krampus

6. What has been your favorite song of 2015?

A. “Stitches” by Shawn Mendes B. “Hello” by Adele C. “Ride” by Twenty One Pilots

Mostly A’s: Cookies 'n Cream

Mostly B’s: The Great Divide

Mostly C’s: Butter Pecan

BLUE BELL ICE CREAM

BLUE BELL ICE CREAM

Cookies ‘n Cream

The Great Divide

BLUE BELL ICE CREAM

If you chose mostly A’s, Cookies ‘n Cream is your frozen alter ego. You’re the best of both worlds and like to have fun. You’re a pretty happy camper, until you run out of Blue Bell. You like to seize the moment and make the best out of any situation no matter what. Regardless of trends you’ll always be classic.

If mostly B’s fit your lifestyle, The Great Divide is perfect for you. Chocolate and vanilla are your OTP. You’re timeless and can always be counted on to put a smile on someone’s face. You know what you like and you’re not afraid to defend it, even if it’s the most basic flavor in the freezer.

DESIGN taryn welch

Butter Pecan

If you picked out mostly C’s, Butter Pecan is right up your alley. You may be a little unique but that’s what makes you great. You respect other people’s opinions but aren’t afraid to make your own. You like to keep up with trends but incorporate your personal style into everything you do.

DEC. 11, 2015

Don your tacky apparel

How to make your own ugly Christmas sweater story michelle mullings

The holiday season. A time for family, friends and sporting some of the ugliest, tackiest sweaters of the year. Don’t want to break the bank this Christmas on a glittering garment? No need to be a Scrooge! Spread the cheer with unique getup that even the Grinch would love.

Materials: Pullover or old sweater Hot glue gun Needle and thread Tinsel Beaded necklaces Bows Buttons Ribbon Felt Cotton balls Pom poms Jingle bells Ornaments

Step 1 Venture off to Walmart and buy a plain, oversized red or green pullover. Or even better, snag a vintage Christmas sweater or vest from Goodwill; it’ll add the tacky touch to an otherwise basic canvas. Make sure to also buy any desired knick-knacks mentioned in the supplies list that you may be missing. Party City, Hobby Lobby, Michael’s and Target are great hot spots for buying these unique trinkets.

DESIGN madeline stanfield

e n t e r ta i n m e n t

Step 2 Blast some Christmas classics and bust out the old arts and crafts box. Grab anything in there that sparkles or jingles: tinsel, colorful bows, cute buttons, ribbon, jingle bells, ornaments and even those old beaded necklaces from Mardi Gras.

Anything that glitters goes. And don’t forget the hot glue gun!

Step 3 Begin lining the sweater. Wrap tinsel around the neckline, sleeves and bottom hem of the sweater then hot glue it all into place.

If desired, cut up some beaded necklaces and drape them all over the garment like string lights on a tree, securing them with more hot glue. Ornaments can be strung onto the tinsel or beads to create the look of a decorated tree. If hot glue fails at any step, a needle and thread or strategically placed safety pins will do the job just as effectively.

DESIGN madeline stanfield

Step 4 Tack on all the finishing touches. Cotton balls can be hot glued on in the shape of a jolly snowman, with brown pipe cleaners imitating arms. Attach ribbon, pom poms, bows, bells and ornaments anywhere that needs a little more merry material. There are no rules to an ugly Christmas sweater and nothing is ever too much; corny creativity is key here. Allow it all to dry, then flaunt that festive masterpiece with cheer!

25

26 e n t e r ta i n m e n t

Service for

a purpose

story SANIKA Sule

Whether it’s donating time or money, volunteering is an outlet for people to show their charitable side. Along with volunteering as a requirement for clubs and honor societies, the holiday season is a reminder that giving is just as important as receiving. Here’s a look at three charitable opportunities.

mhsmarquee.com

DESIGN anna kate hutton

e n t e r ta i n m e n t

27

toys for tots If you want to show your philanthropic side, but don’t have the time to volunteer, donating an unopened and unwrapped toy to Toys for Tots is an excellent way to contribute to the charitable effort this holiday season. An organization backed by the United States Marine Corps, Toys for Tots distributes the donated toys to children in need as Christmas gifts. One time, monthly or tribute donations are also accepted on the website. Toys for Tots accepts toys that are meant for children that are from 0-12 years old. Toy drop off sites in Flower Mound are located at Bahama Bucks, Moviehouse and Eatery, Software Professionals, Inc. and Southgate Homes.

CCa - christian community action Christian Community Action, or CCA, has two locations in the area. The site dealing primarily with the food pantry is located on S. Mill Street in Lewisville, and the resale shop is on Lakeside Parkway in Flower Mound. CCA provides services such as a life skills program, health center and a food pantry to those in need. Though the organization bases its programs on Christian values, people of any faith are welcome to volunteer. CCA accepts clothing donations for their resale store and packaged food for the food pantry. Volunteer opportunities for students include stocking shelves in the food pantry and sorting through donated items such as linens, clothes and home food at the Flower Mound location. To volunteer, fill out an application on the CCA website.

flower mound assisted living Located on Morriss Road across from the school, Flower Mound Assisted Living provides opportunities for students to interact with the elderly. Tasks range from playing games such as Bingo and Hangman to talking and reminiscing with the residents. Spending time as a volunteer has positive visible effects on the residents, which in turn is personally rewarding. As a weekly commitment, volunteering here removes the stress of gathering enough hours for honor societies. Spending one hour a week at the Flower Mound Assisted Living is an easy way to gain hours and an appreciation for community service. To volunteer, contact Rachel Layne at (972)-539-9444 or visit Flower Mound Assisted Living to pick up an application.

DESIGN anna kate hutton

dec. 11, 2015

28 o p i n i o n

Twins Cara crocker

@Cara_crocker

“What’s it like to have a twin?”

I’m asked that question multiple times a week and I never know how to answer it. It’s much more complicated than it’s made out to be. Should I tell them about the nights my sister and I used to stay up until the early hours of the morning talking about the only kind of nonsense sisters can? Like our hidden love for the Junie B. Jones books or our hidden hatred of shrimp? Should I tell them about how we’ve argued over everything from clothes to the latest episode of Bob’s Burgers? Or maybe I should just keep it simple and just answer the question as best as I can.

“Fine I guess.”

But it’s not really fine. Having a twin is one of the most difficult things in

Keeping Block Schedule

Administration made their long-awaited decision to keep block schedule, which is a relief. It’s hard enough juggling four classes; adjusting to a brand-new schedule would throw us all off.

my life. We’re not the same person, but people sometimes expect us to be. We have different styles in clothes, music and everything in between. We may have grown up together, but we still have our own personalities. Our different physical appearances helps people tell us apart a little better, I’m even told I look more like my older brother than her. Despite our distinctly different characteristics, people, including those I’ve known for years, still find a way to mix our names up.

Once people find out that we’re twins it’s like we’re expected to become one person. Like suddenly everything we are individually doesn’t matter anymore and we fuse together to become one being.

Almost every day we get called “The Twins” when being directly talked to. Is that really so much easier than just saying our names? It almost shows a lack of interest in differentiating us from each other. Generalizing two people to act and think like one shows lack of interest in our individual thoughts.

Having a twin can also be tiresome, on occasion. We’re expected to be best friends, and to share most of what we have. We were the typical twins that wore the same outfits when we were younger.

Now as we get older, our urges of being different increase, and we are more

Signs in commons

There will always come a time when you’ll get lost in the school, freshmen and seniors alike. Thanks to the new signs posted above the doors in the commons, it’s easy to make your way to class without whipping out a map.

Things we like mhsmarquee.com

compelled to never be thought of as the same person.

Many people think having a twin is the same thing as having a friend always around. If I’m bored, I’m told to go hang out with my sister, because hanging out with your twin is apparently different than hanging out with any other sibling.

Even hanging out with one friend for too long can get tiring. Imagine having them around you all the time for 16 years, you might get a little fed up.

But having a twin can also be nice.

I’m glad I have someone to talk to who won’t judge me and will agree with me most of the time. We get to share the experience of two totally different lives at the same time, even if that just means picking different ice cream flavors at Dairy Queen. We have the ability to share whatever’s on our minds and know the other will care because we’re family.

As we get older, we’re slowly realizing our differences and adapting to them, which unfortunately includes more frequent arguments. Our disputes may be easier to start, but they haven’t gotten any easier to get over. No matter what happens between us, I wouldn’t trade her for the world. Although we may be changing and starting to grow apart, I know that she’ll always be my best friend.

Deca popcorn

Popcorn isn’t just for the movies. With giant bags of it wandering around the hallways, it’s hard not to craze some, especially when it’s only $2. The only problem is having to pick a flavor.

s!

ah b m o Bo

DESIGN Katie Burton

opinion

We are all France Taryn Welch

@tarynwelchh

My stomach churned with anxiety as my phone buzzed for what seemed like the 50th time that day. I squeezed my eyes closed, whispering a prayer to myself before looking at the notification.

It was another update from one of the nation’s most prestigious news sources.

“BREAKING: Over 100 confirmed dead and 300 injured after terrorist attacks in Paris.” My heart sank. The situation just kept getting worse and worse. I opened the notification and poured over tons of articles for hours, leaving my open calculus book and government vocabulary packet forgotten.

Out of all the articles I read, one video specifically stood out to me. It showed a French father comforting his son’s fears about the “bad people” that took many lives the night before. “They may have guns, but we have flowers,” the

father said. “The flowers and candles that help us remember the people who are gone also help to protect us.” When he said this, my eyes immediately filled with tears. This simple sentence demonstrated the unity and strength that this horrible violence has brought to France. The video gave me hope that the rest of the world could join the French in the fight against ISIS. Although there were many moving and heart wrenching articles like the one mentioned above, there were also many that disappointed me. Multiple articles described how various governments around the world weren’t doing anything about what happened. Contrary to what I believed would happen, the world was not banding together to end the violence that continued to spread and people were already forgetting about the tragedy.

I would talk to my friends and they would say things like “Yeah, it was horrible,” and then change the subject to something trivial like what Kylie Jenner was wearing that day. The ignorance cannot continue. Hundreds of innocent people are dying and it seems like the people around me just don’t care. It absolutely breaks my heart.

But what can I do individually to get people to care? To inform this generation of people who are too focused on their cell phones and not the world around them? How will America handle the attacks? Will we do anything at all? These

29

questions have led me to the conclusion that the goal of ISIS is to tear powerful nations around the world apart. However, much like the French, they’re only going to make us stronger. It may take time, and I pray that it doesn’t take more attacks for people to realize this, but we will unite and establish the fact that we’re not afraid.

This unity has already begun in major cities around the world, first with candlelit vigils in remembrance of those lost. Social media sites are being blown up with support for the French. Art is being shared symbolizing the peace that the world needs. Even football teams have adorned their stadiums with the French flag, and buildings across the globe have been illuminated with blue, white and red to show support.

This can’t be forgotten like many of the other tragedies that have occurred over the years. ISIS cannot successfully behead more journalists. They must be stopped before they kill more innocent people. Even though we shouldn’t just be focusing on the Paris attacks, and also mourning for other countries such as Lebanon as well, the events in November marked a turning point in the fight against ISIS. None of these victims around the world must be forgotten. They can’t just be another part of a tragedy that will be cast aside after a few days. We must all join together in love to stop the violence ISIS is inflicting on this world.

And we will.

No Decorations

STAAr TESts

power outage

It’s the holiday season, and everyone’s getting festive.

But the hallways look as bleak as usual. If the freshman center has a Christmas tree, the main campus should take inspiration; we at least deserve some holiday cheer.

If you’re in the W hall and not taking the test, you know the real struggle: having to remember the number of the room you’re switching to for the day.

How about posting a list of the relocated classrooms?

The lights going out was fun for a few minutes, until you had to finish your test or essay in the dark. All we wanted to do was tweet about #MarcusBlackout2015.

Things we don't like DESIGN Katie Burton

HEYS! dec. 11, 2015

30 o p i n i o n

What’s the risk? katie burton

@katiedburton

Everything was going as planned.

Hoof beats were creating an even rhythm as I approached the jump, I saw the spot from where the horse was going to leave the ground. It wasn’t too far away or too close to the jump. It was that sweet spot that every rider hopes to find.

Underneath me, the horse’s weight started to shift and we were taking off.

Never for a second did I think something was going to go wrong.

All equestrians hear horror stories about freak accidents that leave them in the hospital. I never thought that would be me. I always trusted that my helmet would protect me. Only a few months into my senior year, I never thought I would be in the ambulance.

As someone’s fingers pulled off my helmet, I became aware that I was laying on the ground. I can’t remember how

i wish monopoly money was legal -Savy Heim, 9 @savyheim

to explode (because it still felt like that might be a possibility), I was released from the hospital. I wasn’t given much instruction on how to take care of myself.

Just that I shouldn’t drive for two days and that I might want to skip a day of school.

I would be told later that all this had happened because the horse misjudged the jump and crashed through the back rail, sending us both to the ground. A freak accident that left me unconscious for two minutes. Even though I was wearing a helmet, those few seconds when everything went wrong have cost me so much. In the 24 hours after the accident, I had conversations with people that I can’t remember at all.

In the week after the accident, headaches and nausea from pushing myself back into school too fast forced me out of school and took time away from my sport. Even now, months after the accident, my head still throbs if I’ve been staring at a screen for too long or if I try to do too much strenuous homework at once. I don’t know when I will be fully recovered.

What I do know now is the risks that arise every time I get on a horse. I know that every time I buckle my helmet, I’m jeopardizing the health of my brain. I love my sport so much, and it’s not something that I would give up easily, but if I ever get another concussion, then I might have to put my health before my hobby.

Sweet tweets

It’s weird how similar my government teacher, Mrs Petkoff, is to Leslie Knope.

-Truett Wood, 12 @truettwood

mhsmarquee.com

many paramedics were hovering over me or who was in the arena holding my hand.

I do remember being confused as a steady hand stopped me from trying to get up.

Over and over I asked the same questions.

“What day is it? Where am I? What horse was I riding?”

I was lifted into an ambulance, and a paramedic worked to start an IV. As I was regaining consciousness, I slowly became more aware of my injuries.

My head was throbbing, pounding against my skull like it was attempting to burst through bone. The shoulder I landed on was swollen and bruised. When I attempted to move my arm, it felt as if pins were digging deep into my arm.

But I had to move, wiggling slowly out of my riding clothes with my head in a neck brace as nurses dressed me in a hospital gown. Once I was properly dressed in thin material, I was whisked away to another room.

In this new, thankfully dark, room, a man worked quickly, just out of my sight to pull off my earrings and my necklace before placing me inside the big, dark machine that took pictures of my brain.

Apparently the doctors didn’t see anything too worrying. A few minutes later, I felt the sweet release of my neck brace finally being removed. No swelling.

No bruising. Just a fairly nice concussion.

After a couple more x-rays of my skull to make sure my brain wasn’t going

DESIGN & Compiled Katie Burton

when your 4 year old brother draws a family pic and doesn’t draw you in it!!!!!

-Brittney Elders, 10 @BrittneyElders

the worst part about having someone smart grade your paper is when they give it back to you with that silently judging look.

-Adam Luqman, 11 @adamluqman

Being authentic is not focusing on yourself it’s having the softness to focus on others.

-Amy Boughton, AP @Amy_Boughton

DESIGN Katie Burton

opinion

31

Students with concussions need to be more cautious STAFF EDITorial

the marquee

Concussions have been an ongoing concern for many years now, but after House Bill 2038 was passed in Texas in May 2011, new light has been shed on this topic. Both the school and the state are now upping the focus on the dangers and the importance of teenage safety. Through lack of knowledge and disregards of regulations, some people still do not take this problem as seriously as they should be.

Concussions aren’t something that can easily be treated. The athlete has to go through many steps before he or she is healed. This is why the new law requires that the governing body of each school district in Texas must appoint or approve a concussion oversight team to help the student. Trained doctors can tell students, parents and teachers exactly how long that athlete needs to rest before they can participate regularly in school again.

Many schools recommend students take Pre-AP and AP classes because it will look better on their college transcripts.

m remar k s

DESIGN Katie Burton

However, these classes can be hard and stressful, and athletes who get a concussion can’t jump back into overwhelming classes and schoolwork after weeks or months of missing school for rest. Instead they should slowly pace themselves until they are caught back up, even if it takes a month or two to do.

Students need to make sure to prioritize their own health, because parents, teachers and coaches might not realize how complicated concussions can be. The athletes also need to ensure that they are healthy enough to advocate for themselves after the concussion before picking the work back up again, and if they don’t feel mentally or physically prepared, they should speak with their doctor or trainer.

Concussions are a major injury that needs special treatment. If any signs of concussions occur, the safest and fastest way to help the athlete would be to see a professional doctor. No one is sure what a concussion is like until they experience

one, so teachers and parents shouldn’t try to tell the student how they should feel or how long they should take to heal because it could be detrimental without the help of a doctor. If an athlete does have a confirmed concussion, the coaches aren’t supposed to allow the student to play for a few games, even though they don’t want their player missing a playoff game or practice. If the athlete does continue, they could potentially injure themselves, and their brain. In the end potentially permanent brain damage wouldn’t be worth it.

Concussions have been better regulated over the past few years because of more awareness. Despite this, there have still been deaths and major brain damage across the country from concussions in high school, college and professional level sports. People still need to learn when the right time is for the player to return to the sport, or even if they will ever be able to return. Their lives are worth more than the entertainment.

Do you think that athletes are more focused on their sport than their health? CompileD Andrea garza “No, in football they always make sure you go see Doc or Coach J pretty often. They wouldn’t just run us into the ground every day.”

- Reed Osborn, 11

“They don’t care how they feel because they really just want to be on the team and be with their guys and play a sport but sometimes they forget about their own health.”

-Pierce Johnson, 9

“Kids are starting to understand that they need to fully devote themselves on a fitness level to give them an extra advantage on a way to stand out among others.”

- Coach Rogers

“I think a lot of the time they’re so dedicated to the sport that they’re playing, whatever it may be, that they really want to win and a lot of time they don’t want to let their team down.”

-Cassie Campbell, 12

Dec. 11, 2015

Football: leaving a legacy Led by quarterback Mitch Cason, the football team progressed through the season with a 10-2 record and achieved entry to the playoffs as the 15th best ranked team in the state. Tight end Kaden Smith received for a cumulative 793 yards throughout the season, while running back Nate Hopkins rushed for over 1300.

Sophomore John Mayers also kicked for a combined 85 points throughout the season.

photos vANESSA DAvIS DESIGN BrooKE WYANT

Defensive back Cameron Hupfer prepares for the offensive play near the goal line.

Starting quarterback Mitch Cason stands on the sideline while the defense takes the field.

Senior Kaden Smith jumps to catch a 25 yard pass near the end zone while being guarded by a Mansfield cornerback.

Yelling and cheering, seniors Dawson Shelburn and Alex Jackson, root for the Marauders.

Just as the ball is snapped, the defensive linemen rush towards Mansfield’s offensive line.