The Oracle: April Issue

Equestrian Esque p. 12 Photo by Jackie Mask

ORACLE Friday, April 20, 2012

Volume 39, Issue 9

2013 Prom Change p. 4 Photo by Caitlin Hilton 14555 Fern Drive, Houston TX 77079

2012 Student Council Executive Board Members Elizabeth Bozeman Hannah Goodearle Katie Gregory Kelly Griffin Jaime Hewitt Christiana Kim Abby McMurtry Samantha Vanston These members were voted on by the student body during Spartan time.

“Sweeping” in Awards

Band dominates at UIL competitions Ammarah Tariq

Both the Symphonic and Honors Bands attended UIL competitions on Thursday, April 12. This year, the competitions were held at Brenham High School.

The bands were rated on their stage performance and on their sight reading by a panel of three judges .

The Symphonic Band, directed by Suzanne Thomp-

GROUND BREAKING HEIGHTS

son, received Straight Ones at the UIL Contest.

The Honors Band, directed

by David McArthur, also received First Division ratings at the UIL Concert and Sight Reading Contest in Brenham.

Since the band also received First Division ratings at UIL Marching Contest in the fall, the program was awarded the UIL Sweepstakes trophy.

• Placing first in the 17-4A districts held at Stratford on April 11, senior Everette Favor completes a jump of 16’2”. Not only is this a personal record for Favor, but is now the school record for boy’s pole vault. Favor is attending the University of Oklahoma on a partial scholarship for pole vault. For more results on the distract track meet, see p. 10. Photo by Caitlin Hilton.

The National Honor Society tapped the following students during Spartan time on April 12:

Carolyn Arthur Joshua Asch Claire Aven Amy Baek Kaela Beasley Jordan Bernstein Hannah Bevers Sarah Bostick Elizabeth Bozeman Grant Brann Elizabeth Butler Hannah Byatt Chandler Callahan Jimmieria Chillis Anna Chong Steven Cisneros Sophie Collins John Craig

Paula Craig Jacob Cribbs Maria Davila Isabel Deakins Kathryn Dickinson Cathleen Evans Timothee Flichy Matthew Foster Amy Fox Emily Frazelle Hayley Friedman Catherine Frost Shayan Gharagozlou

Hannah Goodearle Katherine Goss Lianna Gregorian Omid Hadj Elizabeth Hallmark

Travis Hanes Jordan Haynes Holly Heckmann Kathleen Higgins James Hodges Taylor Hubbard Shogo Iwasaki Trevor Jackson Patrick Janacek Hyo-Won Jeon Bradley Johnson Sarah Johnston Graham Jones Nicholas Jones Kurt Kaiser Ashley Keel Christiana Kim Samuel Kim

Melanie Klassen Matthew Lastrapes Hanna Lee Ho Min Lee Jasmine Lee Jin Lee Joshua Lee Yi Lee Thomas Leyden Leigh Lloveras Elaine Lui Parker Lund John Lynch William Maham Calli Martin Kyle McAndrews Andrew McCleary Caitrin McGibbon

Abby McMurtry Patrick Miller

Stephanie Montemayor

Chan Moon Abigail Moore Evan Moore Dawson Morby Jennifer Morris Landon Neumann Lindsey Neumann Katherine Noel Julia O’Loughlin Andrew Palughi Hayden Parsley Amy Penick Machaela Pierce Amy Pope Madison Raley

Rachel Rapier Kyle Rathgeb Hannah Redfield Cai Rohleder Emily Rucker John Scott Matthew Sibley Bonnie Slattery Macey Smith William Soltis Yassmin Soudjani William Strong Caroline Suchman Alison Sunderhaft Mizuho Suzuki Lydia Sweet Othniel Tay Kimberly Taylor

Kathleen Temple Paige Tormey Grace Touchstone Fernando Trujano Oscar Truong Harrison Vaporciyan

Anna Vickers Hannah Vinyard Kristina Viterova Alexander Weber Rachel Whatley Hope Wiggins Ruoxi Wu Daniel Yang Jung-Min Yang Tian Yao Bronte Ye Ashley Yoshino Sarah Zschappel

EMBARKING ONTO THE JOURNEY

• Band members left school to compete at Brenham High School on Thursday, April 12. With the band trip to Winter Park, Colorado the following day, some packed their bags and took them along to the competition. Students took a break from their hard work and stayed in Colorado from April 13 to 16.

Photo by Caitlin Hilton.

2

NEWS

Friday, April 20, 2012

Girls Take The Field

The Oracle

POWDER PUFF GIRLS • After being cancelled because of bad weather, the Powder Puff Game was

rescheduled to April 9. Junior and senior girls competed against each other in a football game. Juniors Bonnie Slattery and Lindsey Neumann with senior Kelsey Harmon run down the field. The game was played to raise money for the graduating Class of 2012’s senior prom. Students bought a $3 ticket, which was used to get out of 7th period at 2:30 p.m., to attend the game. This event raised approximately $5,000. To continue the tradition, the senior girls defeated the junior girls. Photo by Amy Jordan.

The Oracle

Friday, April 20, 2012

Modernizing Traditions

NEWS 3

New Spartan head logo to debut next year, ‘S’ stays the same Layla Shahhosseini Samantha Vanston

Starting this year, the school logo is going through the process of being re-branded.

Renovations to the building are being completed this summer and the new logo will be implemented where applicable.

Before this rebranding took place different groups in the school community provided their input.

Initial reactions to the new logo were mixed because of this change in identity.

“I just love having something that is totally specific to Stratford. I think it’s cool to look at that logo and know it’s ours,” senior principal Kathy Steen said. “I think it’s specific to Stratford and we’re going to have our own identity.”

There will also be flags on the campus that will have the new logo on them.

“I think the flags will be helpful,” Steen said.

Since there will now be one consistent Spar-

Graphic by Sarah Davis

Academic UIL District Advancing to Regionals at Sam Houston State University on April 21, 2012: • The SHS Science Team of Gordon Walker, Matt Lastrapes, Matthew Greene, Respina Vaezian, Holly Hendrickson and Andy Oe won District.

• Accounting: Rosie Wu • Computer Applications: Rosie Wu • Editorial Writing: Kali Venable • Lincoln Douglas Debate: Fariha Jawed • Literary Criticism: Nathaniel Barbour • Mathematics: Amy Penick • News Writing: Sara Boyle • Spelling Vocabulary: Zeriba Jahangir, Harrison Vaporciyan

tan head logo, the faculty and students will be able to use it on everything school spirit related.

In the past, multiple Spartan heads have been used and were of varying sizes and designs.

Some members of the school community worry about a lack of diversity in symbols impacting spirit item sales.

“I liked being able to have a variety,” foreign language teacher Elaine Sorsby said.

Shirts that come out usually have a different logo from one event to the next.

“I think it’s fun not knowing what the next t-shirt will look like,” Sorsby said.

The teachers knew that there was going to be a change in the logo, but the first focus group to see the new logo was student council.

“They gave me some good feedback,” building principal Christo-

pher Juntti said.

Student Council had different opinions specifically on the change in the ‘S’.

“After feedback from the students, the ‘S’ will not change,” Juntti said.

These focus groups mentioned being able to see the ‘S’ sticker from far away and being able to identify them as fellow Spartans.

Juntti also received feedback on the new logo from members of the Campus Improvement Team, administrative committee, and coaches.

The cost to re-brand would have been at least $5,000.

However, the contribution of an incoming freshman’s parent cut costs significantly.

Due to the donation of his time, the rebranding cost was zero. Along with the flags that will be added next year, “We’ll also use it [logo] as we do some of our redesign in the cafeteria,” Juntti said.

Existing Spartan logos will remain on campus and not be taken down.

The band recently updated their uniforms, a change taking place every ten years. The baseball department has also added the new logo to their current uniforms. Athletic uniforms for next year will also feature the new logo.

“I just want to move forward,” Juntti said.

The reason for the change in

SENIOR SOFTBALL NIGHT

• Seniors Alyssa Sturgis, Victoria Miller, and Heather Hummel are pictured at the game on April 16 with family members. Roses are presented to the seniors on the field as a reward for their accomplishments from their years of playing softball. Next year, Hummel is playing softball for McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Photo by Maggie Vickers.

the logo is to create an independent identity.

“The logo we were using was not ours. Part of my job as principal is to do things that are not breaking any laws,” Juntti said.

The logo currently in use is the Michigan State University logo. In order for Stratford’s to be recognized as different, the logo has to change at least 10%.

The end goal was to create a logo that is unique to Stratford.

“I didn’t feel like we changed it 100%,” Juntti said. “Rather than to tweak Michigan State’s we wanted to make it ours.”

In trying to avoid a copyright infringement case we needed to be able to show we changed the logo by at least 10%. The change cannot just be about color.

A school that had to deal with this was the Woodlands High School. They used the “W” from Wisconsin University as their own logo. When Wisconsin found out that they were using their copyrighted material, the Woodlands High School was sued.

The new logo was created so as to not cause copy-right conflicts with Michigan State.

The current logo was adapted about 8 or 9 years ago. According to Juntti, no one was consulted before this change.

This time, however, several groups were consulted, and tweaks were made along the way. The end result will be featured on new Stratford items.

In the end, the new logo will be adopted and belong only to Stratford. Adjustments will be made to make this logo present at school next year.

SOLO LOGO• The logo will be present on the band uniforms,

athletic uniforms, and in the cafeteria. The S will stay the same due to the feedback from students voicing their opinions. The Spartan head was changed due to the motivation to keep moving forward. Graphic provided by Chris Juntti.

Student Council Reps 2012-2013 Class of 2015 Sophomore Representatives:

Eric Boas, Travis Bostick, Morgan Brast, Jack Goss, Christi Gregory, Abigail Jackson, Harper Jones, Charlotte Kaiser, Hanna Lauritzen, Carmen Loa, Meredith Maclvor, Lauren Newman, Alan Pham, Alez Pierce, Anna Powell, Allison Rice, Katie Rominger, Adrian Sanchez, Courtney Stark, Chris Vanston, Matt Wagner, Grace Whitmire, Meg Zschappel

Class of 2014 Junior Representatives:

David Bartell, Anna Bergersen, Louis Birdsong, Hernan Cepeda, Sarah Davis, Nathalia Dela Espriella, Alexis Frederick, Karla Gonzalez, Mary Kate Goss, Margaret Gray, Caroling Kelly, Katherine Kennedy, Clay Lamberton, Christopher Parker, Ragan Robinson, Kylie Schaper, Layla Shahhosseini, Casey Sparks, Kali Venable

Class of 2013 Senior Representatives:

Carolyn Arthur, Jordan Bernstein, Hannah Bevers, Sarah Bostick, Kelly Ann Craig, Katie Dickinson, Jimmy Hodges, Kurt Kaiser, Josh Lee, Parker Lund, Machaela Pierce, Hannah Redfield, Anna Vickers

4

NEWS

Friday, April 20, 2012

Retiring Teachers Aldo Martinez Katherine Kennedy

David McArthur

Teachers from subjects such welcome to maddieland

Maddie Stone

Next issue, I’ll have more than enough room to say my good-byes. So now I’ll dedicate my final column to the five current loves of my life: the boys of One Direction.

I was not there when Harry, Niall, Louis, Zayn, and Liam went through the ‘X-Factor’ auditions or were put together as One Direction during Boot camp. I did not see them place third in the ‘X-Factor’ competition. But I did know of them in November, 2010, thanks to tumblr, and by March of 2011, I was hooked.

I fell in love with their voices and with their covers of ‘My Life Would Suck Without You’ and ‘Chasing Cars’. But I fell in love with the boys themselves when I watched their ‘X-Factor’ video diaries (multiple times, I’ll admit).

Louis was my favorite at first, but Niall quickly edged him out and took the top spot in my heart.

From there, my obsession grew. I got their first book, One Direction: Forever Young for my birthday. In August, I stayed up till 4 a.m. to hear their first single, ‘What Makes You Beautiful’, premiere on BBC Radio 1. From there, they blew up.

It’s been hard for me to ‘share’ One Direction with the new American fans after loving them for so long while they were in relative anonymity. But it’s okay that 95% of the American public doesn’t know why Liam is afraid of spoons or why Louis receives a lot of carrots, because I’m just so proud of them. It sounds ridiculous, because the five of them don’t know me from any other follower on Twitter, but thanks to tumblr, Twitter, and YouTube, I feel like I know One Direction. I know them and I love them and I’m proud of them and Up All Night is perfect.

This time last year, One Direction was finishing up their ‘X-Factor’ tour and their studio time kept getting delayed.

Now, they’re number one in multiple countries.

Stay golden, boys.

as geometry to athletics will be walking out the doors of the school for the last time with over 200 years of teaching experience on May 31.

“They aren’t leaving because they are unhappy, but because it’s their time,” said Building Principal Chris Juntti. “Almost every single person who has come in has shed tears.

Being a teacher is a part of who they are, and Stratford is a part of them.”

Contributing photographers: Katherine Kennedy, Aldo Martinez, Caitlin Hilton, Dontrell Britton, and Tywaugn Rice

Sherry Henderson

Department: Social Studies Classes: World Geography Years in SBISD: 31 Years Taught at SHS: 8

The Oracle

Deb Morgan

Sue Heine

Kris Watson

Position: Band Director Years in SBISD: 22 Years Taught at SHS: 19 Plans: Not at the time

Department: Art Classes: Art I, Drawing II Years Taught at SHS: 3 Total Years Taught: 33

Department: Math (chair) Years Taught at SHS: 25 Plans: Volunteer, travel to Europe, spend time with family

Classes: AP Psychology and AP Government Total Years Taught: 36 Plans: Relaxing

Classes: Biology, AP Biology Years Taught at SHS: 3 Total Years Taught: 33 Plans: Lots of golf

Department: Health Fitness Total Years Taught: 34 Years Taught at SHS: 27 Plans: Family, golf, move

Department: Career & Tech Years Taught at SHS: 27 Plans: Go on a trip once a month for the next six months

Subject: Family & Consumer Sciences Total Years Taught: 35 Plans: Volunteer in community, spend time with family

has raised $45,000 and hopes to raise $30,000 more to fund their prom entitled, “Out With The Old and In With The Blues”.

After prom bills are paid, excess money raised will go toward Project Prom. Currently, the Class of 2013 is working on raising money for both prom and Project Prom.

It has been a challenge for the Class of 2013 to raise money for their prom due to the lack of bake sales this year. The bake sale provided thousands of dollars to previous senior classes.

The bake sales were cut because they were in violation of federal guidelines for health and nutrition.

Still, the junior class has raised money through their garage sale held in March and the sale of Spartan tumblers and windbreakers.

Students also now not only can help raise money for their prom but they also earn the right to make decisions for prom such as venue, theme, and decorations.

The profits from the recent Powder Puff game have been given to the Project Prom committee. Project Prom will be held at Dave and Buster’s.

The innovative Class of 2013 has paved a new path for future proms. They are the first class to take over the fund raising and decision making for their prom.

Tom Clancy

Cathy Martin

Karen Summers

In With The Blues

Susie Macha

Class of 2013 prom to take place at unique venue Chandler Callahan

In years past, the senior class has held their prom at a hotel.

Next year, the senior class will be doing something different. The Class of 2013 will be holding their prom at the House of Blues in downtown Houston.

The 2013 Prom Committee went on a tour of potential venues for the prom during school on March 26.

The committee selected the House of Blues’ Hall of Fame to host the 2013 prom.

The Hall of Fame is the concert hall where major performances are held .

“We chose the House of Blues because it is different

than anything we have ever done before, regarding prom” said prom committee member and junior Jaime Hewitt.

The most appealing factor to many about the House of Blues was the services they offered. Lights, decorations, sodas, or snacks won’t have to be provided by the school because they are all included in the overall price of the venue for the night.

The size of the venue was also a factor. It needed to accommodate about 450 seniors who will be eligible to attend, as well as police officers and chaperones that will be at the dance.

The picture frames and flat screens along the walls of the

Hall of Fame will be filled with pictures of the senior class.

Something the committee will need to hire separately is a DJ. He or she will be placed on the stage where countless rock legends and icons have performed.

All of the tickets to concerts at the House of Blues are purchased at LiveNation.com, so naturally the prom tickets will also be bought on the website.

Seniors will check in with their Live Nation tickets at the official House of Blues box office. Students will also be able to walk on a red carpet into the dance.

Currently, the committee

The Oracle

Friday, April 20, 2012

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Sudoku

Friday, April 20, 2012

The Oracle

Crazy Phrasey

Every answer is a rhyming pair of words.

Each underscore represents a letter.

The number after the definition clue tells you how many syllables are in each word.

1. Baylor mascot/two of a kind (2) ____ ____

6. long walk/two wheeled transportation (2) ____ ____

2. slithering reptile/ leaf gathering tool (2) _____ ____

7. winding, running water/to get the chills (4) _____ ______

3. skin of trees/singing bird (2) ____ ____

8. outdoor place with a lot of trees/job with flowers (4) ______ _______

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ANSWERS: bear pear, snake rake, bark lark, ant rant, stars cars, hike bike, river shiver, forest florist, camp lamp, leaf chief

6

The Oracle

Friday, April 20, 2012

Countdown to...

MUSE

4 Days... until

Hoodie Allen is All American Caitlin Hilton

Growing up in New York, New York, Steven Markowitz used to entertain friends and family by performing original rap songs.

Markowitz then took on the nickname “Hoodie”, which would later transform into his current stage name of “Hoodie Allen”.

Blooming in early 2009, Hoodie Allen took his childhood obsession of writing raps to the next level with his independent release of Bagels & Beats and Making Waves.

His later albums, Leap Year,

“

Pep Rally, and Hoodie Allen Best Music on Campus award. are all free to download on He isn’t the poster child for Allen’s Soundcloud page. ordinary rap music, but is for Pep Rally is a mix tape fea- individuality. Dominated by t u r i n g an indusremixes try that of songs thrives off from bands of creativAllen’s later albums...are all ity, Allen varying from Ma- free to download on his Sound- succeeds cloud page rina & the in makDiamonds ing his to The xx. t u n e s The mix stand out tape had over 250,000 plays among the others. within the first week.

All American is Allen’s latAllen has become a popular est independent release and artist among many college his first album available on students, and won an MTVU iTunes.

muse 7

The Black Keys

Debuting at #1, the unsigned artist gives fans eight original tracks, all of them showcasing his quirky lyrics and hypotonic rhythms.

“No Faith in Brooklyn” starts off as what would seem to be a ballad, but within the first 20 seconds Allen turns back into a rapper. Although the tune and beat changes into a faster song, the lyrics display a softer side of Allen. The bridge even features Allen’s brilliant falsetto, an extremely rare occurrence.

Allen has undoubtedly created a masterpiece.

7 Days...

“In preparation for the concert, I’ve dyed all my keys black.”

-Catherine Frost, 11

“They’re awesome.

Even though they got rid of their old lead singer, they’re still awesome.”

-Faith Reyes, 9

until

Escape the Fate 27 Days... until

Avicii

“I just love Avicii and I’ve been waiting for this concert since I was born.”

-Elijah Hunter, 11

Upcoming Book Signings

Photo by Hannah Price

Veronica Roth Blue Willow Bookshop April 20-7 p.m.

Photo by Amy Jordan

Lauren Conrad Blue Willow Bookshop April 21-3 p.m.

8

muse Avery’s

Anecdotes

“Having a dissenting opinion on movies, music, or clothes, or owning clever or obscure possessions, is the way middle-class people fight one another for status...Hipsters, then, are the direct result of this cycle of indie, authentic, obscure, ironic, clever consumerism...It is ironic in the sense the very act of trying to run counter to the culture is what creates the next wave of culture people will in turn attempt to counter.”

-David McRaney

My parents basically raised me to be a “hipster.” In 5th grade when Ciara’s “1, 2 Step” was crazy popular, my parents played 80’s rock music in the car. On the playground one day, I remember saying, “I don’t like pop music” and my elementary school friends almost had a heart attack, and acted as if my musical tastes were blasphemous. How dare I not listen to FM 104.1!?

As I have grown and formed my own opinions, I am very grateful that my parents raised me on the XM radio channels “First Wave,” the 80’s rock station, and “Alt Nation,” the alternative station, rather than “Hits 1,” the Top 20’s song station. I formed an appreciation for “alternative” music rather than pop and rap, though now I do like some of both genres.

By my musical tastes, one could probably define me as a “hipster,” though I would disagree. The traditional definition of hipster is someone who is up to date on the latest trends, whether in anything from fashion to music. The definition of hipster has morphed, though, to mean somebody who doesn’t do anything “mainstream,” overuses the word “ironic,” and is sort of pretentious about their interests.

The thing that I have learned about hipsters, though, is that they generally hate the idea of hipsters. Almost nobody will identify himself or herself as a hipster, because the word has acquired such a negative connotation.

If you were born with the curse of the hipster, there is nothing you can do. Embrace it, listen to non-mainstream bands, but please, do us all a favor and leave the pretentiousness at home. Together we can mend the connotation of the word hipster back to its original and positive state.

Friday, April 20, 2012

The Oracle

An Evening With David Ives The 2011-12 Playhouse season comes to a close with a series of collected comedic straight plays by playwright David Ives.

This collection is titled ‘An Evening With David Ives’. The short plays hit the Playhouse on the main stage the first weekend of May. Pick your favorites and support the Playhouse on one of the dates below.

Alternative Tanning Options Hannah Price

NATURAL BRONZE • With prom and swim suit season around the corner, many students are hitting the pool and the tanning beds in order to get more bronze.

However, the harsh UV rays can cause permanent skin damage. There are many safer options that are not only cheaper than tanning beds, but are much easier on skin.

The most popular being Jergens brand tinted moisturizers. Photo by Hannah Price.

The Universal Language: May 3, 4, 5 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Dr. Fritz, or the Forces of Light: May 3, 4, 5 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Babel in Arms: May 3, 5, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Words, Words, Words: May 3, 5, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Sure Thing: May 3, 4, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Enigma Variations: May 4, 5, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Mere Mortals: May 4, 5, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30 Soap Opera: May 3, 4, 5, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 7:30 Captive Audience: May 3, 4, 11 at 7:30 and May 12 at 2:30 & 7:30

ALTERNATIVE RAYS • There are many sunless

tanning options to get the tan look that everyone loves without harming skin. Tinted moisturizers, airbrush sprays, bronzers, and tanning towelettes are just a few of the alternative ways that students are using to get darker. However, for a quicker and more dramatic transformation, students visit local tanning salons to receive a spray tan. Photo by Hannah Price.

Free Press Summerfest

Houston’s annual festival is back for another year Paige Tormey Houston has finally produced an outdoor music festival that is satisfying for fans of all genres.

Free Press Summerfest is held annually at Eleanor Tinsley Park downtown. This year it will be held June 2-3 to begin the sizzling summer with a thrilling weekend.

This year’s line-up is bigger than ever with headliners such as The Avett Brothers, Snoop Dog, and Willie Nelson.

Because there are 80 artists on eight stages, one could get overwhelmed with all of the choices to make during the festival. Instead of wasting the first day out of ignorance, learn from someone who’s adventured through it already.

First of all, water is your new best friend. Bring a large water bottle with you, or even bring multiple. The early June heat, combined with the lack

of trees promises a scorching day. Water will ensure that you can make it through the day. If you run your water bottle dry, there are free refill stations.

There are many different food vendors, but they all skyrocket their prices since the audience has hardly any other options. Instead of emptying your wallet on mediocre food, bring snacks for the whole day. You can save time waiting in line as well as money spent on cheap food.

A common amateur mistake is to gravitate towards the main stage throughout the whole festival, believing that the best shows will come to those who just sit there.

Avoid this at all costs. Yes, the main stage has the most famous artists, but between each show is a wait of about 45 minutes. Time should not be wasted at all, so take advantage of every minute.

Take a print-out of the schedule and take a chance

on a random band you may have never heard of. They may turn out to be sub-par, or they could be your new favorite band.

Even if you are one of those people that is strictly loyal to only one genre, try to branch out a little. FPSF has artists ranging from rap to folk, and everything in between. Each stage has a unique atmosphere, and it is beneficial to test out each section.

When it comes time to see the headliner and everyone rushes to the main stage, don’t worry too much about getting a good spot. Unless you’re within the first 30 feet of the stage, it won’t matter where else you are. A large, grassy hill is in front of the stage so that every person has a clear view of the artist.

Consider bringing a towel to sit or lay out on. The ground can get dirty or even muddy.

Do not underestimate the power of the Houston heat.

Avoid wearing dark clothing

at all cost; you will be miserable. Slip on lightweight clothes with a soft color. Natural fabrics do not attract the heat as much as man-made materials, so stick to cotton.

Sunscreen is also beneficial here. The lack of foliage could lead to a nasty sunburn if you’re not careful.

The general pre-sale price is a relatively small fee of $65, which includes admission for both days. However, there is a way to get in for free. Volunteering at the festival requires signing up for a two hour shift, but once finished, you are allowed unlimited access for the entire weekend. It’s worth it to put in just a small amount of work to be able to enjoy the rest of the festival for absolutely free.

Buy tickets while they’re still at the pre-sale price and start planning for the first weekend of summer at FPSF. Just as it has never disappointed before, this line-up is sure to impress.

2012 Free Press Partial Lineup

The Avett Brothers Snoop Dogg Willie Nelson Afrojack The Flaming Lips Primus Descendents Major Lazer Young the Giant Portugal. The Man Two Door Cinema Club Z-Ro Morris Day and the Time Best Coast Girl in a Coma Famous Electric Touch Maps and Atlases Clap Your Hands Say Yeah Quintron & Ms. Pussycat Second Lovers The Sour Notes Journey Agents DJ Ebonix Fat Tony Last Place You Look Zorch

The Oracle

New York Times Best Cookie Recipe

Friday, April 20, 2012

muse 9

Avery Falick, Hannah Price

The New York Times rated this chocolate chip cookie recipe to be the best. After testing the recipe out, it is very good, though a little bit complicated. It is very important to read the entire recipe before getting started to make sure that enough time is allotted to properly create these cookies. The author of the recipe stresses the importance of using both bread and pastry flour rather than all-purpose flour, but after testing out the recipe with all-purpose flour, the cookies still turned out to be delicious.

Steps for Recipe 1. Sift flours, baking soda, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Set aside.

1 pound unsalted butter 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar 2 1/4 cups packed light-brown sugar 4 large eggs 3 cups and 2 tablespoons pastry flour 3 cups bread flour 1 tablespoon salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 2 pounds bittersweet chocolate

2. Using a mixer with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars to-

gether until very light, about 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla. Reduce speed to low, add dry ingredients and mix until just combined, 5 to 10 seconds. Drop chocolate pieces in and incorporate them without breaking them. Press plastic wrap against dough and refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours. Dough may be used in batches, and can be refrigerated for up to 72 hours.

3. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat. Set aside.

4. Scoop 6 3 1/2-ounce mounds of dough (the size of golf balls) onto baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and bake until golden brown but still soft, 18 to 20 minutes. Transfer sheet to a wire rack for 10 minutes, then slip cookies onto another rack to cool a bit more.

We also do Graduation Cakes!

14522 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77079 (281) 741-9161

Mango Mousse * Mostachon * Almond Delight * Eclairs * Strawberry Mousse* Lattes

Lemon Bars * Cheesecake * Cupcakes * Tiramisu * Coffee * Croissants

Mango Mousse * Mostachon * Almond Delight * Eclairs * Strawberry Mousse* Lattes

Ingredients

Lemon Bars * Cheesecake * Cupcakes * Tiramisu * Coffee * Croissants

10

SPORTS

Friday, April 20, 2012

Track Races to Regionals

The Oracle

Boys Lacrosse Improves

Varsity Girl’s Results:

1st-Shamaujae Crockett (200m); Kathryn Wood (800m); Wood, Caitlin Hilton, Lara Samarneh, Crockett (4 x 400m relay) 2nd-Crockett (long jump); Wood (400m); Samarneh (1600m and 3200m); Xuelia Suero (300m H); Crockett, Hilton, Rihanna Devany, Toyrealle White (4 x 100 relay) 3rd-Hilton (400m); White, Jessiah Broussard, Devany, Natasha Reid (4 x 200m relay) 4th-Ashley Sherrard (shot put); Rihanna Devany (100m); Suero (100m H) 5th-Crockett (high jump); Kimberly Taylor (discus); Savannah Delgado (100m H) 6th-Kimberly Taylor (high jump); Elise Franke (3200m); Broussard (100m H)

Varsity Boy’s Results:

1st-Everette Favor (pole vault); James Broussard (3200m); Brian Quinlam (1600m) 2nd-Bryan Hallenbeck (discus); Kodi Abgasi (triple jump); Kelvin Rainey (long jump) 3rd-Brian Skulski (100m); Pearce Casd (3200m and 1600m); Andrew Brillon, Trey Miller, Broussard, Sullivan Barnes (4 x 400 relay); Roderick Taylor, Travis Hanes, Terrence Peters, Mark Spangenberg (4 x 200 relay) 4th-Brillon (400m); Broussard (800m); Francisco Lara (1600m) 5th-Taylor (100m) 6th-Isaiah Glover (high jump); Peters (200m); Miller (400m); Barnes (800m)

One Putt At A Time

STOPPING THE CLEAR • Defending against McNeil for Spartans is senior long stick defender Don

Szumski. The men’s varsity lacrosse team started the season off rough by losing to rival Clear Lake with a score of 5-10. Then they lost a close game to Bellaire 9-7. The next week, the team faced Katy Taylor and won with a score of 9-8. Losing a close game the next week, the Spartans were defeated 9-6, by Friendswood.

Playing Pearland next, the team won 10-3. The following week the team played Langham Creek at home; with an exciting finish, the Spartans came out on top and won 7-8. This year’s varsity team consists of: seniors Will Young, Parker Tennet, Don Szumski, Austin Stephens, Richey Puntarelli, Michael Moore, Christopher McDougald, Thomas Maranuk, Tyler Loving, Michael Lipnik, Tomas Hirsch, and William Hermann juniors Demitrius Abercrombie, Spencer Bennett, Jacob Cribbs, Tanner Emery, Kelly griffin, Patrick Janacek, and Stephen Sattler, sophomore Ryan Balke and freshman Kendall Marbach. Photo provided by Staff.

Water Polo Gets Rough Elaine Parizot

MAKING THE SHOT • After competing in districts the Men’s Varsity A team is sending two members

on to Regionals. They are seniors Thomas Scaff (middle) and sophomore Trevor Hennington (far right). Photo provided by Staff.

and keep their heads above Every year, as the swimming their opponent’s net. Posi- water. season comes to a close in tions consist of wings, flats, Fouls are another kind of obMarch, a group of swimmers points, centers, and a goalie. stacle that water polo players and a few non-swimmers The sport has been called a face in a game. There are no strap on their helmets and combination of swimming, pads or other kind of protecstay in the pool to prepare for basketball, and boxing be- tion other than the cloth caps the water polo season. cause of its notorious vio- worn by all players. Instances This year the team has lence. of broken ribs and punches played Memorial, Westside, During the five minute being thrown are not unLamar, Jersey Village and quarters, players must con- heard of. It can be very easy Cy-Springs, some of the few tinuously tread water and not for a player to kick or pull on Houston schools that another player without offer the sport. The the referee noticing since boys’ team has qualithe water makes it diffified for the regional There are basically no rules, other cult to see. tournament with the than you can’t actually try to hurt “One time a girl pulled help of leading scorer down on my swimsuit someone on the other team. senior Kyle Rathgeb and yanked me under and senior Rob Gahn water which was kind of - Val Dietz, 10 on defense. After conscary” said sophomore secutive runs for the Val Dietz. championship in 2009 Although water polo is and 2010, the girls’ a very unknown sport, team is currently rebuilding touch the bottom of the pool. it is extremely entertaining with a team comprised of Players use an “egg-beater” and strenuous. While the many freshmen. The girls are style of kicking to propel 20 minute long games are led by senior Hanna Healy on themselves out of the water much shorter than the typical offense and senior Amy Fox when making shots or pass- football game, they are arguin the goal. ing to their teammates. Water ably one of the most action Water polo is a fast-paced polo requires a lot of stamina packed events and physically game in which seven players so players can keep up with intensive high school or proattempt to get the ball into the quickness of the game fessional sports available.

“

11

SPORTS

Friday, April 20, 2012

The Oracle

Newton’s Law

April-May

Monday

Sunday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Alex Newton

Friday

Thursday

Saturday

Boys Var20 sity Baseball vs.

Waller @ 7 Spartanaire Spring Show SHS @ 7

22

29

Boys Varsity Track Regional Qualifiers Meet @4

23

25

24

26

1 Varsity Tennis 30 Varsity Tennis State ChampionState Championships @ 8 ships @ 8

2

3

6

7

8

9

10

13

14

15

16

17

27

Varsity Baseball vs Brenham SHS @7 Boys/Girls Varsity Track Regional Championship SHSU-Hunstville @4

4

11

Boys/Girls Varsity Track State Championship UT @ 4

18

21 Spartanaire Spring Show SHS @ 1, 7

28

Boys/Girls Varsity Track Regional Championship SHSU @ 9

5

12

Boys/Girls Varsity Track State Championship UT @ 9

19

A year has passed and not much has changed for the Rockets.

They are on the brink of playoff eligibility. The future remains uncertain even now as the season nears its end.

Only a little more than a week ago the Rockets were the 6th seed in the west and, following a successful 4-0 road trip with wins in Chicago and Los Angeles, they were seemingly a lock for the playoffs.

The Rockets had to make things more interesting and decided to counter this winning streak with a losing streak where they lost several key games against Phoenix, Utah, and twice against Denver. The magic of Goran Dragic and Courtney Lee has seemingly run out.

Lowry has yet to regains his full strength and Kevin Martin remains Coach Martin.

The youth that were supposed to plague the Rockets all season has become their biggest asset in this shortened season. The play of rookie Chandler Parsons is what has many people turn-

ing heads.

While he may not have the talent the rest of the rookies possess his experience is far greater. This is because Parsons stayed all four years in college, a rarity in today’s game, and briefly played overseas during the lockout.

The biggest surprise has to be the coaching of Kevin McHale. It appeared that the team made a big mistake with the release of veteran coach Rick Adelman and the hiring of unproven McHale.

Adelman had done well during his time in Houston and his release had been a surprise to many but McHale has done a great job and has even stirred up some coach of the year talk.

With only a few games left in the season the Rockets need to win them all or they may end up in the same position as we were last year, the dreaded 9th seed.

The Rockets are in great position to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in the past three season yet these next few games will have a heavy toll on this teams future.

12

SPORTS

Friday, April 20, 2012

The Rundown The Rundown

The Oracle

Life Of An Equestrian Jackie Mask

A play-by-play of Stratford athletes A play-by-play of Stratford athletes

Alyssa Sturgis Favorite Animal: Owl Favorite Pre-game food: Starburst Position: 2nd Base Favorite Song: “Power” by Kanye West Favorite Bat: Xeno Favorite thing about softball: Friends Most looking forward to in college: Independence Photo by Maggie Vickers

Corey Kruseman Favorite Song: “People are Crazy” by Billy Currington Lucky Number: 14 Favorite Tennis Racket: Wilson Years of Tennis: 12 Favorite Game: Federer vs. Nadal 2011 Hours of Training per day: 2 Best Accomplishment: Winning a tournament Photo by Ariyan Almassi

Tennis Serves Up Elyse’ Stieber

Every year since 1986, tennis has continually qualified at districts, and has gone to the State Championships 23 times. This year, three teams qualified for Regionals: Thomas Leyden and Cameron Long placed second in men’s doubles, Blake Schreiber and Jessie Hall placed second in mixed doubles, and Hannah Byatt and Kaylin Kruseman placed first in women’s doubles, taking the district title. This will be Byatt’s third time and Kruseman’s second time going to districts.

Byatt and Kruseman went to state last year for doubles, and lost in the semi finals in three matches to the team that went on to win State overall.

“I really think that Byatt and Kruseman are in it to win it,” said Varsity Coach Rory Frazee.

“After being so close to the title last year, they won’t want to go home without a State Championship title,” he said.

Matches are usually set for

POSE FOR THE PROS • The Varsity tennis team takes a break from the heat at Districts for a team photo. Three of the teams placed to move on to Regionals on April 17 and 18. Photo by Maggie Vickers.

90 minutes each, and a best two out of three match lasts around two to three hours.

With the usual conditions of sun-off-pavement heat, players tire easily. The grueling sport requires much dedication. No true breaks are given during a game, only a quick run to get water. The sport uses a lot of upper body and lower body strength needed for quick sprints to the ball and swinging of the arm to hit the ball.

“My schedule is always packed with tennis, whether it be school or club,” said sophomore Kaylin Kruseman. “Sometimes it’s hard to manage that and schoolwork, but after a while you learn to prioritize.”

On April 16 and 17, the three teams competed at Regionals.

Byatt and Kruseman won all four games and placed first in girls doubles. They will now go on to compete at State at UT Austin on April 30 and

MAKING THE JUMP •

Horseback riding is easy. The horse does all the work, right? What this curious onlooker does not see, are the early mornings and late nights of tedious braiding, tack cleaning, stall shoveling, the long drives traveling from show to show, and empty wallet syndrome. Not to mention the incredible mental and physical exhaustion that comes with the territory in the saddle. The truth is, you are on the back of a 1200 pound animal, that may or may not want to go over that 3 foot 6 oxer that you’re pointing it towards, in the right amount of strides that you need to impress the judge watching you. The horse could simply stop in the middle of your approach, and send you flying into the jump that you are meant to go over. There are silent leg aids and mental calculations that it takes to go for a clean round, that all go into making it look effortless and beautiful. Photos by Jackie Mask.

The Oracle

Fighting for Success

Junior class highly competitive with academics Caroline Suchman

In the grand scheme of er half of the first 25 percent our times in high school, we things, a good percentage of are at a disadvantage because hurt not only our chances of us here are here in order to of our severely driven class- getting into a good college, gain a diploma and go on to mates. Our future should we hurt our chances of doing college. In order to get into not be dependent on any- well once we get to whatever the best college possible, we thing but our own success. school we end up at. must make the best grades This could affect our futures Furthermore, what about and test scores possible. those who have a separate Now imagine sitting at your tutor for each class? It’s unlunch table, just chatting fair that some have the time casually about your senior and money to spend on friends’ GPAs, when you find Our future should not be personalized help for each dependent on anything classes. Those of us who that one who is in the top 11 but our own success. percent of their class has alare involved in outside-ofmost the same GPA as you class activities or have jobs and you are struggling to stay cannot necessarily get that in the top quarter. by changing what schools kind of assistance, and most Even counselor Greg Fore, and colleges we can get into, of us do not really need that has made comments on how on top of affecting our self- much help in order to get satoverly competitive the junior esteem. isfactory grades. class is.

If someone does not believe If you need extra help with What about those of us who they can do well in school a class in order to maintain are not geniuses? We who and does not see the point in a “B” in an advanced class, represent the population of trying their best, they obvi- perhaps you should consider people who would typically ously won’t do their best. By dropping down. make up the bulk of the low- not doing our best during

“

OPINIONS 13 Better Introductions Friday, April 20, 2012

Help the freshmen to succeed from the start Esther Jeon When I first came to high school, I had no idea what a GPA was. I knew from what my middle school teachers had told me that high school was essential, but I hadn’t a single clue that it would be my high school records and grades affecting what college I would be able to go to.

I had no online access to grades and I very rarely checked them. Why should I? I knew they mattered, but I had no idea how much they mattered.

My freshman year went by mundanely in a strange blur, but it could’ve been a very different year for me had I known more about what would take place in the next four years of my life.

Our school does have freshman orientation to welcome the incoming freshmen in, but that program is geared specifically towards

making the freshmen more comfortable in their high school transition, not to inform them of how critical the next four years of their lives will be.

Parents have the opportunity to be informed of the importance of their children’s GPA at Parent U, a program that takes place second semester to help parents understand what their students must do to succeed in high school. However, even that program fails in the aspect that it is directed towards the parents and not the students.

Yes, most of the freshmen coming into high school have a generally greater arsenal of knowledge than most, but there are still those without that knowledge. I’ve always regretted that I didn’t do more during my freshman year. It was, to me, the easiest year in my high school career, and I easily could’ve worked a little harder to

make grades that would exemplify my fullest potential.

There’s really not much to do; the solution is quite simple. There could be some speech made at freshman orientation regarding the importance of high school, or even a simple assembly to properly introduce the freshmen to what they should be working on for the next four years. It’s an easy step the school can take to make their freshmen more knowledgeable.

This assembly should also teach them that they are responsible for themselves.

They should not worry about the grades their peers are making, they should only be worried about their own success. The academic competition the junior class and in the whole school could be greatly decreased if students were more aware of the significance of hard work and good study habits.

Contemporary Carpe Diem

Popular saying does not excuse irresponsible behavior Kali Venable

Thanks to Drake’s mainstream song The Motto ft. Lil Wayne, belting out ‘YOLO’ has become oddly common.

YOLO, short for “You only live once”, is said to be a motivator to make you do things that you normally wouldn’t agree to do.

I, among many other students, have grown tired of hearing such a pointless slogan so many times of the day.

“I can’t stand the YOLO jokes or random comments.

If you need a dumb motto to make you do stupid things

Oracle Staff

then maybe you should rethink your decisions,” said sophomore Brendon Bessiere.

The twitter account @ YoloJokes has reached over 300,000 followers. This account features idiotic actions that don’t make any sense followed by a YOLO hash tag.

This user tweets far too many times a day and gets hundreds of retweets.

Of course, we should live every day to the fullest. People should not need such a slogan to do so, especially since it is not being used to take risks that are beneficial, but instead

to justify bad decisions.

Shouting YOLO and taking a shot of alcohol or perhaps something simpler such as not doing your homework does not make either of those actions okay. Simple actions such as those and the phrase YOLO do not define how exciting your life is.

I’m not trying to express an opinion about teen drinking or failing to do your homework, but instead make a point that you should make your choices based on your morals not the “Motto” of a mainstream rapper.

We as people are able to

make the best choices without influences from other people. No one knows you better than yourself, so why listen to anyone else when it comes to deciding if something is wrong or right?

When you’re faced with a decision and you know the difference between what is wrong and right, don’t let ‘YOLO’ blur your vision and get the two mixed up. Yes, you only live once, but that means you also only die once too, so why waste your life on dumb decisions?

You’ll find that by using your morals to lead your

life you won’t regret as many choices as you would if you lived according to others beliefs.

Among t h e people

who use YOLO as justification for poor choices there is also a crowd shouting it as a joke. Maybe it is funny at first, but I’d say after a few times it becomes incredibly obnoxious, not to mention slightly embarrassing.

Thankfully, the YOLO trend seems to be dying down.

We do only live once but that doesn’t mean we have to waste our precious time exclaiming such an obvious fact.

Graphic by Kelsey Hunter.

Advisor Janice Cummons Editors-in-Chief Annie Rice, Maddie Stone, Avery Falick Associate Editor Rachael Brennan News Editors Samantha Vargas, Layla Shahhosseini, Sara Boyle News Reporters Chandler Callahan, Esther Jeon, Samantha Stazo, Ara Luz Muse Editors Caitlin Hilton, Hannah Price, Paige Tormey Muse Reporters Kaela Beasley, Janelle Blackwood Sports Editors Samantha Hicks, Valeria Chelala, Leslie Bustamante Sports Reporters Alex Newton, Elaine Parizot, Elyse Stieber Opinions Editors Michelle Evans, Lydia Sweet Opinions Reporters Andres Acosta, Caroline Suchman, Jackie Velarde Photo Editors Katie Gregory, Amy Jordan, Mary Elizabeth Schnake Photographers Ariyan Almassi, Maddie Byers, Caroline Demeris, Faith Figueroa, Jackie Mask, Jacob Pennington, Logan Tinkler, Samantha Vanston, Amy Brajenovich Copy Editors Ammarah Tariq, Marina Khalid Staff Artist Kelsey Hunter Design Editors Isabel Deakins, Harrison Vaporciyan Design Staff Gil Sanchez, Kali Venable Ads Editors Leslie Baker, Caroline Schrieber, Katy Wilson Ads Staff Stephanie Slaughter, Mary Margaret Weaver, Blake Schreiber

14

OPINIONS

The Oracle

Friday, April 20, 2012

“Literally” Played Out

Incorrect usage ruining word’s definition Harrison Vaporciyan

The English language is a double-edged sword. In the right hands, it can be used to dispel ambiguity, present concise arguments, or tell an epic story. Alternately, in the hands of someone inexperienced, it can be confusing, contradictory, and accomplish little besides making its user look like an idiot.

Sadly, the second scenario has become much more common than the first in recent years, and with the influx of services like Twitter and Tumblr continually shortening the buffer between thinking something and publishing it, this worrying trend will only get worse.

But don’t think you’re immune from this idiocy simply because you proofread your writing before throwing it out into the wild. Even the most thorough of editors routinely miss some extremely com-

mon usage errors, and chanc- red tape”. es are if they don’t catch it, “Literally” is not alone in neither will you. having a seemingly paraThe easiest way to avoid doxical definition, of course. looking like an illiterate buf- “Cleave” means “to cut in foon in conversations is to half ” and “to glue together”, actually take the time to look and “scan” means “to peruse” up words before you use and “to read in depth”. The list them. This isn’t an issue with goes on, but I’m sure you get most words, the point. but some have “Literally”, been twisted however, has into gross unfortuOverusing any word the perversions of nate distinctheir original will eventually ruin it, tion of being definitions by and “literally” is no able to get exception. decades, if not crammed into centuries, of a sentence misuse. almost anywhere without afI’m talking, of course, about fecting its integrity, which “literally”. means that it’s been beaten When the word was first like a proverbial dead horse used in the early 1500s, it over the years. meant “in the literal or strict Don’t get me wrong - it’s still sense; exactly as dictated”. technically correct to use “litFast-forward a few centuries, erally” as part of a hyperbole, and you see it used to mean as Chantelle Houghton did the exact opposite of its origi- when she remarked that “he nal definition, as in “the sena- walks into the room and he’s tor was literally buried under literally like a hurricane”. As

“

with everything in life, however, just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.

If this doesn’t make sense to you, imagine everyday language as food and hyperboles as spices: in small amounts, they can be nice, but they become annoying and eventually unbearable beyond a certain point. In this metaphor, Ms. Houghton’s remark is the equivalent of lightly sprinkling some cayenne peppers over a meal, while the way most people use it is equivalent to chugging Tabasco sauce directly from the bottle.

Overusing any word will eventually ruin it, and “literally” is no exception. So the next time you go on about how you were “literally stuck to your seat” during a movie, unless you were at a remarkably awful theater, remember that you’re contributing to the gradual degradation of the English language.

College Conundrum

Important information to consider for applying Hannah Price

As the school year comes to an end and the summer approaches, many seniors are preparing for their move to college while many juniors are starting to think about which universities to apply to.

Any senior will tell you that there are many factors that go in to deciding on a college to attend. College rank should contribute to your decision, but it shouldn’t be the only aspect to analyze. Many students mistakenly choose a higher ranked school where they do not necessarily belong or fit in just because it “looks” better on a resume.

No matter where you choose to go to school, your education is what you make of it. If you party all of the time and neglect your school work, you will not learn as much, no matter where you are.

Since you will be on your own, you will get just as much out of your education as you put into it. If you work hard,

it will show and you will have a high GPA. If you don’t, this will also be very apparent.

College is also seen as a place to network. It is very common for people to find jobs after graduating college from a former college friend.

Although some universities are seen as better networking schools than others, all colleges have the potential to be great networking opportunities, again, depending on how much effort you put into it. In addition, sororities and fraternities in all universities are seen as easy, yet strong, ways to network.

Decide what kind of school you see yourself at. There are so many universities and all of them are different, so deciding what kind of environment fits you best will help narrow down the choices. You need to decide whether you want to be at a big or small school, how far away from home you would like to be, specific location, the type of people there, and much more. Once you

decide the type of environment you would like to spend the next four years enveloped in, you will have a clearer picture of which college would suit you best.

It is incredibly important that, before choosing a university, that you tour the campus. When visiting you are able to see the various people that attend the university, what the school emphasizes, and the area where the campus is located. If you can, it is also recommended to sit in on a class while you are there to experience the new type of learning environment and get a taste of a course that you may be taking in the future.

It is important to not only tour the campus, but to also stay there for the weekend with someone that you know.

This way, you are able to see the closest possible example of college life on that campus.

That way, you will be able to tell better whether you will do well socially and scholastically at that particular school.

While applying for various colleges, be sure to put the major that you want to pursue as a future career path. It is completely unethical to apply for colleges within a specific university that are seen as easier to get in to just so that you can get in. Because of that, you are taking away spots in that college for other people who actually want to be a social worker or involved in special education, for example.

If you are not admitted into the university based on your actual career path, then you were simply not meant to go to the school or you won’t be able to keep up with the course load there. Besides, it would be better to know that you were admitted to your university because of your own merit and that you actually deserve to be there rather than just cheating the system.

If you look at the right things, you are bound to find the right college fit for you.

Juniors and seniors filled out a survey during Spartan Time on April 12 stating which AP tests they were the most stressed about.

J U N I O R S

U.S History 37%

English Language 25%

Not stressed or N/A 26%

Other 12%

S E N I O R S English Literature Calculus 19% AB/BC Biology 21% 11% Other 7%

Physics B/C 16%

Not stressed or N/A 26%

AP Test Schedule May 7- 7:30 AM: Chemistry, Environmental Science. 11:30 AM: Psychology.

May 8- 7:30 AM: Computer Science A, Spanish Language. 11:30 AM: Art History May 9- 7:30 AM: Calculus AB, Calculus BC. 11:30 AM: Chinese Language and Culture May 10- 7:30 AM: English Literature and Composition. 11:30 AM: Japanese Language and Culture, Latin: Virgil May 11- 7:30 AM: German Language and Culture, United States History.

11:30 AM: European History May 14- 7:30 AM: Biology, Music Theory. 11:30 AM: Physics B, Physics C: Mechanics, Physics C: E&M May 15- 7:30 AM: United States Goverment and Politics. 11:30 AM: French Language and Culture.

May 16 -7:30 AM: English Language and Composition. 11:30 AM: Statistics May 17- 7:30 AM: Macroeconomics, World History. 11:30 AM: Italian Language and Culture May 18- 7:30 AM: Human Geography, Spanish Literature

The Oracle

Friday, April 20, 2012

Political Ponderings

OPINIONS15

How potential presidential platforms affect real people Hannah Bevers

With the 2012 Presidential Election quickly approaching, we’re making choices about who we will support to be the next president of this great nation. Living in Texas doesn’t exactly give us an unbiased playing field, but it does give us an environment with diverse ideas of what is right and wrong. This variety has given us, as young people, a taste of what the “real world” of politics is like before we can even reach high enough to grab a ballot.

The debates between nominees for the upcoming race have been widely watched and discussed. However, the questions asked, along with the answers given, don’t always cover what we, as American citizens, need and want to know in order to make our decisions to vote (or support, in the case of minors).

The Republican nominees

(along with their stances on issues, family past, financial standing, previous personal choices, and religious adherence) are well-known to the public, especially in Texas.

But if you’re set on supporting a Republican nominee, here is some food for thought before you decide who you’ll be supporting.

Primary front-runner Mitt Romney’s plans for his presidency aim to reduce the federal deficit. Some of the funding he’s looking to reduce effects students, including education and research.

Even if you’re leaving high school soon, this fund cut applies to you. Romney’s plan will cut funding for student financial aid (the money that might help you get through college).

These two examples make it clear that it’s important to dig deep into the real issuesespecially those which will directly effect you-before

making a choice.

North American Union simiIf you heard this: “The lar to the European Union?

American people’s view that This union, “complete with everyone has a right to medi- a currency across national cal care is intellectually wrong bureaucracy and virtually and will destroy what is good border less travel within the in the current system,” who union,” will - in Paul’s own would you think said it in a words - “represent another public speech? Would you step toward the abolition of assume it national was the sovereignstance ty.” of Ron An inPaul? Bet e r e sting Why does the election have cause, bepart of this lieve it or anything to do with us at all? i d e a l i z e d Simple: it’s the future. not, it is. union is Say that it ties you’re a very closely senior to somecitizen and you live alone. thing else Paul said: “Every You break your hip and des- time you think of the [borperately need the medical der] fence keeping all those attention to heal so that you bad people out, think about can continue to take care of those fences maybe being yourself. You have a right used against us, keeping us to medical care, right? Ron in.”

Paul’s Medicare plan doesn’t Combined, these two quotes agree. can amount to wanting to How about the issue on a keep the “bad people” out of

“

Inconsistent Enforcement

School staff slacks in supporting rules equally Kaela Beasley

The use of cell phones, “inappropriate” wear, being tardy: these rules are commonly broken among students. Staff does not seem to enforce these rules equally among the students.

Teachers have a very unusual way of dealing with students who break these common rules. For example, one day a female student might wear leggings to a certain teachers’ class and be sent to the office to change. Another student may go into the same classroom, with the same teacher, wear-

ing leggings and not get reprimanded at all.

Favoritism, mood changes, or just plain not seeing the student could all be causes of why the second student may not have gotten caught. This is not fair for the student who did get sent to the office.

Rules are made for a reason.

We all break the rules sometimes, but students getting punished for there actions while others don’t is unfair.

Everyone loves the feeling of “getting away” with a rule but that does not change the fact that it is a rule and it is there for a reason.

Whether a teacher may favor this student or not, all students must be treated the same. It is not the student’s fault that they aren’t the teacher’s favorite.

Teachers should be consistent in their ways of dealing with students who break the rules.

Teachers seem to base their

strictness on how their mood is on that particular day, rather than what the rules really are. Teachers should enforce the rules equally.

Rules are in place for a reason. Students think that it is acceptable to break rules just because they know their teacher won’t catch them. If students follow the simple rules the school has in place, none of this would be necessary.

Teachers’ inconsistency needs to become uniform. It is unfair to students, and it looks bad on the teachers part to not follow their own set of school-deter mine d rules.

our country but encouraging the ideal world of free travel between neighboring countries and the United States.

Makes sense, right?

A rising issue in our nation, especially with the frail economy, is the influx of homeless people. When asked about his position on this issue following the shooting of a homeless man in front of the White House, Newt Gingrich replied, “Give the park police more ammo.” Humanity, and our right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” disagree and make actions like this unfavorable.

A common accusation made by students and adults is that young people only have political stances and opinions because of what they’ve heard from their parents. While this may be slightly true, I wouldn’t give all the credit to parents. We’re a fair amount through our education, we’ve been taught right and wrong,

and we’ve all lived in this world long enough to know at least some common sense.

Why is it, then, that under the light of politics we all seem to forget our intellect and go into knock-down, drag-out arguments to back up those we support?

Most of us aren’t even able to vote. Why does the election have anything to do with us at all? Simple: it’s the future.

President Obama doesn’t have exactly agreeable policies or ideas all the time, either; no one is perfect. But at the same time, he has generated some success in cutting the deficit as well as making our lives easier.

You may not like what’s currently going on in the White House. But just one question should run through your mind before you vote on someone else simply to end the power of who is in office now: What are you voting for?

Problematic Parking

Building construction disturbs south lot Michelle Evans

Parking has been a nightmare on campus for years. It isn’t necessarily finding a spot that is horrendous, but the hundreds of eager cars trying to get home at 3 p.m. everyday.

Earlier in the semester, the construction company took over a section of the south parking lot by the water towers. The spaces that used to be for student parking were fenced off and used as parking for the construction workers and as a place to secure their storage sheds. Students who previously parked in the south lot would now park in the east lot if there were no other spots available.

After school, students typically talk with their friends.

There are also many students who just want to get home and relax. For those that want the latter, they rush to their cars and quickly head out of the parking lot. Prior to spring break, this was an easy

5 minute routine.

If one was out of the building and in their car by 3:05, they were clear to exit campus. Now, however, this is impossible. Even at 3:05, there is already a line of cars ready to leave.

Every morning, there is a group of seniors and juniors who arrive to school on time and head to park in their designated parking lot. As theyrealize there are no spots left, they head over to the east lot.

By the time these students are parked and walking into the building, the bell goes off and they are late for class.

Students should be able to park in the faculty lot. Building Principal Chris Juntti has come on the intercom numerous times to say that there are plenty of spots available in the east lot, but this is no longer the case. While the faculty lot remains only half full, the students are fighting to find a parking space.

The teachers are supposed to be here every morning

by 7:15. With this time, they prepare for the day or hold tutorials for their students.

As for the student body, most of them arrive after 7:30. Currently the faculty can park any where they want in the faculty parking lot. They have been at school for a while by the time students finally start arriving.

“The parking spaces in those rows for construction workers don’t even get completely filled,” said senior Don Szumski.

Seniors who have off campus every morning now have to park in the east lot and travel around the perimeter of the school just to get inside. Although it is a safety measure to lock those doors leading to the east lot, it causes students to be unnecessarily late.

The students had to give up three rows for construction purposes. It would be nice if the faculty lot could sacrifice even one row to make up for the loss.

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