Jan 27, 2011

Not so Barbie doll p. 14 Photo by Mary Elizabeth Schnake Volume 39, Issue 6

ORACLE Friday January 27, 2011

Basketball heats up p. 12

Photo by Katherine Kennedy

14555 Fern Drive, Houston TX 77079

Willamania

We will always remember

The Playhouse opens new show

Coach Matthews

NOW SHOWING • (Above) Will Roger’s Follies, starring seniors Will Lynde and Katy Wilson, opens Jan. 27. and will run through Feb. 4. (For

Candidate Overview Hunting Conflict

“When I saw sunglass tan marks, red face then around his eyes were white from sitting outside trying to camaflauge by wearing a hat.”

Chandler Callahan Kelsey Hunter Annie Ye

-Taylor Williams, 12

“I miss his encouragements, all of his jokes but basically I miss his demeanor.”

-Rodrick Taylor, 12

“I think what I miss most is when we were scrimmaging he would stop all plays until he scored a goal, he made us play with him until he scored.”

-Ellen Barth, 12

show times see page 7). Cast members have been rehearsing since the summer to prepare for the show. Photo by Aldo Martinez.

2012 marks another momentous year in American history as both voters, candidates, and even the current President gear up for the November 2012 Presidential election.

While the electorate will never forget the groundbreaking 2008 election, this year may become just as memorable. With controversial candidates on both sides, it’s more important than ever to remain informed about who’s running and what they stand for.

Many students will be able to vote for the first time in their lives and will have to do the responsible thing and vote.

Although both Herman Cain and Rick Perry have already dropped out of the

campaign, Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, Mitt Romney, and Newt Gringich are still contenders on the Republican side. Gringich recently won the South Carolina primary with Romney close behind.

The Republicans are headed to Florida for the Florida primary next.

As for the Democrats, Barack Obama remains their main candidate.

The following guide to the policies and beliefs of Republican contenders Santorum and Gringich as well as Democratic contender Obama will provide even the most basic voter with necessary information.

These candidates’ opinions on issues such as health care, the budget crisis, and abortion are as follows.

see page 4

see page 15

NEWS Hard Landing 2

Friday, January 27, 2012

Sky High injuries prevalent among students Katie Gregory, Maddie Stone

Facial injuries seem to be the most common.

“When I went to Sky High, I jumped for 2 minutes then had to stop because I was so tired,” said junior Jimmy Hodges. “Then I saw [sopho-

to tackle a kid,” said junior Jordan Bernstein. “I jumped and tackled a kid and the kid didn’t think it was fun so he told on me. The manager told me to leave, but I left because I wanted to.”

Sky High recognizes that trampoline activities are not 100% safe and state as much in their liability waiver. They “I was jumping and I face- recognize the potential of planted into a worker.” breaking wrists and ankles - Alli Klasing, 10 on their trampolines and warn against “interfering with someone’s bounce.” more] Will Bredthauer flip Their waiver also states that and land on his face.” any medical assistance is at “I was jumping and I face- the bouncer’s own expense. planted a worker,” said sophEven with these explicitly omore Alli Klasing. stated guidelines, skimming Overly rambunctious behav- the waiver or forging a parior has also contributed to an ent’s signature may have led increase in injuries. to such injuries and instances “Right after I landed my tri- of careless jumping. ple back flip, I was just having Sky High Sports is open sevfun jumping on a trampoline en days a week with longer and I decided it would be fun hours on the weekend.

“

Sky High Sports left students jumping for joy when it arrived in Houston this past winter. Filled with trampoline floors and trampoline walls, the facility captivated the crowds and gave people something different to do on the weekends.

Sky High strives to pride itself on its safety with their specially designed trampolines and abundant safety pads. Court supervisors patrol the area, and all participants under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or guardian.

However, despite these extensive safety measures, minor to serious injuries have still occurred.

“My sister fell over and broke her leg,” said junior Graham Jones.

Going For Gold Samantha Hicks

Campouts, cookie sales, and hundreds of service hours are what the eight juniors from Girl Scout Troop 12069 did for many years in preparation for their Gold Award. They have become the first troop in Houston ever to have all of the members earn the award.

The members of this troop are Audrey Daniel, Jackie Mask, Katherine Goss, Steffi Humburg-Meaux, Sarah Coward, Catherine Frost, Caitlin Hilton, and Michelle Evans.

The girls have been a part of the Troop since they started first grade at Wilchester Elementary. Jane Evans, former Girl Scout, signed herself up as the troop leader.

With a decline in numbers by the fifth grade, Evans gave the girls an incentive to stay in Girl Scouts. She told the girls that if they stuck with it, she would help plan a trip to Europe at the end of their sophomore year of high school.

Sophomore year eventually came around and seven of the eight remaining members of the troop traveled to Europe just as Evans had promised and the girls had planned.

In order to get their Gold Awards, each girl planned and completed her own service project with hundreds of hours and a lot of heart and thought. Then on Dec. 11, 2011, all eight girls were awarded with their Gold

The Oracle

Award.

“When I started my Girl Scout Gold Award project, it really sunk in that what I was doing was going to help someone,” said Jackie Mask.

The Girl Scouts of America Gold Award is one of the most respectable awards one can receive. A Girl Scout who has earned one automatically raises one rank in any of the U.S. military branches.

“Mrs. Evans has been an angel to all of us,” said Hilton.

“She played such a big part with helping us. She’s very modest-she doesn’t give herself enough credit.”

“We’ve just got a bond that no one knows about,” said Mask. “It would be hard to not stay in contact.”

The Oracle

It’s Clay’s Corner

SHTV segment captivates students Maddie Stone

“I always watch it in Mrs. Clay’s Corner has inspired The announcements have Briggs’ class,” said senior Lamberton to pursue a career become the highlight of ev- Kenny Nouri. “She always in broadcast journalism.

“Ever since Clay’s Coreryone’s week with the ad- says, ‘You stop and listen to him but you don’t listen to ner aired I realized how fun dition of Clay’s Corner to anything I say!’” broadcasting can be,” said SHTV. Lamberton is pleased with Lamberton. “I’ve recently Clay’s Corner, helmed by the reaction to his segment. been looking for internships sophomore Clay Lamberton, “I honestly thought it would in the broadcasting field. My was introduced to SHTV last be popular but not as popular dream is to either be a coryear.

“My Broadcast Journalism as it actually is!” said Lamber- respondent for E! or MTV teacher, Mr. Holmes, came up ton. “It’s so cool to see how or have my own radio or talk with the whole idea of Clay’s positive everyone’s reaction show.”

In addition to SHTV, LamCorner,” said Lamberton. to Clay’s Corner has been.”

Lamberton was surprised berton is also involved with “He thought having my own segment would be extremely when even the staff seemed the Playhouse and is an active member of Comedy Sportz, entertaining. When my class Thespians, and is on sound was asked for input they crew for Will Rogers Follies. completely agreed it would “I’ve been acting in plays be an awesome addition to “I think everyone always and musicals since I was 5 SHTV.” wants a student’s opinion to be The segment features Lam- shown so publicly at school.” years old and I really love it,” said Lamberton. “The type berton expressing his opin- Clay Lamberton, 10 of broadcasting I intend to ion about various occurrencpursue does requires theatre es around school and in the to be enjoying Clay’s Corner. skills, so both broadcasting community beyond.

“The thing I didn’t expect and theatre backgrounds will “The things I talk about was for teachers to tell me help in the future.” are just your everyday high that they enjoy Clay’s Corner However, broadcast remains school problems,” said Lamberton. “The ideas just come just as much as the students his top choice for now.

“If I had to choose one to me as I’m in school. Once I and that they look forward to it every week, ” said Lamberthough at the moment it get to my Broadcast Journalton. would probably be broadism class I write down all the One of the segment’s selling casting because it’s my goal topics I can think of and then choose the best subjects from points is Lamberton’s honesty to make a career in that busiin what he chooses to talk ness,” said Lamberton. the list.”

Clay’s Corner airs weekly on Upon its premiere on SHTV about.

“I think everyone has al- SHTV. last winter, Clay’s Corner took ways wanted a student’s opin“We are crazy for Clay’s the student body by storm. ion to be shown so publicly Corner, ” said Nouri. “It’s the “I love Clay’s Corner,” said at school, ” said Lamberton. best thing that’s happened to senior Susan Burrows. “He’s always right. He’s the only “Overall the responses have Stratford.” reason I watch the announce- been more than I could have ever wanted.” ments.”

“

Friday, January 27, 2012

Teach-Busters

NEWS 3

Chandler Callahan Jackie Mask

Do you have any embarrassing moments from your past?

Tom Courson I had an egg business, selling eggs.

This was up in the mountains in El Paso and I was about twelve years old. I would deliver my eggs in a wagon,.I would actually ride the wagon down the mountain that had the farm where I got my eggs. One day, I didn’t make it and the wagon tipped over and about thirty dozen eggs went all over the street.

Photo by Jacob Pennington

June Hatfield

Something I’m kind of embarrassed to talk about is that I am in the Bob Bullock Texas History Museum. I was very much surprised to see my picture there. I was on drill team in college and I discovered a picture of me in my attire. It was quite a shock to see myself in a museum.

Photo by Amy Jordan

Tim Johnson

I got my hand caught in a gumball machine when I was five years old.

I was trying to get a rubber spider and I didn’t have a quarter. The paramedics were called and had to shoot Vaseline up where my hand was and I just had to pull it out. It hurt pretty badly. I ended up being on the news.

Photo by Aldo Martinez

HEALTHY CAMPUS • As of Jan. 2012, all students entering college in Texas will be required to have proof of a Meningitis vaccine, even if they are living off campus. The vaccine must be administered no later than 10 days before classes start. Lead Nurse Kim Lusk can provide any student with a copy of their vaccine record and information on how to get free or low-cost vaccines. Photo by Stephen Martinez.

FRANCE VS. SPAIN • Last week, Tully Stadium was not only the venue for Stratford and Memorial’s soccer game, but also an international match between two countries. Junior Adrien Bertinotti, a French exchange student attending Stratford, played against junior Pere Flores, a Spanish exchange student attending Memorial. Unfortunately, Stratford lost 4-0. Photo by Jackie Mask.

FUN IN THE SUN • The Spartanaires flew to California via LAX to enjoy quality time on their biannual out-of-state trip. Building principal Chris Juntti accompanied the girls with chaperones as they toured LA hot spots, spent two days in Disneyland, visited the Santa Monica Pier, and saw the animals at the San Diego Zoo. Photo provided by Chris Juntti.

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Simply

Friday, January 27, 2012

Beautiful

FLOWERS & EVENTS

14520 Memorial Dr. Houston, Texas 77079

281.558.0333 WE SUPPORT STRATFORD SPARTANS

ADS

5

6

NEWS

Friday, January 27, 2012

The Oracle

A Day In The Life Of A Future Farmer Of America Avery Falick

MEAL TIME •

(Below) Junior Ryan Jernigan feeds his lambs, a task that all FFA members must do twice daily. “FFA is really cool because it teaches you a lot about responsibility and what it actually takes to get food on your plate, so you appreciate it a lot more,” Garnier said.

CLEANING HOUSE •

(Above) An unpleasant but essential part of Future Farmers of America, which is a national organization that prepares students for careers in the field of agriculture, senior Justin Cobb cleans out his animal’s pen. Although cleaning up after animals may not seem like the best part of FFA, “It’s all worth it at the end,” junior Janie Garnier said. In order to raise an animal, members have to pay rent for the pen, buy the animal, feed and supplies necessary to take care of it.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT •

(Above) Handling her cow, Garnier prepares for the annual FFA competition and auction. “I can’t wait to get my check after selling an animal. The animal money and the hundreds of thousands of scholarships offered every year to FFA members across Texas and the country can definitely help with paying for college,” said senior Andrew Johnson. All photos by Stephen Martinez.

The Oracle

Friday, January 27, 2012

Countdown to...

MUSE

16 Days... until

Cirque de Soleil: Michael Jackson the Immortal Tour

2012 Artists To Watch

18 Days...

Music makes the world go ‘round

Cady Groves After signing to RCA records in 2011, Groves has been working hard on her first major label record. Her single, “This Little Girl”, showcases her fierce attitude with a country-pop crossover. Her southern twang and adorable charisma makes her impossible to dislike. This feisty artist is full of spunk that oozes over into her music.

Track to download: “I’m Still Here”

Mumford and Sons

Grammy-nominated Brits, Mumford and Sons made an impression with their release of album Sigh No More in America just last year.

Though together since 2007, Mumford and Sons have just now begun to surface in the States. These folk artists have crept their way onto Sirius Radio and are nominated for four Grammy’s this year.

Track to download: “Little Lion Man”

The Maine

fun.

It is said that the third time is the charm, and The Maine has done nothing but prove that.

Their third full-length album, Pioneer, showcases the band’s full potential through lyrics and composition. The band started as a punk-pop creation, but has now blossomed into true rock artists. Before judging the band on the past, listen to their newest sound.

Track to download: “I’m Sorry”

After Glee covered their single “We Are Young”, and collaborating with Panic at the Disco! on their latest single, “C’Mon”, this New York City based band’s popularity has grown immensely. Their second album, Some Nights, is set to be released on Feb. 21, 2012, and listeners should definitely look forward to it.

Track to download: “Take Your Time (Coming Home)”

until

Valentine’s Day

portrayed by senior Katy Wilson. He had four children with her: Will Rogers Jr., played by an eighth grade student at Spring Forest Middle School, Collins Rush, Mary Rogers, played by junior Annie Elliot, James Rogers, played by a fifth grade student at Rummel Creek Elementary, Luke Centanni, and Freddy Rogers, played by a third grade student at Wilchester Elementary, Jake Salvagio.

The children join the other performers on the stairs, singing and dancing along with them.

“I’m really honored to be in a Stratford show,” said Centanni about being in Will Rogers Follies. ”I can’t wait to go to Stratford!”

“It’s such a fun show. I’ve liked it since I saw it in the 90’s,” director Cece Prudhomme said. “My whole fam-

WILLAMANIA • (Above) Seniors Will Lynde and Matt Hays

rehearse for the musical number “It’s A Boy” where Hays plays the role of Will Rogers’ father, Clem Rogers. This song shows how excited Clem Rogers was to have a son after having six girls. Photo by Stephen Martinez.

“This makes me believe anything is possible.”

-Carson Van Wart, 10

“I hate love. And hearts.”

-Catherine Frost, 11

“I can’t wait to get

25 Days... beads and eat King until

Mardi Gras

This Dance Has Swept The Playhouse

Kaela Beasley Leslie Bustamante The Will Rogers Follies has danced its way into the Playhouse. This musical is based on the life of Will Rogers, an American humorist who spoke the truth with a homespun style of wisdom and common sense.

The musical follows the life of Will Rogers, played by senior Will Lynde, in a Follies show style, where each event in his life is portrayed by 15 Follies dancers on a 12 stepstair stage.

Born in Indian Territory, now present day Oklahoma, Rogers learned ranching and roping from his father, Clem Rogers, played by senior Matt Hays. He became quite good with a rope and thus developed a life-long skill that allowed him to travel across the globe.

Rogers married Betty Blake,

muse 7

ily is from Oklahoma so there is a lot of heritage that makes me love the show.”

Each show girl has at least six costumes. The shortest quick change backstage happens when the showgirls changes from their Cowgirl costume into their Indian Princess Costume in under a minute during the opening number.

“My favorite part of the show is when me and Clem talk at the very end. It’s a really warming and heartfelt moment.” says Will Lynde.

Auditions for Will Rogers Follies were held in May of 2011 where over 150 people auditioned. The cast and crew have been working hard since then for this musical to be a success.

Come out and support the Playhouse, and let Will Rogers “rope” you out of your chair!

cake.”

-Matthew Quintana, 9

Show Dates Friday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28th at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 2nd at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 3rd at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 4th at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Alsoup... coming • The U.I.L. one act play, For the Love of the Nightingale is having auditions January 30, 31, and February 1.

• Those who audition need to prepare a one minute long, dramatic monologue • The spring play will be An Evening With David Ives.

8

muse

Friday, January 27, 2012

ANNIE

and the adventures

Cheers to a new year, and another chance to get it right.

-Oprah Winfrey

Hidden Houston Hangouts

The Oracle

Hannah Price

AGORA• Located in Montrose, Agora is a unique coffee house that is definitely the hang-out spot for any hipster. Open late and covered with replicas of ancient art pieces, it is a great place to unwind while listening to the jukebox or the live music that is frequently playing. Photo by Caitlin Hilton

A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES • Tucked away behind the Target off of I-10 and Taylor, this art studio displays many sculptures outside. Not only do they have the Beatles (as seen right), but also a bust of every president that has served in the history of the United States from Washington to Obama. Photo by Caitlin Hilton

NIKO NIKO’S • Also in Montrose is Grecian phenomenon Niko Niko’s. With Grecian food and Grecian atmosphere accompanying it, customers get a little taste of Greece in this fine establishment. Not only do they serve authentic Greek food, but also fine pastries and coffee to go with it. Photo by Caitlin Hilton

PINK’S PIZZA • A unique and delicious pizza joint that offers monstrous portions, Pink’s Pizza definitely gives you the most bang for your buck. Although their specialty is pizza, they also serve pasta, salad and some Italian-style specialty sandwiches. With four locations in the Heights, Montrose, West University, and Garden Oaks, there are Pink’s Pizza locations all over the city. Photo by Caitlin Hilton

The Oracle

muse 9

Friday, January 27, 2012

Avery Falick

Harrison Vaporciyan

This song combines all different types of genres of music into a beautiful symphony.

This song is pretty unique.

It’s haunting and interesting, but very hard to understand.

This song speaks volumes about the futility of existence. Well, it might. I can’t hear the singer at all.

This song is so repetitive and soft-spoken, I don’t quite understand it. It’s almost hypnotizing.

Mercury Summer Fightstar

“We are the keys to the kingdom/And we will never wear clothes again.”

True statement.

I’m not sure why, but this song is really fun to listen to while driving. Driving songs are good songs.

Not really much to say here. This is a song, and that’s pretty much it.

This song isn’t especially good or bad. It’s upbeat but shallow. It makes Jacob Pennington cringe.

Never Ending Math Equation Modest Mouse

“Oh my god and oh my cat.” This song is so deep.

It contains the meaning of life.

I really like Modest Mouse, but I don’t get this song.

Isaac Brock proves yet again that he can make literally any lyrics sound good just by singing them.

Modest Mouse is one of my favorite bands, and this song makes it obvious why.

Where Is My Mind?

The Pixies

Does anyone know where his mind is? I think he may have misplaced it.

This sounds like it should be on the soundtrack to a CW show, which could be a good or bad thing.

Even if you don’t know its name or anything about the Pixies, you’ve heard this song. Trust me.

Basically, it’s a classic song that never gets old.

Lydia Sweet Vomit Girls

Blood Type May Indicate Personality Esther Jeon If I asked you what your blood type was, I’d expect the most common response: an “I don’t know” followed by a confused “why does it matter?” Good question-why does it matter? Knowing what your blood type is might seem completely and utterly useless, but in East Asia, your blood type is almost as important as your name or date of birth.

The idea that blood type and personality are related developed years ago, and though it is consistently debunked, many enjoy using it to predict each other’s personalities.

Blood type A is often described as the fastidious perfectionist. They stick to the rules as much as possible and try to avoid confrontations as much as they can.

They are shy introverts, and when coupled with the desire to avoid confrontations, they work very hard not to upset anyone. However, they can be overly indecisive and self-conscious to a fault. They can obsessively overanalyze things, and can be very se-

cretive about their own emotions and thoughts.

Blood type O is noted to be the leader of situations and is often the center of attention in social settings. They are the bright, happy-go-lucky people of the group, thriving on social interaction. They are friendly and extroverted and have strong opinions, but they hate to lose and are

and easily, but have a phobia of commitment. Freedom is extremely important to them, and they often seem forgetful or overly self-centered in their quest for adventure.

Blood type AB is the cool, detached individualist of the group, always considering everything rationally. Their rational thinking makes them excellent critics and analysts, and they are extremely observant of others. However, their own aloof detachment from society makes them The idea that blood type and the confusing enigma of the personality are related devel- group. They might appear to oped years ago. be antisocial, but strangely enough, they mold very well to different social settings overly competitive about and often serve as the mediamany things. Their competi- tor of an argument. tive streak often makes them While there are those who appear overly greedy for their take this very seriously to own success and desires, and heart, blood types are very can make them unnecessarily much what zodiac signs are cruel. to the Western world. There Blood type B is the sponta- are those who believe them to neous and adventure-seeking be very true, those who find optimist of the group. Their similarities, and those who fearlessness and curiosity dismiss them with ridicule. prove to be a bold combinaCoincidence or not, the tion, and more than not, make idea that there is a connecthem the rule breakers. They tion between blood types and are straightforward and deci- personality is certainly very sive and make friends quickly interesting.

“

Paige Tormey

Rodeo Musical Line-up February-March

Tuesday

Monday

Sunday

28 Alabama

4

5

Big Time Rush, Chykna Anne McClain from A.N.T. Farm, the McClain Sisters

11 Go Tejano Day with Duelo, La Original Banda El Limon

6

Eli Young Enrique Band Iglesias 12 Zac Brown Band

13

Wednesday

29 Kid Rock

Thursday

1

2

Blake Shelton 14

Miranda The Band Lambert Perry

3

Lady John Antebellum Legend

8

7

Saturday

Friday

9 ZZ Top

15 Jason Aldean

Luke Bryan 10

Reba McEntire

Chris Young 17

16 Train

Brad Paisley

18 Alan Jackson Drawing by Hyunjung Shin

10

puzzle page

Friday, January 27, 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. aquatic animal with gills/plates, bowls, etc. (2) ____ ____

6. swine/small stick (2) ___ ____

2. slithering reptile/large body of water (2) _____ ____

7. hopping amphibian/place where cranberries grow (2) ____ ___

3. feline/obese (2) ___ ___

8. large animal with trunk/smart (7) ________ ___________

4. flying insect with hard shell/use to sew (4) ______ ______

9. large marine mammal/story (2) _____ ____

5. female bovine animal that produces milk/superhero sound effect (2) ___ ___

answers: fish dish, snake lake, cat fat, beetle needle, cow pow, pig twig, frog bog, elephant intelligent, whale tale, shark mark

*Answers can be found by visiting spartanoracle.blogspot.com

10. jaws/line (2) _____ ____

Graphic by Kelsey Hunter

The Oracle

SPORTS11 Newton’s Law of The NFL

Friday, January 27, 2011

January - February Monday

Sunday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Friday

Thursday

Saturday

Boys Varsity Bball v.s. Spring Woods SHS @ 7:30

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30

5

6

12

13

31

1

2

7

8

9

14

15

16

Girls JV, Varsity Soccer v.s. CyFalls CFHS @ 5:00, 7:00

Boys Varsity Bball v.s. Cy-Ranch SHS @ 1:30

27

Girls Varsity Bball v.s.Spring Woods DCC @ 6:00

28

3

4

10

11

17

18

Girls Varsity Soccer v.s. College Park CPHS @ 7:00

Boys Varsity Bball v.s. Alief Taylor SHS @ 3:00

Girls Varsity Bball v.s. Katy SHS @ 10:30

19

20

21

Boys Varsity Bball v.s. Spring Woods DCC @ 6:00 Girls Varsity Bball v.s. Spring Woods DCC @ 7:30

22

23

Boys Varsity Bball v.s. Mag. West SHS @ 7:30

24

25

Girls Varsity Bball v.s. Mag. West MWHS @ 7:30

Girls’ Soccer Team Beats Multiple 5A Schools Samantha Hicks, Leslie Bustamante

The Lady Spartan soccer team has started their 2012 season off right, returning five first team selections, two second team selections, and two MVP’s from last year’s season.

The first-teamers that are back include seniors Alyssa Johnson, Heather Rovner and Kellie Barranco, along with junior Jennifer Morris and sophomore Sophie Moll.

Second-teamers that have returned are senior Ellen Barth and junior Ashley Romero.

The Spartans have also returned two MVP’s from last season. Junior Kelly Ann Craig, who was the overall league MVP, and defense player, senior Rihana Devany.

Starting off in pre-season play the team matched up with 5A Morton Ranch on Friday, Jan. 6. Scoring for the Spartans was Barth, senior Romina Jara, and soph-

omore Taylor Aycock. The final score was 3-2, Spartans on top.

On Tuesday, Jan. 10, the team played the 5A Cy-Fair Bobcats at home. With a tough fight the Spartans lost 4-0.

In the SBISD Tournament the team entered being one of the favorite teams to win the whole thing alongside Memorial High.

The Spartans defeated three 5A schools, North Shore being their first game with a score of 2-1, then shutout Dulles-winning 2-0. The team then went on to beat Morton Ranch in another shutout with the final score being 4-0.

Making it to the final round the Spartans were matched against Memorial High. The Spartans could not get past the Mustang’s tough defense and lost 5-0, earning the second place spot in the overall

tournament. Memorial’s defense shutout all four teams they played in the tournament.

After being defeated by the Mustangs the team followed up with a rematch on Tuesday, Jan. 17. The Spartans lost 2-0.

The team then competed in the I-10 shoot out the weekend of Jan. 19. The Spartan’s first game was against

Friendswood, the final score was 5-6, Friendswood on top.

They then played Dickinson High and won, 1-0.

Finishing up the tournament the Lady Spartans were matched up against Aldine, winning 2-0.

“I think we have an awesome team and if we work hard enough I know we can do well in playoffs,“ said Craig.

PRACTICING FOR THE WIN • The Lady Spartans spend time

during periods 7 and 8, as well as after school, to build up their soccer skills, for upcoming games. Photo by Will Klussman

Alex Newton

Signing both Mario and AriNative Houstonians know all an will not be cheap though, too well of the Houston Tex- and thus the question reans near decade of struggles. mains, is Mario worth the Season after season owner money?

Bob Mcnair produced a losWithout Mario the defense ing team that was a disap- was atop the league in nearly pointment to many for a long all categories and the front time. seven were a huge reason for Finally, this franchise can that. call itself a playoff team for The only thing holding this the first time in ten years. team back, besides the receivThe struggles this team has ers, is the secondary. faced throughout the season The secondary was able to is a testament to what Gary hold their own fairly well Kubiak and the rest throughout the of the coaches year but they have done. were easIt is a very ily the l e g i t i m at e idea to weakthink that est link had Matt of this deSchaub, the fense. most inG u y s dispensable like Kapiece in this r e e m offense, stayed Jackson, Jason healthy this team Allen, and Troy Nolan are could have secured Graphic by Kelsey Hunter good but not a first seed in the AFC great and a and been a Super Bowl favor- good quarterback will be able ite. to pick them off all game, Having said that, rookie thankfully the Texans didn’t T.J. Yates had done very well play too many this season. stepping in for both the Matts Daniel Manning and Jonaahead of him. than Joseph were huge addiHis future looks very bright. tions to this team but a little If he can improve his accu- more is needed. Saving cap racy and decision making he space by not re-signing Macould turn out to be a very rio to get a good corner and good quarterback and pos- a better draft pick is not a bad sibly the future of this fran- idea. Although it seems like chise. they have intentions to reIt is unfortunate that the sign Williams, not a bad idea Texans could not pull it out either. in Baltimore because as we Of course we cannot forall know, had a few key turn- get about Wade Phillips who overs not have happened, the completely transformed this Texans would have won that defense from one of the worst game. in NFL history to one of the Either way, it was a great best. season, the best in franchise He has already stated that he history. The future looks very will remain a Texan but this bright. would not be the first time For the first time ever we can a coach has lied about such go into next season thinking matters...Nick Saben.

Super Bowl instead of playThe Texans have a solid reoffs. ceiving core overall but they Assuming the Texans can desperately need a solid stay healthy next year along number two receiver which with re-signing both Mario is where they should go in the Williams and Arian Foster, draft. whose contracts expire at If we can fix a few bugs here seasons end, this team will be and there (and stay healthy) stacked on both sides of the a Super Bowl is within reach. ball.

SPORTS

Friday, January 27, 2011 12 Aiming for a Chance in the Playoffs

Elyse Stieber

As the boys’ basketball team crunches to the end of their regular season play, the pressure is on to make it to playoffs.

The three returning members to the team, seniors A.J. Justice, Kelvin Rainey, and Jarvis Pruitt, gave the team high hopes for a good season.

The first round game of the SBISD Invitational tournament against 5A Cy-Creek was an early win for the Spartans. The team pulled through in the last couple of seconds with a final score of 54-53 for the win.

According to Head Coach Mitch Hornsby, Magnolia and Brenham are the varsity’s biggest district competition this year.

On Tuesday, Jan. 3, the Spartans faced the Spring Woods Tigers at the Don Coleman Coliseum. Leading a close first half of 26-23, the team stepped up in the third quarter to gain a larger lead with junior Parker Lund and senior Sam Blackshear scoring numerous threepointers for the win of 5949; their first district win.

The teams’ next opponent was Magnolia West on Friday, Jan. 6. The Spartans lost a close game 57-44.

The following week the Spartans played the Waller Bulldogs on Tuesday, Jan. 10. With a close first quarter the Spartans opened the second quarter with a three-pointer by Lund, and one by sophomore Philip Hewitt. The Spartans came out with a victory of 64-52.

On Friday, Jan. 13, the team faced the Brenham Cubs. With a large hole by half time with a score of 24-35, the Spartans closed the gap by the third quarter to a score of 45-49.

Justice scored 19 points on the Brenham defense, along with Blackshear’s 17 points.

However, they were never able to catch up and lost with a score of 55-67. Justice and Blackshear provided 36 points , 11 rebounds, and 3 steals combined.

“The team is now finally meshing together,” said Coach Hornsby. “We are setting our goals high for a chance in the playoffs.”

GETTING TO THE POINT• (center) Shooting an extra point off the free throw line is senior John Rodgers. Awaiting the rebound is senior Kelvin Rainey. Photo by Katherine Kennedy NO ‘I’ IN ‘TEAM’• (center below) The girls’ varsity basketball team is off to a great start to their season and are reaching towards playoff victories. Photo by Visual Services of Texas. Staff Photo DEFYING GRAVITY• (below left) Trying to keep the ball in bounds and alive is junior Marshall Jackson.

This is Jackson’s first year on varsity and he has started in many games. This year’s varsity consists of: sophomore Philip Hewitt (#14), juniors Jordan Haynes (#10), Marshall Jackson (#22), and Parker Lund (#32), and seniors Sam Blackshear (#20), Marc Chamber (#23), Kelvin Rainey (#24), Kyle Brickhouse (#30), John Rodgers (#31), Patrick Elliot (#33), A.J. Justice (#34), Joseph Morphey (#40), Jarvis Pruitt (#44), and Cullin Johnson (#50). Photo by Katherine Kennedy GOING DOWN COURT• (below right) Dribbling the ball down the court is junior Jamie Hewitt. This is her second year starting on varsity. Photo by Anna Powell

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Shooting for the PostSeason Elaine Parizot

The Lady Spartans varsity basketball team had many players return to the team from the previous season.

Returning seniors include: Kristin Peters and Meredith Hohl. Returning juniors are: Jamie Hewitt, Hope Wiggins, and Rachel Rapier, and the returning sophomore is Sarah Davis.

The Spartans started off their season with a win against Kempner at home, beating them 49-34.

From Nov. 17-19 the Spartans faced a tough lineup in the tournament at Fort Bend ISD. They played Cy-Woods, Ridgepoint, Alief Taylor, and Memorial, finishing with a 2-2 tournament record.

The girls also had an impressive win over Montgomery on Tuesday, Dec. 6. defeating them 54-49. The leading scorers were freshman Kathryn Arcy, senior Derita Silas, and junior Jaime Hewitt.

On Friday, Dec. 9 the Spartans gained a victory over Northbrook with the final score being 68-26.

Monday, Dec. 12 the ladies were matched up with Magnolia and lost a close game 35-42.

Defeating the 5A Katy High on Friday, Dec. 30 was a nice holiday present for the team.

The following game against Spring Woods ended with a final score of 54-23, Spartans on top for the win.

The team’s next match up was with Magnolia West and the Spartans came up with another district win of 4652 .

Playing the Waller Bulldogs on Tuesday, Jan. 10 the Spartans were able to come up with the win of 54-39. Meredith Hohl and Rachel Rapier were the high scorers against the Waller defense.

Meeting their district rival, the Brenham Cubs, on Friday, Jan. 13 the ladies were not able to catch up and lost with a close final score of 48-43.

“The start of the season was hard, but the team is starting to click more and more everyday and I can definitely see a major improvement,” said assistant coach Hope Grochmall.

The Rundown A play-by-play of Stratford athletes

Rachel Rapier

Favorite Food: Pasta Favorite TV Show: Modern Family Favorite Quote: “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.“ -Forrest Gump Favorite NBA Team: Oklahoma City Thunder Favorite NCAA Team: Syracuse Dream NBA Player: Kevin Durant Staff Photo

Sam BlackShear

Favorite Food: Whataburger Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Watson Favorite Song: Right Above It -Lil Wayne Favorite Quote: “Play every play like it’s your last.” -Anonymous Favorite Game: Dominoes (42) Top Priorities as an Athlete: Staying in shape.

Favorite NBA Team: Rockets Photo by Amy Jordan

The Oracle

Friday, January 27, 2011

Pressure’s On

Need to succeed too much for some students I am talking about when I say that it is a challenge to manage your time wisely. It is our choice, though, and I understand that the faculty is here to encourage us to do extracurricular activities. I only do cross country, which is a lot of work since practice is at seven, but I can’t imagine trying to handle multiple activities as many people do.

We all know that with many people turning 16, there are going to be a lot more cars in the parking lot.

With this comes the overwhelming stress of getting a car and earning gas money.

Some parents pay a certain amount of car or gas expenses and the child has to do the rest. That child would need some sort of income and that takes up time-time that we need for homework, school, and extracurricular activities.

Some students signed up

Layla Shahhosseini When we enter high school as freshmen, we think we are mentally prepared for all the work and stress that goes into school.

Getting the homework done and studying for tests takes some managing. I know that the way classes are organized with four per day is really lucky, though, since homework can be done between “A” and “B” days.

The problem with high school is, as you get older, it becomes harder unless you’re planning to blow off your senior year. But until then I’m just going to have to keep up with sports and academics.

College will be harder since it is at a higher level, but this is why high school is here to prepare us for all the stress.

If you do anything after school, then you know what

for study hall, and that helps tremendously with work, but w h at if your schedule is way too cramped for a study hall?

There is so much pressure to do eve r y t h i ng .

Eight periods to f i l l and there is still not room for everything I “s h o u l d ” take.

The pressure to take AP classes and electives I don’t necessarily like are a top priority in my schedule.

It’s almost impossible to focus on everything with the little sleep obtained in one night.

And I know most of us,

New Girl On The Block Hannah Bevers You got to finish your finals and go home to enjoy your two weeks off from school and stress. When I finished my finals, though, I got to enjoy two weeks of anxiety and nerves about a new school, new people, new teachers, new classes-the list goes on.

I finished my APUSH final and went home to a place that wouldn’t be my home much longer. I didn’t feel relaxed, I didn’t feel as if I was about to have a two-week break. I was transferring to Stratford High School for the second semester of my junior year, and my life was about to drastically change.

There were a few things I looked forward to in my new experience at Stratford. New people, new personalities, new teachers, and new opportunities were all waiting for me at this mysterious high school. Plus, all my clothes and outfits were brand-new to my peers, which meant that I had months before any repetition of outfits even came into question.

On the way to school the morning of my first day, I had coped pretty well. But

as I approached the front doors, nerves set in and went on a rampage in my brain. I walked up the front stairs with weak knees. I had to find the third floor office to get my schedule, and when I got there it was packed tight with other students waiting for their own schedules. This was my first impression of Stratford, and it was chaos.

I was surrounded by the sounds of the students around

Graphic by Sarah Davis

ting lost and completely humiliating myself in the process of finding the rooms for each of my classes. Within the first hour of my time here at Stratford, I managed to get lost six times.

Each time, I looked around and realized I had absolutely no idea where I was, which meant I had to continue walking around until I could find someone to ask directions. My fear was confirmed: I was humiliated.

Finally, I found my class.

Everyone was nice and welEveryone was nice and wel- coming; I didn’t even have coming; I didn’t even have to to sit by myself. Third period was the same-smiling sit by myself. faces and warm greetings.

Fifth and seventh followed in suit. My other main me talking, laughing, and worry-the lunch roomsharing stories of their winter was solved when some breaks. All I knew to do was girls in my English class stand alone and wait until a asked me to sit with them. counselor could arrange my All of my anxiety over classes for me. So I waited the break was for nothing. and, after about fifteen min- Aside from the primary loss utes, had my daily routine for of direction, my first day the next semester in my hands was absolutely wonderful. on a white sheet of paper.

So congratulations, StratMy main worries for the ford, you all made me feel first day were who I would sit welcome and at home with in the ever-frightening within the first twenty-four lunch room as well as get- hours of being a Spartan.

“

if not all, have pushed off our homework until the night before it’s due.

How many of us have skipped memorable events, like birthday dinners and concerts, simply to catch up on a few hours of sleep?

Not only does this affect us, but it affects our entire family.

I can think of countless times I’ve gotten into arguments with my parents over grades. My parents have even had to leave work

OPINIONS 13

to bring me something like a single homework assignment. That may seem petty, but it could’ve cost me my “A”.

My relationship with my parents would be more pleasant and less strained if the academic pressure stayed at school, where it belongs.

But this is all for college.

Everything is so focused on preparing us for college that we don’t even have the time, nor the energy, to appreciate the few years of high school we have.

Despite all of the pressure, we are truly being prepared to handle the pressures of the “real world”. While driving can add more stress, it also adds a whole new sense of freedom. I find myself hanging out with friends more, and making memories that will last me my whole life.

School is hard now, but when we reach college, we

will be able to appreciate the challenges of high school and how much it toughened us.

Extracurricular activities take up lots of time and energy, but without them, we would not be able to enjoy our high school years as much or become friends with the people we hang out with.

Life is hard, but then again, no one said it would be easy.

Take how many years of school we have to undergo and when we graduate, we will feel a sense of accomplishment about working so hard and coming so far.

School is not necessarily about how much work teachers give us or handling a job and extra curricular activities, but what we carry with us when we leave. It is up to us to use our time wisely and make these the best years of our lives.

An Overview Of Bad Drivers Harrison Vaporciyan

There are many different kinds of drivers. There are nice drivers, like the ones that let you merge in front of them when you’re running late for something. There are the jerks, like the ones who feel like the entire road is their personal racetrack.

And then, in the vast majority, there are the idiots. You know the ones I’m talking about.

First, there are the ones who seem to constantly be remembering things at the last second. “Oh right, I need milk!”, they’ll exclaim to themselves as they cut across ten lanes of traffic to pull into a parking lot. These are usu-

ally the same people you see wandering around the parking lot looking for their cars in a manner similar to religious pilgrims or nomads.

Then there are those drivers that only reveal their true nature on the highway. On service roads, they appear as normal (if slightly dimwitted) drivers. Once they reach a highway, however, they transform into a driver with the intellect of a rock and the observational skills of Stevie Wonder. They’ll honk without any particular reason for doing so (maybe they just like the sound?), change lanes with wild abandon without signalling, straddle two lanes at once, and generally drive like someone whose body is being remotely controlled by aliens thousands of lightyears away who learned how humans drive from watching old reruns of The Dukes of Hazzard and Die Hard.

The most annoying member of this group, however, is the Slow Driver In Denial.

You’ll usually encounter this person on a road trip spanning at least three states, most likely on a two-lane stretch of highway in some godforsaken wasteland, such as a desert,

the tundra, or Ohio.

They’ll be in front of you, moseying along at around 40 miles per hour and giving every indication that you can pass them up. If you try to do so, however, they suddenly snap to attention and floor it in order to stay even with you. “Okay, okay,” you’ll mumble, backing off and settling in behind them as they return to their previous pace.

Modern science has yet to find a logical explanation for this behavior.

The worst drivers, however, are the kind that manifest their stupidity off the road namely, the Awful Parkers.

These are the people whose cars you sometimes see in mall parking lots, splayed across two and sometimes even three spaces, as if the white lines on the ground were more like suggestions than rules. Sadly, there’s not much you can do to these people other than ignore them.

The scary part is that these people are in the majority.

Why else would the Texas Driver’s Handbook feel the need to mention that “at a railroad crossing, the train has the right of way”?

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OPINIONS

Friday, January 27, 2011

Rachael’s It’s Not Just a Kiss Anymore Ramblings Hannah Price

Rachael Brennan

This time around, I want to touch on a very emotional and personal subject: my mom. Now you might not be too thrilled about me writing this, but I promise you, Mom, it is for all the right reasons.

So this issue, my column is dedicated to you, Mom. I know it may seem that I take you for granted, that I take all that you have done for us, and accomplished as nothing that truly matters in life. In this case, I am extremely wrong. Everything that you have done for my brother and I have turned us into the people we are today.

Your strength and courage to take on single motherhood, working non-stop to make enough money so both of your children can get a decent college education. That is one of the most admirable things I know about you. You are the one person that I look up to most in this world. I know that I have disappointed you in more ways than one, and I know that I have caused you stress, tears, fights and countless hours of you telling me “I’m your mother and what I say goes.”

Despite it all, I want you to know that I would be nowhere in life if it wasn’t you who raised me, who clothed me, fed me and molded me into who I am. I know you say that I take after Dad, and sometimes I really do love that about me, but on the inside it is you who I strive to take after.

No matter how many fights we have, no matter how many tears we shed, you will always be my mother and for that I will always love you with all of my heart and soul.

“I’m a Mommy’s girlthestrongestinfluencein myyounglifewasmy mom.”

- Susie Bright

Although public displays of affection (PDA) are against school rules, many students are seen in the hallways constantly violating this rule.

Lots of couples meet up between classes and proceed to show each other, along with the rest of school, just how “in love” they are.

First off, just because PDA bothers people, it doesn’t mean that the people that complain about it are bashing couples and are jealous.

This is definitely not the case.

There are, in fact, a great number of students who do not wish to watch their peers exchange saliva at school whether they are in a relationship or not.

School is a place for learning. It is not only disgusting, but it is also completely ap-

palling that anyone feels the need to show PDA in their

place of learning. If you think about it, the true reason for

school is to educate students and prepare them for the fu-

dent couples for six minutes every hour and a half.

Many find PDA disresp e c t f u l because it seems like couples who do it at school are flaunting their relationship.

You are dating someone, we get it. You don’t have to prove yourself. It is not necessary to be attached at the hip, or mouth, Graphic by Isabel Deakins for that ture. The purpose is not to act matter with your significant as a make-out haven for stu- other, especially at school.

Please, for the sake of students keeping their lunch down, save all of your PDA urges for outside of school.

What couples do outside of school is their business, but nobody wants to be forced to witness it in the halls.

Furthermore, couples that profess their love for one another after they have been dating for two weeks is completely absurd. You’re not in love, not even a little bit, so please stop telling yourself and everyone around you that you are. Don’t give up future plans or do something drastic for a person that could possibly break up with you next week. You sound immature.

Students need to realize that their high school relationships are most likely temporary so that they can better enjoy their time in high school.

account is the struggles that the person took before reaching that chair. There must have been some emotional or physical challenge that caused them to turn to this solution. Doesn’t that

tion is considered along with the increasing popularity of cosmetic surgery, it all seems morally wrong. It is sad to see the younger generation getting swept up with the idea of cosmetic surgery as a solution to their self-image problems.

“People are too caught up on what they can be, and what they can do to make themselves better, when they don’t realize their own true potential right in front of them,” sophomore Fariha Jawed said.

“It isn’t their fault though, there are too many bad influences around us that make us feel insecure and not respect what we have been given.”

Cosmetic surgery can be extremely harmful to the body. Getting a procedure done does not necessarily guarantee satisfying results. There could be major problems with it.

For someone to get cosmetic surgery as an adult is one thing, but for teenagers and young adults to go on the table is ridiculous. Their bodies aren’t even done growing, and they already want to change what they see.

People should accept themselves for the looks that they were given, not try and get surgery to fit society’s supposed idea of “beautiful.”

Living in a Barbie World

unsatisfied with themselves so that they can enter beauty Not too long ago, the pageants. Some of the proidea of plastic surgery was cedures are very drastic. frowned upon by many “If you’re so insecure about people. Now, people are get- your body that you ting comfortable with the resort to plastic idea of cosmetic surgery as surgery, then it becomes more socially ac- you need to ceptable. The situation only get some help,” worsens when little children said sophomore get committed to it as well. Jenny Payton.

As a result of ridiculous Many shows like Toddlers and Tiaras, younger children are exposed to the superficiality of life at a young age. The children experience the fake tans, hairspray, and tons of makeup as they participate in pageants. Pageants may not be the instigators for plastic surgery, but it can present the idea that transforming your look is acceptable. p s y These types of things in- c h o l o g i s t s stilled into a young mind are worried makes it seem like plastic sur- about the gery is absolutely okay. They mental resee no harm, and since they sults of are young they do not have these paimmorality clouding their tients. Most judgment. They are shielded magazines and articles only from the fact that plastic talk about the success rates surgery is a superficial pro- of plastic surgery and how cedure for insecure people. it enhances self-image. On The Swan and The Swan 2 the contrary, they leave out are two Fox network shows the huge number of people that are major supporters that delve deeper into their of plastic surgery. They give depression and/or regret. dozens of plastic surgery What many fail to take into procedures to contestants Ammarah Tariq

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In addition to the media hype, sometimes parents are to blame as well. When mothers accept plastic surgery or even get it done, they are essentially telling their children that it is okay. This is the case with the “Human Barbie” in the UK. For the New Year, instead of telling her daughter to set a New Years resolution, she told her daughter to get liposuction. Her daughter is seven years old. What medical reason could a seven year old possibly need liposuction? Can a little seven year old body even handle liposuction?

The “Human Barbie” or Sarah Burge has spent over Graphic by Kelsey Hunter one million dollars on plasmake the practice tic surgery herself. She isn’t seem immoral? exactly the best role model Most of the blame is on me- for her little daughter. She dia, which doesn’t shy away is the reason that her little from cosmetic surgery and daughter kept asking her advocates it instead. It advo- mother for a liposuction and cates that you should be “the a breast enlarging procedure, best that you can be,” even which she already received if it means putting your- last year on her birthday. self in possible harm’s way.

When this particular situa-

The Oracle

Friday, January 27, 2012

OPINIONS15

Passion For Hunting Causes Conflict A Humane Tradition Kali Venable

I was eight years old when I received my first gun. A Red Rider couldn’t do much damage, but at such a young age, doing damage was not among my priorities. Of course as I got older I began to use shotguns and rifles, but that harmless B.B. gun was the start of a lasting relationship with hunting.

Over the years my father taught me how to load, shoot and aim at my family farm in south Texas. I spent and still spend many weekend mornings in duck and deer blinds waiting for game to appear.

Hunting has become a huge part of who I am as it is for many other millions around the world. The sport is not simply an act of killing animals; hunting is a way of life that has multiple benefits for humans as well as the environment.

As long as humans have been in existence we have used hunting as a way of survival.

Those who live in rural areas where grocery stores are not conveniently located on every corner can’t go buy meat whenever they need it. They are forced to hunt in order to feed themselves and their families.

In large cities such as our own, hunting is an extremely popular past time. Both males and females load up their shell boxes, guns, bows and arrows to head to privately owned farms or nearby deer leases.

At the end of their trips if they’re lucky they will return with fresh meat ready to be consumed. Absent of chemicals and added preservatives, this meat is much more nutritional than that of the grocery store’s and also costs less

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when taking into account all of the benefits.

Hunting does not only provide a reliable food source, it also helps control animal populations.

In Texas the feral hog has become over bred and has destroyed millions of dollars in property. Easily adapting to new habitats, the feral hog population has spun out of control in the past two decades. Thanks to Texas Wildlife regulations hunters have helped control the population by killing feral hogs.

Many people who don’t believe in the sport argue that hunting is an inhumane way of killing animals however, is it really?

Killing an animal with a gun or bow is quick and far less painful than the methods of large corporations. Many meat producing companies are known to skin animals such as chickens alive and slaughter them in brutal manners.

If hunting is less painful for the animal and more nutritional for the hunter than where is the problem?

Hunters develop a certain relationship with their game that enables them to have a lot of respect towards each animal.

People don’t kill to simply kill unless we’re referring to a very small demented portion of the population that you might also find harming humans. Hunters kill because they love the process and

No Excuse for Hunting

benefit from hunting therefore the torture of animals is rather rare.

For many families such as my own, hunting is a tradition that is passed down through numerous generations.

I learned how to hunt from my father who learned from his father and so on from when we first came to America. For myself and so many other families hunting provides a way of bonding with each other whether it is at the dinner table over a freshly shot turkey or out in the blinds.

Sure the killing of endangered species is wrong but, luckily, we have strict regulations and laws to protect animals that are endangered and keep others from being added to the list.

Hunting is an activity that has lasted for thousands of years and will continue strive in future generations. Whether you’re hunting for survival, population regulations, tradition or just to spend time with your friends, the positive aspects are endless.

Graphic by Sarah Davis

Sara Boyle

No matter how or why somebody hunts, the concept of hunting is immoral.

Some argue that hunters eat all the meat they kill and it is a necessity for the hunter’s survival, but the only excuse for hunting is for real survival, and in the United States most people are in the economic situation where they can afford to feed themselves.

I am not a vegetarian. Even though it may seem hypocritical that I eat meat but disapprove of hunting, I do not go out and kill the an- i mals myself. I believe that teenagers need the protein they get from eating meat, but I don’t believe it is necessary to hunt and kill another innocent animal when you can buy your meat at the grocery store.

Many hunters claim that they kill their animals in a humane way but inexperienced and experienced hunters alike can make mistakes and fail to kill animals the right way, leaving them to

die a long and painful death.

Humans hunt animals for their own ego. Everybody has seen the picture of the “mighty hunter” holding up a deer carcass in their left hand and a gun in the right hand.

Hunting is, for many, a way of feeling powerful. By killing a helpless animal, the hunter feels strong.

Hunters can always justify why they hunt. They always have reasons why it’s humane when they do it. They always have reasons why when they hunt it is different from other people doing it.

I understand that for many, hunting is a family activity.

I don’t understand why so many families consid-

er

killi n g a n i m a l s okay to teach their children.

Hunters don’t consider the immense effect killing one animal can have on the environment. It is old news that the rainforest is in danger of being completely

wiped out and same with many of the animals in it.

Why would a hunter kill animals knowing that hunting is a lot of the reason so many animals are endangered in the first place?

The only thing worse than hunting in legal areas is illegally hunting, or poaching.

Poaching is a huge problem across the world, including in America.

I don’t understand how poachers can sleep at night.

Not only are they killing innocent animals, but they are doing it illegally.

Because poaching is so common in third world countries, many are not caught. Tourists and locals buy the material that the hunters sell from the animals, like the feet, pelt, or tusks.

Hanging a deer head in one’s home is obviously not as bad as illegally hunting, but it is incredibly disrespectful to the deer and just plain distasteful.

Mounting a deer head on your wall like it is a trophy is extremely insensitive and frankly disgusting. Having a dead animal displayed in your house is just weird and I fail to see why anybody sees the appeal.

Hunting is such a terrible way to spend your time. Instead of having hunting as a hobby, why not do something more constructive with your time that benefits the planet instead of taking away from it?

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

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