VOLUME 82 January 2008 ISSUE 4

H I L I F E2305 EAST MAIN, LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573

Scheduling Options

ALLIE HINGA

Black History month triviapg. 13

For the past two years, Clear Creek High School has been using a “block” scheduling system, in which students take eight classes, alternating between four diff erent classes every other day. Students taking certain advanced fi ne arts and athletics courses have been able to “double block” their courses to allow more time to practice. This will change next year, however, as new parameters have now been set for student scheduling which will aff ect both students and teachers during next school year. At the end of 2006, the Texas Education Agency, or TEA, instated a new graduation requirement. Beginning this year, all incoming ninth graders are required to take four years of science and mathematics, instead of the three years required previously. These new requirements make it diffi cult for students to take their desired number of elective classes and still be able to graduate on a seven period schedule. In response to this, the school board decided to switch all the schools in Clear Creek Independent School District to an eight period schedule. This year, Clear Creek and Clear Brook High Schools have been on a block schedule, while Clear Lake

High School has remained on a seven-period schedule. In response to the recommendations of the School Board, a committee was formed to determine which scheduling option was best for the students. The members of the committee consisted of volunteer

parents, teachers, administrators, and school board members. Their task was to determine parameters for scheduling next year. After much deliberation, the High School Schedule Committee released a set of fi ve criteria, stating that all high schools would off er students eight credits per year, teachers should have a daily planning period, classes would meet either

every day or every other day, depending on individual student needs, program needs, or instructional criteria. Each school’s campus Instructional Improvement Council would review the schedule annually and recommend any possible changes to the school’s principal. All the high schools

are not required to implement the same schedule. The Committee’s recommendations were submitted to the School Board. The Board then set a new parameter regarding classes that meet every day or every other day. Each high school must identify which academic, fi ne arts, and athletic courses need to meet every day and submit these

recommendations for approval. The parameter states, “Athletics and Fine Arts classes which meet daily may not meet more than 60 minutes during the school day. Double blocking of 90 minute classes will be limited to remedial courses and core academic courses.” According to the Board, this standard is outlined by the UIL. They were also concerned that the time some students spent in athletics courses exceeded the time they spent in their academic courses, and they were concerned that athletics students would not get enough credits to graduate, since their athletics classes only count as one credit, even though it is double blocked. In contrast, a fi ne arts class can count towards two separate credits, so it is able to meet 90 minutes a day. With this new parameter in mind, the high school principals evaluated various options and came up with fi ve diff erent scheduling options. Staff meetings were held in January to allow teachers and administrators to discuss which options would be best for the school. In the fi rst option, four periods will meet each day, but fi rst and third period will be divided into 45 minute “A” and “B” periods, in which fi ne arts and athletics students will meet during

50-50-90-90-90- Some courses will be taught in the 50 minute format requiring separate preps for teachers- Students may not get the time format they prefer for a certain subject- Some athletics classes will not meet daily and therefore will not get the

maximum practice time allowed by UIL- Our facilities will not allow us to serve all athletic programs daily in only two periods.- There are no announcements built in.- 90s and 60s do not run concur-rently so everyone will have some of each.

AB8

Pros & Cons:+ Some clases meet daily.+ Some athletics could get daily classes.+ Some athletics could get the maximum practice time allowed by UIL.

Period 1 - 50 min.Period 2 - 50 min.

A Day B Day

Lunch Lunch

Period 4 - 90 min

Period 5 - 90 min

Period 7 - 90 min.

Period 8 - 90 min.

Period 3 - 90 min Period 6 - 90 min

“The staff at the four comprehensive high schools voted last week in favor of what is called an AB8 schedule. With this proposed schedule, students will attend 4 classes on A days, a separate 4 classes on B days, and all 8 classes on one day. This schedule was developed within the parameters approved by the Board of Trustees in December and again, was the prevailing choice across all four high schools. Under this schedule, athletics will meet three days a week. I realize this shift is signifi cant for those coaches and assistant coaches who fear the schedule will have a negative impact on athletic programs and more importantly, their athletes. I am confi dent our athletic programs will continue to thrive with this schedule. The schedule still needs to be reviewed by the Campus Instructional Improvement Council at each of the high schools.” -Dr. Greg Smith, Superintendent

To block or not to block that is the question

Pros & Cons:+ All classes meet three times per week.+ Four day weeks could be ABAB so all classes get equal time those weeks.+ All classes get some longer in-structional periods for labs, discus-sions, etc.-Advisory could only be scheduled once a week and still be in compli-ance with state regulations for CTE classes.

M T W TH F

A B A B 8

or

8 A B A B

or

A B 8 A B

This is a combination of the 8 period schedule and the AB schedule with two exceptions. (1) The 8 period day in this option could have classes in 41 minute slots and fi t into the current 430 minute school day while still meeting all state regulations for time. (2) The 8 period day classes would not be in consecutive order.The order would be period 1, 5, 2, 6, 3, 7, 4, and 8 so that classes are in the same general 90 minute time frame as on A/B days. This is re-quired to cooperate with outside coops and colleges

... Continued on page 4

Success in Wrestlingpg. 14

The cast of Pirates of Penzancepg. 5

Photo by Fallan Drago

Photo by Hailey Stephens

Wendy WrightAlbert Nkansah

Brett MorrisHaley Rush

Destinee Walker

Reporters:Taylor LongAlina GregoryChelsea HuebnerChristine SulkisHailey Stephens

2 OPINION“What is your New Year’s resolution?”

2007-2008 HiLife StaffCLEAR CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

Allie HingaMegan McKisson

Jacob LuxShannon O’Neil

Emily Dismukes

SENIORS

SOPHOMORES

JUNIORS

FRESHMEN“To make the world’s best Beligian Waffl e!” - Leslie Collins

“To do good at State.” -Cy Miessler

“Make all A’s, by studying and doing homework.” - Julienne Unabia

“To own a blowfi sh.” -Ellen Showmaker

“To be a better role model to younger students who look up to me by always doing the right thiing.” Emily Trusky

“To stay on top of all my responsibilities by not procrastinating.” - Kaylin Dugie

“To stay strong and work hard to reach my goals, and not let people get me off track.” - Michaela Adams

“To change myself for the better.” - Megan McCord

“Embracing the change that is about to occur in my life and accept it.”- Dannie Liebergot

“To quit being so chocoholic.” - Danial Jenkins

“My New Year’s Resolution is to do better in Algerba 2.” - Molly Yates

“To go Green, and install solar panels in my car.” - Trace Levos

To not make any of the cliche and unattainable New Year’s resolutions. - Mie Millard

“To make my grades refl ect my potential.” - Benson Johnson

“To drink more water.” - Grace McIntosh

“To get organized!” - Alex Mazoc

“NO MORE ROAD RAGE!!!” - Dante Doyle

“To try to be more helpful and be less of a procrastinator.” - Katy Dewveall

“To get better in all my classes, especially Spanish, use my time better, and to keep my room clean.” -Ashley Fisher

“To keep good grades and do all my homework.” -Quincy Bringier

“To learn Karate and become a black belt!” - Kayla Barnes

“To keep all my friendships with people strong and make new ones.” - Sue Ellen van Eps

“To stop spending a lot of money.” -Thomas Mahan

“Give up X-Box and start doinig my homework, cauase I want to bring up my grades.” - Clark Garrett

“My resolution would be to accomplish something important, such as helping someone in need.” - Brandon Hosking

“To save money to go to Germany.” - Dana Hanson

“To grow three inches by college!” - Allie Pinkley

“To be more tolerant and less judgemental.” - Jonathan Vega

“To become a better friend and fi gure out what i’m doing with my life.” - Meganne Sutula

“To go to te gym daily.” - Bridgette Langley

Email us at: Creekhilife@gmail.comVisit us at: http//my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/leaguecity/cchs/

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Scott BockartWynette JamesonJan O’NeilStephanie Haechten,Jessica O’Neil, Olivia HuynhHayley BoultinghouseRuth RozasSarah CisnerosSarah PooreTaylor FreudenbergDestinee WalkerAllie HingaCassie Lee, Amanda ComptonRyan GriponDrew WalkerAdam VencilOlivia HuynhMicah Wesley, Fallan DragoMatt Lara

Principal:Adviser:Executive Editor:Editors-in-Chief:

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STAFF“Lose weight and get in shape... duh !?!” - Mrs. Carlisle

“Be more patient.” - G. Hunt

“To get more organized. I don’t know how, but I will try!” - Mrs. Yancey

3EDITORIAL

F e a t u r e s E d i t o r : R u t h R o z a s

S a y “ W h a t ’ s u p ? ” w i t h S t e p h a n i e

STEPHANIE HAECHTEN

amazing achievements in my eighteen years, paralleled by many ridiculous and shameful mistakes. I made drumline my freshman year. Oh, the glory of being a freshman on ‘the line’. I had been in band since sixth grade and literally dreamt of carrying around that snare, practicing to perfection, and being a drum captain my senior year. Things change, I change. Sophomore year came and brought about new friends, new passions. I held on tight to my love for music, but I had to quit band. It seems so irrational now, because I quit mid-season. I simply got a schedule change; I didn’t tell anyone. I walked out of the Band Hall for the last time one Thursday and never turned back. Last year, I tried out for Willie the Wildcat. I wanted to be mascot so bad. During all of junior year, I told everyone, “I want to be the mascot.” I thought I had a good chance with my spicy personality and crazy dance moves. But really, I was just looking to be diff erent. No, I didn’t make mascot, and yes, I cried, but seeing my life now, I know that not making mascot was one of the better disappointments in my life. Trying out forced me to take a good look at myself. Losing taught me to be my uninhibited self without wearing a mask. Just a few weeks ago, I competed and fi nished the Chevron Houston Marathon. I honestly could never explain what this one day, this 26.2 mile-challenge did to me. Even now, as I try to replay the race in my head, it is all too overwhelming. I never thought I would die, but there were many miles that I wanted to quit. Somewhere between mile nineteen or twenty, my good friend joined me for the last stretch of the

race. I’m positive I wouldn’t have made it to touch the timer at the fi nish line if she hadn’t been there by my side for the last six and a half miles. Her encouraging presence strengthened my feeble knees and renewed my heart. There was one moment we were walking. I had my arm around her shoulder and a man going in the opposite direction said, “That’s what a marathon is all about,” and he kept walking. It took me a while to understand what he meant, but now I understand. He meant that competing in marathons is not only about enduring the long journey, it is about enduring it together. Even now, I hear him saying that and I realize it is not just marathons. Life is about getting through trials and surrounding yourself with people that love you unconditionally. All these experiences have forced me to tunnel down deep past all the self-conscious ego-driven layers, deal with my great mess of a soul, and truly determine who I am. I am a follower of Christ, daughter, sister, best friend, teacher, writer, runner, and leader. I am me. At least I thought so. But between the college applications and Calculus homework, I forgot who I was. I became so entirely hard-pressed with decision making and constant worry about what my parents wanted and what my friends thought that I simply suppressed my true feelings. I listened to anyone and everyone and took all their advice to heart. One day I am researching the Economics Department at Rice, and the next day I’m fi lling out an application to Mizzou. I’m afraid that after the past four years, when I thought I was suppose to grow up and truly fi nd myself, I am going to be

graduating more lost than I ever have been in my entire life. “Where is my life going?” I’m not even voicing the question, but everyone seems to have an answer for me. Of course I’m confused! My heart is torn in every direction. The question is “Where do I want my life to go?” Next fall, I am stepping out in faith and choosing to become a high school special education teacher, against my parent’s best wishes. I want to make my own choices. I want to go to A&M. I want to be a campus tour guide. I want to pull all-nighters, studying for tests and simply having fun. I want to make my own mistakes. But as much as I want all of this, the biggest part of me, the part that desires to be a loving and honoring daughter, merely wants my parents to be proud. I want to graduate from college with my parent’s respect, a pat on the back, and a “Good job, kid.” I want them to be proud, and not because I chose the education path that they found most reputable, but because I followed my heart at full speed, chose the road less traveled, and received a degree that will give me more enjoyment than any degree I would receive purely for monetary self-suffi ciency. I write this all and I remember who I am and who I want to be. It’s undeniable. I am me, and I’m going to be a teacher. I am not lost. With less than ninety days left on Creek’s campus, I am reclaiming and redeeming. I’m going to be a best friend, understanding sister, dedicated student, but, most importantly, I am going to be myself.

RUTH ROZAS

Twenty seven, twenty eight, twenty nine, thirty. I shut off the water and reach for the towel to dry my cracked hands. It was my thirtieth time that day to wash my hands and every time I washed them I had to count to thirty. Tears escaped from my eyes as I looked down at my hands not understanding why I was allowing myself to do this. I could not stop no matter how many times I told myself to. I am fi ghting against a unseen enemy, that resides in my brain and does not allow it to work properly. My enemy is OCD Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The eff ects are I am constantly bombarded with unwanted thoughts such as your hands are dirty wash them, and are you sure you locked the door better go check again. I will wash my hands and check locks thousands of times and the thought will still come back to haunt me and I will have to do it again. I have a case of the mental hiccups, and it never goes away. During my seventh grade year was

when my OCD became severe. At my worst, I was not eating, I would not leave the house, and I was getting no sleep at all. I lost 15 pounds and didn’t know how much longer I could go on. I went to my doctor where I was diagnosed with a severe case of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Everything seemed to make sense now all that I did and couldn’t do had a explanation. I left that day with medication, an SSRI that would help regulate the chemical imbalance in my brain. I had no idea the fi ght I still had ahead of me. For the next two years, I gradually improved and switched medications. It takes a long time to fi nd a medicine that is compatible with your body. At some points it was so frustrating because the side eff ects would make me extremely mean or emotional or even more depressed. I was coming to the realization that the medicine would not totally cure me that I had to do that myself. To totally master my OCD, I was going to have to fi ght it twenty-four hours a day and not give in once. The next step I needed to take was the hardest. Admitting I needed help. I hate needing help and asking for it but if I wanted to get even better I had to. I started going to a psychiatrist that knew more about my condition and could better help me with my medication. I then found a psychologist and that was probably the best thing I did. Talking to someone and getting all my troubles out there was just what I needed, though I was embarrassed to be doing it. There were so many times I wanted to quit, and I did not because of the people in my life. They were my stronghold and

family to look beyond my OCD and see me for who I really was. I felt normal when I was with her. She, single handedly that year, made me develop a love for math and a desire to become a teacher. Everything she has done and has become is where I hope to be someday. Lauren changed my life and made me the person I am today. During the past fi ve years I have known her she has become part of my family and is my best friend. I love her with all my heart and have the deepest gratitude and know I will never be able to fully thank her! The two leading men in my life are my dad, Guy and my grandpa, Patrick. My dad has been my hero through this and has stood beside me, always believing in me. He is my strength and protects me from everything. I love him dearly. Patrick never said to much or talked about my OCD with me. But anytime I would cry or get upset he would just hold me and tell me he loved me and everything would be ok. A year ago I did not think I was going to be able to go off to college. Now I have been accepted to Stephen F. Austin State University. I have come to love my OCD and accept it as part of who I am. I believe God gave me it because he knew it would make me a better and stronger individual. If I had a choice to go back and live my life without it, I would have to say no. I am Ruth because of my OCD and the good outweighs the bad in so many ways. Anyone out there with OCD know that you are not alone and that the battle of OCD can be won with a hard fi ght and a good army on your side. I have fi nally won my battle with OCD, and all I had to realize was that is was a blessing to me.

held me up when so many times I felt I could not go on. My mom, Cecilia, was my best friend through everything. She was with me on my worst days and did not abandon me once. I could go to her for anything, and she would have an open mind and try her best to understand what I was going through. I know that without her I would not have made it to where I am. Her unconditional love has given me faith in myself and everything I do is for her! I love her with all my heart. My grandmother Gaynell, held my hand through everything. There were so many times I needed someone besides my mother to go to, and she was there in an instant. My grandma is my inspiration, she is the sweetest, strongest, caring person I know. I model my life after hers and hope to be half as good as she is. She gave me so much hope and never once gave up believing in me. My love for her is unending and without her my strength in God would not be as strong. A lot of days I would wake up in a bad mood feeling defeated, and all I had to do was see my sister Kelly’s face. To hear her laugh and to feel her optimism was all I needed to have a great day. She makes me realize what really matters in my life. I know that God sent Kelly to be my sister to help me through this, to know that things aren’t ever really as bad as they seem. She is always there for me and is my light in dark places. Lauren Markiewicz is someone not in my family. Lauren was my eighth grade math teacher and had to deal with me through the worst of my years. She was the fi rst person and friend outside of my

It is truly remarkable how many more times in the past six months I have been asked, “How’s senior year? Do you know where you are going to school?” instead of simply, “How are you?” I realize my life as a senior in high school has become consumed by all things that precede graduation. But has everyone, including myself, forgotten that fi rst and foremost I am a person? I know being accepted into college is of the utmost importance as a senior in high school, but I feel as though some time in the past semester I became so entirely overwhelmed preparing for who I will become, that I have completely forgotten who I am now. I always assumed that once I got past the awkward phases of middle school, the challenges brought about in high school would help me fi nd myself; I would have these great convictions in life, and that I would greatly uphold myself to those convictions. I’ve lived and learned, having many glorious and

4 CREEK SPEAKS

one 45 minute period and then take another class for the other 45 minutes. These classes would meet daily. Students who do not have fi ne arts or athletics courses will only have four periods a day, as on the current block schedule. The main advantages of this schedule is that fi ne arts and athletics students will be allowed to meet every day, and each class will be at least 45 minutes long. This plan also carries a few disadvantages. One is that the block classes will vary in length with some being 87 minutes long and others 95 minutes long. Also, bells for the split classes will ring in the middle of some students’ 90 minute classes. This schedule has not been used before, so there are a number of unknowns and athletics and fi ne arts students will not get their maximum amount of practice time. The second scheduling option is similar to the fi rst, except that each blocked class will receive either 89 or 90 minutes of instruction time, and the split classes will meet for either 42 or 43 minutes. The advantages of this plan are that it allows the shorter classes to meet daily, and it allows others to meet in 90 minute blocks. Its disadvantages are that some classes will be as short as 42 minutes, bells for split classes will ring during 90 minute classes, and that athletics and fi ne arts classes will not get the maximum amount of practice time. The next option is an eight period day schedule. Under this procedure, students will attend eight 45 minute classes each day. This particular schedule will extend the school day by 14 minutes. This schedule allows all classes to meet daily and have the same amount of instructional time. Teachers will be given two consecutive conference periods under this plan. Another option being considered for student scheduling is an A/B block schedule, the same schedule that Clear Creek High School has been using this year. This will allow all classes to meet the same amount of time, and there will only be four passing periods on any given day. Longer classes will allow teachers more time for lengthened activities, and students will only have half of their total course work load each day. This option may cause problems for fi ne arts and athletics courses, however, as they will only be able to meet every other day. On any given week, these classes could lose up to two hours of practice time, depending how many times the class meets that week. The next schedule being considered, known as the “ABAB8” option, is a combination of block and eight-period scheduling. On Monday through Thursday, students will be on an A and B day schedule, taking four 90 minute classes each day. On Friday, however, students will take all of their eight classes for 45 minutes each. This schedule will allow all classes to meet three times a week, giving them all equal instruction time. One schedule option is another combination of block and eight-period scheduling, called the “AB888.” In this option, students will attend four classes on Monday and four on Tuesday. The next three days, students will attend all eight

classes. This schedule will allow all classes to meet four times a week, but the school day will need to be extended by fourteen minutes. In another option, students will take fi ve classes each day. Their fi rst three classes will be 90 minutes long, and their last two classes will each be 50 minutes long. The 50-minute classes will be at the end of the day to accommodate dual credit students. The 90-minute classes will meet every other day, and the 50-minute classes will meet every day. The fi nal scheduling choice is built around six period days. First and second periods will each be 50 minutes long to allow students to take a dual credit course at that time. Third and fourth period will each be 80 minutes long, and fi fth and sixth period will also each be 50 minutes long. The 50-minute classes will meet every day, and the 80-minute classes will meet every other day. On Tuesday, January 22, 2008, the staff of Clear Creek High School met and voted on all the possible schedules and chose to submit the “ABAB8” option to the School Board for approval. Clear Lake, Clear Brook, and Clear Springs High Schools have cast the same vote. However, the schedule for next year is not defi nite until the School Board gives its approval. The Board is also allowed to make any modifi cations it deems necessary. Some students may be worried about what will happen next year, but Coach Williams, one of the members of the scheduling committee, assures students that there is nothing to worry about. She said, “There’s a lot of planning that’s going into this, and once we implement the new schedule, it’ll be a smooth transition.” When asked if she saw any immediate disadvantages of the new parameters, she said, “If a change in our schedule creates more opportunities for our students, I think that’s a positive.” As long as athletics students are allowed to meet every day, she sees no problem with new methods of scheduling.

VOE requires good attendanceScheduling Options

To block or not to block... If you plan on receiving your driver’s license, you will need a document called a V.O.E, or Verifi cation of Enrollment. This document is required by the State Department of Public Safety for all persons under eighteen years of age, who wish to obtain or renew a driver’s license or to obtain a driver’s permit. In order to be considered eligible for this document, by state law the student must be enrolled in school and have at least ninety percent attendance for each class of the fall or spring semester immediately preceding the date of the application form. This means that with the current schedule at Clear Creek High School, a student cannot miss a class more than four times a semester. If the student does not meet the states ninety percent rule, a parent can appeal for his or her student’s VOE, by havaing a parent prepare a letter to the school’s principal, Scott Bockart, asking

for reconsideration of the student’s denial. This letter should include the reason why your student did not meet the requirements and any supporting documents, such as doctors’ notes. If a student is denied his or her VOE and does not appeal, he or she can apply again at the end of the next semester. Clear Creek requires students to be clear of all fi nes and fees owed to the school before the school issues a VOE. Students can pick up a VOE application form in the front offi ce on main campus or at the ninth grade center. This should be done a couple of days in advance of the date that it is needed.

The VOE document is a government record as defi ned under the Texas penal code, 37.01(2), and as the code states VOE forms issued during the school year will expire thirty days after they are issued. If a student needs a VOE over the summer break, or outside of the regular school year, he or she should apply the last fi ve days of the school year. The VOE will not expire until the fi rst day of the following school year.

CHELSEA HUEBNER

Every year, Creek juniors and seniors enjoy the possibility of a week without fi nal exams. This year, freshman and sophomores can be exempt but not without adhering to a strict list of requirements. As usual, juniors and seniors may be exempt according to their attendance, grades, and behavior (no more than three absences for a grade of 90 or above, no more than two absences for a grade of eighty or above, and no conduct grade lower than satisfactory), but freshman and sophomores have a longer list to be exempt. Ninth and tenth graders can only be exempt from fi nal exams in the subjects they take TAKS tests in. For freshman, this means math and English; for sophomores, this means math, English, social studies, and science. They also must have no in-school or out-of-school suspensions,

outstanding fi nes, detentions, or discipline referrals, other than tardies. Additionally, they must hold a grade of 75-79 (with no more than one absence), 80 or above (with no more than two absences), or 90 or above (with no more than three absences). With the exception of offi cial school business, approved college visit days, death in the family, and religious holy days, both unexcused and excused absences will count towards exemption. Students who are enrolled in two or more classes of the same subject in a core area will only be exempt from the course that they take the TAKS test in. All students that are exempt must leave campus during the time of the fi nal, but they may choose to take a fi nal that they are exempt from in order to raise their grade. TAKS testing for the 2007-2008 school year is scheduled for April 29 – May 2. Spring fi nal exams will be held on June 2-June 5.

continued from pg.1

Spring Final ExemptionsMEGAN MCKISSON

5CREEK SPEAKS

The goal of many who participate in extra-curricular activities is to be the best. In the fi ne arts, being the best means a student must make his or her way through a series of rigorous auditions to arrive at the fi nal level, All-State. Those students who make All-State are in the top one percent in the state in their particular talent. Each year, all state competitions take place for all extracurricular including sports, fi ne arts, performing arts, and academics. For most performing arts, these competitions begin in the fall, however, for academics, they begin in the spring, and with athletics they begin during the season of the sport. The fi ne arts competitions diff er from the athletics and academics competitions in several ways. While the University Interscholastic League (UIL) governs most competitions for extra curricular activities in the state of Texas, The Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA), separate from the UIL, regulates the contest for band and other fi ne arts For fi ne arts students, the competition begins when the TMEA release a series of tryout music pieces in the summer, or earlier if time provides. According to TMEA rules no student may know or practice the music until it is released on the TMEA website. Once the music is released, students are allowed to purchase it and practice at their own discretion. Choir and Orchestra students begin their auditions in September, The fi rst round of these auditions for band takes place in December. Students in band are given more time to prepare for their auditions because they spend a majority of their time in the fall preparing for marching contests. For all students, the contest begins at

BOBBY MURPHY

Students teach children

“The best part about trooper school is seeing the kids gradually improve and learn” Trooper School student Chloe Vogel. Trooper school is an educational program that allows students to learn about a career in teaching while also preparing preschoolers for kindergarten. Students in the class get about twenty kids that they teach. They learn how to teach the preschoolers skills such as writing, letter recognition and scissor skills. During the fi rst nine weeks of class, students learn how to plan a lesson plan, prepare for the lesson, and learn how to teach the lesson. The children come around the tenth week of school 3 days a week. There are three classes that rotate with the children.

Trooper school is available to juniors are seniors who have an interest in early childhood education school as a career and have two openings in their schedule, because this class is double blocked. An application must be fi lled out and handed back to Mrs. Fanders for an interview. Mrs. Fanders also prefers if the student has taken child development, which also helps the children-student relationship. “I love my kids, it’s so much fun being able to teach them and get to play with them. You never really see how much you can help the kinds until you go out and teach them yourself! They get so excited and it’s such a great feeling. Playing outside with the kids is the best!” Michele Pigg. Trooper School is a way for high school students to get their foot in the door to a great teaching program. Students receive fi rst hand experience on teaching real preschoolers.

MELISSA DEVITT

Cast includes the following: Julie Thornton (Mabel)Kirby Alford (Frederic)Anthony Puskus (Pirate King)Jonathan Vega (Major General Stanley)Megan Wells (Ruth)Garrett Bridges (Samuel)Kara Smoot (Edith)Katie Thompson (Kate)Emily Bastedo (Isabel)Michaela Giff ord (Sergeant of Police)Ali Finan (Dance Captain)Morgan Agrella (Daughter)Chelsea Behrle (Daughter)Kimberly Johnson (Daughter)Karen Thomas (Daughter)Nate Askey (Pirate)Christy Flores (Pirate)Tori Carrillo (Pirate/Policeman)Ali Finan (Pirate/Policeman)Josh Jones (Pirate/Policeman)Travis Myers (Pirate/Policeman)Cyruss Radi (Pirate/Policeman)

The Senior Class of ’08 presents Pirates of Penzance

the district level, where students travel to a school in their region to compete. After the fi rst phase of auditions, students who place in the top ten percent (depending on section size) qualify for region band and advance. Those who place near this percentage are awarded the classifi cation of district. They do not advance, nor do they participate in region or area concerts. In phase two, the region competitors return and the top fi ve percent advance to the Area level contest. Students are then given several weeks to prepare for the next contest level. At the area level, students compete with others who placed in the top 5 percent of their section in their respective regions. Each of the seven areas is composed of four regions, and the regions are re-designated as needed by TMEA in order to accommodate new and growing schools. If a student continues to excel, he or she advances to the state level to compete for the title of being the best. The All-State contest is held at a host school each year for choir and orchestra, while the band contest, since it is held later in the school year, is held in Austin. This year, Clear Creek will have four students competing at the All-State Band competition on February 13-16. Chris Fisher and Kristen Bateman, French horn; Drew Walker, trumpet; and Cy Miessler, percussion. In addition, a total of ten students made All-State choir. Megan Wells, Karin Underbink, Kara Smoot, and Trevor Whitworth placed in the All-State Mixed Choir. Julie Thornton, Skyler Yancey, and Rebecca Chaumet made it to the All-State Women’s Choir, and Arun Joshi and Kirby Alford placed in the Men’s All-State Choir. Congratulations to everyone who made All-State and to all of those who competed in the contest this year.

Students compete at All-StatePhoto by Fallan DragoPirates of Penzance cast closing scene.

6 ADS

7FEATURES

Run just enough.

Build your training slowly.

Recover, recover, recover.

Do your long runs.

Practice your marathon pace.

Extend your tempo run distance.

Eat your Carbs...

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Every marathon

p a r t i c i p a n t goes through rigor-ous training leading up to the actual event. What exactly does a train-ing schedule look like for someone planning to run a marathon? Well, every runner is diff erent. According to Runner’s World though, there are ten things that should be included in every runner’s training plan. They

are the following:

Marathon participants hit the road running

In a chilly December of 1972, with a crowd of 200 spectators, 113 runners, with a parked station wagon marking their turn, inaugurated the fi rst Houston Marathon. Pete League, who had the love of running passed down to him from his father, offi cially founded the race. With the help of a friend, he secured the marathon’s fi rst sponsor, the Igloo Corporation. Danny Green was the Marathon’s fi rst winner. Green and 74 of the other competitors fi nished the marathon and were given mini coolers as prizes. That evening also marked the beginning of another Houston Marathon tradition that is still going strong: the marathon dinner. During this event, those who participated in the race sit down as a family and share a meal together. It is a succulent reward for the day’s victory. This year, 2008, marked the 36th anniversary of the Houston Marathon. This year’s sponsor was the Chevron Corporation. The winner of the full marathon was David Cheruiyot. Since its humble beginnings, the event has grown to include a half marathon as well as a 5K fun run. Runners are also encouraged to join forces with the “Run for a Reason” charity program. Runners have the opportunity to raise awareness of a cause and set up donations to directly benefi t the charity of their choice. The Houston Marathon is now considered the city’s largest single day sporting event. On January 13 of this year, more than 20,000 runners lined up for the marathon, half marathon and 5K run backed by a quarter of a million fans as well as 5,000 offi cial volunteers. The participants were both male and female. They represented a vast array of ethnicities and religious backgrounds. They came from almost every U.S. state and over 20 foreign countries. Yet, they all had one thing in common: they were here to conquer the challenging course set before them. The full marathon course was described on the Houston Marathon’s offi cial website: “On the 26.2-mile journey along a fast, fl at course, marathoners run past scenic Bayou City neighborhoods, including the historic Heights and Montrose areas, past Hermann Park and Rice University, over to the famed Galleria shopping area, and thenhead up by Memorial Park to Allen Parkway, fi nishing downtown on Rusk Street at the George R. Brown Convention Center.” If the scenic aspect wasn’t enough, a group called the Hoopla Brigade keeps the runners’ morale high. This is a concept that originated with the Houston Marathon and has since been copied by others. Basically, the Hoopla Brigade is a series of entertainers stationed at diff erent points of the marathon. They have included

everything from jazz bands to belly dancers. Their job is to banish any negative thoughts entering the runners’ minds and to encourage them to make it to the fi nish. Many of the runners are motivated to fi nish on a personal level. A few teachers here at Clear Creek High School who ran in the marathon and half marathon shared their stories of what kept them going till they hit the fi nish line. Mrs. Kregel, a chemistry teacher, wife, and mother of four considers herself more of a “jogger” than a runner. She said she started in high school and continued the endeavor throughout the years as a sort of ‘de-stresser”. A veteran participant in the Houston Marathon, Mrs. Kregel said that the 2008 Full Marathon was especially signifi cant to her for one reason, “I was able to spend time with my running buddy friend who lives out of state. She is a second year breast cancer survivor so each year we celebrate health, faith, family and friends.” Ms. Kregel is also an avid supporter of fi rst time marathoners. As for herself, she described the reward of the marathon as follows: “Finishing a marathon is defi nitely a mental as well as a physical accomplishment. When faced with other daunting tasks, it helps to think, ‘hey, I did a marathon, I can do whatever I put my mind, heart and energy into’.” Mrs. Huebner and Mrs. White of the Clear Creek High School Mathematics department teamed up to complete the 2008 Houston Half Marathon. Mrs. Huebner began running last January. “I like the health benefi ts and it is nice tospend some time outside,” she said. Ms. Huebner and Ms. White offi cially teamed up to train together in October. When the Marathon fi nally was a reality, Mrs. Huebner said, “It was really exciting when [Mrs. White and I] crossed the fi nish line. I was also moved by my family (Mr. Huebner, Drew and Amy) who showed up at places along the course to cheer me on as well asmy parents and my sister and her family.” Mrs. White began her running career about 25 years ago. She did it mainly for exercise but also competed in several triathlons. Training for the half marathon this past year really made her prioritize her workout schedule in order to do well on race day. The results were rewarding. Her favorite memory from race day was “running through downtown, looking up and seeing all the skyscrapers.” This is just an example of the power of friendship to overcome a daunting task. When asked if either of them planned to attempt to complete the full marathon the response varied. “I didn’t really think I wanted to run the full marathon but I want to run the Big

Sur marathon in California and it only has a full marathon so I guess I better get to work!” said Mrs. Huebner. Mrs. White on the other hand said she has no immediate plans to run a full marathon but added, “I’m not ruling it out ever.” Unexpected injury can befall any runner. This was the case with Mrs. Campbell, a Clear Creek High School chemistry teacher. Mrs. Campbell began running at the end of high school as a way to stay healthy. “The reason I choose running over other aerobic activities is because it doesn’t feel like ‘work’ to me.” As she is still recovering from a knee injury, Mrs. Campbell was unable to participate in the Houston Marathon. Despite the limits on her physical activity she remains hopeful about her running future. “I’ve never been one to let pain or an injury get in the way of doing what I love. Because of this, it’s hard for me to take it slow as I get back into it,” she said. In May she hopes to compete in her third triathlon if her physical condition improves. “I just need to be extra patient and careful with myself so I can achieve this!” Many marathoners return each year to the Houston Marathon. Others aspire to compete in other marathons across the country and across the world. Just two of the most noteworthy marathons runners attempt to qualify for are the Boston Marathon in Massachusetts and the Athens Classical Marathon in Greece. This year more than 600 Houston Marathon participants qualifi ed for the Boston Marathon and will be able to participate in for the 2008 and 2009 season. This past November, the Houston Marathon also set up an exchange program for the Athens Classical Marathon. This provided a unique experience for marathon enthusiasts combined with sightseeing in Greece. Here in the Bay Area there are opportunities for runners of all levels to test their skills. Registration is already open for the 2009 Houston Marathon. Starting in February there is the Galloway Gallop in Kemah. This provides a 5K and 10K run option. In March comes the Seabrook Lucky Trail Marathon with a full and half marathon option. March also brings the 5K Resurrection run in Nassau Bay. In May League City will host a Summer Kick Off 5K Fun Run. “The hardest part about training for themarathon is fi nding the time for the long runs and keeping the mental attitude that you can do this,” said Mrs. Kregel. Overcoming those obstacles is what brings countless runners back each year to the Houston Marathon and is also what draws in new participants. It is a support system, a family. One that is always looking to grow.

HAYLEY BOULTINGHOUSE

taper for two to three weeks.

Side step injuries.

W“TWO THUMBS UP!” –Seth Feken

“Creek is like a really long Sein-feld episode.” –John Lewallen

“A whole bunch of uninteresting people doing uninteresting things.” –Rob Mendoaza

“I think it would be a lot of drama and stupid fights over boys.” –Heather Lorton

“Pretty much there isn’t really a dull moment because there is so much going on at one time.” –Jade Warren

“It would be full of drama, everyone would be complaining about their problems and how they don’t like certain people.” –Cody Messenger

If Clear CreekWere A Movie How Would You Review

Over the years hundreds of movies have been prod occur on high school campuses. Th ese productiondiffi culties, and accomplishments that a student oknow how well the manufactured situations of th

What stories will unfoCharacters: students, teachers, faculty, offi cers.

Setting: Clear Creek High School, 2008. LeMain Focus: Make it through high

Survive- Bad hair days, FailEducation- Books smarts Socialize- Learn to MixItSelf Discovery- Who yo

What are the character roles of the staff, officers,and teachers at a high school?

duced trying to recreate the experiences thatns try to capture on fi lm the troubles, or teacher might encounter. We want to he movies parallel our lives at Creek.

old???

eague City, Texasschool.ling tests, & Teachers& common sense

t Up!ou really are

“Mean Girls” –Brit Rachner

“Superbad” –Morgan Fox

“Fast times at Ridgemont High” –Tyler Broussard

“Coach Carter” –Carlyle Yarbough

“Mighty Ducks” –Greg Olson

“High School Musical” –Brittni East

“Th e Bridge on the River Kwai” –Zack Duncavage

If your could relate Creek to any movie what movie would it

be like?

ComedianinteracterGood guyWise One Advice giver

(29 years) Ms. Radcioni:“I feel like the “wise

one” that anchors CCHS. .. I love this school, and

all it stands for. I feel very lucky and blessed to have seen so many

positive changes.

(12 years) Mr. Sifentes: “To prevent students

from taking the wrong road…. So they stay out of trouble/jail, and to be more understanding of

others feeling.

(5 years) Mr. Stewart“I’d be the cool cop.

Who everyone loved. But not to take my

kindness for a weakness.

(1/2 years) Mr. Hart: “To help students un-derstand where they are going in life. To

help them fi nd their goals and chase their

dreams.”

(27 years) Ms. Morris: “Stimulate interest in the Biological Science by telling entertaining but relevant stories.”

10 NEWS

Being a high school student in today’s world can be intensely stressful – dealing with classes, homework, exams, extracurriculars, friends, social life, and family – that it can be hard to remember to eat healthy. Pressures to keep a lean fi gure can even cause some teens to purposefully refuse to eat. Although skipping meals may seem convenient, even benefi cial, it can seriously damage your metabolism and long-term health. We know you’ve heard it before – breakfast is the most important meal of the day. The clichéd golden rule of healthy eating may seem unnecessarily repetitive, but it’s absolutely true. It’s almost impossible to sustain a grueling seven-hour school day without any fuel. Studies show that students who eat breakfast perform better in and out of the classroom and are overall healthier than those who don’t. Those who eat breakfast also tend to weigh less than those who don’t, because breakfast reduces hunger throughout the day. When you skip breakfast, whether intentionally or unintentionally, you are denying your body necessary nutrients needed to grow into a healthy adult. Of course, eating anything you can get your hands on before you run out the door in the morning doesn’t necessarily count as a healthy meal. Stopping by Shipley’s before school is more of an early-morning dessert

Breakfast: most important meal of day

than a well-balanced breakfast. Foods like milk, cereal, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein are recommended to jump-start your day. Eating a healthy breakfast is the fi rst step to living a healthy lifestyle. Nightly meals are also important. Overeating in the late hours of the night can be just as detrimental to your health as not eating breakfast. Binging on anything you can fi nd in the kitchen after you fi nally get home from a late night rehearsal or practice may seem like a good idea at the time, but it can permanently damage your health. If you are truly hungry, grab some fruit or a granola bar. Eating late-night meals can curb appetite in the morning, causing people to skip breakfast and begin the vicious cycle all over again. When a group of nine Creek students were polled, it was found that 66% rarely or never

MEGAN MCKISSON

ate breakfast. As Ashley Turner, 10th, stated, “I never eat breakfast, because it makes me sick in the morning.” Sophomore Valerie Wood also admitted her not-so-healthy eating habits. “I drink a Dr. Pepper every morning, but I never eat breakfast. If I’m really hungry, I’ll have a hot dog or something.” However, a few students did have healthy eating habits. Julia Garate, 10th, said that she eats a bowl of oatmeal every morning before school. Junior Frank Stephenson commented, “I try to eat it every day. Usually I’ll have cereal, coff ee, or toast.” The key to eating healthfully? Balance. It’s all right to eat a Snickers after nine p.m. every once in awhile and indulging in some chocolate-glazed goodness once in a blue moon certainly won’t kill you. Making these snacks a routine is what causes health problems.

Over the years, teenage clothing trends have swept across the nation. One current trend has attracted national attention, which may cause a stir among America’s young people. Some cities are beginning to pass laws prohibiting the wearing of loose-fi tting pants. While some believe this law will help enforce decency in a younger generation, others see the crackdown as a form of discrimination. The trend of wearing pants a few sizes to large is believed to have originated in prisons. Inmates are not given belts to wear with their uniform pants to decrease violence in the facilities. The trend became popular with rappers in the 80s, and then moved on to popularity among skateboarders, before fi nally reaching the masses, where it has become a common sight at school and on the streets. On one side of the argument, like all teenage fashions, wearing baggy pants is a matter of identity, of establishing oneself among fellow peers. Many teens fi nd loose fi tting pants more comfortable. On the other hand, many believe the style to be indecent and a bad infl uence on children. Some teachers fi nd excessively saggy pants to be a distraction in the classroom. Some people worry because they

believe that by wearing a clothing style passed down from prisons, teens emulate the prison culture Recently, lawmakers across the country have begun taking an interest in this particular fashion trend, by passing laws to ban the wearing of baggy pants. In Trenton, New Jersey, wearing pants too low could result in a fi ne and a meeting with a city worker. In Atlanta, a person’s punishment could include small fi nes or community work. Most notably, in the city of Delcambre, Louisiana one can be fi ned up to $500 or sentenced to six months in jail for exposing underwear in public. The newly proposed laws have not only caught the attention of youth across the country, but also the American Civil Liberties Union. The Union believes that this crackdown on baggy pants can be considered a form of racial profi ling, particularly targeting African-American male youths. The organization fears that people will begin to associate the way a person dresses with local crime, causing unfair discrimination. Others believe that passing a law banning baggy pants would alienate the African-American students from a culture that has already singled them out. As lawmakers across the country debate whether it is appropriate to restrict the type of pants people wear, they will consider the many issues surrounding the law they propose.

Prisoners responsible

ALLIE HINGA

Photo courtesy of Pics4Learning

for “Baggy Pants” trend

As the 2008 election draws ever closer, it’s becoming more and more apparent that “Generation Y” is ready to make their votes count. There are a plethora of campaigns fl oating around to get the American youth involved in the future of our country. The “Rock the Vote” campaign was the forerunner of them all during the 2004 election. But it appears that “Rock the Vote” has taken a backseat to a new strategy to get the youth interested. With the tools of the Internet, the youth can become connected easily via numerous social networking websites. Just by visiting the considerably infamous social networking website myspace.com, users can view presidential candidates profi les, giving American youth the opportunity to make an informed decision about who they believe is qualifi ed to run the

United States of America. New and old media have even teamed up to bring you a very special co-sponsored presidential debate. An alliance between popular video-sharing website, YouTube, and news station, CNN gave the people the opportunity

to literally broadcast themselves. Users uploaded their questions to YouTube, and the submissions were viewed. Pressing issues were chosen and aired on CNN, followed by a response from the candidates.

Social networking sites involve youth votingJACOB LUX

The MTV network is forming an alliance with Myspace.com for a series of similar event. Except instead of debates, they are teaming up to bring us real-time, one-on-one presidential dialogues. The candidates are asked questions by a forum of

college students, then, those logged online to myspace.com can vote on how the questions were answered and whether or not they agree with the stances taken. Politicians have taken note

as well and have made a valiant eff ort to acknowledge the youth vote. The youngest candidate seeking the white house, at age 46, Barack Obama recently wrote a guest column in “The Daily Iowan”, a student newspaper at the University of Iowa. This could have been the extra push Obama needed to take Iowa this January. On the republican side, it was Ron Paul who took the majority of the youth-vote in the Iowa caucus, due in most part to online campaigning. When Myspace.com performed their virtual primaries, Paul took an impressive 37 percent of the votes, solidifying him in the youth’s eyes. With the candidates plastered all over the internet, and the interactions between politicians and the public, it consistently shows the full eff ect of the digital age. Although these ideas are fresh to the election process, in four short years they have dramatically changed the tactics of campaigning forever.

Barack ObamaHillary Clinton

John McCainMitt RomneyMike Huckabee

Democrats

Republicans

11ADS

12 FEATURES

Most students cannot wait to get out of high school and enjoy the college life, but along with the perks of having more freedom, you have more responsibility, which means you must learn to buckle down and hit the books. A major diff erence between high school and college is the amount of reading you might have to endure. In college you might requently be assigned multiple chapters to read in complicated textbooks, but studies show a simple reading technigque, SQ3R will help sharpen you textbook reading skills. SQ3R stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. SQ3R helps make reading purposeful and signifi cant, but in a timely effi ci-ant way. This proven teqnique can help you get on top of an overload of reading.

Review • Review the notes taken and identify the main points of the

chapter. • Write a short summery. • Week after week look

over you notes andwhen the test comes there will always be

a very useful study guide.

Next time you hit the books, you know how to get far, by using the tequnique SQ3r.

Get the IDEA:

Survey Appraoch • Read the chapter from begining to end.

• Read the title, headings, and subheadings.

• Take note of words that are italicized or bold.

• Look at all charts, graphs, pictures, maps, and other visual

materials.

Question • Ask a question for each segment.

• Relate to the content, try asking who, what, when,

where, and how. • Turn the title, headings, or subheadings into quese-tion and rewrite the questions

at the end of the chapter.

Read • Thoroughly read each

section of a chapter at a time. • Relate to the content, try asking who, what, where,

when, and how. • Illustrations and graphs can be key points to communicate

an idea clearer.

Recite • Recite the answer to

one of the questions and then write it down.

• Examples to prove the answer are always

a good idea. • The written questions

and answers will help studying in the future.

The Eagles have done it again. They’re newest album, “Long Road Out of Eden,” was released in October of 2007, featuring a two-disc set with twenty new songs. They plan to tour extensively in 2008. This album is the fi rst full-length studio recording the Eagles have done as a band since 1979’s “The Long Run.” Guitarist Joe Walsh says that he and his band mates, Don Henley (drums, vocals), Glenn Frey (guitar, vocals), and Timothy B. Schmit (bass, vocals), all wrote songs for the album. Walsh said the songs “go in some really, really new directions. It’s hard to compare to anything I hear out there now.” On his songs, however, Walsh says he “went rock’n’roll.” There is one “extended” track with “a middle full of guitar statement” and another one that’s “full-on rock’n’roll.” The guitarist played thirteen solo shows back in August in Saratoga, California. He recruited a band of very talented young musicians which include

Gia Ciambotti and Drew Hester who he says “are really kicking me in the pants.” “Long Road Out of Eden” opened number one on the Billboard charts and has already gone platinum. Don Henley says, “There’s a certain sound we make when we sing together. That over the past thirty-fi ve years has become ingrained in people’s minds. And you know, I can’t sound like that with anybody else except these guys.” Henley, Frey, Walsh, and Schmit are all pushing sixty and have been in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for almost a decade. They have nothing left to prove except that they can do it again. The Eagles started in 1971 making a sound that was part country and art rock. Their debut album featured three of their many greatest hits. Their fi rst best-of collection, “Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975,” is one of the best-selling albums in America. It was the fi rst album to be certifi ed platinum (1 million copies sold) by the Recording Industry Association of America. Twenty-seven years later, the Eagles look much diff erent but they still make the same great sound.

Eagles on tour againBRETT MORRIS

Nat Geo shows DogtownSHANNON O’NEIL

Imagine homes with room to roam and nice cozy beds to snuggle up in at night. This type of home is reserved especially for dogs in Dogtown. Dogtown is the newest dog heaven. Dogtown was founded by Best Friends Animal Society in southern Utah, according to news.bestfriends.org. Dogtown even has its own show on National Geographic Channel. Dogs in Dogtown are off ered a new leash on life and are rehabilitated and adopted. Dogs come from all walks of life and are accepted no matter what. Some dogs cannot be adopted out but Dogtown continues to care for these dogs throughout their life. The life of Dogtown is laid back and free. According to bestfriends.org, “Dogs here don’t live in cages. They’re divided into “packs” of friends…” The “packs” share a home with one another, and they can let themselves inside and

outside. The dog’s homes are kept nice and the dogs sleep in cozy beds. The dogs do not get bored because there is so much for them to do. Not only do they have tons of toys but they also have tons of land to stretch their four legs. Dogs are able to spend time with other dogs. Baby, one of the dogs in Dogtown, does not like to interact with other dogs

and the volunteers of Dogtown do not force her. Baby is able to be who she wants to be and is left alone in her home. Dogtown never turn away dogs. Dogtown also houses old dogs. Any age is welcome. Old Friends is the sanctuary for the older dogs. These dogs, even though they are old, have a lot to give.

Even dogs from bad pasts perk up in Dogtown and become new pups. Wilson was a dog rescued from a man who would breed and then sell the dogs to earn money. These dogs would go to scientists who would perform experiments on the dogs. With the help of the police, Wilson’s owner was out of a job and Wilson came into Dogtown. Another resident of

Dogtown, Harmon was kept in horrible conditions. When he was rescued his teeth were messed up from him trying to escape his small and dirty cage. “…he didn’t know how to act like a dog anymore,” according to bestfriends.org. Thanks to Dogtown Harmon is a new dog. Bandit had a rough past but now since he’s been living in Dogtown he is able to be an exciting fun loving dog. Dogtown is

the newest dog heaven that will take any dog no matter what shape they are in and either rehabilitates and adopt them out or they keep the dogs for the rest of their lives. No dog is shut out of Dogtown because of its condition or past.

Photo courtesy of Bestfriends.org

13DIVERSIONS

14 SPORTS

Clear Creek wrestling team takes to the mat and conquersALBERT NKANSAH

Paul Vaughn looking for a pin during local meet. Photo courtesy of Clearcreekwrestling.com

In what is only the second year to coach at Creek, Coach Eric Thompson has jumpstarted the Creek wrestling program into one of the top wrestling teams in the area. Creek wrestling team has already gone to big area meets and done extremely well placing 2nd at the St. Thomas tournament, 2nd at the Woodshed Duals and 3rd at the Elite Eight. With results like this, Coach Thompson is fulfi lling his philosophy of getting better every year. When asked how the team is doing this year captain Mitchell Buckmaster said, “A lot better than last year, but we still have a ways to go.” With the district meet on February 2, there are many wrestlers looking to make regionals like Tarah Brewer, Alysia Kentner, Steven Medel, and Justin Dugie. Winners this year have been Paul Vaughn who is 22-15, Mitchell Buckmaster who is 27-13, Kyle Hughes who is 32-11, Jeff Nemeth who is 38-12,Michael Rambo who

is 19-5, and Aaron Daniels is 28-9 as he looks to make it to regionals for the second time. As they all have made their cases for winning district.. In their sophomore season, wrestling has come out with a new attitude. The team can be seen walking around school with shirts that read “No Excuses” on the back, they have taken to that belief through the entire season. The team has not let injuries bring them down this year either, as Adrian Mata, Quentin Colleli and Kevin Tran have all received season ending injuries. All three have still contributed to the program, even though Tran received torn ACL during the football season. Tran has taken more of a coaching role to some of the younger and less experienced wrestlers. All these injuries have not stopped the wildcats from regrouping to try to win district. With the success of all of the wrestlers comes directly proportional from the success of Coach Eric Thompson. He has taken the wrestling team to outstanding levels. “Love the guy! He’s the best coach I’ve ever had, and one of the best infl uences of our lives”, said Mitchell Buckmaster.

A new process going on this year has been the expansion of the junior varsity. Coach Christopher Billot is the junior varsity wrestling coach and has helped develop JV wrestlers like Leonard Bradley, Chris Del-Basso, and Hunter Henderson. Coach Shannon Garner has also given support as she has come and encouraged the girls at some of the wrestling meets and off ered her advice during the matches. The booster club has also been benefi cial to the wrestling team, selling food, drinks, tickets, and clothes at every home meet. They have helped raise money so the wrestling team can buy more headgear, warm-ups, and wrestling bags. With so much help, and the skill and

Coach Thompson and Mitchell Buckmaster

knowledge of the coaches, all of those apart of the wrestling organization are one big team.

Photo courtesy of Clearcreekwrestling.com

15SPORTSAthletes of the Month

Tiffany MillsDESTINEE WALKER

Jeffery NemethTAYLOR FREUDENBERG

Jeff ery Nemeth is one of three Clear Creek wrestling captains of the wrestling team. He may be new to this sport, but he has undeniable natural ability that earned him the title of captain. He has been wrestling since his sophomore year and has been varsity since day one.He found out about wrestling team when he was searching the school catalogue about sports at Creek. He decided to tryout for the team, and has been a part of the team ever since. Jeff is in the 119 lbs. class in wrestling, with a personal record of 32-12. This is Jeff ’s fi nal year at Creek, and he intends on going out with a bang. The team record is 20-12and is headed to Regionals. The whole experience has been a good thing for Jeff . “The team’s a good bunch; we’re like family and even the girls are too. We know each other; we’ve spent a lot of time with one another. It’s an honor to be their captain.”

January girls athlete of the month, is none other then four-year varsity basketball player Tiff any Mills. Mills picked up her fi rst basketball in kindergarten and hasn’t set it down since. She played basketball for League City in both the seventh and eighth grade. During the summer she was successful in summer leagues such as AAU, and went to nationals two years. For the last four years Mills has played varsity basketball as a forward guard. This season she averaged around 14 points a game. When asked about her plans for college, Mills was undecided. “I’ve received scholarship off ers from schools, but I haven’t decided where I’d like to go.” She’s looked into several colleges, and has narrowed it down to University of Texas San Antonio, Texas Southern, and Texas Christian University.

Photo by Stephanie HaechtenPhoto by Stephanie Haechten

Creek girls golf tees up successTAYLOR FREUDENBERG

For the past year, the Clear Creek golf team has been playing games and participating in many tournaments. Even though this is the second half of the season, the golf teams are staying strong. The girl’s golf team has been doing great this year, with each team playing about three tournaments this past semester. Creek’s golf teams have so many players that there are two varsity teams and two junior varsity teams. The fi rst varsity team includes seniors Brooke Cunningham, Carmel Skellenger, juniors Stephanie Pustejovsky, Lauren Decatur, and sophomore Jennifer Paden. The varsity team won their fi rst tournament that was hosted by Friendswood high school and the Magnolia Creek golf course. Skellenger took second medalist honors, and Cunningham took third medalist honors. The fi rst team varsity kept the season going when they placed fi fth at the Northside High School tournament held in San Antonio at Hyatt Hill Country Club. The team had improved four places over last year’s showing at the same tournament. The second varsity team is composed of Jordan Favret, Bianca Alanis, Courtney Brooks, Hannah Davis, Kirstin Rogers, and Katy Parrott. This team placed second at the Galena Park tournament, which was held at the Texaco Country Club.

The JV teams have many promising players for the future years. “We do have a great group of up and coming golfers who make up our junior varsity teams,” says girl’s golf coach Kayla Williamson. Members include Simone Sharpe, Julie Rutter, Blaire Moreland, Brandi Denzler, Jennifer Stroike, Taylor Leyva, Kayla Pierce, Makenzie Hill, Hayley Krueger, Jordan Stroike and Brooke Griffi s, Courtney Boyes and Melanie Dean. The JV team won fi rst place at their Texas City tournament, and achieved fi rst and third at the Alvin tournament. They have already started their spring season with one tournament hosted by Clear Springs high school at the Magnolia Springs golf course. With the second half of the season is already underway, the golf teams have gotten back into the swing of things. With many more games to come, there are still more opportunities for the Clear Creek golf teams to keep up the good job.

Girls basketball on the courtALBERT NKANSAH

With the beginning of a new year, comes the beginning of district basketball as the girls have been practicing to prepare for a run at the district title. The Lady Wildcats have begun district streaking as they have won the fi rst nine district games. Creek seemed to win in all ways, against Pearland 48-41, against Clear Lake 69- 18 and Alvin 61-11. Creek now leads the district standing by three games over Pearland and Ball, and are not slowing down anytime soon. They only have one more game left in the regular season, and they have won the district championship. Coach Jana Williams knew even at the beginning of the season that

the girls had a chance at winning district, and her coaching has guided this wildcats team to numerous victories over tough opponents. “Prior to the season, they set their sights on winning district and have stayed focused in order to accomplish that goal,” said Coach Williams. The unity on this team has been great, as many of these players have played together for many years. Tiff Mills, Kortnee Pevehouse, and Brittany Cole are three of the seniors on this team who have gone the extra mile to make sure that this year will be successful. They are the three leading scorers for the Lady Wilcats. On February 2, Creek will try an undefeated conference season against Clear Brook, who was last year’s district campions.

Kourtnee Pevehouse, Tiff Mills, and Kaylin Dugie Photo by Destinee Walker

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