Texas High School • 4001 Summerhill Road, Texarkana, TX 75503 • tigertimesonline.com

One timecould be yourlast time

Just one choice.Just one pill. Just one trip. Just one time and your one life is over.

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artwork by A. O’Gorman/photo by R. Lewis

OUR NETWORKsocial

by KATIE DUSEKstaff writer

The sweltering Savannah heat causes beads of sweat to form on her forehead as senior Naveen Malik explores Africa. During her trip, she was exposed to many new exciting experiences.

“When we went to the

spring where we met this tribe of people that lived around it,” Malid said, “and all of the women were taking care of their kids and making jewelry too.”

Malik enjoyed the beautiful countryside of where she spent most of her time hunting. The beautiful scenery is where she took this picture

“I took it at this spring like 50 miles into the desert, so it was a really weird situation because you wouldn’t expect palm trees to grow in the desert. It was like a little oasis of hope.”

MOMENT#mybig

Naveen Malik, 12 ourfavorite moment

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faces of the gameSenior varsity football captain, Chaz Davis. View this story on tigertimesonline.com

OCTOBER 3STUCO GARAGE SALE“The cheer garage sale is going to be at Williams Memorial, and it’s to raise money for cheer and our supplies and stuff that we need like pom-poms, uniforms and signs,” junior Marley Crawford said.

OCTOBER 5COURT PRESENTATION “They show the interviews of the girls and list what they’ve been active in, so people get a better feel for who they want to vote for,” senior Sara Vaughn said. “The girls wear evening dresses so they look all pretty and pristine.”

OCTOBER 29BONFIRE PEP RALLY“It’s a fun tradition to do and uphold, and it’s great to spend time with your friends and build the fire,” senior Tyler Bewley said. “It’s also a great way to warm up on a cold night.”

OCTOBER 10HOMECOMING “Homecoming is a time where all of our friends get to come together without the stress of school and dance till we can’t dance no more,” senior Jayci Pettigrew said. “I can look back and know I was so happy to be there with all my friends.”

OCTOBER 30SENIOR NIGHT: TX VS. GREENVILLE “The senior games recognize the senior players and their accomplishments and their future plans,” senior Travis Williams said. “For me it’s a different experience, bittersweet because as a senior, it hits you that this is it.”

OCTOBER 31DASH FOR CASH “The Dash for Cash is mainly to raise scholarships for students who do a lot of volunteer activities and who also need scholarships to help them out,” senior Chelsea Villanueva said. “We really try and do what we can to get everyone to participate.”

tweets@RommelCarson

“At the end of the day it is what it is”

@TnBew25“The good guy never gets the girl nowadays”

@kipwilliams15“Anyone have a baby raccoon they will give me?”

top6

Get to know the

presidential candidates and why Trump is a

problem

26Senior Luke Smith releases his first single, “Trust Issues”

21

Volleyball team rebuilds after losing essential players

17The Truth About Twins

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@okbaileyy“Drake is literally my dad”

3newstigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by Celeste Andersonstaff writer

Senior Carson Rommel plops down at the kitchen table with a backpack bursting at the seams with books and binders from today’s classes. This uncomfortable chair will be his home for the next two hours, and this isn’t even counting “study time” to prepare for upcoming tests.

“I have stayed up until 2 a.m. studying,” Rommel said. “When I had a big test coming up, my homework load could increase to three hours a night.”

According to a study conducted in “The American Journal of Family Therapy,” high school students only have about an hour per night of homework, which was far less than the conductors of the experiment expected.

“I usually have two and a half to three hours of homework,” junior Hannah Hayes said. “It varies a lot. Most nights I do all of my homework or push it to the next night, so it piles on even more.”

In fact, most of the students interviewed say that the amount of homework they have interferes with their extracurricular pursuits and increases their stress levels.

“I usually try to plan my homework assignments around my extracurricular activities, but I often take homework with me to my extracurricular [activities],” senior Kaulyn Loe said. “I often spend the bus rides to out of town football games, marching contests and band auditions doing my homework. Having excessively heavy loads of homework has had a

bad effect on my stress level. I’m always concerned about having enough time to complete assignments and to have a solid understanding of the material.”

This study also reports that students should have 10 minutes of homework multiplied by the grade level they are in, dubbing this system the “10 Minute Rule.” This means that a freshman should have 90 minutes of homework, a student in 11th grade should have 110 minutes of homework, a senior should have two hours of homework, etc.

“I believe this system is wrong because

it does not take into account that some students are in several advanced placement classes, while some are not,” Hayes said. “The ‘normal’ amount of time students should spend on homework varies drastically.”

Looking at this study from another perspective, some students say that the “10 Minute Rule” is accurate, and homework is a must for success.

“Even though you may not like [homework],” senior Stormy Roberts said. “It will make you have a brighter future.”

Multiple studies also show that completing homework on time correctly boosts test scores and overall grades of students.

“Practice generates learning, so therefore, homework that is quality work that you have to do,” Assistant Principal for College and Career Readiness Bettie Lynn Stark said. “To enhance the learning, to reinforce the learning, so that you remember what is going on for the day is very useful.”

New study aims to increase students’ workload

10MINUTERULE

by Raga Justinnews editor

A bright screen lights up for an instant, and lives are snatched away forever.

With the advent of new technology comes a slew of new problems–namely, the increase in the number of accidents related to driver distraction. Texting and driving constitutes a large portion of that category.

“There used to be a statistic where if you drove after 7 o’clock at night, generally speaking, for every 10 cars you encounter one will have an impaired driver because of alcohol,” math teacher Linda Teeters said. “I really think every fifth [driver] you pass now is texting and driving.”

Teenagers, especially, are more at risk when it comes to cell phone use while in the car. According to a study conducted by Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention based on data collected from the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, almost half of high school drivers ages 16 and up text while in the car. In an OnlineSchools.com survey, 55 percent of young adult drivers said it was easy for them to use their phones when driving.

“[It] depends on where [I am],” junior Luker Hays said. “If I’m on a busy road I’m not going to put others’ lives in danger but if it’s just a back road or a road going to my house or something where I’m not passing a lot of people, then yeah. I’ll send text messages, a snapchat here and there, play music.”

Others are more cautious in their approach, limiting their cell phone use while in the car.

“At stop signs and red lights I’ll check it or like if I’m playing music I’ll change the song, but not when I’m driving through traffic,” junior Elicia Bilyeu said.

“A lot of people can drive easily on the phone but sometimes their reaction time is slower. Sometimes [that] scares me.”

While nearly everyone agrees that cell phones in a car are dangerous, many don’t realize the implications of a momentary distraction until they are caught

helpless in that exact situation. “This summer I had an awful

car crash,” junior Mary Claire Paddock said. “My car hit the curb so hard my tire blew and [I flipped] multiple times. I looked down at my phone for one second, and when I looked up, it was too late to do anything but

brace myself.”But people don’t tend to think

about the bigger picture. Cell phones have become such a part of daily life that using them is as natural as breathing.

“Everybody thinks they can text and drive,” Teeters said. “People realize drinking and driving is illegal, and they know it’s stupid. Texting and driving is something that people think ‘Oh I’ve got this, I can handle it,’ and you can’t. I don’t think people realize how distracted they are, I don’t they realize how much they’re looking at their phone instead of looking at the road, and in a split second things can happen that you don’t have time to respond to.”

The lesson learned is abstinence from texting and driving.

“Before I had my crash this summer I never understood the seriousness of texting and driving,” Paddock said. “It only takes one second or one look at a phone to change your life forever. I encourage everyone to never text and drive no matter the situation.”

Driving while in-TEXT-icated Rise in accidents related to cell phones causes alarm

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graphic used with permission

4 news tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

New bill requires state collegesto accept lower AP scoresby ALEX HEOsports editor

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1992 on June 3, 2015, lowering test scores required to receive credit for students that plan on attending a Texas public college.

According to the House Research Organization Bill Analysis, the bill would “require all public institutions of higher education to award college credit if a student earned a score of three or higher on the Advanced Placement (AP) exam, unless the student needs to take the class as a prerequisite.”

The new rule benefits students by reducing some uncertainty over which credits they will receive. The law will reduce the amount of credits that a student will need to graduate, allowing the student to graduate college earlier and save money.

“In the past, if students score a three or above on an AP exam, they knew they had the potential to get college credit, but they did not know exactly what that would be,” Director of College and Career Readiness Bettie Stark said. “I’ve had students who might go to the University of Texas, and if they were majoring in engineering, the three on their English test might have given

them credit for English, but if they made a three in calculus, then the engineering department would not have accepted it.”

For teachers, the bill provides reassurance for their students to be content with a three on the AP test. A three indicates college preparedness.

“I always feel pressured to prepare students as best I can so they can earn the score that they can use at their chosen college or university,” English III AP teacher Monica Washington said. “I will still probably feel that pressure. However, I feel more relieved that good students who earn solid threes won’t be as disappointed when they receive their scores.

However, the curriculum for the AP classes will not change. The depth of the material is too vast for teachers to tone down.

“You cannot let up on the course load,” World History AP teacher Cedina Campbell said. “There’s too much to cover.”

Students have already felt a burden being lifted off of their shoulders since hearing about the ruling.

“I love it because it gives guys like me who make threes an opportunity to not take those classes that big colleges like Texas [require,]” senior Kip Williams said. “I’m ecstatic.”

by ANNA CANNON/GRACE HICKEYfeature editor/staff writer

Rumors float from the juniors to underclassmen, beginning behind the closed door of room 47. It’s the hardest class on campus, they say. You may fail, they say.

It’s worth it though. Mr. Zach is the best teacher you’ll ever have, they say.

Chuck Zach has been teaching at Texas High for eight years and preconceived notions about his class transcend the speeches of the first day.

“I don’t think that [my class] is the most difficult class on campus, but I guess students think that because it’s one place where they have to carry a little bit larger of a load,” Zach said. “I don’t give students notes or write on the board and tell you what you have to know for the tests. It’s a larger sense of the student’s understanding of the material that they are asked to cover.”

Recent changes to the AP U.S. History curriculum have sparked adverse feedback from many critics. Among those are accusations that the new curriculum “glosses over” the negative events in American history.

“Glossing over negative aspects of history was a criticism that the College Board got two years ago,” Zach said. “Trying to present the things that we’ve done that are our flaws, but not letting those things overshadow the positive things that we’ve done as a nation is a challenge when it comes to presenting the facts to students.”

However, Zach is unfazed and resolves to stick to his own teaching style.

“The new curriculum doesn’t affect how I teach,” Zach said. “The curriculum change that the College Board has is really the expectations of what the students are going to see on the test at the end of the year–not really the difference in how I present material to them.”

The format of the class is its main source of infamy. If students do not keep up with the reading, it’s easy for them to fall behind.

“I think the reading is what makes it more difficult [for] students,” Zach said. “There’s more to read than what they were used. I am asking for a pretty skilled level of writing, so I think all of those things kind of play in together to make this perception that it’s really hard. But at the end of the day, you’re reading 10 pages, you’re coming to class to talk about it and then you’re taking a quiz over it. It’s when you lose track of the routine that you start to feel like you’re falling behind.”

One of the prominent features of Zach’s classroom is his AP Wall of Fame. The bulletin board of his classroom bears the names of students who have passed or scored highly on the AP test.

“[People] don’t really see success that happens in classrooms,” Zach said. “I try to make a spot available in my room so that kids who have gone through the AP program and have been successful on the AP test get recognition.”

NOT EX-ZACH-TLY WHAT YOU THINKStudents discuss difficulty of AP US History

TRUE TEACHING AP U.S. History teacher Chuck Zack gives an in-depth discussion to his students.

photo by K. Moreland

5newstigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by Meghan Harrisstaff writer

This school year there are some adjustments to the UIL program led by Chuck Zach.

“There is nothing radically different,” Zach said. “It’s the same competition events, and we have some new directors.”

Besides the change in directors, there are new educational opportunities for students.

“We are looking at trying to make some scholarships available this year as well,” Zach said. “I think that we are in the process of working up four different scholarships that will be available for students that advance beyond the district level.”

The benefits of being in the program include something for students to put on their transcripts when they are going off to colleges.

“It shows that you are involved and smart,” senior Alex Markham said. “I don’t see any negative effects, but it does require a lot of time and dedication.”

Some students choose this form

of extracurricular activity because it gives a sense of community.

“I think it’s comforting to find other people that have the same interests and you can be part of something like being on the football team or being in band,” Zach said. “It’s part of something that’s a little bit more than just you.”

Competitors are needed in every area, but the program has struggled to try to find both coaches and students who are willing to do math.

“I’m really confident,” Zach said. “It looks like [the math coaches] are going to do an outstanding job trying to find some students.”

With luck, the Social Studies UIL team will be large enough this year that they will not suffer a huge loss when senior members graduate.

“I expect that UIL Social Studies will go to state as a team and hopefully place there,” Markham said. “I am going to try to make it to region in science also.”

Zach doesn’t have a goal of the team winning district just yet because it takes time to build teams, however, he is hopeful.

“I want the kids involved to feel like they have a chance to win,” Zach said. “They are armed with skill, knowledge and coaching that makes them feel like ‘I’m not actually wasting my time, and I’m actually going to get a chance to win a medal and maybe advance out of district.”

Students are also excited about competitions and find joy in participating in UIL.

“My favorite thing is the actual competitions because there are a lot of people like you just hanging out and placing at the end of the day,” Markham said. “My least favorite thing is getting up early to go to the places.”

These early mornings, however, create bonding experiences.

“You can sing in your bedroom but a choir makes you a part of something bigger,” Zach said. “It’s bigger than that, it’s like you can play catch in your backyard but being on a football team makes you feel something special. And striving for something, maybe even at the end of the day winning something, makes you feel good.”

Changes in UIL promise to benefit program

by Katie Biggarstaff writer

Behind every brilliant student is a teacher who inspires their drive for success. English teacher Holly Mooneyham is one of those teachers and has been recognized as Region 8 Teacher of the Year.

“I love showing students their potential,” Mooneyham said. “Some students don’t believe that they can be more than their circumstances, but I’m a living, walking example that that is a false perception.”

Praised for her dedication, Mooneyham focuses on drawing students into the subject material.

“There’s no one that get’s the kids involved as much as her,” English teacher Holly Dickson said. “Her class is always excited with creative projects and new ways of learning. Mooneyham is always the first in her room and the last to leave; she truly

cares about her students.”Mooneyham will attend a

banquet in Austin for all the regional teachers of the year in mid-October.

“I’m honored to be a part of the banquet, and I’m lucky enough to have such supportive people in my life that are there every step of the way.” Mooneyham said.

Students appreciate Mooneyham’s ability to get to know them on a more personal level.

“She always made sure that everyone in her class was participating and spent extra time

on those that needed it,” sophomore Casey Williams said. “If I ever had a problem, I knew I could just ask without hesitation.”

To her colleagues, she is known not only as a teacher, but a friend and mentor. To her students she means much more.

“She made sure I understood and always made time for me when I didn’t,” sophomore Amber Savage said. “I thoroughly enjoyed every one of my teachers my freshman year, but she truly had an impact on my life.”

HARD-EARNED A Freshman English teacher Holly Mooneyham is elated after learning about receiving the award of Region 8 Teacher of the Year.

English teacher earns title as Region 8 Teacher of the Year

More than just reading, writing

by Raga Justinnews editor

Senior Leah Crenshaw has been named a Semifinalist in the 2015-2016 National Merit Scholarship Program, making her the sole student in the school to receive this honor.

In order to be considered, Crenshaw had to score high on the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test (NMSQT), also known as the PSAT. She was one of 16,000 students chosen from among the 1.5 million juniors who took it last year.

“I’m really happy,” Crenshaw said. “I spent a lot of times studying for this. I probably did about a thousand practice problems, and I looked at vocabulary words in all of my free time. I’m really glad that all paid off.”

While not a finalist yet, Crenshaw has high hopes for moving on to the next stage of the process.

“The percentage of people who go from taking the test to becoming a semifinalist is 1.06 percent,” Crenshaw said. “But the percentage of people who go from semifinalist to finalist is 93 percent. I feel like the hardest step is out of the way.”

Crenshaw has gained recognition for being the solitary student to achieve semifinalist this year.

“We still hope to have some Commended Scholars this year,” Director of College and Career Readiness Bettie Stark said. “But this is a huge opportunity for Leah.”

This distinction is a source of pride for the school as well.

“We’re so proud of her,” Stark said. “She’s very smart, very intelligent and we’re just so excited for her and for her future.”

While excited, Crenshaw is relieved to have the pressure off and the process nearly completed.

“All I really have to do is fill out an application and an essay, and SAT scores to say my PSAT score wasn’t a fluke,” Crenshaw said. “Once I fill out my application, prove my SAT scores, and write a short essay about someone who’s influenced me, or basically an essay about anything, I will send it in by October and be done with it.”

While scores reflect a student’s own determination and desire to excel, having a family who stands behinds any endeavors–academic or otherwise–greatly benefits any success.

“They really supported me through all of this,” Crenshaw said. “They’re really understanding of the time and effort I put into this.”

Crenshaw is thankful for the experience and hopes it positively benefits her future.

“I’m really happy to have moved on in the competition,” Crenshaw said. “I worked really hard and had lots of help from people, and I also got really lucky. I hope this goes well.”

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Passing the testSenior named semifinalistin National Merit program

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6 news tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •T

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The presidential election is over a year away, and there are already a

whopping 16 Republican candidates compared to five Democrats. Party candidates will be chosen May 10 for Republicans and May 17 for Democrats. Seniors and juniors will be able to vote in the next presidential election, and the person elected will dictate the future of the country. Here’s the rundown on the top presidential hopefuls of main parties.

A wealthy businessman and tycoon mogul. Well-known as a T.V. personality, but not looked at as a serious candidate because of his robust attitude and lack of experience as a politician.

A famous doctor who at first wasn’t looked at as a serious candidate, Carson is quickly becoming very popular because he is not a career politician. He is an outspoken critic of the Affordable Care Act and wants to drastically reform health care.

A bright, young, but radical Texas senator, Cruz has made himself noticed in a short amount of time, but might not be ready for a presidential bid due to his inexperience.

The only two-term Republican, Florida Governor, Bush is looked at as the smarter of the Bush brothers. However, he has been out of the political limelight for a number of years which could severely hurt him in the debates.

DONALD TRUMP

JEB BUSH

TEDCRUZ

BEN CARSON

Looked at as one of the front runners because of his Cuban heritage, which will get him votes, solid conservative views and experience as a Florida state senator.

MARCORUBIO

The only well-known woman running for the Republican nomination. She has had a lot of business success, but only a little political success, yet is still a candidate people are very excited for.

CARLY FIORINA

As governor of Wisconsin, he implemented the highly controversial Budget Repair Act. In spite of this he won the recall election, which is when voters attempt to vote out someone even though their term hasn’t ended.

SCOTT WALKER The sitting

governor of Ohio. Though he has had a lot of political success, he still doesn’t have a huge fan base. His incomplete rejection of Obamacare has hurt his ties with the Tea Party, a group of Republicans who believe in a small central government.

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A former Rhode Island governor who recently has changed his political party status from a Republican to a Democrat.

Hillary has the most political experience out of all the candidates, after serving for four years as Secretary of State. However, recently she has come under fire for using a private email account and emailing controversial information about the government.

Former Maryland governor that says he will be a good candidate because of his youth and vitality. Thanks to his hard work and diligence, Baltimore’s crime rate has dropped by 40 percent.

LINCOLN CHAFEE

MARTIN O’MALLEY

HILLARY CLINTON

He is the senator of Vermont and in the past has run as a third party socialist, or someone that believes in a huge government that regulates everything that happens in the country. Now, he’s running as a Democratic and adopting far more liberal views.

BERNIE SANDERS

A former Virginia senator who is noted for his extreme criticism of the Iraq Wars. He tends to hold more Republican views on immigration and gun control.

JIM WEBB

In politics, presidential plans are like New Year’s resolutions: everyone’s on board at first, but it’s easy to dismiss the idea of a promise.

That’s why a number of Americans don’t want to vote. Politicians are hard to depend on, making the election process difficult.

Lying politicians are so despised that American voters are rooting for candidates who have no political past. Ben Carson is the second front-runner among Republicans, and he’s just now abandoned his job as a neurologist to run for president.

Ask anyone sensible why Trump is popular, and they’ll tell you that it’s because he doesn’t sound like a politician. That makes sense because he isn’t a politician, he never has been, and it’s unlikely that he will be any time in the future.

Trump is a great businessman, though. He’s a self-made trillionaire, and this means two big things for his campaign: he doesn’t have anyone to answer to, and he knows a lot about how the flow of money works.

Most politicians receive campaign money from those with large income from stocks, which means they have to agree with whatever their sponsor wants. For candidates, it’s typically worth creating a few minor bills while in office if they’re able to win the election. Admittedly, Trump’s outlandish statements can best be attributed to not having a filter at all, but having a ton of money helps.

Trump earned all of his money by working his way through business, and he knows far more about the economy than, say, a neurologist would. The personal experience gives him an advantage over his opponents, even if it’s not the first thing that draws people to this eccentric candidate.

Voters want honesty from politicians, even if they don’t exactly agree with everything that they’re voting for. However, it’s worth it to mention that it isn’t worth it to vote for someone just because they’re funny on Twitter. Though there are some fallacies in our democracy, most politicians genuinely care about what they’re representing. Vote for Donald Trump if that’s what you want, but be educated in your vote. That’s the only way to sustain a successful democracy.

WITH SUCH A BROAD FIELD, GET TO KNOW THE

If Trump wins, there will be a price toupee

PRESIDENTIAL PICKS

compiled by Jay Williamson/staff writerillustration by Alex O’Gorman/viewpoint editorphotos taken from candidates’ websites

by Jillian Cheneyentertainment editor

Kanye 2020Kanye could be running in 2020.

Check out the full story on

tigertimesonline.com

7communitytigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

8 tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •viewpointtiger times

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The Tiger Times is a student-run publication. The contents and view are produced solely by the staff and do not represent the opinions of the faculty, administration or TISD board of directors.

print editors-in-chiefAnna GravesTyler Snell

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news editorRaga Justin

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design editorLauren Potter

photo editorBrianna O’Shaughnessy

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public relationsAbby Hill

staff writersCeleste Anderson, Katie Biggar,Connor Brooks, Ricky Cooks,Robin Cooper, Conor Diggs,Bethany Dowd, Katie Dusek,DC Fortenberry, Matt Francis,

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advisersRebecca Potter, Clint Smith

principalBrad Bailey

membersILPC, CSPA, NSPA

Saved by

EDITORIAL

Scathed

Rushing to get from one side of campus to another. Unable to go to the bathroom because of long lines. Not enough time. Wait through a lecture about H2O. Have to hold it. One more tardy and In School Suspension.

This nightmare has become a reality as a result of the new tardy and absence policies. Students are now penalized for leaving class to use the rest room, and after only three tardies, they receive two days of detention. After eight, they lose dance privileges and receive two days of ISS.

Students have to skip out on a bodily function in order to still receive dance privileges. The policy should be updated to cater to students’ needs and not take away from their essential rights of using the bathroom.

Most students involved in

athletics receive a shortened schedule to get to their classes. The players exit their hard practices with a limited amount of time to wash the dirt and grime off and change into presentable clothes, all within seven minutes.

Notes are taken, and before the student realizes it, the urge to use the bathroom hits. They could get a tardy, but it would bring them one step closer to ISS.

Studies have shown that people who hold in their urine are more likely to

develop urinary tract infections. Students should not have to deal with health problems as a result of limited breaks and stringent tardies.

The reason for this stricter policy is because a group of students took advantage of the system. Last

year, bathrooms were closed during lunch because some students dunked oranges and paper towels into toilets. Other students who prefer not to play in toilets have had their rights taken away. The majority of the student body has to hold it in while a tiny minority would rather horseplay.

Students should be able to use the bathroom at the discretion of the teacher. Most students are able to comprehend the downfall of using the bathroom in class. It will result in missing out on key information from a

lecture for a quiz or upcoming assignments. The student will fall behind and will have to catch back up.

Students should not be penalized for having to exercise a bodily function. When allowed to use the rest room at their own discretion, they will become more responsible pupils who will develop time management skills. We should be trusted to exercise our basic right of going to the bathroom while aware of the consequences, but not receive irrational punishment.

the Bell

[ ]Tardies Consequence

3 2 days detention4 2 days detention5-7 1 day ISS8-11 2 days ISS, no dances9-15 3 days ISS, no dances16+ 5 days ISS, no dances

SPEAK OUT

What do you think of the new tardy and

bathroom policies?

Kaylee Norton9

“I think that they take it too far. For example, some people in the

hallways walk slow, and you can’t get around them. Not everyone has time to go to the bathroom between classes because they are crowded and people just hang out there.”

Marc Jaramillo11

“We should have at least a minute or two more because in the mornings, I

have soccer. I take showers and then I have to get dressed and try to look somewhat decent and go to class.”

Vy Doan10

“Personally, I believe that the tardy rest room policies are great

the way that they are because I think everything is established for a specific reason.”

New tardy policy deprives studentsof basic human needs

cartoon by A. O’Gorman

photos by M. M

iller

9viewpointtigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Art cannot be defined by a word. There’s no phrase that can contain it.

It’s limitless. It has the ability to express the

thoughts that surpass the human dictionary. It shows magnificent, unique talent that represents the originality that each person holds. Taking this into account, it is fair to question why this school has decided to showcase so little of it.

Our school represents the stereotypical version of what a high school should be in focusing much of its drive into the only thing that seems to matter– sports.

If we were to live in a movie, the art department would have a small group of angst–ridden teens willing to march up to the forces of administration demanding unimaginable improvements to their program. They would rise

above the labels and achieve some miraculous feat in raising an astonishing amount of money to create a better art department.

I like that version as much as the next person does; however, that’s just not the case.

Our football program is amazing because of the value placed on it to train the talented players to win, and they deserve the recognition because our school wouldn’t be the same without it.

However, the art department deserves the same recognition.

Let’s take a moment to look at Pleasant Grove. Last year, as I entered the doors of PG for VASE, a competition in which hundreds of students enter pieces of art to go to state, I was astonished by the numerous artworks hanging the walls.

Students’ artworks, showcased

in glass frames, overpowering the walls that otherwise would be blank and bland, much like our schools’.

Our school should be just as prideful in the arts as it is in its sports, and steps can and need to be taken to ensure that this happens.

The mural that was recently added in the main hall completely transformed not only the image, but provided a better atmosphere. Hanging the art in our school would have the same effect throughout the campus.

In the small corner of the school, there sit students capable of recreating masterpieces. Their

skill has no boundaries, yet their art has been confined to the small white boards in the classrooms. It’s time for these beautiful works to be seen by the eyes of everyone in the school. It’s time for these artists to get the respect and recognition they deserve.

We aren’t asking for an entrance into a basketball court filled with applause, cheers, and music filling the air. We want our art to be seen and appreciated. It’s time to fill the blank walls of our school. It’s time for our talents to be showcased.

The UnderdogsCampus lacks recognition for art students’ work

by Colton Johnsonstaff writer

“[Art is] limitless. It has the ability to express the thoughts that surpass the

human dictionary.”

As I walk down the hallway to the office, the plethora of laminated college banners stares back. Names line the walls, emblazoned on the colors of their future alma maters. Anxiety begins to stir in my chest, because my name will one day join that parade.

My whole high school experience has been one big rat race, and I reach

the end when I leave home for college. Then begins a whole new race, the rite of passage for American teens-turned-adults.

There’s only one problem: I have two more years until I leave home, and I have no idea where my next rat race will begin.

Because of the emphasis everyone puts on college, I spent my freshman and sophomore years in a state of anxiety. Whenever someone asked what I was going to be when I grew up, I assumed a

deer-in-the-headlights countenance and prayed that the subject would change.

As emails from college started to pour in, I grew afraid to check my inbox. I honestly had no idea what I was going to do, and at the time, that meant I was going to end up living in my mom’s basement eating Ramen noodles until I was 30.

Now, I’ve realized that it’s OK. I’ve come to peace with the fact that I’m not one of those kids with her whole life planned out. I don’t know where I’m going to live or what I’m going to major in, and it’s not abnormal. My mom doesn’t even have a basement.

The entire American education system is focused on what comes next. And more often than not, the byproducts of the American education system (ourselves) have no idea what comes next.

Class choice sheets are terrifying; don’t even start on college applications. Deciding on careers, something that we’ve had to do since the eighth grade, throws us into a state of panic. At least it did for me, anyway.

My reasonings for my newfound

apathetic peace are simple: no one’s life plan turns out the way they expect it to. There will always be a fork in the road or a misread sign that throws us a curveball, but that’s the reason we’re human. We’re meant to adapt, and we’ve been adapting to the curve balls thrown our way since the beginning of time.

So if you struggle with anxiety about your future, remember that you’re not alone. Even though the attitude of college recruiters and career advisers will never reveal it, the vast majority of us are clueless.

And even if you know where you’re going to go but have no idea what you’re going to do, don’t worry either. There are opportunities to change majors or transfer schools for a reason.

Whether or not you have a plan, just do the best you can now, and it’ll come back to reward you later. Preparing for an uncertain future may seem daunting, but keep in mind that uncertainty is much more prevalent than you think.

And remember: if you don’t have a plan, it doesn’t mean you’re going to end up living in your mom’s basement.

Lost motivesPressure to form post graduate plan overwhelms students

“My whole high school experience has been one big rat race, and I reach

the end when I leave home for college. Then begins a whole new race, the rite of

passage for American teens-turned-adults.”

by ANNA CANNONfeature editor

of TaLenT

photo by M. Brandon

“As someone who has been deaf since she came kicking and screaming into this world, I’ve pretty much seen it all.”

by ALEX O’GORMANviewpoint editor

Yes, you can ask me questions. No, I won’t participate in your little game where you mouth words at me and expect me to tell you what you said. As someone who has been deaf since the moment she came kicking and screaming into this world, I’ve pretty much seen it all.

I’ll start off with the basics: the majority of my deafness is caused by a genetic disorder called Brachio-Oto-Renal syndrome. I know, it’s a mouthful; I can’t hear, and that’s really all you need to know.

Growing up, my parents didn’t want me to be considered an outcast from the rest of society, so I never learned sign language and was put in speech therapy as soon as I could properly pronounce both syllables in the word “Mama.”

Every day I remind myself how much this decision influenced the person I am today. For that, I am eternally grateful to my parents. On the other hand, I regret that they didn’t choose to have me learn sign language and become immersed in the deaf community from a young age.

Before discovering the deaf community last year, I was ignorant about all social aspects of my hearing loss. I thought I was

no different from everyone else and that needing minor adjustments made me less than my peers.

Learning the struggles and achievements of people who understood my experiences and often shared them opened my eyes. I learned from them that being deaf wasn’t a burden or a disease, but a unique aspect of myself that doesn’t hold me back, and can even push me to strive to be further than others.

That isn’t to say, of course, that being deaf doesn’t have its downsides.

Even growing up in a sheltered school environment didn’t prevent the teasing that was often prompted by the sight of my brightly colored hearing aids.

Since I’m able to blend in mostly seamlessly with the people who have functioning ears, I’m often faced with others questioning if I’m really deaf, and if I really need for those around me to adjust their speech slightly in order for me to

understand them.Even my closest friends and family are

not immune to these doubtful thoughts. On one particular occasion, when my sister, my cousin and I were settling down to watch a movie, I requested that the closed captions be turned on.

Since closed captions are absolutely necessary for me to keep up with movies, I foolishly thought no one would have a problem with this. I was wrong. My cousin began to loudly protest the closed captions, insisting that they were detrimental to her

enjoyment of the movie. I, a good few years younger than

her and with no one standing up for me, eventually gave in. To this day, the memory leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.

But since the cause of it was her annoyance at closed captions, it was worth it, right? Unfortunately, this was not the only time something like to this has occurred.

The truth of it is, people are just uncomfortable with the thought of deaf people. They don’t want to ask deaf people questions, or even communicate with them at all. When they do encounter a deaf person who can participate in ‘hearing’ society, they pretend that they aren’t deaf at all.

This is the reason others refuse to give me even the simplest accommodations. They’re trying to forget I’m not another ‘normal’ person.

Hopefully, I’ve motivated you to push past this societal expectation. Ask questions, try to communicate and provide accommodations. Acknowledge deaf people. Our existence is not a burden, so don’t treat it like one.

10 viewpoint tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Junior clears white noise on deafness

“Listen to your elders,” they said. “The older the wiser,” they said. They were right.

Save your mother an eye roll and listen to her on occasion. After 17 years of being best friends with my mother, I’ve picked up lessons on how to be a more tolerable human from my grey-haired queen.

1 You’re a teenager.

Therefore, you’re ignorant.

You’d assume, that I, a 17-year-old high school student, would be an expert in all things, right? Heavy sarcasm intended. In truth, I know about as much about life as the average 4-year-old in the Wadley pediatric waiting room, digging gold from his nostrils and wiping his grubby, moist hands all over the communal playset.

I spend my days immersed in the glow emanating from a small rectangular screen and attempting to argue over

worldly issues I cannot begin to comprehend. Since the duck

face, YouTube bingeing and Justin Bieber infatuation stages of life, my mother has reiterated that I am stupid, (in the kindest way), and that I do not know everything, nor will I ever.

I used to roll my eyes, continue

to ogle whatever was displayed on that shiny

rectangular screen and laugh it off like she was

the so-called “stupid” one. I’d never be like that. As I

plan to move away to a foreign place, college, without her guidance, I realize that I am unworldly. We all are.

2 Live eleutheros: free.Now, my mother never uses Greek

words. But, I’d like to think she’s that poetic. “Eleutheros,” was just the most aesthetically pleasing option. But, she truly embodies freedom. She oozes it; Breathes it. Seventy-five percent of the human body is composed of water, but my mother is

composed of 75 percent water and 25 percent independence and joy.

She’s the loudest parent at any of the football games, and she doesn’t even have a spawn on the field. She fully takes advantage of her right to act however she wants or say whatever she pleases without any hindrance or restraint. All of my life, she’s taught me to be passionate, and pursue anything and everything, because everything is precious.

She’s had adventures–things I can only pray to do. Whether it’s living with musicians, going on a technology hiatus or eating healthier than any vegan or vegetarian could dream of, she’s showed me more life in my 17 years than most people are blessed to witness in 100.

3 Listen to rad music.My crib jams consisted of Stevie

Wonder and Paul McCartney, with a little Joe Cocker in the mornings. Some kids had to recite their ABCs for a chocolate chip cookie reward, I had to spit out all the words to “Tiny Dancer” at an irritatingly high and off key pitch.

My first concert at the young age of 11 was to Randy Newman, a renowned singer-songwriter. Accompanying me of

course were my ever-so persistent mother and father. She forced me to broaden my horizons. “That music you listen to now is soda can, studio generated garbage,” she’d say. “This could never touch ‘Hey Jude.’”

4 Things were better in Mayberry.Wise words from Andy Griffith. In the

course of my motherly apprenticeship, I’ve learned to envy the childhood my mom had. Swings were swung on. Slides were slid down. Bikes were rode. Milk came in cartons.

Life was easier because people could trust each other. She’d make forts out of sheets and play outside. There was no Xbox. There was no Twitter. She didn’t care how many likes she got on an Instagram photo.

In less than a year, I’ll bite down on my lip and drag my suitcase along my rocky driveway and head off to Austin, Texas, to start my own adventure, without my best friend. Not many teenage girls can attest to a great relationship with their mother. Over the course of my lifetime, I hope I can be half of the woman she is. I hope the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.

MATERNAL MESSAGES Senior remembers mother’s wise words about lifeby JESSICA EMERSON

online editor-in-chief

photo by S. Vaughn

photo by K. Moreland

11communitytigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

12 feature tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

WORLDfrom around the

by RICKY COOKSstaff writer

Nearly 7,000 miles away in Armenia, one girl would be doing morning chores with her family. Another 500 miles away in China, the other girl would be eating breakfast, studying one last time for exams.

Now, the two girls are together, sharing a sink and bumping elbows while brushing their teeth.

Juniors Mane Yeganyan and Yue “Maggie” Zuo are foreign exchange students in the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program who moved to the United States a month ago. Both are first-time visitors to the country, and now they are sharing the same host home.

“The United States differs a lot from Armenia,” Yeganyan said. “But it’s just different- not better or worse.”

While Yeganyan hasn’t found too many differences between Armenia and the U.S., Zuo has made some stark contrasts between the U.S. and China.

“The United States is an active country,” Zuo said. “People here are friendly and helpful.”

They are both staying with the Williams family, who have previously hosted many students who attended Texas High.

“My host parents are the best,” Yeganyan said. “I really feel love and care in their house. They are always ready to help me, and always do their best to make Maggie and me happy. There are some new things for me, like living with cats and dogs. I like these changes in my life.”

The two girls knew very little about each other, even though they would be living together all school year.

“Before I moved here, I only knew Mane’s name and where she was from,” Zuo said. “But I feel comfortable with her.”

Zuo arrived in America a few days after Yeganyan, and the two have been experiencing it all together.

“I liked Maggie,” Yeganyan said. “I met her for the first time in the airport and she has been very kind to me.”

Already, in the first month of school, the girls have found certain organizations and school functions that peak their interests.

“My volleyball class is fun,” Zuo said. “I’m not very good, but I still like it.”

Along with athletic classes, Yeganyan and Zuo have also been active in student council.

They’ve dressed up for most of the spirit days and have attended every meeting so far.

“I like student council kids very much,” Yeganyan said. “Also, the spirit of this school is great. I like it here.”

With eight months left to go as American students, Yeganyan and Zuo have a whole new world to explore. With a trip to the Florida beaches on their calendar, they look forward to what the United States has to offer. And most of all, they look forward to experiencing it together.

“With different cultures, there are things we do in different ways,” Yeganyan said. “We both have things to learn from each other, and we will always share this experience.”

three countries + two girls =

One home

JUNG YOUNG-EUN, 11Seoul, South Korea

“In Korean school, we don’t have to move classes, we just sit in there and study, but here we have to always have to change classes, which is difficult.”

MARIA FROHNHOEFER, 11Frankfurt, Germany

“I like the school spirit here at the high school, we don’t have that in Germany. School is just a lot better here because you can choose your subjects.”

ANNIKA SEIFERT, 11Magdeburg, Germany

“The weirdest thing here is the accent, it’s strange and fast. I miss walking with my friends to school, here you have to get your parent to take you everywhere.”

NATALIA HOYOS, 11Cali, Columbia

“My favorite thing about America is the shopping. My least favorite thing is the food. I miss the people from Columbia. The people are very different here.”

by CELESTE ANDERSONstaff writer

Emilie Christensen walks up the stairs to her first day of school in America. Nervous and excited, she wanders onto campus until she is enveloped in the sea of orange.

Travelling approximately 5,000 miles to a new country, a new school, and a new family could possibly be one of the hardest things anyone could do. Luckily, foreign exchange student Emilie Christensen has it all figured out.

“I’m from the fourth biggest city in Denmark, called Aalborg,” Christensen said. “I moved here 3 weeks ago, and I’m staying here until June 20.”

Despite the fact that she has only been here for a short while, she was instantaneously struck with the beauty of America.

“I went to New York first, and I thought it was beautiful [and] wonderful,” Christensen said. “At the airport you could see Manhattan out the window.”

Although there are many things that were difficult for her to

adapt to, one of the hardest was the differences in the education systems.

“The education system is very different on so many levels,” Christensen said. “Here, you move around and have different people for every class, but in Denmark you have the same people in your class for 10 years, so you kind of bond with them.”

In her transition from Denmark to the United States, Emilie was prepared for the culture shock she would encounter.

“People walk and bike [in Denmark],” Christensen said, “Here people drive everywhere.”

The one thing Emilie wants her fellow Americans to know about her home country is its location.

“I wish people knew where Denmark is,” she said. “Some people think it is in Asia.”

Even though she is having lots of fun here, she still hopes to take some educational value out of her visit.

“I hope to learn a lot about the country, get some new friends, and have a good time,” Christensen said.

photo by K. McCasland

photo by A. Sozenphoto by P. Spaulding photo by K. McCaslandphoto by M. Miller

From denmarkto americaJunior hopes to learn about country, gain new friends

EMILIE CHRISTENSEN

MAGGIE ZUO & MANE YEGANYAN

Foreign exchange studentstravel to ‘the melting pot’

illustration by M. Parish

13communitytigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

15in-depthtigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •14

One tripcould be

your last trip

One choicecould be yourlast choice

by molly crouchcopy editor

Will was a unique, bright young man, an honor student in the Gifted and Talented Program at Arkansas High.

Will was selected by his teachers to attend Boys’ State his junior year.

Will was well-liked and stayed out of trouble during his high school career.

Will graduated in 2013 and chose to experiment with drugs.

Will Autrey was 18 years old when he died of a Tramadol overdose on April 25, 2014.

“I was just shocked,” said Debbie Autrey, Will’s mother. “A lot of people go through an experimental phase. Teens are going to try things. [With] the dangers in today’s world, you may not make it out. My son made a choice. That’s what it boils down to: his choices. Unfortunately, he was not one of the ones to make it. I know that if he was here today, he would take it all back for anything.”

As a young boy, Will was not the typical child who loved to throw mud and run from girls with cooties. He took Taekwondo in elementary school, which led to his passion for Asian culture. During middle school, Will’s serious nature and knowledge of politics captured the attention of his teachers.

“Will Autrey knew more about politics that anyone I’ve ever known; that was his passion,” Debbie said. “When he was in middle school, I would get so mad because he would make me wait until 4 o’clock or 4:30. He would be in [his class] talking to all of his teachers. [They] would be circled around him, talking about politics.”

Will soon outgrew Taekwondo, and his interests wandered outside of politics as he entered high school. Will liked to study Judaism and became even more fascinated with Asian culture and how other countries operated.

“I had no problems with Will in high school,” Debbie said. “He was just a great kid. Part of the issue with him [was that] he was easily bored. He was one who liked to

dip his toe. You could tell him no, but he wanted to find out for himself.”

Debbie noticed Will’s charming personality progressively disappearing during July after he graduated up until the end of that year. As Will’s once boy-like behavior morphed into an apparition of his former self, Debbie realized there was something wrong. Eventually, Will was asked to move out in late December.

“I confronted him, and, of course, [he said,] ‘Mom, I’m not doing anything. Don’t bring your work home,’” Debbie said. “He said he didn’t want to leave, but it was

tough love. Tough love does work. I believe I had my son three months longer than I would have had him had I not used tough love.”

Will was back home and was doing great. Will was proud of his mom and held her

hand and kissed her cheek at Central Mall. Will’s behavior began to change.Will was experimenting again. Will was 24 days away from turning 19

when he died.

“In my generation, we would experiment with things, but people weren’t dying,” Debbie said. “Now the drugs that are out there, they’re astounding. It has nothing to do with how you were raised. Will had a lot going for him. But it came to my home. I’m a statistic now.”

Debbie also went through an experimental phase in her teenage and college years, but quickly grew out of it. With the rapid desensitization of drugs, many teenagers and young adults are not aware of how easily Will’s mistake can happen.

“He was just experimenting, and he didn’t make it out,” Debbie said. “Why do some make it out and some don’t? I don’t know. He didn’t want to die. He didn’t mean to die. He didn’t think he would die.”

Debbie is a mother.Debbie has been a therapist

at South Arkansas Youth Services for 25 years.

Debbie was close with Will, and they traveled over the years to Mexico, Galveston, Disney World and St. Thomas.

Debbie bought Will a passport two months before he died.

Debbie did all of the right things and taught Will the dangers of drugs, but she still lost her son.

“I’ll never be the same,” Debbie said. “He was my only child. He died April 25, 2014. The last I knew of me, Debbie Autrey, the way I’ve always been, was on April 24, 2014. I’ll never be that person again.”

So now, Debbie hopes to honor Will’s life; to make sure that he isn’t defined by one decision; and to convince other young people they aren’t immune to death.

“People say that it only happens to broken homes,” Debbie said. “No, it struck my home. This tragedy came to my home. It can get anybody at any time, any where, any place. Don’t ever say it won’t happen to you. Don’t ever say ‘I won’t be that stupid, I would never try that.’ My son said the same thing, and it boils down to that choice. If you decide to make that choice, you’re deciding to play Russian Roulette with your life.”

“

”

It can get anybody at

any time, any where, any

place. Don’t ever say it

won’t happen to you.

-Debbie Autrey

by molly crouchcopy editor

He’s seen this too many times before.The empty pill containers. The immobile, unresponsive teenage body.

He’s done this too many times before.The chest compressions. Another round of reversal medications.

He’s heard this too many times before.The weeping cries of a mother. The stony silence of a father.

Dr. Matt Young has been in emergency medicine for 19 years and has dealt with numerous cases of teenage overdoses.

“It’s a very disturbing scene for the

caregivers,” Young said. “More importantly, it’s very disturbing for the loved ones of the patient because most of the time they heard that they were going out to a party or into another room, and the next thing they know, the patient has been put on a ventilator. When young people die, it’s just very tragic because the majority of the time, it could have been prevented.”

Many teens hope for a quick trip, something that will calm them down or relieve their stress. In a survey collected by drugfreeworld.org, 50 percent of the teenagers believed that prescription drugs are safer than street drugs and that 60-70 percent received the medication from their own homes.

“With prescription drugs, the reason that so many people take these and abuse these is

because they can fit in a pocket and can be concealed,” Young said. “You can put that in your pocket and sneak that in and take those at the most convenient time for the person trying to get that artificial high.”

Texas and Arkansas now have a state Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) which gives individuals who are authorized under state law to receive the information for purposes of their profession. According to deadiversion.usdoj.gov, the program can “identify or prevent drug abuse

See TRIP on page 17

of teens say that home medicine

cabinets are their source of drugs.

Officials discuss reality of uneducated teen drug use

Mother copes with loss of son, hopes to spread

awareness of drug dangers

2,500youth abuse a

prescription pain reliever for the first

time everyday in the U.S.

45%of overdose deaths

are caused by depressants, opioids, and

antidepressants.

50%of teens believe that

prescription drugs are much safer than illegal

street drugs.

60-70%

598,542of the 1.4 million drug-related emergency

room admissions in 2005 were associated with abuse of pharmaceuticals

alone or with other drugs.

+15 millionpeople, in the U.S. alone, abuse prescription

drugs, more than the combined number who reported abusing cocaine,

hallucinogens, inhalants and heroin.

statistics from www.drugfreeworld.org

photo by S. Vaughn

design by Caroline May/in-depth editor

photo by B. O’Shaughnessy

see video story on tigertimesonline.com

REMEMBERING WILL Debbie Autrey displays a photo of her son, Will, who died in April of last year.

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16 community tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

17featuretigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by ELEANOR SCHROEDERstaff writer

The daily interrogation begins. Are you guys twins? Which

one is older? How do I tell you apart? Does it annoy you when you are called the wrong name? Do you ever pretend to be one another? Do you have twin telepathy?

Sophomores Will and Hannah Harrells’ answers become second nature, and they reply in monotone. Sometimes they consider saying that they are not even twins in the first place.

Will and Hannah are they only share 50 percent of the

same DNA, the same amount as any siblings.

“It’s hard sometimes because people compare you more than regular siblings,” Hannah said. “So there are times where being a twin is hard and you wish they wouldn’t.”

Will is a member of the varsity cross country team, while Hannah participates in junior varsity cheer. They both participate in student council and are hardworking in their schoolwork.

“When you’re a twin, you always seem to have the same schedule,” Will said. “Everything you do, you do together.

Sometimes you just have to catch a break from each other.”

Will and Hannah believe that being a twin means that there is someone who looks and may act like them, but it in no way means that they are the same person. However, twins say there are some positive aspects.

“You always have a friend whenever you go new places and try new things,” Hannah said.

In reality, twins are none of the stereotypes portrayed in movies. They are not exactly alike, but at the same time, they are not polar opposites. If fact, many twins have the same group of friends and enjoy spending

time with each other. “Having a twin is fun too

because someone that lives nearly the same life as you may understand your view on things better than others,” Will said.

Only 3 percent of the population have a twin, so the Harrells cherish their unique lives and reap the benefits.

“Another thing about being a twin is that at home you never get too bored because you always

have someone who is doing the same thing more than likely,” Hannah said. “So you always have each other if you want to talk or need help.”

Having a twin is an important aspect of the Harrells’ lives, but it does not define who they are.

“In the end I wouldn’t trade being a twin for the world,” Hannah said. “I can’t imagine my life any differently.”

The Truth a b o u t Twins

Sophomores provide insight on reality of being a twin

SHARING DNA Sophomores Hannah and Will Harrell find some benefits to being twins.

and diversion, facilitate and encourage the identification, intervention with and treatment of persons addicted to prescription drugs.”

“We don’t write a huge amount of prescriptions [in the emergency department,]” Young said. “We will prescribe them enough to get to the follow-up appointment. It’s important for all of us as physicians and physician extenders to take each patient and each individual complaint and make the decision of what’s the best pain medication for this patient. [We] see what other prescriptions have been prescribed and filled [with the database], so it gives us a little insight of abuse potential.”

The database may be a prevention technique to avoid more overdoses, but the eradication of drug abuse is not near. Until then, educating people on the dangers of their medication and illegal drugs is one of the top methods for awareness.

“I think it will help,” Young said. “Is it the cure for it? By no means. The cure for it is the knowledge of the person who is taking the medicine, and also for young adults to understand that these medicines can be deadly.”

Social media has evolved from getting to know distant relatives and catching up with long-lost friends to new ways to access drugs. A quick direct message on Twitter or Facebook now makes it possible for dealers to target younger clients.

“Social media has made a terrible turn,” TISD police officer Brad Irvin said. “It keeps things stirred up. People make things up. The drug part of it is transactions

being made. People are getting connected with each other and, within the drug world, they’re being able to contact our teenagers. It definitely plays a negative effect in this nation.”

Turning on the radio, Tove Lo blares about bad habits and staying high, Lil Wayne and Future spit rhymes about their favorite purple drink on your Pandora or Spotify station and Miley Cyrus is a Happy Hippie on your Instagram feed. Life has become 24/7 drug promotions.

“Our society makes it seem that drugs are glamorous, that it’s OK to do it and that it doesn’t cause problems,” Irvin said. “It does. It causes major problems. I’ve seen it destroy families. It kills brain cells you more than likely won’t get back.”

Prescription pills are not the only worries of many doctors. Marijuana has recently become legal in the states of Colorado, Washington, Alaska and Oregon. This legalization has catapulted its increase in popularity between the teenage and young adult population, but there are many side effects to users’ mental actions and reactions.

“For instance, if you are going to drive, you can have an altered mental status that may be what the people are describing as the high,” Young said. “However, this high also slows their reaction time. They may not see another car pull in front of them, so it makes them more prone to wrecks. It also decreases inhibitions to where they may make better decisions if they’re not on the drug, but, once they do take the drug, they may not make wise decisions.”

A new form of marijuana has surfaced,

known as synthetic marijuana. It’s usually illegally sold over the Internet and is favored by many people because it doesn’t show up on a drug test. Although it doesn’t show up on tests, it has many dangerous side effects: fast heart rate, heart palpitations, arrhythmias, seizures and even death.

“[The] up and coming [drug] is synthetic marijuana,” Young said. “They try to market this as something that looks cool, but it’s an illegal substance. It has nothing to do with synthetic marijuana other than that name. It’s basically a combination of leaves with chemicals poured on them. No one knows how they react to it until they try it. I hope people understand that one use can cause death.”

Synthetic marijuana, or K2, is sold as potpourri, incense and other things that are not for human consumption. With the social need to impress friends, many teenagers only try drugs and synthetics to prove themselves.

“Usually people obtain [synthetic marijuana] over the Internet from friends and peer pressure, then smoke it thinking it’s the same kind of high as illegal marijuana,” Young said. “It’s very unfortunate that it’s usually peer pressure that leads people to this, thinking they’re going to obtain some kind of high. It can be deadly with just one try.”

Not only are there physical dangers to smoking synthetic, but there are also extreme risks to users’ frame of mind. These hazards can include hallucinations and extreme paranoia.

“From the psychiatric standpoint, it

can also make them belligerent and almost in a state of psychosis, which means that they have an altered mental state,” Young said. “They can feel like they have spiders crawling on them. It’s very dangerous. It’s not a substitute for anything.”

Sometimes students will see Charlie, TISD’s drug dog, making its rounds. Students and faculty can place anonymous tips on the TISD Police Department’s website or simply tell officers. Punishment for possession of drugs while on campus is DAEP and being an arrested by police.

“When people do tell us tips, their name is never brought up. We do not want any retaliation, nor will we tolerate that,” Irvin said. “We have zero tolerance [of drugs] here, as in if we find it, you will be arrested. The county district attorney offices have a zero tolerance as well. You will be prosecuted and do your time in jail or prison, depending on what the case may be. It depends on if you’ve been arrested before or on what type [of drug] for how much punishment you get.”

Keeping good company and avoiding situations that could lead to a dangerous life are some of the easiest ways to stay out of trouble.

“I don’t feel like we have a major problem, but I’m not going to hide it that we do have small problems with teenagers,” Irvin said. “It comes back to this: it matters who your friends are and who you run with. You know who’s using drugs and not. It’s best if you keep yourself away from them and away from those situations. You won’t be tempted to try or do them.”

Trip from page 14

submitted photo

Meet

the T

each

er18 feature tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by cailey robersonstaff writer

Knowing a second language is beneficial, but knowing Spanish (common words, at least) in Texas, is almost necessary. From Tex-Mex restaurants to language barriers, Spanish is here. And it can be

found in a lot of places and people.

Hailing from Corpus Christi, Spanish I teacher Sara Medley took Spanish in high school like most students in

Texas do. Medley has been teaching at Texas High for six years.

Q. When did you learn Spanish?A. I started taking Spanish in high school, and I learned how to read it and write it and understand it spoken, but I didn’t learn how to speak Spanish

until I went to Mexico in college. I was an exchange student and I studied abroad in Mexico for a summer. That’s how learned to speak it.

Q. Was it difficult to learn?A. It was a lot of work to learn and it was scary being in a country where you couldn’t speak the language, but I had studied for so many years in high school and college that I could understand it easily enough to get around.

Q.) What made you want to be a teacher?A.) I have a family full of teachers. I like the high school age group. The kids are funny and entertaining and y’all still need so much advice for life. So when I moved to Texarkana, there was a Spanish job opening and that’s what I minored in college, so one thing just led to another.

Q. What is your philosophy toward work?A. When I get ready in the mornings, I’m getting physically prepared, but I’m also getting mentally prepared that kids and adults are coming every day with their own baggage and

different experiences. I just get ready for my role to be a happy, positive experience throughout their day and to do my job: to teach Spanish the best way I can.

Q. What is your favorite thing about teaching?A. Probably just interacting every day with so many students and adults, and then getting to teach Spanish. It was always my favorite subject.

Q. Were you very good at Spanish in high school?A. In high school, no, I wasn’t. I was average. I’ve always been a good student but, no, I really didn’t dive into it until college.

Q. What would you like to positively change about Texas High?A. Texas High is a really good school to be at and to work for. The only thing, really, I can think of, is if the students could study with Rosetta Stone in Spanish. Like maybe even once a week or twice a week, like a language lab included in the curriculum. I used Rosetta Stone to study for my certification exam, and I even learned more on it. I liked it.

by bethany dowdstaff writer

Directors are the meat and bones of a production, always there to guide their actors into a successful show with a wonderful turnout. Taking on these responsibilities this year is new director Melissa Newton who comes with a desire to share her passion for theater.

“I love the difference theater can make in the world,” Newton said. “I believe in theater as a voice for social change, whether it is the impact it makes on an individual student or on the world.”

Newton, who bring 14 years of theater experience, is taking over a program that has seen many changes in last three years, including working with six directors. She will be responsible for picking an ensemble, encouraging their actors, managing rehearsal time, and creating the art that is a play.

“I don’t feel like I’ve been here long enough to judge what needs to be worked

on,” Newton said. “I need to work with the students more. But even in that case, I don’t think there’s anything wrong, just things that will be done differently then they were.”

Already there are many things about the program Newton has expressed appreciation for.

“I really enjoy having other theater teachers to collaborate with,” Newton said. “I didn’t have that at my other school.”

Not only does Newton love the program, she has a newfound fondness for the students she teaches.

“I like the passion the students have for theater,” Newton said. “I really love [that] the UIL class gives me an opportunity to have a class dedicated to working on the skills necessary to produce a winning one act play.”

However, Newton is worried that people will take theater as an easy class.

“I want the students to treat theater with the same amount of dedication and respect students give to other courses,”

Newton said.There is one thing Newton is sure of–

the direction she wants the department to go in.

“This program has so many possibilities,” Newton said. “I see the

program moving towards an award winning future but more than that I see it being a place that all students are accepted because one of my underlying principles is that theater can change lives and ultimately change the world.”

Teacher discusses love of foreign language

A theatrical differenceNew director excited for upcoming season

TEACHING HANDS ON New theater director Melissa Newton participates in an acting exercise with her students. Newton has 14 years teaching experience.

photo by M. Brandon

photo by M. Morris

Senior shares tips

for homecoming shopping

19featuretigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Don’t Stress the Dress

Don’t break the bank.The most expensive dress is not always the best dress.

There are thousands of dresses out there that are not $500 and look just as pretty. Save that money for something

that is actually important. Like food. Or college.

Avoid arguments with mom at all costs.

One of the biggest struggles when going shopping is making your mom agree with you. Most of the time,

arguments stem from you wanting to buy an extremely expensive dress, so keep your mind open. Try on dresses that she likes. It will make her happier if you just give

them a shot rather than refusing to try them.

Bring a friend, but not too many.There is no one better to tell you the truth about how a dress looks on you than your best friend. However, don’t bring more than two of your closest friends. Too many

differing opinions will be overwhelming and make it harder to decide.

Know what type of dresses look good on you.

The key to loving a dress is feeling confident in it when you’re wearing it. The cut of a dress

can be one of the main components in making you look your best.

Don’t confine yourself to one color or style.

It’s much harder to find a dress when you have your heart set on one certain

kind of dress. You never know what you will like until you try it on.

Try online and store shopping. There are tons of options online to order, which you may find much less stressful than going from store to store. However, some people prefer to try on the dresses in store, so they don’t have to worry about

sizing or shipping issues. Figure out which one you like better and stick to that.

You WILL find a dress. Even though it may seem like they are no dresses out there for you, keep looking.

Don’t get frustrated.

Don’t wait until the last minute.

Nothing is more irritating than only having one or two days

to go shopping.

Try local boutiques instead of large dress companies.

The dresses are less expensive and can be worn at other events. Sometimes classy and simple stands out more than

flashy and over-the-top.

Remember, the dress isn’t everything.

Just have a good night and be confident in whatever you are

wearing. After all, the lights at the dance are off, anyway.

story and design by CAROLI NE MAY/in-depth editor

20 sports tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by Ali Richterstaff writer

When Coach John Watson announced his retirement, Texas High lost an amazing coach who had done so many things for the program. A rough year without him loomed ahead, and players became acquainted with a new head and assistant coach. This year, even more change has come.

Two new coaches were brought into the tennis circuit this year. The new assistant coach, Toby Watson, is the son of the former Coach Watson. He is happy to be at Texas High, where his father has had such a huge impact.

“I think it’s very important to uphold the traditions my father has left at Texas High,” Watson

said. “The tennis team should uphold the tradition of winning and having class.”

The father and son coaches have similarities in the way that they teach, but can still easily be differentiated.

“I think I do things differently than my dad,” Watson said. “Of course, growing up watching him, I couldn’t help but pick up some of my techniques from him.”

Already, the program has seemed to improve with Watson and the new head coach, Coach Tom Faulkner.

“I think the team is making real progress, even though it is early in the year,” Watson said. “We are headed in the right direction and working toward getting that tradition back.”

Many tennis players who were lucky enough to have the elder Watson are glad to have someone in the program related to him. It is comforting to see a familiar face coaching them on the courts.

“It’s just great to continue the legacy of a Watson,” senior John Norton said. “It’s awesome to have a man of the same values as [the elder] Watson, who really gives us a good example to follow.”

Neither the younger nor the elder Watson have been given a reputation for taking it easy. Players who have had both have had to work hard to stay on the team and in their good graces.

“The elder Watson made the team run extremely hard,” Norton said. “The younger Coach Watson has even more of

an emphasis on conditioning, so with him we run more than before.”

For some players, it has taken some adjustment to get used to having the son of the former legend head coach.

“I really like having the new Coach Watson as the assistant this year,” junior Elizabeth Sanders said. “It is a little weird calling him Coach Watson though, because we already had

his father.”There has been a lot of buzz

surrounding the new Coach Watson, but he has turned out to be a positive influence on the players and the team as a whole.

“I would use the word excited to describe how I feel about the new Coach Watson,” junior Hutch Tidwell said. “He grew up being guided by the legend that built the tennis team at Texas High.”

Inheriting the courtWatson family continues coaching legacy

GIVING ENCOURAGEMENT: Coach Toby Watson laughs while coaching his new team during practice.

photo by M. Parish

by Tyler Snellprint editor-in-chief

Run the lines. Take a swing. Get back in position. Get set for the next volley. Put all the power behind the swing and knock the opponent out.

The boys and girls tennis teams have been hard at work in order to make an impact and win matches.

“After the lose to Longview, we are just trying to [work] more and leave everything out on the court,” senior Aubree Cramer said. “[This is] so that this will never happen again and make our way to state.”

At the Sept. 9 tournament, the teams suffered heart-wrenching defeats. However, the boys team feels they will have a shot to make it far at regionals and state this year.

“The real goal is to win state, or at least get to go as a team,” junior Zack Moore said. “The best case scenario for the team this year is to not lose any more district

matches, which we most likely won’t.”While the players are confident in their

abilities and chances to win matches, they also look to enjoy the competition.

“We have had a lot of fun this year and we are doing very well so far,” freshman Sarah Rogers said. “Some of the past tournaments have been tougher since we were playing 6A [division] schools, but district matches have been relatively easy.”

Although district is set to be an easier slate, the tennis teams will have to beware underdogs and look forward to fighting for the chance to compete at state, Nov. 11-12.

“Right now, the records show that we aren’t doing too well, but we are playing much harder teams than we previously have. It’s really preparing us for regionals, and I really think we can win that,” senior Carson Rommel said. “I feel like if our girls team can work and beat McKinney North, then we have a shot at going to state and be the first team to do that.”

The Swing FactorTennis teams look to improve from last year, prepare for season ahead

“We’ve extended our practice an extra half hour, been playing more matches and doing a lot more drills on specific things that we all need to work on to prepare for regionals.”

ELIZABETH SANDERS, 11

ON THE ATTACK: Senior John Norton serves the ball in a match against Sulphur Springs. The Tigers won 19-0.

photo by S. Smith

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21sportstigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Digging a little deeper

ON THE MEND In a game against the Pleasant Grove Lady Hawks, senior Kristin McDuffie hits the ball after senior Chealsea Slider sets it up. McDuffie and Slider are two of the returning five players on the team. “It’s difficult, but the new girls are catching on,” McDuffie said.

by TYE SHELTONstaff writer

Nostalgic flashbacks to last year’s historic varsity volleyball team have resurfaced as district play begins and this young squad looks to prove themselves.

With the loss of seniors Chanell Hayes and division one athlete Jalissa Trotter, it is naive to deny the youth among the team.

“We’re trying to gain experience for the freshmen,” senior Chealsea Slider said. “We’re trying to build them up. [They] are so talented and athletic. The more experience, the better they will get.”

As in every team effort, expectations have been set by coaches and fans that will ultimately be the deciding factor in the fine line of success and failure in team sports.

“We are progressing, we have been practicing hard with all of the new

freshman,” junior Takeba Dowden said. “We have just been figuring out how to play as a team.”

With many roles to fill, freshman Treyaunna Rush has stepped up in contributing to the varsity squad.

“There is a lot of pressure that comes with it,” Rush said, “but this is a great team, and I expect the team to go far this year.”

Coming off of a 10-0 undefeated district season last year to their 11-12 record now, the rebuilding process is in full effect. With only four seniors on the roster, experience is key as they begin their quest for a postseason spot.

“We have to work out the little issues and play as a team,” senior Asia Williams said. “It’s challenging, but that means we have to work twice as hard.”

The team continues district play against Sulphur Springs Friday at Tiger Center.

Katie Biggar contributed to this report.

5

6Number of returning players

Number of new players

“We have five people returning, and we have a lot of new people, so we’re building on that. The returning players have to step up and get together and give the underclassmen a lot of confidence.”

-Chealsea Slider, 12

Volleyball focuses on rebuilding with young team

Tigers fight for more than yards

SPRINTING ONWARD Senior J’kardi Witcher leads the football team out of the Tiger tunnel before the Texas vs. Arkansas game.

by TYE SHELTONstaff writer

Lack of depth and leadership has caused seniors defensive back Chaz Davis and running back Jakardi Witcher to take charge. With lack of seniority, young stars have emerged in the likes of juniors Quan Hampton, Eric Sutton and Cade Pearson.

Witcher had more than 300 all-purpose yards against Arkansas, including 200 on the ground and a 100-yard kickoff return.

With what the team lacks in size and seniority, they make up for in the weightroom and

conditioning. Relentless drive from the coaches has resulted with wins against Whitehouse and Arkansas High.

Hampton had four receptions for 97 yards in the season opener against Whitehouse while Sutton had a 17-yard reception and one interception against Arkansas High. Hampton also added a 32-yard punt return late to set up a score for the Tigers.

Despite their recent success the Tigers came up short against the Kilgore Bulldogs losing 21-17.

“We went in with a lack of physicality, and our intensity was not up,” Witcher said. “We

played a crazy first half, but they just took it from us.”

In the past, playoffs have been a one-game story, but with an understanding of this year’s importance, the coaching staff and players realize it is time for a change.

“Something a lot of people do not see is how hard we work as a team, all of the hours we put in,” Pearson said. “Everyday from 7 a.m until sundown we work, we have a good, smart, physical football team.”

The Tigers host their first home game at 7:30 p.m. Friday against Sulphur Springs as the hunt for a playoff spot begins.

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photo by R. Lewis

22 sports tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

SeptemberStandings

Eight teams have been preparing for the upcoming athletic season ever since school has started. Five weeks into the school year, here is where they stand.

VARSITY FOOTBALLThe Varsity football team started off the season with victories against Arkansas and Whitehouse. The team has been injury iddled with injuries to seniors Corey Hawkins, Dee Jones, and Matthew Davis. The team will look forward to bounce back from their Kilgore loss in their home opener on Sept. 25 against Sulphur Springs.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRYThe girls cross country team have recently started practices at 6:15 a.m. and the extra preparation has lead to solid performances at the Trinity and Hallsville meets. They travel to Lindale on Thursday without runner Lauren Maynard, who suffered a plurisy/chest inflamation at the Hallsville meet.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRYThe boys cross country team lossed their best runner, Grant Jarvis, early in the season, but they’re still finding success in their meets, finishing second place overall at Trinity and 12th place overall at Hallsville. They finished eighth place last week at Pine Tree.

JV & FRESHMAN VOLLEYBALLBoth JV and freshman volleyball teams are struggling in district play with a record of 0-3 each. The JV team is predominantly freshman. Therefore, the season is a learning experience for both teams.

VARSITY VOLLEYBALLThe varsity volleyball team is experiencing growing pains. With many new varsity players, the inexperienced team is now sitting at 1-1 in district play. However, the future is bright with talented freshmen like Kaitlyn Cross, Vickie Willis, Unique McBride and Treyunna Rush.

JV & FRESHMAN FOOTBALLThe JV team is the lone football left remaining undefeated with a record of 3-0. The Freshmen team is 2-1 despite going through a learning curve, receiving several penalties in their games.

The meal of a

by Conor Diggsstaff writer

Good training and conditioning are two of the key elements to become a strong, healthy athlete. However, a lot of athletes tend to forget that having a balanced diet leads to peak performance. The perfect diet for an athlete is not very different from the diet

recommended for a healthy person. For athletes to perform better, keep away from exercising on an empty stomach. Most people need to learn two things: how long before exercising is the best time for you to eat and how much food is the right amount for you. Achieving peak performance relies on eating a balanced diet which includes a variety of foods that hit these specific macronutrients hard.

Carbohydrates are an athlete’s main source of fuel. The body changes carbs to glucose and then stores it in the body’s muscles as glycogen. When an individual begins to exercise, the body changes the glycogen into energy that will be used during workouts. Most athletes tend to load up on carbohydrates for maximum peak performance.

It’s best to follow a diet that gets 70 percent of its calories from carbs; This includes cereals, pasta, fruit and vegetables. Complex carbohydrates are found in foods such as bagels, whole grain breads and rice. These foods provide energy, fiber, minerals and are low in fat. An athlete must eat carbohydrates before they exercise if they will be exercising for more than an hour. The most important thing is the total amount of carbohydrates you eat each day. A little more than half of your calories should come from carbohydrates. When an athlete is done working out they should eat more carbohydrates to replenish the stores of energy in their muscles.

Proteins are crucial for muscle growth and are used to repair body tissues. Proteins are also used by the body for energy, but that’s only after all carbohydrate stores have been used up. Protein in your body doesn’t provide a lot of fuel, but it does help the

muscles maintain themselves. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight or 0.36 grams per pound. There is heavy amounts of protein in lean meats such as chicken, beef and pork. Protein can also be found in eggs, milk and Greek yogurt. However, most people tend to eat and drink almost twice as much protein they need for muscle development. Too much protein in a diet can be stored as more body fat, increase dehydration, and can put a strain on the kidneys.

Fats often get a bad reputation in a diet plan, but that is mostly the unhealthy trans fat that people tend to eat. It is wise to manage fat intake because for swim, cross country, and football athletes, the body turns fat into energy when carbohydrate sources run low. Athletes should try to eat mostly unsaturated fats such as nuts, olives, avocados, and fatty fishes like salmon and tuna. It is also recommended to avoid fats on the day of events because they can occasionally cause stomach ache.

Water is the most important nutrient in an athlete’s diet. Water is often overlooked, but is essential to keep the body hydrated and at the right temperature. It’s important to drink about 16 ounces of water two hours before a workout because you need

to start exercising with enough water in your body. However, when it comes to drinking water during exercises, it’s best to drink room temperature water because cold water will cause the stomach to cramp and the athlete will feel pain.

20%

55%

25%

CHAMPION

Carbohydrates

Proteins

Fats

Water

photos from Creative Commons

SOPHOMORE BRETT DENSON

SENIOR JACORIEN WALKER

SOPHOMORE RILEY RUSSELL

SENIOR ASIA WILLIAMS

SENIOR CARLEY WALLACE

compiled by Alex Heo/sports editor

FRESHMAN BAYLIE GRAVES

photo by M. Brandon, S. Vaughn, K. Moreland

23communitytigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Social media creates a fleeting view of important news

24 entertainment tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

by KATIE DUSEKstaff writer

Michael Brown Shot and Killed. Shared. Teen Commits Suicide due to Bullying. Reblogged. Black Lives Matter is Under Attack. Liked.

Over the past five years, social media has been one of the quickest ways for people to get news. With social media use at an all time high, news travels to people faster than ever. This can cause quick reactions to important news, but it can also cause people to forget about the stories once another one breaks.

When people first hear of something terrible happening, they repost, like, and share anything and everything about that topic. The story, whatever it may be, consumes the person's timeline.

When the next big story hits a day later, the events from the previous week are drowned in a stream of new likes, reposts and shares.

In August of 2014, the riots in Ferguson, Missouri, started. It became one of the most talked about things over every forms of social media. People made

pages dedicated to the support of families that had been directly affected by police brutality around the country.

However, after a few months, the tweets and posts stopped. People found yet another new story to talk about in no

time.The protests were still going on in July

of this year, but very little news coverage or social media attention was received. Instead, another dramatic event in the news took Ferguson’s place.

Last December, the suicide of a young transgender teen named Leelah Alcorn created a stir on social media. People everywhere were raising awareness about what happened. There were hundreds of tweets and posts about raising money for trans youth in her name.

Then almost out of nowhere, it all came to an abrupt halt. People didn't seem to care about her death anymore.

With social media's endless flow of new stories, people move on from pressing issues quickly. It takes only a week for something as important as the death of someone to be forgotten.

Stories that came out a week ago are considered old news, whereas they were regarded as relevant before. When people's concern for significant news become obsolete, it's fair to assume that the awareness also comes to a standstill.

Police brutality is still going on in Ferguson, as well as the riots. Trans youth are still committing suicide. These stories do not need to be forgotten. Even though these things happened a few months back, that doesn't mean they aren't still relevant. Don't forget what’s important just because your social media feed says otherwise.

by RAGA JUSTINnews editor

After a long day slogging in an office, ‘tis but the work of a moment to plop down in the couch and reach for the remote. And then turn on the TV. And then watch breathlessly as women hysterically proclaim their love for the jerk that isn’t loving them back.

Last March, 9.68 million Americans tuned in to the recent season finale of “The Bachelor,” a reality TV show designed to help one man find love with one of 25 willing women. Millions of others watch shows like “Keeping up with the Kardashians,” “Big Brother” and “16 and Pregnant.” Such shows manipulate society’s views of “reality” and ultimately glamorize celebrity culture in a way that isn’t always accurate.

“I watch ‘Project Runway’ and ‘Real Housewives of Orange County,’ math teacher Whitney Parker said. “There’s a lot of woman drama.”

Drama is the principal attraction of reality television. Humans excel at pushing the boundaries, and nowhere is this more evident than in the questionable antics of the stars on these shows.

“It’s the way they talk,” junior Emerson

Deloach said. “There’s a lot of bleeping out, and they all have a nasty mouth.”

A growing concern among American psychologists is that the lifestyle and culture portrayed will negatively influence the next generation. Repeated exposure to sensational content leads to desensitization, or the gradual lessening of revulsion to explicit themes.

“There are definitely things on that show that are not normal day to day activities,” Parker said. “I guess it’s like with anything else, not just reality TV [but] with music and with literature. More and more [entertainment] is being presented in a way where it’s not so uncommon anymore.”

But as with all controversial things, there are many who defend reality television, saying it’s only good for amusement, and they refuse to fall prey to its influence.

“It’s all mostly fake,” Deloach said. “I just watch for entertainment. I don’t buy into any of it.”

Then there are some who view these shows as beneficial in some ways, saying the real world deals with many of the issues found in television.

“I feel like today you’re growing up around all the stuff that occurs on reality TV,” junior Slyder Welch said. “So when

you see it on TV it’s not really as shocking. You already know about it, so you can relate to it.”

The general consensus is this: if you have a good head on your shoulders and at least a modicum of common sense, you’ll be impervious to the dangers that lurk in

the screen.“It’ so unrealistic that it’s funny,”

Parker said. “For the most part, I think if someone is pretty self-aware and knows that that’s not typical behavior, [reality TV] wouldn’t influence them to that extent.”

Swim Away from Jersey Shore

Speedy Media

Junior analyzes popularity of reality television

SCROLLIN’ Freshmen Austin Flippen and Raegan Keith check out social media on their phones after school.

TUNING IN Juniors Hannah Hayes and Leighton Weber watch an episode of “Dance Moms” on television.

photo by K. Moreland

photo by P. Spaulding

25entertainmenttigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

Fitbit has recently gained popularity and created a whole new kind of entertainment for teenagers. Fitbit racing essentially has groups of friends join together to see who takes the most steps each day. It promotes exercise and “healthy” competition, and it’s definitely worth investing in.

Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte is so popular that it doesn’t need to be advertised. But this year, it’s worth mentioning that real pumpkin will be used in this fall favorite, meaning that it’s healthier and “not that nasty orange color anymore.” Check out this improved recipe and other drinks this season.

Though it’s mostly Viners and YouTubers that own these, the iohawks are pretty cool. It

may not be a flying car, but this futuristic transportation is something that seemed like fantasy just a few years ago. It’s something to envy, if it can’t be owned.

The fall line-up of sure-to-be blockbuster hits begins Friday. The historical drama promises an insightful look at the 1969 Stonewall Riots that sparked the gay rights revolution.

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Watch it

Although this is still unconfirmed, news about Drake’s long awaited mixtape, “Views From the 6ix,” is expected to drop this

month. But Drake won’t be the only one dropping hits this month. Other anticipated albums include:“Fetty Wap”- Fetty Wap, Friday“HY!£UN35”- Young Thug, Friday“The Documentary 2”- The Game, Friday

Listen to

5Available in stores Friday, the iPhone 6S is the latest in Apple products that never fails to

impress. With new software, a sleek design and gorgeous backing, this new Apple product will be one craved by all and owned by those lucky enough.

Buy it

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compiled by Naveen Malik & Jillian Cheney

Local artist finds passion, voice in musicby Jessica Emersononline editor-in-chief

Nine years old. Like every Sunday morning, senior Luke Smith trudges into church, clad in khaki pants and a polo button down. Groggy eyed and slightly distracted, he sits leisurely in the pew, unexpectant.

Like a jolt of electricity, Smith sits erect, listening intently as the sound of rhythmic beats and rhymes begin to churn out of the muffled church speakers. From that point on, Smith has had a deep passion for rap music.

“I’ve always liked music,” Smith said. “I heard my first rap song in church, it was called “Joyful Noise,” by Flame, when I was 9 years old. Once I heard that, I was hooked.”

Thirteen years old. Smith blasts Lil Wayne into his headphones, attempting to rap along to the steady hum and rhythm.

“When I got older, I would listen to guys like Eminem and

Lil Wayne, and I’d try to imitate their styles,” Smith said. “They were my two favorites at the time, and then it expanded to guys like Ace Hood, Rich Homie Quan and Chief Keef.”

Slowly, Smith started to lose the desire he had. He couldn’t find the missing variable that would foster his passion. As he

found Christ, Smith’s love for rap began to grow and shape into a potential career.

“Once Christ came into my life, I thought I’d have to give up rap,” Smith said, “until I heard guys like Lecrae and Flame. Later, me and my best friend were like, ‘let’s start rapping,’ so we did.”

His fervor grew, and he

released his debut single on Sept. 2 after an intense and strenuous recording process.

“The recording process was really cool,” Smith said. “What I originally wanted to do was try to build my own beat, but since that would take a lot of time and money that I didn’t have, the guy at S.M.A.R.T. Productions recommended that I find a beat

online that fit the song. Once I found one, we put it in the computer and we started recording the verses. We made some adjustments like adding certain noises,

getting a friend of mine to come in and record his voice as the hype guy, and we put it on a CD.”

“Trust Issues” highlights his personal struggles in his faith and what he aspires to become.

“It’s about trusting in God no matter what the circumstances are,” Smith said. “In the song, I talk about how I’d like to become a big name rapper, but I have to trust in God to take me as far as he wants me to.”

Although his first single has just been released, Smith already has future projects and a potential tour in the works. On Sept. 3, Smith went back into the

studio to record an EP, “This Is A Test.” While juggling new tracks, performing at Tiger’s Got Talent is also on the new artist’s agenda.

“We plan to release it [This Is A Test] around Christmas break,” Smith said. “The EP will feature Collin Runnels on one of the tracks and also a friend of mine named Zierre Spencer who used to go to Texas High. I would also like if I was given the opportunity to perform at different churches in Texarkana and like a church tour, where I perform at a different youth group each Wednesday. Whether I win [Tiger’s Got Talent] or not wouldn’t matter; I just love performing.”

Success doesn’t matter to Smith. He’s after self expression and diving deeper into his faith.

“Music lets me feel like I can express myself better than I can any other way,” Smith said. “I’ve always liked writing, but a song is like poetry to music; just like how in poetry they try to send a message through their work, music allows me to do the same thing. Honestly, sometimes when I pray I even rap the prayer because I’m talking to God anyway. I’m just doing it using one of the gifts I feel He gave me.”

26 entertainment tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

On the RadarFANTASTIC BEASTS

The Harry Potter franchise has generated over 24 billion dollars since 1997, and J.K. Rowling looks to hit it big again with a new movie set 70 years prior to the events of the book series. “Fantastic beasts and where to find them” will be the title of this expected hit. J.K. Rowling is actually writing the screenplay for the movie, and it shows every sign of being a blockbuster hit. This is because of not only her

talent but an innovative idea that kind of gets away from Harry and sheds more light on the fiction world.

The book the movie is based on is one of the textbooks used at Hogwarts, but the plot of the movie is about the wizard who wrote the textbook, Newt Scamander. He will be played by Eddie Redmayne. Other members of the cast

include Colin Farrell, Ezra Miller, and

Samantha Morton. Though there isn’t a set

movie release date, filming has begun, and it will surely satisfy your craving for more insight into the Harry Potter universe.

by Jay Williamson

TRAVIS SCOTTHip-hop culture’s

starvation for material from up and coming Houston rapper Travis Scott has finally been terminated. Scott dropped his debut album“Rodeo” this month,

featuring artists like Future, Quavo of Migos, Justin Bieber, and The Weeknd. Scott also features his mentor Kanye West on the track “Piss on Your Grave,” which brings answers to whether Kanye mentored

Scott or not. Songs such as “90210,” “Pray 4 Love,” and “Apple Pie” give full credibility of the hype behind Scott and what is to come.

by Tye Shelton

PERISCOPEPeriscope is an

app that allows users to see new and exciting experiences from a firsthand perspective. The app uses live streaming to broadcast a variety of

events from concerts to boxing matches. The app is also used by celebrities wishing to share behind the scenes experiences with fans. Periscope offers a completely free alternative to paying for Pay-Per-View coverage of live

events. Although it causes problems for the companies that offer these services, the app is changing modern media for the better. It is available free in

the Play Store and the App Store.

by Zach Friedman

Current & upcoming entertainment to look out for

DEEP THOUGHT Senior Luke Smith contemplates the verses for his next songs. Smith plans to make a church tour and release more songs in the future.

CHECK OUTLUKE SMITH’S SINGLE“TRUST ISSUES” ON TIGERTIMESONLINE.COM

Straight Outta Texarkana

submitted photo

27communitytigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •

TOP 5 TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE PERFECT COLLEGE FOR YOUPicking the right college can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! You can narrow down your list by identifying your top priorities. Read on to learn how.

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FOCUS ON YOUR GOALS

KEEP DEBT IN CHECK

go big or go small

choose your ideal spot

talk tostudents

Focus on your end goal and map out your ideal path. It might change along the way, and that’s ok! If you can’t decide on a major, nar-row it down; you might be into liberal arts, or math and science, or working with your hands. Make sure the college you choose has programs and resourc-es that will help you reach your goals.

When you graduate from college, the last thing you need is a hefty student loan payment. Think twice about going to a col-lege where you’ll rack up excessive student loan debt. Consider cutting costs by getting your basics through dual credit or by spending your first two years at a community college.

For more intimate class sizes with personal attention from your profs, consider a smaller college. If you can handle classes in large lecture halls and crave a wider selection of stu-dent activities, a large university might be right up your alley. Identify which aspects of college are important to you and make sure your choice measures up.

Are you up for flying cross-country to come home for Christmas break? Do you prefer to be a few hours from home, or do you want to be close enough to pop in for dinner occasionally? Also, think about getting around once you’re there. If you love having your own ride, make sure you’re choosing a college with ample parking options.

Do a quick social media search to see what a college’s current stu-dents are saying about it. Chances are, if they love it, you will too. Ask the colleges at the top of your list if they offer in-depth tours where you can get one-on-one time with current students in your field of study. They’ll be able to give you insight beyond the typical campus tour.

starting at a community college could be the smart choice for you.

Sign up for an TC Up Close tour at texarkanacollege.edu/TCUpClose.We’ll pair you with a current student and you’ll tour our campus, attend classes, visit your academic areas of interest, have lunch in the Bulldog Bistro, connect with faculty, and meet an academic advisor. We’ll see you on campus!

texarkanacollege.edu | (903) 823-3456 | Texarkana | Atlanta | New Boston

28 entertainment tigertimesonline.comsept. 25, 2015 •